Top 19 Lakes around Cottage Lake

Cottage Lake Park, located at the north end of the lake, offers a variety of activities. You can enjoy a large dock, a small beach, walking trails, picnic tables, barbecues, and a play area. The Northshore YMCA also operates a pool and high ropes course at the park. The lake itself is popular for human-powered boating like canoes and kayaks, and fishing is a significant draw.

Yes, Cottage Lake is accessible for boating, specifically human-powered vessels as internal combustion engines are not permitted. Fishing is also popular, with the season running annually from the last Saturday in April to October 31st. The lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout, and anglers can also find Black Crappie, Brown Bullhead, Largemouth Bass, and Yellow Perch.

Historically, the Cottage Lake area was a resort destination. In 1920, Gus Erickson established a family resort at the north end, and another resort, Camp Comfort, was on the south end. The paving of Woodinville-Duvall Road in 1930 significantly increased visitors from Seattle who came to enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing.

Cottage Lake has faced challenges with high phosphorus concentrations and algae blooms in the past. While efforts are underway to address these issues, including reducing phosphorus and combating invasive species, algal blooms can still occur. Recent monitoring indicates that total nitrogen and total phosphorus concentrations have been decreasing.

Several excellent cycling trails are available. The Burke-Gilman Trail: Northwest Lake Washington offers a smooth path along Lake Washington with nice views. The East Lake Sammamish Trail follows the shore of Lake Sammamish, providing a paved and nearly flat route connecting Redmond and Issaquah. For more options, you can explore various gravel biking routes in the area, such as those found in the Gravel biking around Cottage Lake guide.

Yes, Cottage Lake Park itself is very family-friendly with a play area, beach, and picnic spots. Another great option is Log Boom Park (Tracy Owen Station), which features a playground, picnic areas, and public dock access on Lake Washington. Many of the cycling and walking trails, like the Burke-Gilman Trail and East Lake Sammamish Trail, are also suitable for families.

For easy walks, consider the Juanita Bay Waterfront Trail, which offers tranquil views and is good for birding. The Beach Trail also provides an easy, well-maintained path next to Lake Washington with great views. You can find more easy hiking routes in the Easy hikes around Cottage Lake guide.

Absolutely. Log Boom Park (Tracy Owen Station) offers beautiful views of Lake Washington, especially at sunset. The Burke-Gilman Trail: Northwest Lake Washington provides scenic stretches along the northern lakefront. Additionally, the Juanita Bay Waterfront Trail and Beach Trail offer tranquil views across the water.

Cottage Lake offers recreational opportunities throughout the warmer months. The fishing season runs from late April to October. The annual "Music in the Park" series provides free outdoor summer community concerts. For general outdoor activities like walking, cycling, and enjoying the park amenities, late spring through early fall typically offers the most pleasant weather.

Yes, Cottage Lake Park provides public access to Cottage Lake with a large dock and a small beach. For Lake Washington, Log Boom Park (Tracy Owen Station) offers public dock access and nearly 1200 feet of shoreline. Many trails, like the Burke-Gilman Trail and East Lake Sammamish Trail, also provide public access along the lakefronts.

Cottage Lake Park is known for hosting the annual "Music in the Park" series, which offers free outdoor summer community concerts. These events contribute to the park's role as a community hub.

Yes, there are mountain biking opportunities in the vicinity. You can explore various routes, including those around Echo Lake or the Redmond Watershed Preserve. For detailed trails and difficulty levels, refer to the MTB Trails around Cottage Lake guide.