Montlake Bridge
Historic bascule bridge over Lake Washington Ship Canal, known for its boat openings and shared pedestrian/cyclist paths.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
See the bridge lift for boats
Montlake Bridge
Best Time
See the bridge lift for boats
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic bascule bridge over Lake Washington Ship Canal, known for its boat openings and shared pedestrian/cyclist paths.
"A historic bridge offering views of boat traffic, but be mindful of narrow, shared walkways."
🚶♀️ Stay Alert on Walkways
Pedestrian paths are narrow and shared with cyclists. Be aware of your surroundings and step aside when needed.
⏰ Check Bridge Opening Schedule
Bridge openings can halt traffic. Check schedules, especially during peak boating times, to plan your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bridge Openings
Montlake Cut
Witness the historic Montlake Bridge lift to allow sailboats and boats to pass through the Montlake Cut.
Waterfront Trails
South side of the bridge
Explore well-maintained trails along Union Bay and the Lake Washington Ship Canal, offering serene water views.
Cyclist and Pedestrian Experience
Montlake Bridge walkways
Experience the unique challenge of sharing narrow pedestrian paths with fast-moving cyclists.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Montlake Bridge
Access and Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stay Alert on Walkways
Pedestrian paths are narrow and shared with cyclists. Be aware of your surroundings and step aside when needed.
⏰ Check Bridge Opening Schedule
Bridge openings can halt traffic. Check schedules, especially during peak boating times, to plan your visit.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be wet and muddy after rain. Serrated walkways can be slippery, so wear appropriate footwear.
📸 Capture the Action
Great spot for drone photography and capturing boats passing under the bridge.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stay Alert on Walkways
Pedestrian paths are narrow and shared with cyclists. Be aware of your surroundings and step aside when needed.
⏰ Check Bridge Opening Schedule
Bridge openings can halt traffic. Check schedules, especially during peak boating times, to plan your visit.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be wet and muddy after rain. Serrated walkways can be slippery, so wear appropriate footwear.
📸 Capture the Action
Great spot for drone photography and capturing boats passing under the bridge.
🚗 Parking Hassles
Parking can be difficult. Consider public transport or walking from nearby areas like UW Station.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Montlake Bridge offers a unique Seattle experience with its historic charm and the spectacle of boats passing through. While the views and waterfront trails are appreciated, visitors often note the challenges of narrow, shared pedestrian and cyclist walkways and noticeable traffic vibrations. Some find access from the south side inconvenient.
"08mar2022 ~08:45 -to- ~09:30 cool ~45_F, i did a walk, ~2.5 mi R/T: UW Station > Montlake Bridge > Lake Washington Ship Canal Waterside Trail > Arboretum Waterfront Trail (Marsh Island, Foster Island) Forster Point.
Not unexpectedly, cos of the recent wet weather, the Trails passing dirt, a few muddy spots, sections of concrete walkways, sections of steel galvanizf serrated/mesh walkways were wet .. these could be slippery, so do be wary and tread carefully. It seems these Trails are well maintained.
Saw a Jogger, some birds, and a lovely pair of Canadian Geese, and the calm and quiet Union Bay. Lovely 👍😊"
01kk WAF00
"A short bridge with a decent view of the canal that it crosses, frequented by rowers. It's a little bit of a hassle to access the bridge by foot from the south side since there is no direct access rom 24th Ave. You have to take the ramp with a long detour under SR-520 on either side.
There have been constructions on the bridge with bridge closure during several weekends this year."
Yü Wu
"Such a beautiful bridge, enhanced by the UW regatta through the cut on the day we visited."
Kath Rawstron
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Montlake Bridge is accessible via public transport. UW Station is a nearby hub, and several bus routes serve the area. From UW Station, you can walk or take a short bus ride to reach the bridge.
Parking near the Montlake Bridge can be challenging, especially during peak times. Street parking is limited, and nearby lots may have fees. Consider using public transit or walking from areas like the University District.
Yes, you can bike across the Montlake Bridge, but be aware that there are no dedicated bike lanes. The pedestrian walkways are narrow and shared with cyclists, so vigilance is required.
Accessing the bridge from the south side by foot can involve a detour. You may need to use the ramp and go under SR-520 to reach the bridge, as direct access from 24th Ave is limited.
The waterfront trails on the south side offer scenic routes. You can walk or bike along Union Bay and the Lake Washington Ship Canal, connecting to areas like the Arboretum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking on the Montlake Bridge is free and open to the public. There are no admission fees for pedestrians.
The Montlake Bridge is a public thoroughfare and is generally accessible at all times. However, it does open to allow boats to pass, which can cause temporary closures to vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
The Montlake Bridge opens for boats, particularly during boating seasons and events like the Opening Day of Boating Season. Specific times can vary, so it's advisable to check local maritime schedules if you wish to witness an opening. 
The primary restriction is the shared use of narrow pedestrian walkways with cyclists. Visitors are advised to be cautious and yield to faster-moving cyclists.
The waterfront trails connected to the Montlake Bridge, such as those along Union Bay and the Lake Washington Ship Canal, are generally free to access.
📸 📸 Photography
The bridge itself, especially when opening for boats, is a prime subject. The surrounding waterfront trails offer scenic views of Union Bay and the Lake Washington Ship Canal. Drone photography is popular here.
While the views are great, be mindful of the narrow pedestrian walkways and fast-moving cyclists. Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid obstructing traffic.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer beautiful light for photography. Witnessing a bridge opening during these times can also provide dynamic shots.
There are no specific rules against tripods, but due to the narrow walkways and shared space with cyclists, it might be impractical and potentially hazardous.
The pedestrian walkways on the bridge offer direct views. Additionally, the waterfront trails on the south side provide vantage points to see boats approaching and passing through the Montlake Cut.
🎫 🚴 Cycling & Walking
Commuting by bike on the Montlake Bridge requires caution. There are no dedicated bike lanes, and the pedestrian walkways are narrow and shared with cyclists, leading to potential conflicts.
Pedestrian walkways are narrow and can feel crowded, especially when cyclists are present. Visitors are advised to be vigilant and step aside for faster-moving bikes.
Currently, there are no dedicated bike lanes on the Montlake Bridge itself. Cyclists share the pedestrian walkways.
The trails along Union Bay and the Lake Washington Ship Canal are generally well-maintained, with sections of concrete and mesh walkways. Be aware of potential muddy spots after rain.
While past construction has caused weekend closures, the Montlake Lid Pedestrian Bridge has improved connectivity for cyclists and pedestrians.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be mindful of the narrow, shared pedestrian and cyclist paths on the bridge itself. It's advisable to keep a close eye on children and perhaps walk them across the bridge during less busy times or hold their hands firmly. The vibrations from traffic might also be a consideration for very young children.
🚴♀️ Cyclists
Be prepared for potential conflicts and always yield to pedestrians. The Montlake Lid Pedestrian Bridge offers an improved experience for cyclists, but the main bridge still requires careful navigation. Consider the time of day to avoid the busiest rush hours.
🚶♂️ Pedestrians
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Montlake Bridge: A Seattle Landmark
Beyond its functional role, the Montlake Bridge is a focal point for local events and daily life. The Opening Day of Boating Season is a beloved tradition where the bridge's opening is a spectacle for onlookers. For cyclists and pedestrians, it offers a connection between the University of Washington campus and the surrounding neighborhoods, though the shared, narrow walkways present unique challenges.
Recent infrastructure improvements, such as the Montlake Lid Pedestrian Bridge, aim to enhance connectivity and safety for non-motorized users. These developments underscore the ongoing efforts to integrate the bridge and its surroundings into the fabric of the city, balancing its historical significance with modern transportation needs.
Navigating the Montlake Bridge: Cyclist and Pedestrian Experience
Cyclists moving at speed on these narrow paths can be intimidating for pedestrians. The lack of dedicated bike lanes, a consequence of the bridge's original design from an era before modern cycling infrastructure, contributes to this tension. The vibrations from vehicle traffic on the bridge can also be noticeable, adding to the sensation of a busy thoroughfare.
Despite these challenges, the Montlake Bridge remains a crucial link. The Montlake Lid Pedestrian Bridge has been a positive addition, improving access and safety. However, visitors are consistently reminded to be aware of their surroundings, stay to one side, and be prepared for the dynamic environment of a busy urban bridge.
Exploring the Waterfronts Around Montlake Bridge
Visitors can access these trails from the south side of the bridge, though direct access might require a short detour under SR-520. Along the way, you might encounter local wildlife, such as various bird species and Canadian geese, adding to the natural charm of the area. The calm waters of Union Bay offer a peaceful contrast to the bustling bridge traffic above.
These waterfront routes connect to other notable Seattle locations, including parts of the Arboretum Waterfront Trail and West Montlake Park. They serve as a great way to experience Seattle's natural beauty within an urban setting, offering a tranquil escape and picturesque views, especially during the quieter hours of the day.
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