A red kayak in the middle of a river
Photo by fr0ggy5 on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestrooms

Best Time to Visit

Hat Slough

Stanwood, WA · Boat Ramp · Public

Hat Slough is a public boat ramp on Hat Slough near Stanwood, Washington. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Hat Slough offers lake paddling on Hat Slough in Washington. Located near Stanwood.

Lake paddlers in Washington will appreciate Hat Slough, which offers direct access to Hat Slough and its surrounding waters.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.

You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms.

Located about 5 min from Stanwood, Hat Slough is a convenient option for Stanwood-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Hat Slough ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
  • Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
  • Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
  • Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Hat Slough?
Hat Slough is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Hat Slough?
Hat Slough supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Hat Slough?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Hat Slough?
The best time to paddle at Hat Slough is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Hat Slough?
Water conditions at Hat Slough include calm, sheltered.
Is Hat Slough good for beginners?
Yes, Hat Slough is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 48.2117, -122.3395

Quick Facts

Region
Pacific Northwest
Getting There
~5 min from Stanwood
Get Directions

48.2117, -122.3395

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