Weekend Getaway: Moses Lake, Washington
Smack in the middle of the state of Washington is a little oasis known as Moses Lake. Located between Seattle (175 miles) and Spokane (105 miles) on I-90, the almost 19-square mile city of Moses Lake is a great weekend getaway because of the lake, dry weather and flat terrain.
“We have a large variety of activities for all ages to participate in,” said Debbie Doran-Martinez, President/CEO of the Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce. “We have a huge outdoor ATV recreational area referred to as the Sand Dunes. Our lake is 18 miles long with many arms creating separate areas of the lake where you can enjoy boating, fishing, skiing, paddle boarding, kayaking, etc.”
The lake has more than 120 miles of shoreline and is the largest natural body of fresh water in the Columbia Basin Project, which means there are many local outfitters that rent paddleboards, kayaks, boats and jet skis.
Because of its location in central Washington on the eastern side of the Cascade Mountain range, Moses Lake has a drier climate and almost 200 sunny days each year, making it a great destination for outdoor activities.
The city has created an Activity Trail which is a mapped and designated system of trails on roads and paths connecting parks for runners, bikers and skaters. Loops can be made on a variety of paths to create longer rides or runs.
If you bring the family to Moses Lake, the Surf ‘n Slide Waterpark is Washington’s premier outdoor water park. Complete with a Flowrider, water slides, splash pad, lazy river and children’s playground, the park is open Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Moses Lake also has public and private golf courses for slower paced activities. Thrill-seekers will enjoy the Grant County ORV (Outdoor RV) areas which are excellent for conquering sand dunes on four-wheelers.
A short hour and a half drive north of Moses Lake is Grand Coulee Dam and Lake Roosevelt. In addition to seeing the majestic concrete dam there are also laser light shows, fishing, scenic hiking and wildlife viewing nearby.
Perhaps the most appealing aspect of Moses Lake, other than the extensive water activities and ATV riding, is the slower pace in town. After a day of playing outdoors, the local food, beer and wine scene is a welcome reward for visitors and residents alike.
“We have several wineries, even one you can boat up to,” Doran-Martinez said. “Our boutique wineries are great to visit with charm and amazing, award-winning wines. We also have two breweries in Moses Lake with tap houses for your tasting pleasure.”
From fine dining to take out, the small town offers cuisine for most culinary tastes. Local farmers and artists showcase their produce and arts and crafts at a seasonal farmer’s market on Saturday mornings and Wednesday afternoons, mid-June through mid-October.
Lodging accommodations are plentiful in the area including camping, resorts, motels/hotels and RV parks.
“We have a place for just about everyone’s passion,” said Doran-Martinez. “Sand dunes, lake, golf courses, and over 44 parks and public recreational facilities.”
