A swimmer jumps off the dock into Lake Meridian on Monday, July 13. STEVE HUNTER, Kent Reporter

A swimmer jumps off the dock into Lake Meridian on Monday, July 13. STEVE HUNTER, Kent Reporter

Summer fun at Lake Meridian in Kent | Photos

Swimming, boating, fishing, water skiing as people social distance

People took advantage of the warm summer weather Monday at Lake Meridian Park in Kent by swimming, fishing, boating, water skiing, paddleboarding or simply sunbathing. And most were social distancing.

The temperature hit the mid 70s on Monday and should stay in the 70s and low 80s all week, according to the National Weather Service.

The city of Kent took away lifeguards this summer at the Lake Meridian beach because of budget cutbacks due to COVID-19. But that didn’t stop people from diving off the dock and swimming in the marked-off area.

Others spent the afternoon fishing from the dock hoping to catch bass, trout or one of the other species in the lake. By mid-afternoon on Monday, people were lining up for a place to park their vehicles until other drivers left. The park is at 14800 SE 272nd St.

Parents also brought their children to the popular playground, that includes a merry-go-round known as The Apollo, built by Canadian-based Dynamo Industries. It features steel-reinforced soft nylon ropes that provide plenty of places for children to hang onto as it spins.

Only a few people wore face coverings in the outdoor setting, but most people were social distancing at 6 feet apart. The shelter at the park remains closed with King County in Phase 2, which limits group gatherings. Restrooms and the boat launch are open.


Talk to us

Please share your story tips by emailing editor@kentreporter.com.

To share your opinion for publication, submit a letter through our website https://www.kentreporter.com/submit-letter/. Include your name, address and daytime phone number. (We’ll only publish your name and hometown.) Please keep letters to 300 words or less.

A boy jumps off the dock Monday at Lake Meridian. STEVE HUNTER, Kent Reporter

A boy jumps off the dock Monday at Lake Meridian. STEVE HUNTER, Kent Reporter

A water skier glides through Lake Meridian on Monday. STEVE HUNTER, Kent Reporter

A water skier glides through Lake Meridian on Monday. STEVE HUNTER, Kent Reporter

Time for some fishing on Monday at Lake Meridian. STEVE HUNTER, Kent Reporter

Time for some fishing on Monday at Lake Meridian. STEVE HUNTER, Kent Reporter

A man takes a boat for a spin on Monday at Lake Meridian. STEVE HUNTER, Kent Reporter

A man takes a boat for a spin on Monday at Lake Meridian. STEVE HUNTER, Kent Reporter

More in Life

t
Donations begin in Kent for annual Toys for Joy program

Firefighters also run Jerry Woods Holiday Engine program to collect toys, money

t
Entertainers wanted for Talent Quest show in Kent on Jan. 30

People of all ages and talents invited to register for event that will feature cash prizes

In early October, the Tahoma National Cemetery donated over 1,000 pounds of food for King County Veterans Program clients. According to the KCVP Facebook page, 34 food bags were made to give away to local veterans. Photo courtesy of King County Veterans Program
Veteran services throughout South King County

When it comes to local services for veterans and their families, the… Continue reading

Kent Station’s annual Haunted Boo-Levard is from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 31 at the shopping center. COURTESY PHOTO, Kent Station
Kent Station shopping center plans Halloween celebration Oct. 31

Trick or treating at local shops from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

t
Street of Treats Halloween event in downtown Kent set for Oct. 26

A frightfully fun family outing from 2 to 5 p.m. at 11 participating businesses

t
The Wolf’s Hometown Holiday country concert set for Dec. 5 in Kent

Lineup: Jordan Davis, Randy Houser, Warren Zeiders, Jackson Dean, Priscilla Block and Zach Top

My first Marble Queen Pothos, named Frida. Photo by Bailey Jo Josie/Sound Publishing.
Plants are the new pets: Bringing some lively green to your living space

For people who may be new to house plants or those who want a way to help spruce up their living space, here are a few tips.

Gamers face off in a match of “Tekken” at PAX. Photo by Bailey Jo Josie/Sound Publishing.
PAX West: Highlighting local games, charities

It has been 20 years since the Penny Arcade Expo (PAX) first… Continue reading

t
Disney on Ice returns Oct. 23-27 to Kent at ShoWare Center

Theme for this year is Magic in the Stars

t
Kent Cider & Ale Trail event set for Oct. 12 in historic downtown

Enjoy ciders, ales and other beverages while enjoying the charm of local shops

In an effort to strengthen King County’s cultural sector and increasing public access to arts, heritage, science, public art and historic preservation education and experiences, 4Culture and Doors Open will bring funding to local non-profit organizations in 2025 and beyond. Susan Point. “Northwind Fishing Weir Legend”, 1997. Carved and painted cedar with cast concrete. Green River Trail, Tukwila, WA. King County Public Art Collection. Photo: joefreemanjunior.com
Doors Open brings millions of dollars to arts and cultural organizations throughout King County

With a minimum of 25% of funding to go to areas outside of Seattle, Doors Open will strengthen public acces to art, heritage, science and historic preservation.