As the temperatures rise and gray skies give way to sun-soaked days, the region begins its annual search for uncrowded beaches and fun ways to beat the heat.
While the Pacific Northwest is home to some of the world’s best watering holes, nestled between Everett and Seattle is an underutilized gem.
With picnic shelters, sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and family friendly activities, the urban oasis that is Silver Lake is a can’t-miss destination.
And with the Lynnwood Link opening on August 30th, you'll soon have more choices on how to get to this incredible spot.
Here are some ideas of things to do:
Go fishing
Silver Lake is a stocked lake with seven different shore fishing access points. Five different types of fish can be caught, including: Rainbow Trout, Rock Bass, Largemouth Bass, Kokanee and Yellow Perch. According to the Department of Fish and Wildlife, April and May are the best time of year to catch Rainbow Trout and Kokanee, while later in the season – around June and July – you are more likely to catch Yellow Perch and Bass.
Try stand up paddleboarding or kayaking
While there is no official boat launch, local entrepreneurs, Dave and Erin Matthews, opened up a beach-side shack that houses their Stand Up Paddle Board and Kayak Rentals at Hydrology.
While you are more than welcome to rent one of their SUPs and hit the water, they also offer lessons for those wanting to brush up on their skills before hitting the high seas. Hydrology also offers SUP classes like, Paddleboard Yoga, Hustle and Flow and a SUP FIT class for those who are trying to take it up a notch. Prices range from $30-$40 for SUP and Kayak rentals.
Hydrology info and hours:
10 years and older on their own board (unless in a lesson then 6 and older on their own board)
Driver’s License/I.D Required.
Hydrology is open on weekends only in the early season, then seven days a week through the end of summer
Go for a walk
Silver Lake Loop is a flat, 2.2 mile hike around the lake. The trail is easy to find, moderate grade and great for all skill levels. If you decide to venture around the lake, you can stop at Green Lantern Park or Hague Homestead Park for new views, playgrounds and more.
Get the competitive juices flowing
Silver Lake is home to a 9-hole Disc Golf course. Frolfing is a Pacific Northwest pastime, and this lakeside course offers amazing views and a layout that is great for all skill levels. Open holes, tight windows and elevation changes make each hole a different experience.
The course’s designer created alternative holes for each tee – so you can extend your round to 18 holes if you desire. Just note, the beginning of the course is on the opposite side of Thornton A. Sullivan Park’s parking lot – you don’t want to shortchange yourself – so make sure to start at Hole 1.
If you prefer to stay on the beach, Silver Lake also has a concrete table tennis structure in the sand. Just note that it is BYOPAB (bring your own paddles and balls), and keeping your eye on the ball and head in the game when surrounded by so much natural beauty may be a challenge!
Plan a picnic
Silver Lake has plenty of picnic shelters, grassy areas and beachfront for you to lay a blanket and plop down for the afternoon. There are convenience and grocery stores just a short walk away from the park if you forgot your favorite snack or beverage.
Don’t want to bring any food? Emory’s on Silver Lake, Yummy Yummy Thaiv, Sushi Ring and Ming Garden are all located along the water and are great options to satiate the hunger that only a day at the beach can bring.
How to get there
The South Everett Park and Ride is the closest ST stop to Silver Lake. You can take the ST Express 512 from either direction and stop here. To finish your journey, walk .5 miles Southeast from the Park and Ride to get to Silver Lake.
You can use the Sound Transit trip planner to discover your best route to Silver Lake and Thornton A. Sullivan Park.
Things to know
Thornton A. Sullivan Park at Silver Lake is open 6 a.m. to dusk. While swimming is allowed, there are no lifeguards on duty, so we recommend taking the safety precautions outlined by the American Red Cross when recreating near water.
Planning to take a day trip to the lake? Tag us @SoundTransit to share your adventures!