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Explore the Wonders of Ballard Locks Fish Ladder

Experience the Ballard Locks Fish Ladder in Seattle, a stunning blend of nature and engineering showcasing salmon migration and beautiful waterfront views.

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The Ballard Locks Fish Ladder in Seattle is a remarkable engineering marvel and a vital habitat for salmon. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of fish migrating through the ladder while exploring the beautiful waterfront park that surrounds it.

A brief summary to Ballard Locks Fish Ladder

  • 2930 W Commodore Way, Seattle, Interbay, Washington, 98199, US
  • +1206-780-2500
  • Monday 7 am-8:45 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-8:45 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-8:45 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-8:45 pm
  • Friday 7 am-8:45 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-8:45 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-8:45 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the salmon migration season for the best chance to see fish using the ladder.
  • Check the daily fish counts posted at the visitor center for real-time updates on fish activity.
  • Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter experience and fewer crowds.
  • Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery and the fish in action.
  • Explore the nearby gardens and picnic areas for a relaxing day outdoors.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Renton, head to the Renton Transit Center located at 200 Mill Ave S, Renton, WA 98057. Take the Sound Transit Route 586 bus towards Seattle. Stay on the bus for approximately 30–40 minutes. Get off at the West Commodore Way & 28th Ave NW stop. From there, walk west on W Commodore Way for about 0.5 miles until you reach the Ballard Locks Fish Ladder at 2930 W Commodore Way, Seattle, WA 98199.

  • Light Rail and Bus

    Travel to the nearest Link Light Rail station in Renton at South Renton Park and Ride. Take the Link Light Rail towards the University of Washington. Transfer at the Pioneer Square Station to the Sound Transit Route 586 bus towards Seattle. Ride for about 15 minutes and get off at the West Commodore Way & 28th Ave NW stop. Walk west on W Commodore Way for about 0.5 miles to reach the Ballard Locks Fish Ladder at 2930 W Commodore Way, Seattle, WA 98199.

  • Walking and Bus

    If you are near the downtown area in Renton, you can walk to the Renton Transit Center. Once there, take the Sound Transit Route 586 bus towards Seattle. Ride for about 30–40 minutes until you reach the West Commodore Way & 28th Ave NW stop. From there, walk west on W Commodore Way for about 0.5 miles to find the Ballard Locks Fish Ladder located at 2930 W Commodore Way, Seattle, WA 98199.

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Discover more about Ballard Locks Fish Ladder

The Ballard Locks Fish Ladder is an iconic tourist attraction located in Seattle, Washington, offering a unique blend of nature and engineering innovation. This facility, also known as the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, showcases an impressive fish ladder that allows salmon and other fish species to navigate between the freshwater of Lake Washington and the saltwater of Puget Sound. As you visit, you can witness the fascinating sight of salmon swimming upstream during their migration season, particularly from June to September, providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature enthusiasts and families alike. In addition to the fish ladder, the surrounding area features beautifully landscaped gardens, walking paths, and viewing platforms, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. The locks themselves are a hub of activity, with boats passing through, offering visitors a glimpse into the workings of this essential waterway. You can also explore the visitor center, where informative exhibits shed light on the local ecosystem and the history of the locks. With the backdrop of majestic mountains and the serene waters of the lake, this destination is perfect for photography enthusiasts and anyone looking to connect with nature. The Ballard Locks Fish Ladder is not just an attraction; it's an educational experience that highlights the importance of wildlife conservation and the relationship between urban development and nature. Make sure to check the daily fish counts and plan your visit according to the best viewing times for migratory fish, ensuring a memorable outing in this stunning natural setting.

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