Boat Launch Accessibility: Kenmore's Open Secret

The Kenmore Boat Launch is a slipway in King County, Puget Sound, Washington. It is situated on the northern tip of Lake Washington, close to the city of Kenmore. The boat launch is open from 6:30 am to 10:30 pm from Tuesday to Thursday and on Saturdays. The site has been used for boating events, such as the Kenmore Hydroplane Cup, and is a popular destination for boating enthusiasts in the area.

Opening hours

The Kenmore Boat Launch is open to the public during the following hours:

• Tuesday: 06:30 - 22:30
• Wednesday: 06:30 - 22:30
• Thursday: 06:30 - 22:30
• Saturday: 06:30 - 22:30

Please note that these hours may be subject to change and it is always best to check the official website or local listings for the most up-to-date information.

In addition to regular opening hours, the Kenmore Boat Launch has also hosted special events, such as the Kenmore Hydroplane Cup, which took place on April 11, 2015, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. This event included a variety of activities and exhibitions, such as boat races, musical performances, and ribbon-cutting ceremonies.

Location

The Kenmore Boat Launch is located in King County, Puget Sound, Washington, United States. It is situated on the northern tip of Lake Washington, 1 nautical mile south of the central business district of Kenmore, Washington. The boat launch is easily accessible by vehicle, public transit, or the Burke-Gilman Trail.

The address of the Kenmore Boat Launch is 17150 68th Ave NE, Kenmore, Washington. The nearest cross streets are 68th Ave NE and NE 170th St. The boat launch is located near Rhododendron Park and the Kenmore Community Rowing Club.

For those driving to the Kenmore Boat Launch, there are several parking options available. Street parking is available along NE 175th Street. Additionally, parking is available at the former Northshore Park & Ride, located at 18149 68th Ave NE, and at Rhododendron Park, located at 6910 NE 170th Street. A shuttle service operates between these parking areas and the boat launch. It is important to note that there is limited ADA parking available at Log Boom Park and no spectator parking at the Kenmore Boat Launch.

The Kenmore Boat Launch is a popular location for boating and sailing activities, with easy access to the waters of Lake Washington and the Sammamish River. It has been a site for various events, including the Kenmore Hydroplane Cup and the Sammamish Slough Race.

Parking

If you are looking for other parking options in the area, there is onsite parking at Log Boom Park, which is located at the north end of Lake Washington in Kenmore. However, parking is limited, and park users are encouraged to walk, bike, or use public transportation whenever possible. Public on-street parking is available along NE 175th, east of 61st-68th Avenue NE. It is important to respect the park neighbours and businesses by not parking in private parking spaces.

For those interested in kayaking or paddleboarding, there is parking along NE 175th Street near the Kenmore waterfront. The Burke-Gilman Trail and the public pier remain open, and portable restrooms are located east of the parking lot. Please note that during construction periods, the parking lot, restroom, playground, and beach access at Log Boom Park may be closed.

Additionally, if you are launching a canoe or kayak on the Sammamish River, there is a dock located on the east side of the bridge in Kenmore. While specific parking information is not available for this location, it may be worth exploring as an option for water access in the area.

Nearby attractions

There are plenty of attractions near the Kenmore boat launch to keep visitors entertained. Here are some places to visit:

• St Edward State Park — See the rainforest-type trees and Lake Washington.
• Cairn Brewing — Enjoy a family and dog-friendly atmosphere with a wide selection of ales and lagers.
• Log Boom Park — This park on Lake Washington has something for everyone, including a playground for kids and piers offering a panorama of the lake and its surrounding properties.
• Wallace Swamp Creek Park — An amazing hidden gem with short trails and a cool creek.
• Rhododendron Park — A nice, quiet, smaller park with a variety of activities, including a full-length basketball court, open space, and covered space.
• Catalyst Fine Art — A fine art gallery.
• Nine Yards Brewing — The only brewery in the area with games to play, although one reviewer was not a fan of the beer.
• Inglewood Golf Club — A golf club with a great atmosphere.
• The North Shore Pub — A pub with a Moonbow Spa specialising in skin treatments and lash extensions.

History

The Kenmore Boat Launch in King County, Puget Sound, Washington, is a site with a rich history. The area has a long association with boating and water-based activities, dating back to at least the early 20th century.

The original "Slough Race," a wildly popular boat race, took place in Kenmore from 1928 to 1976, attracting massive crowds of 40,000 to 80,000 spectators. The race featured a variety of boats, including hydroplanes, and contributed to the area's reputation as a hub for boating enthusiasts.

The Kenmore Boat Launch itself is strategically located at the northern end of Lake Washington, providing convenient access to the lake for boaters. The launch has been a preferred entry point for those navigating to Lake Washington, although some boaters have noted concerns about shallow waters when leaving the slough past Kenmore Air.

In recent years, the Kenmore Boat Launch has undergone remodelling, and it continues to be a popular site for boating enthusiasts and racers alike. The site also boasts a nearby community rowing club, showcasing the area's diverse aquatic offerings.

The history of the Kenmore Boat Launch is a testament to the region's longstanding maritime traditions and its appeal as a destination for both recreational boaters and competitive racers.

Frequently asked questions