Lake Padden Park — Attraction in Bellingham

Lake Padden continues to be slow and understocked... The ospreys are doing well and the eagles harassing the ospreys for their catches are doing well!

As far as what I've seen from other fisherman it has been a struggle...

Over the last 30 years this has been the worst year for harvesting trout in lake Padden...

I Got skunked the last two times I was there this week... I don't believe this is pilot error, as I am doing everything exactly as I have done in the years past...

I have harvested eight trout over 12 to 14 visits this season. One or two every other visit or so...

I have seen some beautiful photos and triploids that has been taken from lake Padden this last week...

Is my understanding that Triploids have been introduced for the first time this year

My buddy caught a 25-in fish !

Good luck!!! it is a wonderful place for families and young people with easy access and comfortable amenities like the public bathrooms and picnic areas...

A very nice place for certain events and recreation opportunitys. Like family bicycling, hiking, swimming, picnic, and paddling opportunities...

Remember... Take time to take a young person fishing !!! Lift up your neighbors, reach out and reap the...

I'm gonna focus on the gem on the south-end of Lake Padden, the off-leash dog trail.

Using the South entrance to the park takes you directly to the baseball fields, playground and a large fenced off-leash area. By taking a trail further south (a few hundred feet), you are brought to the entrance of an off-leash trail section. Here you can let your pooch run free and adventure in the many swamps, streams and gullies. The trail has multiple sections, all which eventually loop back around and lead back to the south entrance from where you came.

Does your dog like to swim?

Using the main trail that circles the lake. From the baseball diamonds, head north in a counter-clockwise direction around the lake. In roughly 300 feet, before the playground, there is an area (near the head of the stream feeding the lake) where many people bring thier dogs to swim.

It is the only spot on the lake that I am aware you can have your dog off-leash without being fined. And I have seen people get a...

Update 2025: Just went on a winter stroll through the Padden Lake trails, and it was lovely. It's a serene place, and a great spot to escape the everyday monotony anytime of the year!

Lake Padden is an absolute gem! We visit nearly every week for hiking, biking, and kayaking, and each trip is a pleasure. The paths around the lake are perfect for all skill levels, whether you're taking a peaceful walk or enjoying a challenging bike ride. There are also designated trails where dogs can roam off-leash, which is a huge plus for dog owners.

The lake itself is beautiful and clean, making it ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding. The entire area is well-maintained, and the natural scenery—especially the trees surrounding the lake—adds to the serene atmosphere. Whether you're out for a day of activity or just want to relax by the water, Lake Padden never disappoints. Highly recommended for outdoor...