Make a splash: Lakes you can reach by Link light rail

By Sound Transit

August 5, 2026

When the summer sun is shining, a day by the water is hard to beat. Whether you're looking to cool off with a swim, enjoy a waterfront picnic, paddle across the lake, or simply soak up the scenery, Link light rail can get you there.

From Seattle favorites like Green Lake to Eastside gems along Lake Washington and Lake Sammamish, these lakes and waterfront parks are all accessible by transit. Grab your sunscreen, pack a beach blanket, and let Link do the driving.

Green Lake

A Seattle summertime staple, Green Lake draws visitors year-round with its 2.8-mile walking path, swimming beaches, open lawns, and opportunities for paddle sports. Whether you're meeting friends for a stroll or spending the afternoon by the water, Green Lake offers something for everyone.

How to get there: Take the 1 or 2 Line to Roosevelt Station. Green Lake Park is 0.8 miles away.

Luther Burbank Park

Located on Mercer Island, Luther Burbank Park combines waterfront access with forested trails, public art, fishing piers, picnic areas, and sweeping views of Lake Washington. It's a great destination for anyone looking to enjoy the lake without venturing too far from the city.

How to get there: Take the 2 Line to Mercer Island Station and head to the park, about 0.7 miles away.

Angle Lake

If convenience is your priority, it doesn't get much easier than Angle Lake. Located just south of Seattle, Angle Lake Park offers a swimming beach, fishing pier, playground, picnic areas, and plenty of room to relax by the water.

How to get there: Take the 1 Line to Angle Lake Station. The park is about a half-mile from the station.

Lake Ballinger

Tucked between Mountlake Terrace and Edmonds, Lake Ballinger offers a quieter lakeside escape just north of Seattle. The lake is popular for fishing, paddling, and relaxing by the water, while nearby Ballinger Park features a swimming beach, picnic areas, playgrounds, walking trails, and a fishing pier.

How to get there: Take the 1 or 2 Line to Mountlake Terrace Station and head about a mile west.

Meydenbauer Bay Park

Nestled along Bellevue's shoreline, Meydenbauer Bay Park offers a swimming beach, waterfront promenade, fishing pier, kayak access, and beautiful views across Lake Washington. The park's recent transformation has made it one of the Eastside's premier waterfront destinations.

How to get there: Take the 2 Line to Bellevue Downtown Station. The park is about a mile from the station.

Lake Sammamish via Marymoor Park

For those looking to spend a full day outdoors, Lake Sammamish is worth the trip. Access the lake through Marymoor Park, where you'll find trails, open space, sports fields, and connections to the East Lake Sammamish Trail. The north end of the lake is perfect for a scenic walk, bike ride, or waterfront picnic.

How to get there: Take the 2 Line to Marymoor Village Station and follow the trail connections into Marymoor Park and the Lake Sammamish shoreline area.

Steel Lake

Located in the heart of Federal Way, Steel Lake Park is a popular summer destination for swimming, fishing, picnicking, and relaxing by the water. The park features a sandy beach area, walking paths, playgrounds, and plenty of green space for an afternoon outdoors.

How to get there: Take the 1 Line to Federal Way Downtown Station. The park is about 0.8 miles away.

Bonus: See Lake Washington from the train

One of the region's most unique lake experiences doesn't require leaving your seat.

The 2 Line crosses Lake Washington on the Interstate 90 floating bridge, making it the first light rail line in the world to operate on a floating bridge. As you travel between Seattle and Bellevue, you'll enjoy sweeping views of the water, surrounding mountains, and skyline.