Leaser Lake

In a peaceful, rural region of southeastern Pennsylvania, adventurers will find the scenic 117-acre Leaser Lake. Surrounded by a few homes whose residents are fortunate to overlook the picturesque lake and the forested hills, Leaser Lake is a delightful place for a kayaking adventure.

Built by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission for water-oriented recreation, Leaser Lake is part of a 540 acre park which is owned in part by the Commission and part by Lehigh County. Opened for public use in 1971, the lake is open to boats powered by electric motors, sailboats up to 17 feet and un-powered boats. There are three separate launch ramps within the park, including an accessible kayak launch on the west side of the lake. Paved boat launch ramps are available on the north and east sides of the lake. Each of the three areas has shade from trees, a parking lot, restroom, picnic tables and benches.

The lake features several coves lined with cattails, waterlilies and wildflowers. Nesting boxes are placed in and around the lake. Bird-lovers should keep watch for a variety of birds, waterfowl and even bald eagles. Platforms for turtles float in the lake. Kayakers should look closely at the floats as well as the tree branches that rise above the water’s surface for turtles resting in the sunlight. Adventurers should watch for white-tailed deer, too. The deer live in the area and can be seen in the meadows, woods, and they have been seen crossing the water to the lake’s island.

Kayakers should be aware of the buoys notifying boaters to avoid the dam area, and should also watch out for submerged branches. Otherwise, kayakers should enjoy a serene paddle in this beautiful country setting. They may even be rewarded with the melodic sounds of nearby church bells to add a special touch to their kayaking adventure at Leaser Lake.