Yellow Lake – Sammamish, WA

Yellow Lake – Sammamish, WA

Yellow Lake Dock

Yellow Lake is one of those quiet Sammamish spots that feels tucked away even though it’s close to neighborhoods and main roads. It’s a small lake, but the setting is peaceful, surrounded by second‑growth forest, tall evergreens, and a wide, well‑maintained loop trail that makes it easy for anyone to explore.

Wood Duck Male

When I arrived, I walked straight out onto the dock. The lake was busy with waterfowl, more than I expected for such a compact body of water. Mallards paddled in pairs, wood ducks flashed their colors along the shoreline, Buffleheads dove in quick bursts, and a Northern Shoveler cruised by with its oversized bill skimming the surface. It’s a great spot for birdwatching because the lake is open, the dock gives you a clear vantage point, and the birds seem comfortable staying close.

Northern Shoveler

The weather was perfect, so I decided to walk the full loop around the lake. The trail is surprisingly wide, almost double the width of a typical forest path and very clean, with gentle grades that make it accessible for most people. It winds through quiet woods, with filtered sunlight coming through the trees and plenty of places to stop and look back toward the water.

Douglas Squirrel

Along the way I spotted a Douglas squirrel darting across the trail, chattering from a branch as if it owned the place. A little farther on, a hairy woodpecker was working a snag, tapping steadily and ignoring everything around it. The forest around Yellow Lake supports a good mix of wildlife, and the loop trail gives you a chance to see it without feeling rushed.

Wood Ducks Female and Male

Mallard Female

Mallard Male

Overall, Yellow Lake is a great short outing, easy walking, lots of wildlife, and a calm atmosphere that makes it feel like a small escape. Whether you’re birdwatching, taking photos, or just getting some fresh air, it’s a simple trail that delivers more than you’d expect.