Gene Coulon Boat Launch Hours Update

Published on July 29, 2026

After listening to feedback from the boating and fishing community, Parks & Recreation is revising the temporary operating hours for the Gene Coulon boat launch.

Beginning Thursday, July 30, ahead of Seafair weekend, the boat launch will be open daily from 4 a.m. to 11 p.m. These hours will remain in place through the end of October, aligning with the peak fall fishing season while continuing to address overnight public safety concerns.

The overnight closure between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m. reflects the period when the Renton Police Department has experienced the greatest challenges with after park hours activity.

The revised hours were developed with consideration for Washington's boating and fishing regulations and the way responsible anglers and boaters legally use Lake Washington. We recognize that many anglers plan their trips around seasonal fisheries and the 4 a.m. opening is intended to better align with those expectations while maintaining the overnight safety window.

For current fishing regulations and boating requirements, please refer to the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife – Sport Fishing Rules & Regulations and the Washington State Parks Boating Program for Boating Laws & Safety.

Parks staff continue to move forward with improvements to modernize the boat launch, including investing in an automated access system and an upgraded pay station that will provide more reliable access, improve customer convenience, and support consistent fee collection.

We also recognize that some boaters have historically relied on the 24-hour launch for overnight trips. While the revised hours restore early morning access for anglers, overnight parking is not currently permitted. We will continue evaluating future boat launch operations as additional improvements are implemented.

Annual and short-term pass holders who are inconvenienced by these temporary operating hours may request a full refund through Renton Parks & Recreation.