Kenmore Waterfront Activity Center promotes kayaking and paddling programs at local parks

As the sun glimmers on the waters of Lake Washington, the City of Kenmore is gearing up for an exciting summer filled with water activities. During a recent government meeting, officials highlighted the wealth of opportunities available for residents and visitors alike, from kayaking to dragon boating, all designed to foster community engagement and promote outdoor recreation.

Kenmore boasts an impressive array of water access parks, including three boathouses at Log Boom Park, Rhododendron Park, and the newly renovated Talaquites Park. Each location offers unique programming through the Kenmore Waterfront Activity Center (KWAC), which provides a variety of paddling experiences. For those new to kayaking, the advice is clear: stay close to the shore and enjoy the stunning scenery, including sightings of bald eagles and herons.

At Talaquites Park, the KWAC runs programs for outrigger paddling and dragon boating, catering to all skill levels. The Hawaiian outrigger paddling group, known as HWOPS, offers practices five times a week from March through October, welcoming newcomers to experience the sport and its cultural heritage. Meanwhile, the Seattle Flying Dragon Boat Club invites participants aged 12 and up to join their competitive teams, with practices held multiple times a week.

Log Boom Park serves as a hub for water rentals, including kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards, all available through WhatsApp Stand Up Paddle and Surf. The rentals feature commercial-grade equipment, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for families and individuals alike. A unique offering is the hydro bike, a floating bicycle that allows users to pedal across the water, adding a fun twist to summer outings.

For those looking to combine water and land activities, a one-way rental option allows adventurers to paddle to Bothell Landing and then bike back along the Burke-Gilman Trail, creating a seamless loop of exploration.

Rhododendron Park is home to the Kenmore Community Rowing Club, which offers summer camps for youth aged 13 to 18. These camps cater to both beginners and experienced rowers, fostering skills that have propelled local high school teams to national recognition.

As Kenmore prepares for a vibrant summer, residents are encouraged to take advantage of these diverse water activities, creating lasting memories while enjoying the beauty of their community. With so many options available, there’s no better time to dive into the summer fun on Lake Washington.