Best lakes around Kenmore are centered around Lake Washington, the second-largest natural lake in Washington state, which forms Kenmore's northern border. The area also features the connected Sammamish River, providing diverse recreational opportunities. Kenmore offers access to expansive freshwater bodies and parks with extensive shoreline, allowing for various outdoor activities. This geographic setting supports a range of aquatic life and provides scenic views.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Highlight • Rest Area
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Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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Highlight • Beach
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Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Right off the Burke Gilman Trail - a bit of a steep hill to the beach, but worth it. Good swimming beach in the summer.
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Enjoy the straight trail - part of a former city street. Just look out for pedestrians a-wandering all over the place. Beautiful spot for a sunset.
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This park was remodeled in 2022 and is by far the best place to stop for a lunch break along the Burke Gilman Trail. Nice job, Kenmore City Council! Summertime kayak rentals and concession stand.
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Nice spot to stop for a quick rest along the Interurban Trail. They have no water fountain or toilets, but it's a pleasant neighborhood oasis. There is a public garden (P-Patch) and a playground.
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This is a lovely place to take a break and enjoy the incredible views across Juanita Bay. The shore here is tranquil and good for birding, a truly peaceful place away from the city.
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Matthews Beach Park is Seattle's largest freshwater beach that is open to the public. The park is named for John G. Matthews, a settler in the area in the 1880s.
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Kenmore is primarily defined by its access to Lake Washington, the second-largest natural lake in Washington state, which forms its northern border. The area also features the connected Sammamish River, offering diverse recreational opportunities and scenic beauty.
Yes, several spots are great for families. Log Boom Park (Tracy Owen Station) offers a playground, picnic areas, and a sandy beach. Saint Edward State Park, bordering Kenmore, also features a large playground and extensive trails suitable for families. Additionally, Matthews Beach Park is Seattle's largest freshwater beach open to the public, providing another excellent family option.
The lakes and waterways around Kenmore are perfect for a variety of activities. Lake Washington is ideal for boating, fishing, windsurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The Sammamish River is excellent for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. You can also enjoy hiking and cycling on trails like the Burke-Gilman Trail, which runs alongside the Sammamish River and Lake Washington. For more detailed routes, explore the hiking guide or cycling guide for Kenmore.
Log Boom Park (Tracy Owen Station) offers great views of Mount Rainier and is a popular spot to watch seaplanes land and depart, or simply enjoy the sunset. The Burke-Gilman Trail: Northwest Lake Washington also provides nice views of the water as it leads along the northern lakefront. Juanita Bay Waterfront Trail is another tranquil spot for incredible views across Juanita Bay.
Yes, the Burke-Gilman Trail: Northwest Lake Washington is a perfectly smooth cycle path that is generally accessible. Bitter Lake Reservoir Open Space also features a paved path and is noted as wheelchair accessible, offering a pleasant spot for a break.
Lake Washington supports diverse fish species, including sockeye, coho, and Chinook salmon, rainbow trout, largemouth and smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and black crappie. Fishing is a popular activity in the lake.
Yes, public access points like Log Boom Park (Tracy Owen Station) and the Kenmore Boat Launch provide ways to launch hand-powered watercraft. Log Boom Park specifically offers a hand-powered watercraft launch, and rentals are often available during summer months.
Visitors particularly enjoy the extensive shoreline access, the opportunities for diverse water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding, and the scenic views. Many appreciate the family-friendly amenities at parks like Log Boom Park, and the smooth, accessible trails like the Burke-Gilman Trail for cycling and walking.
Saint Edward State Park, which borders Kenmore and provides significant access to Lake Washington, features the historic Saint Edward Seminary building. This adds a touch of history to the natural beauty of the park.
Many trails in the area, such as the Juanita Bay Waterfront Trail, are generally dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy walks with your pet. Always ensure dogs are on a leash and follow local park regulations.
The lakes around Kenmore offer recreational opportunities year-round. However, the summer months are particularly popular for water activities like boating, kayaking, and swimming. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with beautiful foliage in autumn. Even in winter, trails can be enjoyed, though some water activities may be less common.
Many parks and access points, such as Log Boom Park (Tracy Owen Station) and Matthews Beach Park, offer dedicated parking facilities. Saint Edward State Park also has parking available for visitors.


Still not found your perfect lake around Kenmore? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.