Paddleboarding at Big Lake
Big Lake has year-round public water access and sits about 10 minutes from our Sedro-Woolley pickup rack. Use this guide to sort out the launch, the gear, and the right amount of time for your day before you leave home.
Close to the rack, with a proper public launch
Big Lake sits east of Mount Vernon in Skagit County. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife access area has a concrete ramp, boarding float, parking, and a restroom, which makes it a straightforward place to arrive with a SUP. PNW Paddle Rentals is not at the lake: the boards are picked up and returned in Sedro-Woolley, roughly 10 minutes away, so plan that short drive into both ends of your rental.
Public AccessCheck the launch before you drive
WDFW lists the Big Lake access area as open year-round. Its page also carries temporary notices for water treatments, algae, and access changes, so check it on the morning of your paddle. A Discover Pass or Vehicle Access Pass is required when parking on WDFW recreation land.
See current Big Lake access details and alerts at WDFW →
Launch ChecklistWhat to put in the car
- Parking pass: bring the pass required for the WDFW access area.
- Sun and water gear: pack drinking water, sun protection, and a dry place for your phone and keys.
- A conditions check: look at the hourly wind forecast and any lake advisories before committing to a route.
Kid kits include a Coast Guard–approved life vest. Children 12 and younger must wear one while the board is underway.
Rental GearWhat will be waiting in your lockbox
Adult kits
- Adult inflatable stand-up paddle board (10'6")
- Adjustable paddle
- Ankle leash
- Pump (boards are stored inflated)
Kid kits (life vest included)
- Kid-size inflatable stand-up paddle board
- Adjustable paddle
- US Coast Guard–approved life vest
- Ankle leash
- Pump (boards are stored inflated)
Match the rental to your Big Lake plan
Remember that your slot includes pickup in Sedro-Woolley, the drive to Big Lake, setup, paddling, and the return trip to the rack. Leave yourself more margin than the time you expect to spend on the water.
- 5-Hour Paddle: $65. A proper session on the water without giving up your day.
- 8-Hour Cruise: $80. Time to cross the lake, swim off the board, and cruise back.
- Full Day: $90. The board is yours from open to close. Come and go as you like.
Start small and keep the return easy
Use the first few minutes near the access area to adjust your paddle, practice turning, and get comfortable standing up. On open water, wind can make the trip back feel very different from the trip out. Stay within a distance you know you can paddle twice, keep your leash attached, and turn around early if the surface starts building.
Building a longer outing? Use our Skagit County day planner to pair the paddle with another local stop, or check live board availability.
Set a Time for Big Lake.
Choose a rental window with enough room for pickup, the 10-minute drive, your paddle, and the return to Sedro-Woolley.