How do I access North Lake Street?

North Lake Street is a public boat ramp in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at North Lake Street?

North Lake Street 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 North Lake Street?

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

When is the best time to visit North Lake Street?

The best time to paddle at North Lake Street is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at North Lake Street?

Water conditions at North Lake Street include calm, sheltered.

Is North Lake Street good for beginners?

Yes, North Lake Street 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.

A view of the capitol building from across the water

Photo by Cesar Andriola on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Summer

North Lake Street

Madison, WI · Boat Ramp · Public

North Lake Street is a public boat ramp on Lake Mendota near Madison, Wisconsin. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in summer.

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

Launch into Lake Mendota near Madison, Wisconsin. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

North Lake Street is a public access point on Lake Mendota in Wisconsin, giving paddlers a convenient entry to the lake.

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.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. June through August is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Madison takes about 5 min, putting North Lake Street within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make North Lake Street ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•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.
•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access North Lake Street?: North Lake Street is a public boat ramp in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at North Lake Street?: North Lake Street 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 North Lake Street?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit North Lake Street?: The best time to paddle at North Lake Street is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at North Lake Street?: Water conditions at North Lake Street include calm, sheltered.
Is North Lake Street good for beginners?: Yes, North Lake Street 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: 43.0770, -89.3973