? Whether you live here or you’re planning a weekend escape from Seattle, this little lakeside town in
is a great base for outdoor fun, small-town charm, and family-friendly adventures.
Below are
1. Spend the Day at North Cove Park & Lundeen Park
If you’re new to Lake Stevens, start with the star of the show:
the lake itself.
There are two main public parks that make it easy to enjoy the water:
- North Cove Park – Right in downtown Lake Stevens. Sandy beach area, grassy lawn, and a nice dock.
- Lundeen Park – On the northwest side of the lake. Larger beach, picnic tables, and a playground.
On a warm summer day, you’ll see:
- Kids splashing in the swim areas
- Friends tossing frisbees on the grass
- Families grilling at the picnic shelters
Bring a towel, some snacks, maybe a good book, and just relax by the water. Parking can fill up on weekends, so arriving before noon is usually a good idea.
2. Kayak, Paddleboard, or Boat on Lake Stevens
Lake Stevens is one of the most popular lakes in Snohomish County for
paddleboarding, kayaking, and boating.
You’ll find:
- Public boat launches for powerboats and fishing boats
- Plenty of calm water for SUPs (stand-up paddleboards) and kayaks
If you don’t own a boat, check for
local rentals or ask around at nearby shops and marinas. On a still morning, gliding across the lake while the mountains peek through the clouds feels like something out of a postcard.
Tip: Wear a life jacket—even strong swimmers can get tired quickly in open water.
3. Walk or Bike the Centennial Trail
Looking for an easy, scenic way to get some steps in? The
Centennial Trail is one of Snohomish County’s gems.
This paved trail stretches for about
30 miles, running north–south through towns like Snohomish, Lake Stevens, and Arlington. Near Lake Stevens, you can hop on the trail at several access points and:
- Take a quick 2–3 mile walk
- Go for a longer bike ride
- Bring a stroller or scooter for kids
The trail is usually pretty flat, making it beginner-friendly. On weekends, you’ll see a mix of families, cyclists, joggers, and dog walkers. It’s a simple way to get outdoors without needing a full day hike.
4. Explore Historic Downtown Snohomish
Just a short drive (about 15–20 minutes) south of Lake Stevens, you’ll find
downtown Snohomish, one of the most charming small towns in the area.
Think:
- Old brick buildings
- Antique shops and vintage stores
- Cozy cafes and local restaurants
- Views of the Snohomish River
If you enjoy browsing for antiques, Snohomish is like a treasure hunt. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s fun to wander in and out of shops and grab an ice cream or a coffee.
Parking can be busy on sunny weekends, but there are several lots and street spots if you circle around a bit.
5. Go Hiking Near Granite Falls and the Mountain Loop Highway
If you’re up for a little drive, head east toward
Granite Falls and the
Mountain Loop Highway. This area offers some classic Washington hiking without having to go all the way into the deep Cascades.
Popular options (always check current conditions and parking rules):
- Lake 22 – A moderate hike to a beautiful mountain lake.
- Heather Lake – Another pretty trail with forest and lake views.
- Big Four Ice Caves (seasonal) – Shorter trail with big mountain views (do not climb on or into the ice caves; they can be deadly).
Bring:
- Sturdy shoes
- Water and snacks
- A light rain jacket (it’s Western Washington, after all)
On a clear day, it’s hard to beat the feeling of standing by an alpine lake after a good hike.
6. Visit the Evergreen State Fairgrounds in Monroe
About 20–25 minutes away in Monroe, the
Evergreen State Fairgrounds host events all year, including:
- The annual Evergreen State Fair (late summer)
- Car shows
- Rodeos and horse events
- Holiday markets and festivals
If you time your visit right, you can combine a day at Lake Stevens with an evening at the fair—think fair food, live music, animals, and rides.
During the main state fair, plan for crowds and give yourself extra time for traffic and parking.
7. Sample Local Beer, Cider, and Coffee
The Lake Stevens and Snohomish County area has a growing
craft drink scene. If you like exploring local flavors, you’ll have options:
- Breweries – Snohomish and the surrounding towns have several spots where you can try local IPAs, lagers, and seasonal brews.
- Cideries – Washington apples mean great cider. Look for tasting rooms in the region.
- Coffee shops – This is the Pacific Northwest; there’s almost always a good latte nearby.
One simple way to enjoy the area: spend the afternoon on the lake or Centennial Trail, then grab a cold drink and a bite to eat at a local spot. It’s a nice balance between outdoorsy and relaxed.
8. Take the Kids to Local Parks and Playgrounds
If you’re traveling with kids, you know the value of a good playground.
In and around Lake Stevens you’ll find:
- Lundeen Park – Beach plus play area.
- North Cove Park – Green space, dock, and room to run.
- Other neighborhood parks with open fields and play structures.
Pack a soccer ball, a kite, or a simple picnic. Many families like to combine a playground stop with a short walk on the nearby
Centennial Trail, so kids (and parents) can burn off some energy.
9. Go Fishing or Birdwatching Around the Lake
If you prefer quieter activities,
fishing and birdwatching around Lake Stevens can be surprisingly rewarding.
You may spot:
- Ducks and geese
- Ospreys and eagles hunting over the water
- Songbirds in the trees along the shore
Anglers head to Lake Stevens for species like:
- Trout
- Kokanee (landlocked salmon)
Be sure to check
Washington state fishing regulations and get the proper license before you cast a line.
Even if you’re not fishing, a slow walk near the water around sunrise or sunset can be peaceful and calming. It’s a nice way to start or end your day.
10. Take a Scenic Day Trip to Everett’s Waterfront
About 20–25 minutes west of Lake Stevens, the city of
Everett sits on Puget Sound and offers a different kind of water view.
At Everett’s waterfront you can:
- Stroll the Marina and watch the boats
- Grab seafood or a burger with a view of the water
- Let kids play at nearby parks
If you’re interested in aviation, the broader Everett area is also known for
airplane manufacturing and aviation-related attractions (always check current tour availability).
It’s an easy day trip from Lake Stevens if you want a mix of lake life and saltwater scenery in one weekend.
Planning Your Visit to Lake Stevens, WA
Here are a few quick tips to make your time in and around Lake Stevens smoother:
- Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for warm weather and lake activities.
- Getting around: A car is usually the easiest way to explore Snohomish County.
- Weather: Pack layers. Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be cool.
- Weekends vs weekdays: Weekends are busier at parks, trails, and the lake. Weekdays feel more relaxed.
Whether you’re into hiking, paddling, small-town browsing, or just relaxing by the water,
Lake Stevens and Snohomish County offer plenty of simple, affordable things to do.
What Would You Add to This Lake Stevens List?
Have you spent time in Lake Stevens or elsewhere in Snohomish County?
- Which parks or trails did you enjoy most?
- Do you have a favorite coffee shop, brewery, or breakfast spot?
- Any “hidden gem” activities you think deserve a shout-out?
Share your tips and stories in the comments—they help other travelers plan better trips and discover new places.
If you found this guide to
things to do near Lake Stevens, Washington helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are planning a visit. A simple share can make someone’s next weekend getaway a lot more fun.
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