Shilshole Bay facts for kids
Shilshole Bay is a beautiful part of Puget Sound in Seattle, Washington. It's a busy waterway and a home for many boats. The bay is surrounded by several interesting places, including parks and neighborhoods. It also connects to a famous canal through a set of locks.
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What is Shilshole Bay?
Shilshole Bay is a large body of water. It is part of Puget Sound, which is a big inlet of the Pacific Ocean. The bay is located on the western side of Seattle. It is a popular spot for boating and enjoying nature.
Where is Shilshole Bay Located?
Shilshole Bay is found east of a special line. This line goes from Seattle's West Point in the southwest. It stretches northeast to Golden Gardens Park. Along its shores, you can find several important places. These include Discovery Park, which is a large urban park. You can also see the Lawton Wood section of the Magnolia neighborhood. The historic neighborhood of Ballard is also nearby. And, of course, Golden Gardens Park offers a lovely beach.
What's Special About Shilshole Bay?
Shilshole Bay is home to the Shilshole Bay Marina. A marina is a special harbor where boats can dock. This marina is located on Ballard's Seaview Avenue N.W. It is a very active place with many boats.
The Ballard Locks Connection
Shilshole Bay has an important connection to the Lake Washington Ship Canal. This connection is made through the Ballard Locks. The Ballard Locks are a system of water elevators. They help boats move between the saltwater of Puget Sound and the freshwater of Lake Union and Lake Washington. This makes it possible for boats to travel safely between these different water levels.
How Did Shilshole Bay Get Its Name?
The name Shilshole comes from the Duwamish language. The Duwamish are a Native American tribe from this area. The word means "threading a needle." This name might refer to the narrow opening. This opening is where Salmon Bay flows into Shilshole Bay. It's like a small thread passing through a needle's eye.