Clarke Beach Park

During the week, this little gem is pretty much empty. There was a huge, highly visible and accessible parking lot directly off Mercer Way. Parking was free, and there were only two other cars in the lot that could easily hold 30 cars. There are two paved paths on a steep incline that lead down to either end of the beach. I went down one side and returned via the other. It is a short, windy path amongst huge shade trees, wild flowers and birds. At the bottom of each path are two different piers that you can walk on. I noticed several ladders on one of the piers which would make it great for climbing out of the water after doing your favorite dive or cannonball into Lake Washington.
There was also a boarded structure in the water making a pool boundary for a small shallow are that must be great for kids and dogs. Although, not an official dog park, apparently the are allowed in the water during the winter months. During the summer, the dogs must be leashed and kept from the waters edge (or the crowds of people that must flock here during the summertime.
Great views of the eastern shore and boats cruising through the lake. Nice little secluded getaway before heading back on the curvy road to the city.