Ballard Locks (18Apr'09)

After the first visit to Ballard we were mesmerized by it. I really wanted to visit it again, and one of its well-known attractions - Chittenden Locks. After having dim sum brunch at the International District and a quick grocery shopping, we briskly changed to our bike gear, and off we go!

On the way there, we enjoyed a coffee break at Canal Cafe, just next to the Burke-Gilman trail.



Around 5pm, we reached our destination - officially known as the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, locals shortened it to Ballard Locks or the Locks. The locks connect the sea water of Puget Sound to the fresh water of Lake Washington via the Ship Canal. Ships going either way will need to stop and wait for the waters of the 2 regions to level, before they can safely pass through. So we could see the parade of sailboats, yachts, motorboats, etc. while they wait for the Locks acting as an elevator to rise/drop in order to get over to the next region. Some visitors even strike up interesting conversations with the waiting crew.



(Clockwise) Boats waiting at the Locks, an arriving ship joining the wait, manual on how the lock works

Next to this the locals have also built a fish ladder for salmons to leave the freshwater after they are born, and return as adults for spawning. I think salmons are a fantastic breed - they could live in both waters. Unfortunately for us, the baby salmons have left the locks for the sea, and would return in Aug/Sep. So we couldn't see any fish through the glass panels.

On our way to the exit, we were attracted by some scratching sound nearby. Curious, we took a look, guess what we found ? A squirrel! This tiny rascal was nimbling on the cherry petals, while breaking the petals. Pretty mean to destroy those lovely flowers hur?


Saw an interesting car on our way home.