How do I access SE 40th Street?

SE 40th Street is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at SE 40th Street?

SE 40th Street supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at SE 40th Street?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit SE 40th Street?

The best time to paddle at SE 40th Street is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at SE 40th Street?

Water conditions at SE 40th Street include calm, flatwater.

Is SE 40th Street good for beginners?

Yes, SE 40th Street is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

A body of water surrounded by trees and a forest

Photo by fr0ggy5 on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPBeginner

Conditions

CanalCalmFlatwater

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

SE 40th Street

Mercer Island, WA · Boat Ramp · Public

SE 40th Street is a public boat ramp on East Channel near Mercer Island, Washington. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Canal

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

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

About This Location

Boat Ramp accessing East Channel near Mercer Island, Washington. calm and flatwater conditions.

Paddlers can launch from SE 40th Street in Washington onto East Channel, a canal with calm, predictable conditions.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle. The Pacific Northwest delivers lush, green waterways with reliable rainfall keeping rivers and lakes full.

Expect calm and flatwater conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

SE 40th Street sits about 5 min from Mercer Island, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm canal waters make SE 40th Street ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Canals often run through interesting urban or agricultural areas worth exploring.
•Canal banks can be steep — look for designated launch points or gentle slopes.
•Motor boats may create wake in narrow canals — brace for waves when they pass.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access SE 40th Street?: SE 40th Street is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at SE 40th Street?: SE 40th Street supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at SE 40th Street?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit SE 40th Street?: The best time to paddle at SE 40th Street is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at SE 40th Street?: Water conditions at SE 40th Street include calm, flatwater.
Is SE 40th Street good for beginners?: Yes, SE 40th Street is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered 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: 47.5749, -122.1889