Yes, there is a lot to choose from at Silver Lake County Park, Whatcom County. Hidden in the Mount Baker foothills 40 minutes from Bellingham, WA, this recreational oasis offers great opportunities for getting out on the water in a boat or walking (or riding your horse) in the woods. The bonus is you get to take the scenic Mount Baker Highway to get there.

The first thing on our list when we arrived was to rent a canoe to get out on the lake. We were there mid-week so we were able to walk right up to the nice young park ranger at the counter and sign out a boat for a reasonable $30 for 5 hours. For the complete list, including cabin and camping, check out the Silver Lake Park Reservations.

This was our first time in a canoe. Silver Lake is a great place to introduce the family to the water. The incredible clarity of the water provides curious companions the ability to see deep down into the depths below. After exploring the shores of the park, we headed north to find a picnic stop and cool off in the refreshing water.

As we paddled the lake, we enjoyed the dragonflies that joined us on our journey. While distracting to my paddling partner, I’m delighted that she enjoy the wonders of nature and playing outside. These are the special moments when we connect with the outdoors and each other.

Parents, be prepared for your kids to ask you to go out on a Pedal Boat. Be prepared to say YES. The classic craft are available to rent from the Day Lodge, along with rowboats as well. No kids? No worries. Fun for adults too!

We just went out to the park for a day trip, this time. Silver Lake is now on our camping calendar for the summer. There are numerous campsites and also cabins to choose from at the park.

From Whatcom County Parks and Recreation’s Silver Lake Park Website:

For more ideas about fun things to do in Bellingham and Whatcom County, visit our home page.