Fish Ladder Viewing Gallery was added to Your Favorites!
Seattle, Washington
Claim this place to tell your story your way.
The Fish Ladder is integrated into the Ballard Locks, which were constructed in 1917 to connect the Puget Sound with Lake Union and Lake Washington, facilitating both fish migration and maritime traffic.
Each year, approximately 300,000 salmon make their way through the Fish Ladder, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to observe these incredible creatures up close.
Visitors can enjoy the spectacle of migrating fish at any time of the year, though the peak salmon run occurs from June to September.
The ladder is designed to mimic a natural stream, allowing salmon to bypass the locks and continue their journey upstream to spawn.
Inside the gallery, visitors can learn about the life cycle of salmon and the importance of fish ladders in conservation efforts.
The ladder not only aids salmon but also supports the ecosystem by ensuring the survival of species that rely on salmon as a food source.
The original ladder was modified to include a viewing gallery, allowing the public to observe fish migration without disturbing the natural process.
The ladder consists of 21 steps, each designed to create a gentle flow of water that salmon can navigate easily.
