# Salmon runs at Ballard Locks fish ladder viewing area — live counts

Ballard Locks is a historic Seattle waterway landmark and the busiest locking system in the Nation, operated by the Army Corps of Engineers since 1917. It is a National Historic Site and top tourist attraction where visitors can explore the Visitor Center/Museum, watch ships and boats, learn about salmon, and tour the locks.

**Ballard Locks fish ladder viewing area: Grounds & Gardens: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily. Fish Ladder Viewing: 7:00 AM – 8:45 PM daily. Visitor Center & Museum: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily (May through September) and Thursday through Monday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (October through April)..** _(as of 2026-10-09T23:48:17.600Z)_

- **Address:** 3015 NW 54th St, Seattle, WA 98107
- **Hours:** Grounds & Gardens: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily. Fish Ladder Viewing: 7:00 AM – 8:45 PM daily. Visitor Center & Museum: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily (May through September) and Thursday through Monday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (October through April).
- **Fees:** Free
- **Parking:** Parking available
- **Notes:** Busiest locking system in the Nation

## Common questions

### Are salmon runs active at Ballard Locks fish ladder viewing area right now?

Ballard Locks fish ladder viewing area is open Grounds & Gardens: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily. Fish Ladder Viewing: 7:00 AM – 8:45 PM daily. Visitor Center & Museum: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily (May through September) and Thursday through Monday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (October through April)..

_Data as of 2026-10-01T12:00:00-07:00 · Sources: WDFW_

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