**updated from original post May, 2019**
Life at the Lake
BY: RACHEL WUMKES
Have you ever sat on a boat in the center of Clear Lake and looked around? The sight is surely one to behold; colors bleed from every angle as the beauty cocoons you into peaceful oblivion. Lush trees sway in the gentle breeze. Wooden docks jut into the water, lined with jet skis and boats, paddleboats and Lily Pads, all enjoyed on our gorgeous lake. The sand beaches at City and State park are dotted with patrons catching some sun, building a sand castle, or cooling off from the heat with a swim.
The great outdoors are literally all around us. And Clear Lake is one of the best!
So what’s there to do while you’re at the Lake? Well… you definitely don’t want to be sitting inside, glued to a television or your phone. No way. The lake is made for fresh air and fun, so here are a few things to look for when you get up, get out, and get moving!
For the super-active folks, Clear Lake is a very bike-friendly community. You’ll often see bikers pedaling along North Shore before making their way to the bike path along the Grade in Ventura. Continuing on that route, you can swing onto South Shore to complete your trip around the Lake. It’s a great way to enjoy the scenic views while getting exercise – WIN!
And those who prefer their outdoor activities on foot, we have a plethora of organized runs just for you!
To start, there is the Earth Day 5K, the Champagne 5K and the Lights on 5K. These events are made for everyone to enjoy; whether you’re a hard-core runner going for the gold or prefer to walk the course. No judgement at the lake – just encouragement for everyone involved!
Now, if you’re a bike enthusiast AND a runner, you must sign up for TRI Clear Lake. Now in its seventh year, this event has proven to be one of the top triathlon races in the area. As the race takes place on Saturday, May 27, registration for 2023 is currently closed. However, there is plenty of room for spectators to cheer on these incredible athletes! The Sprint distance begins with a 500 meter open water swim at City Beach, a 12.4 mile jaunt on the bicycle, and then is finished with a 3.1 mile run. The Olympic distance begins with a 1,500 meter swim, then a 24.8 mile bike course, and ends with a 6.2 mile run. A highlight of this event is the awesome finish-line party held in our beautiful City Park. For more information or to register online go to https://clearlakeiowa.com/events/tri-clear-lake/
Myself, I’m more of a ‘life in the slow lane’ type of person.
There’s nothing I enjoy more than a cruise along the shoreline of Clear Lake on my paddleboard. Imagine my excitement when Paddlefest was create!. This event, which will be held on July 29, is a great way to explore the shores of our spectacular lake on a kayak, canoe, or stand up paddle board. There are also three options to choose from on race day: a 1-mile sprint race, a 5K short course, or a 10K long course. Just pick the best fit for your skill level and come on out! Follow them on Facebook so you don’t miss registration!
Whether you have a need for speed or choose the laid-back lake life, Clear Lake has something for you!
In all honestly, being active and health-conscious doesn’t mean you have to be a hard-core competitor. The Parks & Rec department offers a wide variety of laid-back activities for children and adults to enjoy the great outdoors. You can check them out at www.cityofclearlake.com.
The pickleball scene has grown to exponential levels in recents years. In the winter, you can find them inside the Clear Lake Athletics and Wellness Center. Once the weather is nice enough, however, they hit the school tennis courts just east of the school.
Speaking of the CLAW… this facility opened it’s doors in 2022 and it is PHENOMENAL. Not only is the facility itself something to behold, but the staff there keeps this community in tip top shape. They offer classes for both kids and adults to enjoy. Programs range from adult sand volleyball to youth archery, hitting every activity in between!
Sounds like a lot of fun, right? Well, there’s more!
On Saturday mornings, you can hit up a Yoga by the Lake class. It’s the perfect way to center your mind, body and soul after a busy week.
Take a walk in one of our many parks, or go for a stroll along the shore. Being outside and being active is so good for your well-being; relieving stress and is energizing. Breathing in the fresh air, enjoying the many opportunities Clear Lake has to offer is enough.
Don’t forget to bring your clubs and check out our beautiful golf courses. Veterans Memorial Golf Course is a 9-hole par 36 course located along North Shore Drive. Oak Hills is a par 30 public course located on 27th Ave S (near Apple Valley). This is a laid-back course, great for the kids. No tee times required – first come, first served.
And boy, oh boy, Clear Lake has a lot to offer. From Farmer’s Market to Thursdays on Main, taking a cruise on the Lady of the Lake or spending an afternoon shopping on Main Street, Clear Lake packs a punch of bustling activity every day of the week.
Don’t miss out on all the fun.
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See you at the Lake!