Lake Washington Boating Guide

Lake Washington is much larger than Lake Union, so plan for more distance, wind and afternoon chop. Popular boat routes include cruising from the Montlake Cut into Union Bay, running south for Mount Rainier views and the floating bridges, or exploring the west shoreline past Madison Park, Madrona, Leschi and Seward Park. Seward Park's Andrews Bay is Seattle's only designated short-term anchorage on Lake Washington; anchor only inside the marked anchorage zone and follow posted rules. Magnuson Park is Seattle's most popular public boat launch and has a long Lake Washington shoreline, trails, picnic areas and swimming beach access. Matthews Beach is Seattle's largest freshwater bathing beach and has a hand-carry launch north of Thornton Creek. On Mercer Island, Luther Burbank Park has about three-quarters of a mile of waterfront, docks, a fishing pier, swim beach, wetlands and trails. Lake Washington is also known for Seafair hydroplanes and busy summer event days, so check local notices before planning a rental around race or airshow weekends. Fishing requires the proper freshwater license, and WDFW publishes Lake Washington species and fish-consumption advisories. Stay outside swim areas, slow down near docks, beaches, bridges, paddlers and rowing shells, watch the weather, and follow Washington life-jacket rules; children 12 and under must wear a properly fitting life jacket on moving boats under 19 feet.