Best Places to Kayak in Snohomish County

Spring is on the horizon, and it’s the perfect time to see Snohomish County from the water! From day trips on urban rivers to overnight adventures on the Puget Sound, there’s something here for kayakers of every level.

Kayak rentals

Renting a kayak is a perfect way to spend a sunny day in the Pacific Northwest. WhatsSup Stand Up Paddle and Surf offers kayak and SUP rentals at the Park at Bothell Landing, just outside downtown Bothell. Grab a bite to eat at one of Bothell’s many restaurants, then spend the afternoon paddling along the Sammamish River,

If you want to get out on Puget Sound, KayakShare.com offers self-service kayak rentals at the Everett and Edmonds waterfronts. Try the short paddle across the water from Everett to Jetty Island, where you can spend the day exploring the island’s sandy beaches. Pack a picnic to make it the perfect day trip! The Edmonds location is better suited to more advanced kayakers, as this area tends to have stronger winds and currents and more boat and ferry traffic.

Kayak launches

If you already have your own kayak, there are plenty of great places to launch in Snohomish County. Try launching from one of the many parks along the Snohomish River, such as Langus Riverfront Park or Cady Park.

Snohomish County is also home to countless lakes that are perfect for paddling! Try Blackmans Lake in Snohomish or Storm Lake near Monroe. Motorized boats are banned on both lakes, making them excellent choices for a peaceful paddle.

Looking for a bigger adventure? Check out the Cascadia Marine Trail, which stretches from Olympia in the South to the Canadian border in the North. The trail offers 66 campsites and 160 day-use sites along its path. You can plan a day trip or even a multi-day kayak camping trip along the trail. Before heading out on the CMT, ensure you have experience kayaking, navigating strong currents, and dealing with adverse weather conditions.

Kayak tips and tricks

When you’re out on the water, dress warmly and be sure to wear a life jacket at all times. Check out this safety checklist to ensure you have everything you need to stay safe on the water. Wind can be hazardous in a kayak, so check the weather and wind forecast to ensure it’s safe to paddle. If you’re a beginner, try taking a trip on a lake first. That way, you won’t have to contend with big waves, currents, and other dangers you might experience on rivers or the Puget Sound. If you want to improve your kayaking skills before heading out on a paddle, try a course hosted by The Mountaineers or Kayak Academy. Happy paddling!