Winter can be a magical time of year to visit Lake Sammamish State Park. Despite the cold temperatures, the lake and surrounding parkland offer many activities and breathtaking scenery. From outdoor activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing to taking in the views of the snow-covered lake, there is something for everyone at Lake Sammamish State Park in winter.
Whether you're looking to get some exercise or just want to enjoy the peaceful tranquility of the park in winter, Lake Sammamish State Park is an ideal destination.
Location
Lake Sammamish is located in the city of Issaquah, Washington, and offers a stunningly beautiful view all year round. During the winter months, Lake Sammamish is a great place to go for a peaceful walk or a scenic getaway.
The lake spans 8 miles long and 1.5 miles wide, providing plenty of opportunity for exploration and relaxation. The lake also serves as an excellent starting point for activities such as boating, fishing, and even ice skating in winter. With its vast size, the lake provides plenty of opportunities for leisurely activities for visitors of all ages.
What to Expect
Visiting Lake Sammamish State Park in winter can be a unique and rewarding experience. The park is open year-round, but the temperatures can drop below freezing at night, so it's important to bring proper clothing and supplies for your visit.
The park does require a valid Washington State Parks Discovery Pass for day-use visits, which you can purchase online or at any of the park's ranger stations. When you arrive, you'll find stunning views of the lake frozen over and snow-capped trees blanketing the landscape. Make sure to bundle up before you head out to explore the trails or set up camp – the winter months can be quite chilly!
What to Do
At Lake Sammamish in winter, there are a variety of activities to enjoy! Whether you’re looking for a more relaxed experience or an adventure outdoors, there is something here for everyone.
For a more relaxed activity, you can go on a nature walk. The park is a great place to explore the winter flora and fauna in Washington. You’ll find a variety of trees, plants, birds, and other wildlife throughout the park. Plus, with the lake itself being a great place to observe nature, you’ll be able to witness some of the most beautiful winter views in the area.
If you’re looking for something more active, you can enjoy snowshoeing around the park. Lake Sammamish is perfect for those looking to enjoy some winter sports with its flat trails and open meadows.
Fishing is also available during the winter months in Lake Sammamish. The cold winter temperatures make it ideal for fishing for trout and steelhead in the lake.
Finally, if you're looking for a fun family activity, you can always build a snowman at Lake Sammamish! With plenty of snow and beautiful scenery, you’ll have the perfect backdrop to build your own masterpiece.
What to Do Nearby
Visiting Lake Sammamish State Park in winter is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy the fresh air. The park offers plenty of activities, including hiking, biking, picnicking, and swimming. There are also several restaurants, stores, and other outdoor activities nearby.
For example, nearby, you can find Marymoor Park, which offers more than 640 acres of green space for a wide range of recreational activities. You can also visit Redmond Town Center for shopping, dining, and entertainment. For even more outdoor fun, venture to Farrel-McWhirter Farm Park for equestrian activities and a variety of other activities like disc golf and nature walks.
If you’re looking for some traditional wintertime fun, Snoqualmie Pass is only about an hour away from Lake Sammamish and offers a variety of skiing, snowboarding, and tubing opportunities. If you’re looking for something a little closer, take a trip to Snoqualmie Valley Trail, which offers 8 miles of trails perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter.
No matter what you decide to do during your visit to Lake Sammamish State Park in winter, there is plenty of nearby activities to keep everyone busy!
Other Lakes in Washington
Washington is home to some of the most beautiful and pristine lakes in the United States. From Lake Washington, which is located in the heart of Seattle, to smaller lakes in the eastern part of the state, Washington has no shortage of lake spots for outdoor enthusiasts.
Lake Chelan is another must-see destination in Washington. Located in north central Washington, it is the third largest natural lake in the state. In winter, it is the perfect spot for ice skating, snowshoeing, and skiing. The surrounding mountains provide stunning views of crystal-clear waters and snow-covered peaks.
Another popular lake destination in Washington is Lake Crescent and the nearby Crescent Beach. This deep glacier-carved lake is located in the Olympic National Park and provides visitors with stunning views of the surrounding forests and mountains. In winter, Lake Crescent is a great place to observe wildlife, such as bald eagles and elk, or enjoy an afternoon of ice skating on its frozen surface.
Overall, there are plenty of lakes in Washington that are perfect for winter activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful place to watch wildlife or an exciting spot to ice skate and ski, there's something for everyone in this beautiful state.