In both the Cascade and Olympic mountains, thousands of high lakes beckon canoeists, campers, anglers, and hikers. The Alpine Lakes Wilderness (between Stevens and Snoqualmie passes about an hour drive east of Seattle) protects some 700 high lakes in the Cascades, the largest concentration outside Alaska. The most remote of the ranges high lakes (such as Canyon Lake in the Glacier Peak Wilderness) present some of the best trout fishing in the state, but require days of hiking to be reached. Ross Lake, part of North Cascades National Park, offers easier access for boat anglers. Tributary streams present splendid catch-and-release fly-fishing.

On the Cascades eastern scarp, the ice-carved dagger of Lake Chelan plunges 50 miles into the heart of the North Cascades. This veritable freshwater fjord is a haven for boaters, water-skiers, parasailers, sailboarders, fishermen, canoeists, and seaplane sightseeing adventures. Or you can join a cruise to the mountain village of Stehekin at the head of the lake on Lady of the Lake. (509-682-4584 or www.ladyofthelake.com)

Locals suggest:

• The high country typically isn't snow-free until late July. Peak fishing occurs in fall.
• Ross Lake Resort offers floating cabins and rental boats in spectacular surroundings.
• Enjoy an evening stroll along Leavenworth's Waterfront Trail, a bit of a secret only a block from downtown shops along the Wenatchee River.
• Lake front picnic and campsites in Colonial Creek campgrounds