Enjoy A Summer Day at Lake Waramaug

June 30, 2021

@nycleed

Our beloved Lake Waramaug is one of the most beautiful and serene spots in Washington. This summer, whether you are a local or a visitor, don’t miss an opportunity to make a day of it and enjoy a day relaxing at the lake, grab a meal from our local eateries, and even stay long enough to enjoy a gorgeous sunset. Summer days await!

Relax on the water

Lake Waramaug is the second largest natural lake in the State of Connecticut and it is known for its clean waters and breathtaking scenery. The lake is the perfect spot for enjoying water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, boating, fishing, and more.

Kayaking on Lake Waramaug @marissagostini

@lakewaramaug

This summer, get out into the water and enjoy a day at the lake at Lake Waramaug State Park, where you can access the beach and rent canoes and kayaks at Clarke’s! If you are a Washington resident, you can visit Washington Town Beach and enjoy the swim and picnic areas.

@ewmathews3

@kentctchamber

Picnic with a view

After a day out on the water, you are bound to work up an appetite. Bring a lunch to enjoy while at the lake, or order a delicious meal to-go from The Smithy, The Owl Wine & Food Bar, or The Hopkins Inn and make a picnic out of it – and grab a lightly sweetened Smithy iced tea infused with honey for a refreshing drink. Then sit back and enjoy, lunch with a view is an understatement at Lake Waramaug!

@owlnewpreston

@thesmithymarket

Drive or bike the loop

The loop around Lake Waramaug gives you an opportunity for scenic views around every bend. Biking around the loop is a popular way to enjoy the beautiful summer weather, plus you can stop at any Instagram-worthy spots to snap a photo!

You can also roll your windows down and just cruise through while taking in the scenic views, and extend your adventure to view all the Best Scenic Roads in Washington.

@cyclesnack

@scottmcork

Get a panoramic view of the lake

If you’re still searching for adventure, enjoy the lake’s iconic panoramic view from Waramaug’s Rock overlook at Macricostas Preserve. At an elevation of 1,250 feet, you can get that perfect shot of Lake Waramaug and the surrounding countryside. The 45-minute hike is challenging, but also may be the most rewarding hike in any of the preserves of the Steep Rock Association. See more of the best hikes and trails in Washington.

@astroandangus

@etdaross

Indulge in exploring New Preston’s shops

After spending the day at the lake, make a stop in New Preston village and pop your head in to the fantastic shops on East Shore Road. From home goods at Dawn Hill Antiques, Privet House, and Louis CT, clothing and accessories at J.Seitz & Co. and Plain Goods, and gift items at D.K. Schulman, and unique garden goods and antiques at Pergola, you’ll find a great variety of one-of-a-kind items when you visit! And you can enjoy Music on Main, every Saturday afternoon from 3pm-5pm. View all the shops in Washington

@newprestonct

Finish the day with a sunset view at Hopkins Vineyard

A great summer day isn’t complete without a gorgeous sunset, and we have just the place for you! Hopkins Vineyard offers award-winning whites, reds and sparkling wines, along with local craft beer, wine tastings, and gourmet cheese plates. You can also enjoy live music there every Saturday and Sunday, making it the perfect spot to relax, enjoy wine with friends, and watch the sun go down.

Hopkins Vineyard

@gkdrones

4th of July Fireworks

The Lake Waramaug Association will be hosting 4th of July fireworks on Sunday, July 4th at 9:30pm (rain date: Saturday, September 4th). This tradition has been made possible because of the tremendous support from members and neighbors who donate to the LWA’s Fireworks Fund. Participation in the Rim-the-Lake Lighting flare lighting tradition is also encouraged, with flares distributed around the lake at various locations. Check here for the latest details

Fourth of July Fireworks @lakewaramaug

@lakewaramaug

Let us know how you plan to spend your time at Lake Waramaug this summer! Tag us @explorewashingtonct

Lake Safety: Lake It Slow

Traffic and speeding on the narrow roads around Lake Waramaug has increased dramatically, and “near-misses” have unfortunately become too frequent an occurrence. This week marks the start of LAKE IT SLOW, a new, community-wide Lake Waramaug road safety initiative.

What’s the easiest and most effective way to make the roads around Lake Waramaug safer? YOU. Everyone’s actions make a difference. Please drive at or below the posted legal speed limits. Watch out for walkers, runners, cyclists, & vehicles around every curve.

Bike single file with traffic. Run/Walk single file facing traffic, except around blind curves. Look for LAKE IT SLOW signs posted around the Lake, and enhanced speed patrols in coordination with our local CT State Troopers and the towns of Washington, Warren, and Kent.

It’s up to all of us who love Lake Waramaug to keep each other safe — and we can, if we LAKE IT SLOW.

Learn more