The locks use a seawater barrier system to prevent dense, salty water from Puget Sound from entering the fresh water of Lake Washington, protecting the freshwater ecosystem.
The Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden was landscaped by its namesake, who worked as a horticulturalist at the site for over 40 years.
The fish ladder was originally built in 1917 and significantly upgraded in 1976 to better accommodate salmon migration.
Construction of the locks began in 1911 and required the excavation of over 1.5 million cubic yards of earth.
The facility manages a water level difference of approximately 6 to 26 feet depending on the tide in Puget Sound.
The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks serve as the vital passage between the salt water of Puget Sound and the fresh water of the Ship Canal, which feeds the Seattle Lakes. Operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the facility manages the movement of vessels ranging from commercial fishing trawlers to private sailboats between different water elevations. The site includes a botanical garden, the Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden, which features over 500 species of plants from around the world. An underground fish ladder viewing area allows visitors to observe salmon migrating upstream during their seasonal runs. The locks are a key component of the Lake Washington Ship Canal, regulating lake levels and preventing the mixing of salt and fresh water. The concrete structures represent a significant feat of engineering designed to protect the local environment while facilitating maritime traffic. Visitors can traverse the pedestrian walkways over the lock gates to watch the leveling process up close. The site remains a functional industrial facility integrated into a public recreational park space.
The pedestrian bridge over the locks providing a direct view of boats entering and exiting the chambers.
Check the fish ladder viewing window periodically, as salmon runs vary throughout the summer and early autumn.
Walk across the top of the lock gates for a view of both the salt water bay and the fresh water canal.
Bring a light jacket, as the area near the water often experiences cool breezes regardless of the sunshine.
Do not attempt to feed the wildlife, particularly the seals and sea lions often found near the lock entrance.
The visitor center and botanical garden grounds may have varying seasonal access; check for public holiday closures.
Stay behind safety railings at all times and do not interfere with the lock operators or vessel crews.
