Washington State is a kayaker’s paradise, offering various scenic waterways to explore. From calm lakes to rushing rivers and the rugged coastline, there is something for every level of paddler. In this article, we will explore some of the best kayaking trips in Washington State, highlighting each location’s unique features and experiences. Whether looking for a peaceful day on the water or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Washington State has it all. So, grab your paddle, and let’s start exploring!
Top 10 Best Kayaking Trips in Washington State
- San Juan Islands
- Lake Union
- Deception Pass
- Lake Chelan
- Lake Wenatchee
- Hood Canal
- Ross Lake
- Lake Sammamish
- Puget Sound
- Lake Cushman
1. San Juan Islands
The San Juan Islands are a group of islands located in the northwest corner of Washington State, between the mainland and Vancouver Island in British Columbia. The islands are known for their stunning natural beauty, with rugged coastlines, pristine beaches, and lush forests. The islands are also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including orcas, seals, sea lions, eagles, and many species of birds.
Kayaking is popular in the San Juan Islands, with calm waters and protected bays perfect for paddling. Visitors can explore the island’s many coves and inlets and may even have the opportunity to see orcas and other marine wildlife up close.
In addition to kayaking, the San Juan Islands offer a wide range of other outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and whale watching. Visitors can also explore the island’s charming towns and villages, home to various shops, restaurants, and galleries.
2. Lake Union
Lake Union is a freshwater lake in the heart of Seattle, Washington. The lake is approximately 580 acres in size and is connected to Puget Sound by a series of canals. Lake Union is a popular destination for boaters, kayakers, paddleboarders, and those who simply want to enjoy the beautiful views of the city skyline.
One of the most iconic features of Lake Union is the collection of houseboats that line its shores. These unique floating homes range from rustic cabins to luxurious mansions and are a beloved part of Seattle’s cultural heritage.
Lake Union is also home to several parks and public spaces, including Gas Works Park, which offers stunning views of the city skyline and is a popular spot for picnics and outdoor concerts. The lake is also surrounded by various restaurants, bars, and cafes, making it a popular destination for dining and nightlife.
3. Deception Pass
Deception Pass is a narrow waterway between Whidbey Island and Fidalgo Island in Washington State. The pass is known for its strong currents and turbulent waters, making it a challenging but rewarding destination for kayakers, boaters, and fishermen.
Deception Pass is also home to a state park of the same name, which offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, and beachcombing. The park features miles of trails that wind through forests and along the rugged coastline, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and waterways.
One of the most popular activities at Deception Pass State Park is kayaking, with many visitors exploring the pass and its surrounding waters in search of marine wildlife. Visitors may have the opportunity to see orcas, seals, sea lions, and various bird species.
In addition to its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Deception Pass is also steeped in history. The area was once home to several Native American tribes and was later settled by European explorers and traders. The park features several historic structures, including a 1930s-era bridge that spans the past and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
4. Lake Chelan
Lake Chelan is a large, glacial lake located in north-central Washington State. The lake is approximately 50.5 miles long and is surrounded by the rugged mountains of the North Cascades. Lake Chelan is known for its crystal-clear waters, a popular destination for swimming, boating, and fishing.
In addition to its recreational opportunities, Lake Chelan is home to several charming towns and villages, including Chelan, Manson, and Stehekin. These communities offer a variety of shops, restaurants, and accommodations, making Lake Chelan a popular destination for tourists.
Visitors to Lake Chelan can explore the surrounding mountains and forests, which offer a variety of hiking and biking trails. The lake is also home to several parks and public spaces, including Lake Chelan State Park, which offers camping, picnicking, and swimming.
One of the most popular activities at Lake Chelan is wine tasting, as the area is home to several vineyards and wineries that produce high-quality wines. Visitors can take tours of the vineyards, sample the wines, and learn about the area’s unique climate and soil conditions.
5. Lake Wenatchee
Lake Wenatchee is a glacial lake in the Cascade Mountains of Washington State. The lake is approximately 3.5 miles long and is surrounded by the Wenatchee National Forest, which offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, and fishing.
Lake Wenatchee is a popular destination for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming, with its clear waters and stunning mountain scenery. The lake is also home to several beaches and picnic areas, making it an excellent spot for a family day trip.
In addition to its recreational opportunities, Lake Wenatchee is home to several campgrounds, cabins, and vacation rentals, making it a popular destination for overnight stays. Visitors can choose from various accommodations, including rustic campsites, cozy cottages, and luxurious lodges.
The surrounding area offers various outdoor activities, including hiking and mountain biking in the summer and skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. The nearby town of Leavenworth is also famous for its Bavarian-style architecture, charming shops, and restaurants.
6. Hood Canal
Hood Canal is a long, narrow fjord located in western Washington State. The canal is approximately 50 miles long and is known for its stunning natural beauty, with rugged coastlines, lush forests, and abundant marine wildlife.
Hood Canal is a popular destination for kayaking, with its calm waters and protected bays providing a perfect environment for paddling. Visitors can explore the canal’s many coves and inlets and may even have the opportunity to see orcas, seals, and other marine wildlife up close.
In addition to kayaking, Hood Canal offers many other outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and crabbing. The canal also has several state parks and public spaces, including Twanoh State Park, which offers camping, picnicking, and swimming.
The surrounding area is home to several charming towns and villages, including Hoodsport and Union, which offer a variety of shops, restaurants, and accommodations. Visitors can explore the area’s many galleries and studios or relax and take in the stunning natural beauty of the canal and surrounding forests.
7. Ross Lake
Ross Lake is a large reservoir in the North Cascades National Park in Washington State. The lake is approximately 23 miles long and surrounded by rugged mountains and dense forests, offering visitors stunning views and a serene environment.
Ross Lake is a popular destination for kayaking and canoeing, with its clear waters and protected bays providing an ideal environment for paddling. Visitors can explore the lake’s many coves and inlets and may even have the opportunity to see bald eagles, ospreys, and other wildlife.
In addition to kayaking, Ross Lake offers various other outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. The surrounding area is home to several campgrounds and backcountry campsites, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to experience the wilderness of the North Cascades.
The Ross Lake National Recreation Area, which surrounds the lake, is home to several trails that wind through forests and along the lake’s shoreline, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and waterways. Visitors can also explore the area’s historic structures, including the Ross Dam, built in the 1940s to generate hydroelectric power.
8. Lake Sammamish
Lake Sammamish is a large freshwater lake in King County, Washington State. The lake is approximately 7 miles long and is surrounded by several parks and public spaces, making it a popular destination for outdoor recreation.
Lake Sammamish is a popular destination for kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating, with its calm waters and stunning scenery providing a perfect environment for water sports. Visitors can explore the lake’s many coves and inlets and may even have the opportunity to see bald eagles, herons, and other wildlife.
In addition to water sports, Lake Sammamish offers various other outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. The lake is surrounded by several parks and public spaces, including Lake Sammamish State Park, which offers camping, picnicking, and swimming.
The surrounding area is also home to several charming towns and villages, including Issaquah and Redmond, which offer a variety of shops, restaurants, and accommodations. Visitors can explore the area’s many galleries and studios or relax and take in the stunning natural beauty of the lake and surrounding forests.
9. Puget Sound
Puget Sound is a large inlet located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. The sound is approximately 100 miles long and is home to a variety of marine wildlife, including orcas, seals, sea lions, and many species of birds.
Puget Sound is a popular destination for kayaking, with its many bays and inlets providing a perfect environment for paddling. Visitors can explore the sound’s many islands and shorelines and may even have the opportunity to see marine wildlife up close.
In addition to kayaking, Puget Sound offers a wide range of other outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and whale watching. The sound is also home to several charming towns and villages, including Seattle, Tacoma, and Olympia, which offer a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
The surrounding area is home to several state parks and public spaces, including Deception Pass State Park, which offers camping, hiking, and beachcombing. Visitors can also explore the sound’s many historic structures, including lighthouses and forts, which glimpse the region’s rich maritime history.
10. Lake Cushman
Lake Cushman is a stunning glacial lake in the Olympic Mountains of Washington State. The lake is approximately 9 miles long and is surrounded by old-growth forests, rugged mountains, and cascading waterfalls.
Lake Cushman is a popular destination for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, with its clear waters and beautiful scenery providing a perfect environment for water sports. Visitors can explore the lake’s many coves and inlets and may even have the opportunity to see bald eagles, ospreys, and other wildlife.
In addition to water sports, Lake Cushman offers a wide range of other outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and camping. The surrounding area is home to several campgrounds and backcountry campsites, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to experience the wilderness of the Olympic Mountains.
The lake is also home to several parks and public spaces, including Lake Cushman State Park, which offers camping, picnicking, and swimming. Visitors can also explore the area’s many trails, which wind through forests and along the lake’s shoreline, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and waterways.
Best Time to Go Kayaking in Washington State
The best time to kayak in Washington State depends on the region you plan to visit and your preferences. Generally, the summer months (June to September) offer the warmest weather and the most predictable conditions for kayaking. This is the peak season for kayaking in many areas, including Puget Sound, Lake Chelan, Lake Sammamish, and Lake Wenatchee.
However, some regions, such as the San Juan Islands and Hood Canal, can be crowded during summer. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and fall (September to October), when the weather is still mild but the crowds are thinner.
Winter kayaking can also be an option in some areas, such as Ross Lake and Lake Cushman. However, it requires additional preparation and caution due to colder temperatures and potentially more challenging conditions.
Ultimately, the best time to kayaking in Washington State depends on your preferences and the region you plan to visit. Check weather and water conditions before heading out, and always prioritize safety when kayaking in any season.
Wildlife While Kayaking Trips in Washington State
Kayaking trips in Washington State offer the opportunity to see a wide variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. Here are some of the animals you may encounter while kayaking:
- Orcas: Orcas, also known as killer whales, are common in the San Juan Islands and Puget Sound waters. These majestic creatures are known for their distinctive black-and-white markings and are a highlight of many kayaking trips.
- Bald Eagles: Bald eagles are expected in Washington State, especially near waterways. These majestic birds can often be seen perched in trees or soaring overhead while kayaking.
- Harbor Seals: Harbor seals are a common sight in the waters around Washington State. These curious and playful animals can often be seen swimming alongside kayaks or sunning themselves on rocks and beaches.
- River Otters: River otters are a common sight in the rivers and lakes of Washington State. These playful and curious animals can often be seen swimming and playing near kayaks.
- Sea Lions: Sea lions can be seen around the Olympic Peninsula and the San Juan Islands. These large and vocal animals are known for their distinctive barks and playful behavior.
Pros of Kayaking Trips in Washington State
- Stunning Scenery: Washington State offers the country’s most beautiful and diverse natural scenery. From the rugged coastline of the Olympic Peninsula to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Chelan, kayaking allows you to experience the state’s natural beauty up close and personal.
- Abundant Wildlife: Washington State is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including orcas, seals, sea lions, bald eagles, and many other species. Kayaking trips are ideal for seeing these animals in their natural habitat.
- Outdoor Adventure: Kayaking is a great way to get outside and enjoy the natural beauty of Washington State. Whether paddling through calm waters or navigating rapids, kayaking trips offer a unique and exciting outdoor adventure.
- Exercise and Wellness: Kayaking is a great way to stay active and improve physical fitness. It’s also a great way to reduce stress and improve your mental health as you immerse yourself in nature and disconnect from the stresses of daily life.
- Accessibility: Kayaking is a relatively easy and affordable outdoor activity for people of all ages and skill levels. With numerous rental shops and guided tours throughout the state, kayaking trips are accessible to everyone.
Cons of Kayaking Trips in Washington State
- Weather Conditions: Washington State is known for its unpredictable weather, which can challenge kayaking trips. Sudden storms, high winds, and rough waters can make kayaking dangerous or uncomfortable, so it’s essential to be prepared and aware of weather conditions before heading out.
- Safety Concerns: Kayaking can be a dangerous activity, especially for those who are inexperienced or unfamiliar with the waterways. In addition to weather conditions, kayakers must be aware of hazards such as rocks, logs, and other obstacles in the water.
- Crowded Conditions: Popular kayaking destinations in Washington State can become congested during peak season, detracting from the overall experience. Crowded waterways can also pose safety concerns, as kayakers must navigate around other boats, swimmers, and wildlife.
- Environmental Impact: Kayaking can hurt the environment if not done responsibly. Paddling too close to wildlife, disturbing sensitive habitats, and leaving behind a trash can all damage the natural environment.
- Physical Demands: Kayaking can be physically demanding, especially for those in good physical condition. Paddling can be tiring and strain the arms, shoulders, and back.
Conclusion
Kayaking in Washington State offers a unique and rewarding outdoor experience, with stunning natural scenery, abundant wildlife, and a wide range of waterways to explore. From the rugged coastline of the Olympic Peninsula to the calm waters of Lake Sammamish, Washington State offers something for kayakers of all ages and skill levels.
While there are potential drawbacks, such as unpredictable weather and safety concerns, with proper preparation and awareness, kayaking trips in Washington State can be a safe and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a beginner looking to try something new, Washington State is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the outdoors and wants to experience the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
