Seattle Locks and Gas Works Tour

Let's explore the busiest locks in the nation, the Hiram Chittenden Locks! On this walking and driving tour, we will watch boats "lock through" and learn how the locks operate. In the late spring, we can visit the largest Great Blue Heron colony in the city to watch and listen to the chicks, and see baby salmon (smolts) going out to sea. From mid-June through September we will see adult salmon returning to navigate the fish ladder on their way home to spawn. We will learn how this critical component of our maritime industry and history transformed Seattle, and its role in managing our freshwater lake systems. Then we're off to Gas Works to learn about this one-of-a-kind park, where we will see float planes taking off and landing, and enjoy stunning views of the city. Finally we will visit the houseboat communities along Lake Union, a uniquely Seattle experience! For a private version of this tour (1 to 4 people) please call/text

Meeting Point

Macrina Bakery & Cafe

2408 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98121, USA

Look for me inside the bakery with a Seattle Under the Radar Tours sign. Street parking around the meet up spot is limited to 2 hours (the tour is 3 hours) and nearby garages and lots are very expensive. Consider taking a Lyft/Uber/Taxi or public transit if possible.

What to expect:

Duration: 3 hours

Hiram M. Chittenden Locks

3015 NW 54th St, , Seattle, 98107-4213, Washington

We will explore the Locks and learn how they work, and watch ships "lock through". We will learn about their role in maintaining the level of Lake Washington and how they transformed Seattle's maritime industry. We will look for smolts (baby salmon) on the spillway heading out to sea and adult salmon coming back through the fish ladder. The resident harbor seals and herons are fat and happy this time of year!

1 hour, 30 minutes

Gas Works Park

2101 N Northlake Way, , Seattle, 98103-9122, Washington

This one of a kind park was an inspired creation that took a heavy industrial site and transformed it into one of Seattle's favorite parks, with fabulous views across Lake Union to downtown and the Space Needle! Along the way we will learn the history of this iconic piece of old Seattle that still survives.
On our way back downtown, we will cruise by the houseboat community along Lake Union, a uniquely Seattle experience!

1 hour