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Swim at Green Lake

Seattle, Washington

2.3/5
based on 7 reviews

Description

Added by Sarah Matthews

Great for swimming, kayaking, SUP, boating and catching some rays. Pet friendly.

Green Lake is one of Seattle’s most beloved parks. Its expanse of water and green space in the center of a dense urban neighborhood draws thousands of people daily from all over the city. The park serves as a natural preserve for hundreds of species of trees and plants, as well as numerous birds and waterfowl. The newly reconstructed 2.8-mile path around the lake provides a perfect recreational spot for runners, bikers, skaters and walkers. Many others use the athletic fields or visit the park for boating, picnics and swimming.

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Features

Stand Up Paddle
Kayaking
Swimming
Bathrooms
Beach
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Food Nearby
Lake
Picnic Area
Swimming Hole

Swim at Green Lake Reviews

We swim here every summer. There is a stigma that the lake is gross. Yes, it used to often get algae blooms but not much anymore, and when it does it is obvious. Both official swimming beaches have great docks with multiple diving boards that are guarded during the summer(boards come down after labor day). Open water swimming has become fairly popular, but is officially only allowed close to shore when outside swim areas, however, most people swim across the lake from point to point. There is no power use allowed on the lake so it is safe for all uses.

Literally every dog that drinks from that lake will vomit. It’s gross water. Don’t get in.

I have visited and swam/paddle boarded here for years. The great Canadian Geese invasion a few years ago made for some algae blooms that weren't good for swimming (and left an erroneous long term impression) but for years now the lake has been in great shape and the beaches are much used. All the beaches in the county are monitored and can be checked for water quality so anyone can check before taking a dip. Some of the less healthy beaches might. be a surprise. Check here: https://green2.kingcounty.gov/swimbeach/

Swim if you want diseases

Nice lake with a great walking trail. Not sure about the swimming, but there's a rental shack open on the northeast side of the lake during the summer months

Better places to jump in and cool off! Anyone who walks or runs the lake knows that there are constantly toxic algae blooms. What makes you think that if your dogs health is in jeopardy yours is not? If warmer water is your thing look to a plethora of Lake Washington beaches: Madison Park, Rainier Beach, Magnuson Park, or Matthews Beach. If you're a recent transplant, looking to put hair on your chest, or to be a true Seattleite head to the Puget Sound beaches: Golden Gardens, Alki Beach, or Discovery Park. For those who like their swimming experiences controlled check out the salt water pool at Lincoln Park or a number of indoor fresh water pools run by the city. Happy Summer!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Run The Green Lake Park Loop

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Paddle Lake Union

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Washington Park Arboretum Loop Trail