Bonney Lake

Lakefront living is a dream for many homeseekers, and when your lakefront home also has stunning views of Mount Ranier, your dream is even sweeter. The city of Bonney Lake has about eight square miles of land, one mile of water and is home to about 20,000 people. It’s located 20 miles east of Tacoma, Washington and an hour south of Seattle. Living here offers tranquility, large lots and plenty of room between streets and homes. Those who enjoy fishing will enjoy hooking rainbow trout, which are stocked regularly. The lake is small, and motorized boats are not permitted, which preserves the peace and quiet. But, if you have a boat, it’s a quick two-mile drive to Lake Tapp, a five-square-mile reservoir that offers a boat launch and a popular swimming area. Residents of Bonney Lake enjoy three parks, good schools, and nearby shopping and restaurants. But the star of the show is the view you’ll have of the fir-tree-surrounded lake and breathtaking Mount Ranier, which is the largest stratovolcano in the Cascade Mountain Range.

Christine Gordon, Realtor with Keller Williams Real Estate, and a long-time resident of Pierce County explains its appeal. “Bonney Lake is a small lake, but because of its size, it offers a really peaceful and quiet setting. The neighborhood offers a true lake house community, where people are welcoming, friendly, and are here to enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.” Tiny waterfront fishermen’s cabins with just one bedroom have recently sold for about $500,000. Expansive waterfront homes with about 3,400 square feet and a private dock can be found for about $1,700,000. The community offers a variety of traditional and modern family homes, all within a five-minute drive to the lake, that range widely from about $600,000 to $1,300,000.

Schools in Bonney Lake are part of the Sumner-Bonney Lake School District, which has an overall B-plus rating from Niche. Bonney Lake Elementary also has a B-plus rating from Niche and offers pre-kindergarten through sixth grade. Lakeridge Middle offers sixth through eighth grades and has an A-minus rating from Niche. It's also ranked one of the best public middle schools in the state of Washington. Bonney Lake High is a top-ranked best public high school in Pierce County, has a B-rating from Niche, and offers advanced placement courses for college credit.

Allan Yorke City Park offers a playground, green space, walking trails, and a skate park, all with magnificent views of Mount Ranier. Victor Falls City Park offers views of the 70-foot-high falls for which it is named, as well as hiking paths, picnic tables, and historic markers. Enjoy the silence of the forested park and the beauty of Fennel Creek and surrounding Douglas Fir, White Oak and Sugar Maple trees. If rainy weather deters your outside plans, head to Lake Tapps Pilates, located in Bonney Lake. Carrie Jayne Clothing and Consignment Boutique has a wide assortment of clothing, furnishings and home décor.

Sumalee’s Thai Cuisine offers lunch specials and take-out, but you can also grab a cozy table by a window if you get there early enough for dinner. Try their Spring Rolls with plum sauce or their popular pad thai. Date night is a good time to try Glow Martini Lounge. From crafty martinis to fresh bistro food, their menu offers just enough and not too much, in a warm and welcoming setting. When you’re planning a celebration or just want a creative dessert to bring to work, Big Smiles Bakery is limited only by your imagination. They offer several flavors and are highly customizable. Fred Meyer is the place to get groceries, as well as home goods and housewares. They’re located south of the lake on Highway 410, right across the street from Home Depot. Target and Costco are just down the road too.

The Pacific Northwest has plenty of lakefront communities to consider when buying a house. But when you’re looking for peace, quiet and a healthy dose of solitude, Bonney Lake may be the place you’ll want to call home.

Written By

Sarah Albiston

Photography Contributed By

Ling Ge

Video By

Samantha Houtchens