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Lake Tapps, WA

Frequently asked questions

Lake Tapps, WA

Lake Tapps is a reservoir in Pierce County, Washington. It was created in 1911 by Puget Sound Power & Light and operated for hydroelectric power until it ceased power production in 2004. The reservoir was sold to the Cascade Water Alliance, a collective of municipalities in King County, to provide drinking water to 350,000 residents and 20,000 businesses.

The lake is open to recreational use through an agreement between Cascade and homeowners on Lake Tapps to maintain certain reservoir levels during the summer. Cascade also has agreements with the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe and the Puyallup Tribe of Indians to ensure instream flows for fish. The level of the reservoir is lowered from about October to April to allow important upkeep and maintenance to be done, as well as an occasional major capital project.

Lake Tapps is about 4.5 square miles (12 km²) in surface area and has about 45 miles (72 km) of shoreline. The local terrain is such that the shape of the shoreline is very complex, with many inlets, peninsulas, and islands. Before the reservoir was created there were several smaller lakes, including one called Lake Tapps. The reservoir is held in place by a series of dikes. The reservoir is also known to hold many fish including carp, smallmouth bass, perch, and tiger musky.

A diversion dam on the White River, near Buckley, routes water into a flume which empties into the east side of Lake Tapps. On the west side of the reservoir, water had originally been routed to the Dieringer Powerhouse to generate hydroelectricity, after which the water was returned to the White River, about 20 miles (32 km) downstream from the diversion dam. Although there is no longer power generation, the water is still diverted and returned to the river through the former hydropower infrastructure.

At the diversion structure on the White River the US Army Corps of Engineers began to replace the existing barrier and fish trap. The project began in mid-2018 and is expected to be completed in 2023.

Lake Tapps is primarily in unincorporated Pierce County, with some surrounding areas part of the city of Bonney Lake. At the northern edge of Lake Tapps is Auburn.

Lake Tapps places a strong emphasis on health and wellness to its residents. St. Elizabeth Hospital offers comprehensive health services, including wellness check-ups and preventive care programs. The Lake Tapps Pilates studio is the premier movement studio in Lake Tapps and Bonney Lake offering private and small group instruction in both mat and equipment Pilates to enhance whole body performance and promote well being. Orangetheory Fitness offers comprehensive fitness programs including cardio, strength training, and group exercise classes. Those interested in fitness can join Sumner CrossFit, known for its dynamic workout sessions. Yoga enthusiasts can find tranquility at Anamaria Baralt, offering a range of yoga classes and wellness workshops. Families can enjoy recreational activities at the Daffodil Valley Sports Complex. Additionally, the Lake Tapps Pilates Studio offers specialized Pilates classes to improve core strength and flexibility.

Top sites in Lake Tapps WA include Lake Tapps Park, Allan Yorke Park, and Tapps Island Golf Course.

Population: 13,000 (2021). Elevation: approximately 545 feet. Area: 4.5 mi². ZIP Code: 98391. Area Code: 253. 

FAQs

Is Lake Tapps, WA a good place to live?

Lake Tapps is undeniably one of the most desirable locations in Washington, and the surrounding communities are among the most affluent. The average annual household income throughout the various communities is well over $100,000 with a median home sales price nearly double the national average. Those who live in Lake Tapps enjoy an outdoorsy lifestyle, taking advantage of the numerous recreational activities in the area, including fishing, swimming, hiking, biking, and even bird watching. The local communities also offer fantastic entertainment opportunities, world-class shopping, and an incredible dining scene.

Is Lake Tapps, WA expensive?

Lake Tapps is ranked 31 out of 273 cities across the US in terms of cost of living. The cost of living in Lake Tapps is 119.2% of the national average. The median household income in Lake Tapps is $119,626, which is 45% more than that of the state. The average rent in Lake Tapps (located in Tacoma-Lakewood Metro Div.) metro area for a 2-bed home is $2,152, which is 46% more than the average rent across the US. The median home price in Lake Tapps is $1,102,297 with a median price per sqft of $311.

What cities are close to Lake Tapps, WA?

Lake Tapps is a reservoir in Pierce County, Washington. It was created in 1911 by Puget Sound Energy and operated for hydroelectric power until it ceased power production in 2004. The four cities that surround the lake, Auburn, Bonney Lake, Buckley and Sumner, worked with Cascade to ensure their future water needs will be met for about the next 50 years. Cascade is now the operator of Lake Tapps.

Sources

Pierce County

Wikipedia

Kimberlee Real Estate

Flyhomes

Map Quest

Lake Tapps Park

Allan Yorke Park

Tapps Island Golf Course

St. Elizabeth Hospital

Lake Tapps Pilates

Orangetheory Fitness

Sumner CrossFit

Anamaria Baralt

Daffodil Valley Sports Complex

Lake Tapps Pilates Studio

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