SPOvid-19 Local Adventure: Paddling Bonnie Lake

To help you make the most of your outdoor time and keep things fresh during the pandemic, the faculty of Eastern Washington University’s Recreation and Leisure Services Program in partnership with Out There Outdoors has created the SPOvid-19 Local Adventure Series.

Episode 5 – Paddling Bonnie Lake

By Chris Hoppe, Director of EWU EPIC Adventures

If you are looking for a new adventure that is suitable for the whole family, consider heading to Bonnie Lake, located about 30 minutes south of Cheney, Washington. Though this trip is relatively undiscovered by the masses, parking may still be limited.

Paddling up Rock Creek to Bonnie Lake. // Photo by Chris Cindric

To access the lake, choose your favorite paddle craft, PFD, and snacks for the 1-mile journey along rock creek. During your paddle to the lake, enjoy views of tall basalt cliffs, rock arches, and diverse wildlife that really make this area one of Eastern Washington’s hidden gems. After about 45 minutes of leisure paddling, you will arrive at beautiful Bonnie Lake. If you are up for another 20-30 minutes of paddling, head over to the island in the middle of the lake, where you can stretch and eat a snack before your trip back. This hidden oasis is the perfect place to relax, explore, and enjoy unplugged time with family and friends. 

Your return trip will likely be a bit faster as you’ll have the assist of the a downstream current. This trip is recommended for mid to late spring, and can be the perfect happy hour adventure after a long work day. 

Video edited by Chris Cindric; Narrated by Chris Hoppe.  

More information and location:  https://paddling.com/paddle/trips/bonnie-lake-washington/ 

Paddleboard information:  https://badfishsup.com/.

Stand-up paddling on Bonnie Lake. // Photos by Chris Cindric

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