Green Lake Small Craft Center
School Year: Mon-Fri: 3 - 6 p.m.; Sat: 9 - 11 a.m.
Summers: Mon-Fri: 11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
About
The Green Lake Small Craft Center is located at the southwest "corner" of Green Lake in North Seattle. Redeveloped and re-opened in 2024, the 10,800 SF boathouse has increased capacity for programs through a combination of expanded and more efficient boat storage and additional instructional space. It is fully accessible, making possible the launch of Seattle’s first public adaptive rowing program and the expansion of a paracanoing program. Additionally, the new facility provides restrooms, locker facilities, and areas for off-water instruction.
While rowing, canoeing, kayaking, and sailing classes are taught here only during daylight hours, the adjacent running/ skating/ bicycling/ walking path around the lake is enjoyed 24 hours a day by Seattle residents.
Annually, the Rowing Advisory Council (RAC) hosts three major rowing regattas on Green Lake, drawing competitors from throughout the Northwest. The RAC raises funds with each of these events through entry fees and concessions.
- Frostbite Regatta in November
- Green Lake Spring Regatta in April
- Summer Rowing Extravaganza in August
Rowing classes and programs include youth and adult programs in both sweep rowing and in sculling. Sailing programs include children, youth, and adult programs in Toppers Canoe and Kayak. For more information about our classes, programs, events, and happenings, visit the Green Lake Crew website. Also see seattlecanoekayak.club.
Helpful Links:
- Read about adult & junior classes, and sign up on the Green Lake Crew website
- Boat Rentals on Green Lake
- Lifeguarded Beaches on Green Lake
- Mt. Baker Rowing & Sailing Center on Lake Washington
Float Test
Every Seattle Parks and Recreation participant must successfully pass a float test prior to the first water session of a small craft class. The float test is valid for three years. Float tests may be taken at any swimming pool (or lifeguarded beach) while under the supervision of a lifeguard certified by the American Red Cross. Identification is required. You must float, tread water, or swim in place for ten minutes, in deep water while wearing long pants and a long sleeved shirt. In the final minute of the test you must put on a life vest while continuing to tread water. Please call the pool ahead of time to arrange your float test.