Ross Lake is one of the state's most spectacular lakes, though it is man-made. The 50-mile long lake is flanked by very steep, heavily forested granite mountains that rise as much as 7,500 feet above the lake. Getting your boat to it is a little tricky, however. The only road access (other than from Hozomeen, which requires a long drive through Canada) is from the Colonial Creek Campground on the silty turquoise waters of Diablo Lake. Put in here and paddle up Diablo Lake to the base of the Ross Lake Dam. From here, you must either portage 1.7 miles up a steep gravel road around the dam, or call the Ross Lake Resort (there is a phone at the base of the dam) to arrange a shuttle for $25 per boat. Once on Ross Lake, you will find most of the camping spots on the eastern shore or close-in islands. Reservations for camping spots must be made in advance with the Ross Lake National Recreation Area. It's worth taking a few days to spend here as there are many interesting side destinations like Desolation Peak as well as virtually limitless backpacking opportunities. The best paddling is usually found in the morning and evening, as the winds during the daylight hours are legendary.