The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, commonly known as the Ballard Locks, are a crucial and fascinating part of Seattle’s maritime infrastructure.

Located in the Ballard neighborhood, these locks connect the freshwater of Lake Union and Lake Washington with the saltwater of Puget Sound.

They were completed in 1917 and are named after U.S. Army Major Hiram M. Chittenden, who oversaw much of their construction.

Here’s what happens when you take a boat through the locks and head out into Puget Sound:

1. Entering the Locks: Boats enter a large chamber from the freshwater side (either Lake Union or Lake Washington). Once inside, the gates behind the boat close, trapping the vessel in the lock chamber.

2. Water Level Change: Depending on whether you’re heading out to Puget Sound or coming in, the water level in the lock chamber is adjusted. If you’re heading out to the Sound, the water in the chamber is lowered to match the lower saltwater level of Puget Sound. This process takes several minutes and is quite a sight, as the boat gradually sinks within the chamber.

3. Exiting the Locks: Once the water level matches that of Puget Sound, the front gates of the lock open, and you can motor out into the Sound. At this point, your boat transitions from the freshwater ecosystem of the lakes to the saltwater environment of Puget Sound.

4. Entering Puget Sound: As you leave the locks and enter Puget Sound, you’ll notice a few changes. The water is saltier, and you might spot different types of marine life, including seals, seabirds, and occasionally whales. The landscape opens up, offering expansive views of the Sound, with the Olympic Mountains often visible in the distance on clear days.

The Ballard Locks are not only a functional piece of engineering but also a popular tourist destination, where people can watch the boats pass through and even see salmon navigating the fish ladder as they migrate upstream. It’s a unique spot where freshwater and saltwater worlds meet, offering both boaters and visitors a glimpse into the dynamic interplay of Seattle’s waterways.

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