Ballard Locks and Fish Ladder

The Ballard Locks, also known as the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, are an engineering marvel that allow boats to travel between the saltwater of Puget Sound and the freshwater of Lake Union. It’s fascinating to watch boats of all sizes pass through the locks as the water levels are adjusted. Adjacent to the locks is the fish ladder, where you can observe migrating salmon making their way upstream to spawn (typically between July and October). The surrounding Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden is also worth exploring, offering a peaceful place to stroll among beautiful plants and trees.Must-do: Watch the salmon climb the fish ladder during migration season.