Hiram M. Chittenden Locks
Witness engineering marvels and nature's resilience at the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, connecting saltwater Puget Sound to freshwater lakes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak salmon run season
Hiram M. Chittenden Locks
Best Time
Peak salmon run season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness engineering marvels and nature's resilience at the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, connecting saltwater Puget Sound to freshwater lakes.
"Incredible to see boats rise and fall between water levels; a clever way for ships to pass. "
🎯 Check Salmon Counts
Visit the WDFW website for daily salmon counts to see if it's peak season!
🚶♀️ Explore Both Sides
Walk across the lock and explore the gardens on both sides for different perspectives.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Locks in Action
Navigation Lock
Witness boats of all sizes ascend or descend between different water levels. A true engineering marvel!
Salmon Ladder Viewing
Fish Ladder Viewing Gallery
Observe salmon on their epic journey upstream. A fascinating glimpse into nature's resilience.
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Fishermen's Terminal
Adjacent to the Locks
See working fishing vessels, including famous ones from 'Deadliest Catch.'
Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden
Adjacent to the Locks
A peaceful oasis with diverse shrubs and trees, perfect for a stroll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Salmon
Free Admission & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Salmon Counts
Visit the WDFW website for daily salmon counts to see if it's peak season!
🚶♀️ Explore Both Sides
Walk across the lock and explore the gardens on both sides for different perspectives.
📸 Capture Boat Drama
Watch the fascinating process of boats moving between water levels.
🛥️ Kayak Tours Available
Experience the locks from the water with a guided kayak tour.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Salmon Counts
Visit the WDFW website for daily salmon counts to see if it's peak season!
🚶♀️ Explore Both Sides
Walk across the lock and explore the gardens on both sides for different perspectives.
📸 Capture Boat Drama
Watch the fascinating process of boats moving between water levels.
🛥️ Kayak Tours Available
Experience the locks from the water with a guided kayak tour.
🦀 See Famous Boats
Spot vessels from 'Deadliest Catch' at nearby Fishermen's Terminal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks for its free admission, fascinating engineering, and the unique opportunity to witness boat lockages and salmon migration. The adjacent botanical gardens and proximity to Fishermen's Terminal add to its appeal, making it a well-rounded and enjoyable experience for all ages. Some visitors note that salmon sightings can be seasonal, and the area can get crowded on weekends.
"This was my first time visiting a navigation lock, and it was incredible to see. On one side, the water level is high, and on the other, it's low. When a ship arrives, the lock gates close behind it, trapping the vessel inside. The enclosed area is then filled with water from the high side, which lifts the ship up to match the higher water level. Once level, the front gates open, and the ship passes through.
Many tourists were taking photos as the ship slowly rose with the rising water—it's an amazing sight. The lock acts like a bridge, allowing you to walk right across it and get a fantastic view of the river. It's a clever way for ships to pass between different water levels without having to go over a bridge."
Nan Liu
"We came here on a Saturday early evening in August after hearing about it from someone in line behind us at the space needle.
This is a nice outdoor activity and area to see wildlife and boats go through the lock. They have a salmon ladder that is viewable from inside an informational area. We saw several blue herons, plenty of salmon, two small personal boats go through the lock and a couple sea lions.
This was free. There is a nice walking path on both sides of the water. Parking was easy and also free. We enjoyed the atmosphere and the sun."
Miss Val
"Visited the Ballard Locks in Seattle over Labor Day weekend with my family, and it was an amazing experience! Such a beautiful place to enjoy nature, watch the boats pass through, and see the salmon ladder. Perfect spot for a relaxing family outing. Highly recommend."
Anita purandare
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, also known as the Ballard Locks, are accessible by car, bus, and even by water taxi. Public parking is available and generally free. Several King County Metro bus routes stop nearby, making it easy to reach from downtown Seattle.
Yes, there is parking available at the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. It's typically free and ample, though it can fill up on busy weekends.
Absolutely! Several King County Metro bus routes serve the area around the Ballard Locks, providing convenient public transportation options. Check the King County Metro website for specific route information.
While it's a bit of a walk from downtown Seattle (several miles), it's a pleasant option if you enjoy longer strolls or cycling. Many visitors find it a scenic route.
Yes, there are boat tours available that offer a unique perspective of the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, allowing you to experience the lockage process from the water.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, including the fish ladder viewing area and botanical gardens, is completely free.
The locks themselves operate year-round, but the fish ladder viewing area has specific hours, typically during daylight. It's best to check the official U.S. Army Corps of Engineers website for the most current operating hours.
The salmon run typically occurs from summer through early fall. The exact timing and number of salmon can vary, so checking daily counts on the WDFW website is recommended for the best viewing experience.
No, there are no tickets required for viewing the salmon at the fish ladder. It's a free public area.
Yes, you can find guided kayak tours that go through the locks, offering a unique perspective.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can witness boats passing through the lock system, observe salmon in the fish ladder, stroll through the beautiful botanical gardens, and explore the adjacent Fishermen's Terminal to see working fishing vessels. +1
A visit can range from an hour to several hours, depending on your interest. Watching a few boat lockages and exploring the gardens can take about 1-2 hours, while a more in-depth visit might extend longer.
Yes, you can walk across the top of the lock gates when they are closed, offering a unique vantage point to see the water levels and the surrounding area.
While there aren't extensive dining facilities directly at the locks, the nearby Ballard neighborhood offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and breweries. Fishermen's Terminal also has some dining options.
The fish ladder is most active during the salmon migration season, typically from summer through early fall. Outside of this period, you may see fewer fish.
📸 📸 Photography
Great photo ops include boats transiting the locks, salmon in the fish ladder, sea lions (if present), the botanical gardens, and the working fishing boats at Fishermen's Terminal.
Yes, especially during salmon season when you can photograph salmon and potentially seals or sea lions preying on them. Birdwatching is also popular.
Yes, the underwater viewing gallery provides a unique perspective for photographing salmon as they swim upstream.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light for photography. However, the dramatic action of boats locking through can be compelling at any time.
Drone usage is typically restricted in areas managed by federal agencies like the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. It's best to check their specific regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the salmon run for an extra thrill. The underwater viewing gallery is a particular hit with younger visitors. It's a great opportunity to teach children about engineering, marine life, and the importance of conservation in a fun and engaging environment.
💰 Budget Travelers
Bring your own picnic to enjoy in the gardens or along the waterfront, saving money on dining. The nearby Ballard neighborhood offers more affordable food options compared to some other Seattle attractions. It's an excellent way to experience a unique Seattle landmark on a shoestring budget.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The adjacent botanical gardens provide opportunities for landscape and macro photography, while Fishermen's Terminal offers a gritty, authentic look at Seattle's fishing industry. Experiment with different angles, from the top of the lock to the underwater viewing gallery. The changing light throughout the day can create dramatic effects, especially when capturing the movement of water and vessels. Don't miss the chance to photograph the working fishing boats, which add a unique character to the scene.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: How the Locks Work
Visitors can observe this entire operation from various vantage points, including walking across the lock itself. It's a captivating spectacle to see large fishing vessels, pleasure craft, and even occasional larger ships being raised or lowered. The sheer scale of the gates and the precision of the water management are truly impressive.
This system is crucial for maritime traffic in Seattle, enabling access to the extensive freshwater system of lakes and rivers for commercial and recreational purposes, while also allowing passage to the Pacific Ocean. The locks are operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, who maintain this vital waterway infrastructure.
Salmon Migration: A Natural Spectacle
+1An underwater viewing gallery allows visitors to get an up-close look at the salmon as they make their arduous journey upstream. It's a powerful reminder of the resilience of nature and the importance of these waterways for wildlife. Seeing the determined fish navigate the currents and obstacles is a truly memorable experience.
To enhance your chances of seeing salmon, it's highly recommended to check the daily fish counts provided by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). This information can help you plan your visit during the peak of the run.
Beyond the Locks: Gardens and Terminals
Just a short walk away is Fishermen's Terminal, a bustling hub for the Pacific Northwest's commercial fishing fleet. Here, you can see a variety of fishing vessels, including some famous ones from the reality show 'Deadliest Catch.' It's a great place to experience the maritime culture of Seattle and get a sense of the working waterfront.
These complementary areas provide visitors with a well-rounded experience, combining engineering marvels, natural wonders, and a glimpse into Seattle's rich maritime history and industry.
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