This has been my go-to spot for trail running for years. There are so many options for how long you want to go, it's like a maze of trails so you can keep going to get a longer distance or just pop in for a quicker 2.5 mile easy loop around the lake. It's also one of the more populated areas. I've only had one instance of an off-leash dog coming at me on the trails, otherwise people seem to do good with keeping dogs under control.

Always parking and lots of wildlife (bald eagles, deer, bunnies, etc.). Easy loop route with a view and access to the water. 

The main loop around the lake and the side spur along Padden Gorge are great for both walking and all-terrain strollers. My kiddo was in and out of the stroller on our walk, getting out to sit on every bench and to explore beach openings. Both trails were in great shape and the shade was appreciated. Blackberries were ripening and kiddo enjoyed eating some that were ready for picking. We say lots of ducks and dragon flies on our walk.

We arrived just after 10am and it was still pretty quiet, just some joggers and dog walkers on the loop trail. By the time we left after noon, the main beach areas were filling up with folks swimming and sunbathing. We had no problems finding some small private beaches away from the main areas to play by ourselves.

This was hike #12 of WTA's Hike-A-Thon. Please consider helping to keep our beloved trails accessible and fun for the next generation of hikers by supporting WTA!

Haven't been here for a long time.  Ended up wandering for two hours counter clock-wise from the first entrance going south on Samish, which included the Padden Gorge Trail (zero water) and the horse trail...basically the whole ridge until I dropped back down to the lake where it meets the dog park, then finished the loop around the lake.  I only saw two people on the ridge, so it was a super quiet, contemplative solo walkabout:). Back down at the lake, it was a gong show!  But the water was refreshing...we stopped several times for a splash...and it was such a beautiful day:)

Great place for a safe solo, easy walk that included about three nice uphill sections for some variety.  Unfortunately, someone has completely defaced several of the trail maps that you come upon on the ridge trails.  I was able to find the map online, but it's a shame:(

I'm wondering if next time, I should continue all the way into the Galbraith Mountain trails, before looping back?  Or will I get squashed by mountain bikers?