We arrived at the park at 9:45 am and had no trouble finding parking.   There is ample parking throughout this large park.

We hiked the loop trail around the lake.  The lake was lovely today.  We also took the spur trail to Lake Padden Gorge, which was very picturesque.   The spur trail is right off the loop trail by one of the docks.

Lake Padden is in a very beautiful setting that features both the lake and  forest.  It was very pleasant to walk around the lake enjoying the water and the woods.   There were quite a few other hikers on the loop trail but we still had the trail to ourselves for many long stretches.  The trails were all in great shape.

Went here for the first time today, thinking to get a walk around the lake in and then take the dog to the fenced off leash dog park by the lake. What a happy surprise that there are a few miles of off leash dog trails behind the fenced dog park! Dog had a blast getting his zoomies out and met some other friendly pups as well. Had to run back to the car when the wind and rain rolled in but we will be back! Many interesting mushrooms too!

The trail description has an error.  As indicated on the map, the less traveled upper trail is on the SOUTH side of the lake, not the north.  Edits below.

take a turn off the beaten path to rise above the north  south side of the lake on a less-trodden upper trail.

Start your trip from any of several parking lots off of Samish Way. Then work your way around the lake on a 2.6 mile smooth gravel loop path close to the lakeside. Keep an eye out for mallard ducks, American coots, cormorants, buffleheads, and other waterfowl on the lake. Around the north south side of the lake, take a turn up into the hills above the lake to avoid the crowds. 

This was my third time hiking the trail around Lake Padden this summer and it is so beautiful I needed to share! The trail is a pretty easy level to traverse but it provides a few small uphill climbs that help get the heart pumping! It's a wide enough trail to feel comfortable passing bikers, runners, and other walkers... most are wearing masks.  Beautiful views of the lake at times and then you're submerged in the lovely inner forest for others, very well balanced! There is ample parking with multiple entrances into the park. There are large ball fields to enjoy, picnic tables with BBQ, personal "launch" sites to get into the lake and there are tennis courts, too. We saw a family of 4 riding horseback and many people fishing off the docks, so I'd say there's definitely something for everyone here! I look forward to making this park/trail a regular occurrence this summer!