It is fascinating to see the salmon behind the glass windows. It looks as if they are in a tank but they are actually out in the open seas making their way from the saltwater ocean to the freshwater Lake Washington. The salmon pass through the Ballard Locks Fish Ladder on their way upstream. The salmon linger in the Ladder area for a few days before continuing while they acclimate to the freshwater. Since the salmon are not passing by quickly viewing the salmon is that much more enjoyable. The viewing windows are located in the Salmon Education Center. The viewing room has educational exhibits with information and explanations about the ladder system and the various types of salmon that pass through. The three types of Pacific Salmon that pass through the ladder are Sockeye, Chinook and Coho. When we visited in August, the Chinook Salmon were passing through. Approximately 15,000 Chinook Salmon pass through the Fish Ladder every year.

Just outside the Fish Ladder in the water we spotted a number of seals playing in the water and hoping to find some fish to eat. We really enjoyed seeing the seals and some even came quite close to the edge of the water to where we were standing on the walkway above.

The Ballard Fish Lock is located just across the bridge from the Ballard Locks. As soon as we finished at the Salmon Education Center we headed to the Locks to watch the boats pass through.

Posted: January 27, 2026