Lake Sammamish SUP – Eastside Paddling Without the Lake W…

Lake Sammamish gets less traffic than Lake Washington — same state, same general region, but fewer people know to go there. The water is noticeably cleaner on most days (less urban runoff than Lake Washington), the east and north shores stay more natural (state park land and undeveloped hillside), and weekday mornings you often have the lake to yourself. It is the Eastside’s answer to the question of where to go when Magnuson’s parking lot is already full.

Lake Sammamish State Park Launch

The main access point. The state park has a paved boat ramp and an adjacent beach — use the beach for carry-in SUP access. The ramp is useful if you have a wheeled cart for heavier inflatable boards.

Address: 2000 NW Sammamish Rd, Issaquah, WA 98027

📍 Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking: Washington State Discover Pass required (day pass $10, annual $30 — buy at discoverpass.wa.gov or at the park). The main lot is large. Fills on peak summer beach days but manages fine for morning paddlers who are leaving before noon swimmers arrive.

On the Water

The south end near the state park has the most motorboat traffic — ski boats and jet skis use this section most heavily. Paddle north and the lake quietens significantly. The east shore (right as you head north) is largely state park land and wooded hillside — less residential than the west shore and more pleasant to paddle along.

The lake is 7.5 miles long. The north end narrows into the Sammamish River outlet and the Marymoor Park wetland area — excellent for wildlife watching. A complete north-south traverse from the state park to Marymoor is about 7.5 miles one way, a serious commitment requiring a shuttle or out-and-back planning.

What Makes It Worth the Drive

Water clarity: The lake’s watershed is less urbanized than Lake Washington’s, and it shows — the water is typically clearer and a deeper green-blue color. On calm days the bottom is visible in much of the shallower east shore sections.

Crowds: Proportionally less than Lake Washington despite being similar in size. The Eastside location and Discover Pass requirement both reduce casual drop-in traffic.

Practical Notes

• Discover Pass: Required — do not forget it. Rangers do check.
• Swim advisories: Check Washington DOH notices for blue-green algae in late summer.
• North end connection: Paddle north to Marymoor Park for the wildlife slough experience — plan 2-3 hours one way for a serious north traverse.
• Best for: All levels. Beginners on the south bay near the state park; intermediate and advanced paddlers for north lake routes.