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Discovery Park

Trip

Urban Walk - Discovery Park & Locks

Walk from Ballard Locks to Discovery Park Lighthouse Loop, returning to Locks. With luck may see seals in the canal, plus enjoy views of the mountains across Puget Sound. Optional post-walk lunch.

Contacts

Venkatesh Natarajan
Venkatesh Natarajan
Primary Leader
  • Moderate
  • Moderate
  • Mileage: 7.5 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 500 ft
  • Pace: 2.5 mph moving speed (slower on harder spots)
  • 1 (6 capacity)
  • FULL (2 capacity)
  • Fri, Jun 20, 2025 at 6:00 PM
  • Sat, Jun 28, 2025 at 12:00 PM
  • Cancellation & Refund Policy
  • iCal Google

This will be a rather lengthy but relaxed and pleasant walk from the Ballard Locks to Discovery Park.   Once at Discovery Park we'll do the lighthouse loop and then return to the Locks.  We can optionally stop to try and view salmon at either the start or the end of the walk (this will be a group decision). 

Most of the terrain will be easy, but there will be a few sections of moderate hills plus several flights of stairs to go up/down.  Depending on the tides, we may need to step up some small rocks to get around the lighthouse.    Because of this and the overall length of the walk, this walk is only recommended for those with at least some recent conditioning experience (urban walks/hikes/etc).

Generally I like to keep a relaxed pace and take time out to enjoy the scenery. 

We will meet at the Ballard Locks visitor center  at 10am.

Paid parking is available near the locks.  There may also be free street parking available if you drive up a few blocks to 58th st or so -- there is a park on 60th st between 26th and 28th ave I often use, though there may be places closer than that to park at.   In choosing a parking space, plan to be parked 4 hours or so (plus extra if staying after for lunch), so be sure whatever parking option you choose allows for that period of time.

Public transit is encouraged -- the King County Metro 17 and 44 busses have stops near the Locks.

Route/Place

Discovery Park

Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

  • SUN PROTECTION: Much of the walk will be exposed to the sun so wide-brimmed hats/other clothing to cover any sensitive skin is a good idea, as well as sunscreen.
  • FOOTWEAR: Depending on the tide, we may need to step on some rocks to go around the lighthouse, plus there may be muddy spots, so sturdy footwear is required (either a sturdy pair of sneakers that you don't mind getting muddy or trail runners). 
  • WEATHER AWARENESS: Even though this is the (relatively) dry season, please keep an eye on the weather forecast and bring a rain layer if the forecast tells you you might need it.
  • WATER/FOOD: There are water fountains in Discovery Park and at the Locks, but don't rely on them.  Bring ample water and some snacks.  Optional post-walk lunch at a restaurant in Ballard (both whether and where we eat can be decided on as a group)
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