Top 6 Lakes around Auburn

The Auburn area offers a variety of popular lakes. Lake Wilderness is the largest lake in Maple Valley, known for its natural beauty. Folsom Lake is a major reservoir offering extensive water sports and trails. Lake Natoma provides a calmer environment ideal for flatwater activities, while Angle Lake Park is a quiet spot for walking and fishing.

For non-motorized water sports, Upper Lake Clementine is excellent for kayaking and paddleboarding due to its clear, calm waters. Lake Natoma is also ideal for flatwater activities like kayaking, rowing, and canoeing, with a 5 mph speed limit for powerboats. Folsom Lake and Camp Far West Reservoir accommodate a wide range of motorized and non-motorized water activities, including water-skiing and jet skiing.

Yes, several lakes and parks are great for families. Folsom Lake offers numerous sandy beaches, picnic areas, and amenities at access points like Granite Bay and Beal's Point. Lake Natoma has a family-friendly atmosphere with picnic spots and designated swimming areas. Lake Fenwick Park also features picnic areas and walking trails, including a boardwalk.

You'll find a diverse trail system around Auburn's lakes. Folsom Lake boasts over 95 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, including sections of the Pioneer Express Trail. Lake Clementine features the 4.5-mile Lake Clementine Trail, offering views of the Clementine Dam and Foresthill Bridge. For more options, explore the hiking routes around Auburn, which include trails like Vista Ridge Trail and Lake Fenwick Trail.

Lake Clementine, particularly the Upper section, is often considered a hidden gem in Northern California. It offers a serene setting and clear waters, making it a tranquil lakeside experience away from larger crowds, especially for non-motorized water activities.

The Auburn area offers stunning natural views. The Clementine Dam on Lake Clementine provides unique views of a waterfall when the sunlight is just right. View of Mount Rainier from Briscoe Park offers spectacular views of Mt. Rainier on clear days, alongside picnic areas and hiking trails. Folsom Lake also provides stunning lake views from various points along its extensive shoreline.

Cyclists have many options. Lake Natoma is surrounded by paved cycling and jogging trails, including part of the American River Bike Trail. Folsom Lake also has extensive trails suitable for biking. You can find various road cycling routes around Auburn, such as the Green Valley loop and the Green River Trail – King County Interurban Trail loop.

Yes, fishing is a popular activity at many lakes. Lake Clementine is known for rainbow, brook, and brown trout, as well as bass, carp, and catfish. Folsom Lake offers trout, catfish, and bass. Lake Natoma is good for rainbow and brown trout, black bass, crappie, and bluegill. Lake Fenwick Park also stocks its lake for fishing.

Lake Natoma offers historical insights into the Gold Rush era, as it's connected to the larger Folsom Lake, which played a role in the region's development. Additionally, the lodge at Lake Wilderness is designated as a King County landmark, highlighting its historical significance.

The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling. Summer is ideal for swimming and water sports, though natural shade can be limited, especially at places like Upper Lake Clementine. Always check current water levels and conditions before planning your visit.

Yes, some lakes near Auburn have limited public access. Lake of the Pines is primarily for residents of its gated community. Similarly, public access to Lake Combie is generally not provided, with recreation typically restricted to adjacent property owners.