Bennington Lake - Image 1
1 / 3

Bennington Lake Walla Walla

4.6
·112 reviews·, United States

A serene 50+ acre lake at the base of the Blue Mountains, offering trails, fishing, and non-motorized water sports.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Fullest water, blooming nature

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Bennington Lake - Image 1

Bennington Lake Walla Walla

Best Time

Spring mornings

Fullest water, blooming nature

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene 50+ acre lake at the base of the Blue Mountains, offering trails, fishing, and non-motorized water sports.

4.6
(112 reviews)

"Great place to fish, walk, or have a picnic. Picturesque and beautiful in the spring."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Water Levels First

Lake levels vary! Call ahead or check online if boating/kayaking is your main goal . :water_wave:

Easy Trails for Everyone

Hikes are generally flat and short, perfect for families and casual walkers . :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kayaking & Paddleboarding

Kayaking & Paddleboarding

Bennington Lake

Glide across the calm waters, enjoying the scenic views. No gas motors allowed, making it peaceful for water sports .

Reddit
Scenic Walking Trails

Scenic Walking Trails

Kingfisher, Whitetail, Meadowlark Trails

Explore easy, well-maintained paths with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding hills .

Reddit
Fishing Opportunities

Fishing Opportunities

Bennington Lake

A popular spot for anglers, offering a chance to cast a line in a picturesque setting .

Reddit
Skateboarding Bowl

Skateboarding Bowl

When water levels are low

When the water recedes, the lakebed transforms into a unique spot for skateboarders to practice tricks .

Instagram
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Water Levels

Bennington Lake's water levels fluctuate significantly, impacting activities like boating and kayaking. Visit during spring or early summer for the fullest experience. Check local conditions before you go, especially if water sports are your priority.Reddit

Trail Variety for All Levels

While often called a single trail, Bennington Lake offers multiple interconnected paths like Kingfisher, Whitetail, and Meadowlark. These are generally easy with minimal elevation, perfect for casual strolls, family hikes, and dog walking.Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Fullest water, blooming nature
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Ideal for water sports
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall weekdays
Why
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

working on the Mopar again 🙄 #boepeepsgarage #boats #mercury #bigfoot #tunez #bennington #lakelife #boating #yes
@boepeepsgarage
876 likes • 8.8K views

Check Water Levels First

Lake levels vary! Call ahead or check online if boating/kayaking is your main goal.Reddit :water_wave:

Easy Trails for Everyone

Hikes are generally flat and short, perfect for families and casual walkers.Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Lets go for a boat ride! #lakeday #boat #bennington
@bridget_529
835 likes • 9.2K views
It was a perfect day for a walk at Bennington Lake. #wallawalla #magnaghifamily #sogladwehavesix #benningtonlakewallawalla
christinamagnaghi
20 likes • 311 views

No Gas Motors Allowed

Enjoy peaceful kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating without engine noise.Reddit :kayak:

Bring Your Dog!

Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails, making it a great spot for furry friends.Instagram :dog:

Hello there! Here’s from Walla Walla WA. My new playground is the Bennington Lake; a small, man-made lake formed by diverting water from Mill Creek. This area covering over 50 acres of breath taking rolling hills. Its well-maintained trails offer a range of activities and are just a short drive or long run from historic downtown Walla Walla, renowned for its sweet onions and over 120 of beauti...
runturtletrot
42 likes • 698 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Water Levels First

Lake levels vary! Call ahead or check online if boating/kayaking is your main goal.Reddit :water_wave:

Easy Trails for Everyone

Hikes are generally flat and short, perfect for families and casual walkers.Reddit :athletic_shoe:

No Gas Motors Allowed

Enjoy peaceful kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating without engine noise.Reddit :kayak:

Bring Your Dog!

Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails, making it a great spot for furry friends.Instagram :dog:

Picnic Spots Galore

Plenty of scenic spots to enjoy a packed lunch with beautiful lake views.Reddit :sandwich:

Birdwatching Paradise

Keep an eye out for diverse bird species, especially during migration seasons.Instagram :bird:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(112 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Bennington Lake for its beautiful scenery, accessible trails, and diverse recreational opportunities like fishing and non-motorized boating. While the lake's water levels can fluctuate, impacting some activities, the overall experience is highly regarded for its peaceful atmosphere and natural charm.

"Great place to fish, walk, or have a picnic. Picturesque and beautiful in the spring. Great for kayaking and paddle boarding because no gas motors are allowed on the lake. Has a nice boat ramp so that you can drop your kayak in the water and don't have to walk it up and down."

Rhiannon Bockus

"So there isn't really a Bennington lake trail, rather 3 trails you can go on from Bennington lake. Kingfisher, Whitetail and Meadowlark. I did Meadowlark. They are all really great trails. There are a ton of off shoot trails to explore with no chance of getting lost. Lots of hikers, runners, dogs and joggers. This is a great family area. The hike are relatively short and hardly and elevation. I'll be back for sure."

Pacific Northwest Hiking

"Great walking area with lots of nice views. Amenities are accessible. Available parking, I see others fish here, I have not yet. A little information spot about the purpose of the lake being made in this spot ( pretty interesting). I have far more to explore for sure 😊"

Harmony Jordan

What People Like

Beautiful scenic views
Easy, accessible trails
Peaceful boating and fishing

What People Dislike

Variable water levels

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bennington Lake is conveniently located just a short drive from historic downtown Walla Walla, often described as being at the base of the Blue Mountains.Instagram It's easily accessible by car, making it a quick trip for locals and visitors alike.Instagram

Yes, there is a fair amount of parking available at Bennington Lake, which is helpful for hikers, boaters, and picnickers.Reddit The parking areas are generally accessible and well-situated for trail access.

While not explicitly detailed in all sources, the presence of 'biking trails' suggests it's a bike-friendly destination.Reddit The proximity to Walla Walla also makes it a feasible cycling destination for those who enjoy longer rides.

The parking areas are designed to provide easy access to the various trails, including Kingfisher, Whitetail, and Meadowlark. Signs are available to guide you to the different trailheads.Reddit

Absolutely! Bennington Lake is a popular spot for a quick day trip from Walla Walla, offering a refreshing escape into nature without a long drive.Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no mention of an entrance fee for Bennington Lake in the provided information. It appears to be a public access area for recreation.Reddit

Specific operating hours are not listed, but as a natural recreational area, it's generally assumed to be accessible during daylight hours. It's always a good idea to check local park advisories if planning a very early or late visit.

While fishing is a popular activity, you will likely need a valid Washington State fishing license. It's recommended to check with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife for current regulations and licensing requirements.

Yes, Bennington Lake strictly prohibits gas motors on the water. This ensures a peaceful environment for activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and electric-powered boating.Reddit

Yes, you can launch your own kayak or paddleboard. There's a boat ramp available that makes it easy to get your watercraft into the lake without having to carry it far.Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Bennington Lake features several well-maintained trails, including Kingfisher, Whitetail, and Meadowlark. These are known for being relatively short with minimal elevation gain, making them great for hikers of all levels.Reddit

While the lake is a popular spot for water activities, direct mentions of swimming are scarce. The Reddit post asking 'WHERE FOR SWIMMING?!' suggests it might not be a primary swimming destination.Reddit It's best for boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Yes, dogs are welcome at Bennington Lake, provided they are kept on a leash. It's a great place for a walk with your canine companion.Instagram

Activities include walking, hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and picnicking.Reddit When water levels are low, it can also be used for skateboarding.Instagram

Bennington Lake, formerly known as Mill Creek Reservoir, was officially named in 1992 to honor Virgil B. Bennington, who was instrumental in lobbying for flood protection in the area.Instagram An information spot at the lake details its purpose.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The lake itself offers beautiful reflections and scenic views, especially when full.Reddit The surrounding rolling hills and Blue Mountains provide a picturesque backdrop.Instagram Birdwatching also presents great photo ops.Instagram

Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Spring is particularly picturesque when the landscape is lush and blooming.Reddit

While not designated viewpoints, the various trails offer numerous spots with lovely vistas of the lake and landscape. The boat ramp area also provides a good perspective.Reddit

Birdwatching is a popular activity, with opportunities to photograph various bird species.Instagram You might also spot other local wildlife along the trails.

Yes, when the water level is low and the lakebed is exposed, it becomes a unique spot for skateboarders, offering dynamic action shots.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bennington Lake is an excellent choice for families. The easy, relatively flat trails are perfect for little legs, and the chance to see dogs on leashes adds to the excitement.Instagram Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water, making for a full and enjoyable day out.Reddit While swimming isn't the primary activity, the open spaces and gentle slopes are great for kids to explore and play. The variety of activities means there's something to keep everyone entertained, from a gentle walk to watching boats on the lake.

🎣 Anglers and Water Sports Enthusiasts

For those who love to fish or be on the water, Bennington Lake is a prime destination. The lake is known for fishing,Reddit and the absence of gas motors makes it ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding.Reddit The boat ramp ensures easy access for your own watercraft. However, it's crucial to check water levels before your visit, as they can significantly impact the experience, especially during drier months.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Walkers

The well-maintained, low-elevation trails at Bennington Lake are perfect for a leisurely hike or nature walk.Reddit With options like Kingfisher, Whitetail, and Meadowlark, you can enjoy scenic views without strenuous effort.Reddit It's a popular spot for dog walking Instagram and offers plenty of opportunities for birdwatching Instagram and enjoying the natural beauty of the Walla Walla Valley.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Water Sports at Bennington Lake

Bennington Lake is a haven for non-motorized water enthusiasts. The lake's policy of prohibiting gas motors creates a serene environment perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating.Reddit The presence of a boat ramp simplifies launching your watercraft, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the water.Reddit However, it's crucial to be aware of the lake's fluctuating water levels. During drier periods, especially in late summer or winter, the lake can become significantly low, potentially impacting the usability of the boat ramp and the overall water surface area.Reddit Always check current conditions before planning a day of water sports.

Many visitors enjoy renting equipment from local outfitters for a hassle-free experience. These rentals often include kayaks and paddleboards, with some companies even offering guided tours or group outings.Instagram+1 The calm waters are ideal for beginners, while the scenic surroundings offer a beautiful backdrop for experienced paddlers. Remember to bring sunscreen, water, and be prepared for potential wind, especially on the return trip across the lake.Instagram

Exploring the Trails

The trail system around Bennington Lake is a major draw for visitors seeking outdoor recreation. Rather than a single 'Bennington Lake trail,' the area boasts several interconnected paths, including the Kingfisher, Whitetail, and Meadowlark trails.Reddit These trails are celebrated for their accessibility, featuring minimal elevation gain and relatively short distances, making them suitable for all ages and fitness levels.Reddit This makes Bennington Lake a fantastic destination for families with children, casual walkers, and even those looking for a light jog or run.Instagram

The trails offer a variety of scenery, from lakeside views to rolling hills and glimpses of the Blue Mountains.Instagram Many visitors appreciate the numerous offshoot trails, which allow for exploration without the fear of getting lost.Reddit It's a popular spot for dog walkers, with leashed pets being a common sight.Instagram The diverse network ensures that each visit can offer a slightly different experience, whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll or a more active exploration of the natural landscape.

Unique Features and Activities

Beyond traditional outdoor pursuits, Bennington Lake offers some unique attractions. When the water levels are low, the exposed lakebed transforms into an impromptu skateboarding bowl, attracting riders looking for a novel place to practice their skills.Instagram This unusual feature highlights the dynamic nature of the lake and its adaptability to different recreational uses.

For nature enthusiasts, Bennington Lake is a prime location for birdwatching.Instagram The diverse habitat attracts a variety of avian species, making it a rewarding spot for photographers and bird lovers alike. The lake also serves as a popular fishing spot, providing a tranquil setting for anglers.Reddit The combination of these varied activities, from high-energy skateboarding to peaceful birding and fishing, makes Bennington Lake a multifaceted destination catering to a wide range of interests.