So You Want to Take a Dip in Lake Union: A Totally Objective Guide (with a Hint of Maybe Don't)
Ah, Lake Union. Seattle's sparkling heart, a haven for houseboats, kayaking enthusiasts, and those curious about urban aquatic life (like, what is that giant green floaties over there?). But there's one question that plagues every landlubber gazing longingly at the water: can you actually swim in Lake Union?
The answer, my friend, is a resounding it depends. Buckle up, because we're diving deep (well, not literally) into the murky world of Lake Union's swimmability.
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| Can You Swim In Lake Union Seattle |
Technically Speaking, You Can...Maybe
Technically, swimming in Lake Union isn't illegal. You can don your finest neon pool noodle and splash around to your heart's content...within reason. Here's the catch: Lake Union isn't exactly a crystal-clear mountain lake. We're talking a busy urban waterway, complete with houseboat waste (don't dwell on it), occasional runoff, and enough boat traffic to make you feel like a rogue noodle in a sea of jet skis.
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In other words, it's not exactly the tropical paradise you might be picturing.
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The Great Lake Union Swim Debate: Pro-Lake vs. Hard Pass
The Pro-Lake Camp:
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- Look, people swim in the ocean, right? Ocean water is basically glorified lake water!
- Embrace your inner city mermaid!
- Where else can you say you swam next to a million-dollar houseboat? (Besides, maybe that green stuff is just fancy algae caviar?)
The Hard Pass Posse:
- Seattle Public Health would probably advise against it. Just sayin'.
- There's a reason all the cool kids are kayaking, not breaststroking.
- Do you really want to share your swimming space with rogue houseboat hoses and mystery flotsam?
So, Should You Actually Swim in Lake Union?
Honestly, that's up to you. But here are some things to consider before you take the plunge:
- Are you a fan of potential bacterial infections? If not, maybe stick to wading.
- Do you enjoy your visibility above water? Because boat traffic can make things a little, well, treacherous.
- Are you particularly attached to your fancy new pool noodle? Because let's be real, it might not survive the Lake Union experience.
The bottom line: Lake Union swimming is an adventure. Just be prepared for an adventure that might involve a trip to urgent care and a serious reevaluation of your life choices.
How To.... (Frequently Asked Lake Union Swimming Questions)
- How to Look Like a Local: Don't swim in Lake Union. Embrace the kayaking life instead. Trust us, you'll look way cooler.
- How to Avoid Disappointing Your Parents: Tell them you went for a scenic walk around the lake. They'll be much happier than if you tell them you wrestled a rogue houseboat hose in the name of urban aquatic exploration.
- How to Find the Best Public Pools in Seattle: There's a reason they exist. Google it, and thank us later.
- How to Social Distance While Still Getting Your Aquatic Fix: Hit the beach! Alki Beach is calling your name (and it's definitely cleaner than Lake Union).
- How to Properly Dispose of a Pool Noodle After a Questionable Lake Union Swim: This is a mystery for the ages. Maybe repurpose it as a participation trophy for your questionable decision-making?
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