Seattle’s waterfront is rich with diverse street ends that bring together the community and the environment, and Lake Union is no exception.
Among the 142 designated Shoreline Street Ends managed by the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT), Lake Union boasts 16 street ends ready for visitors.
This area is recognized for its vibrancy, showcasing a variety of maritime activities against the backdrop of the stunning Pacific Northwest landscape.
In this article, we’ll explore six remarkable street ends along Lake Union’s southern and western shores, along with a hidden spot that offers fantastic views, revealing a unique perspective of this bustling waterway.
**Shoreline Street Ends Program**
The Shoreline Street Ends program, developed by SDOT, aims to improve public access to Seattle’s waterfront while enhancing shoreline habitat and supporting community stewardship.
Approximately half of the designated street ends are considered “worth a visit,” featuring a range of recreational spaces from serene parks to bustling industrial docks.
These locations not only provide crucial access points for water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding but also invite the community to engage with the rich ecosystem and historical significance of Seattle’s waterfront.
**Yale Avenue North**
Starting our journey at Street End #85, Yale Avenue North, visitors are greeted with a peaceful, leafy environment complete with a bench, perfect for enjoying the view.
Lake Union, known for its diverse uses, hosts numerous marinas and even a seaplane base.
Southern Lake Union features Lake Union Park, downtown Seattle’s largest open space, where the public enjoys recreational activities on and near the water.
Connected by the Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop, a seven-mile path named after a prominent Duwamish figure, the shoreline street ends offer an interconnected experience for walkers and cyclists alike.
**Terry Avenue North**
Next, we arrive at Street End #86, Terry Avenue North, an area that was vacated during the construction of Lake Union Park but remains a must-visit destination.
This bustling park, surrounded by boats, planes, and cultural institutions such as the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI) and the Center for Wooden Boats, creates a lively atmosphere where time can easily slip away.
The varied vantage points include floating docks and rocky shorelines, offering opportunities for closer interaction with the water and admiring vintage ships.
The sculptural element, an upside-down boat by artist Peter Richards, enhances the experience, allowing visitors to hear the water’s movement amplified in its presence.
**Kenmore Air Seaport**
Although not a designated street end, the Kenmore Air Seaport serves as an important site along the Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop.
Here, spectators can watch as floatplanes navigate the water, seamlessly connecting air and lake traffic while enjoying the beauty of Lake Union’s surroundings.
As planes ascend from the water, thrilling moments capture the attention of onlookers while divers leap from nearby structures into the lake below.
**Galer Street West**
Continuing our tour, we find ourselves at Street End #87, Galer Street, with an elevated perspective provided by the West Lake Union Pedestrian Bridge.
This vantage point offers an unobstructed view above the buildings and surrounding landscape, allowing us to appreciate the beauty of the waterfront without barriers.
**Blaine Street**
In contrast, Street End #88, Blaine Street, presents a more concealed environment.
Initially appearing less inviting, the overgrown blackberries that line the waterfront can be discouraging.
However, with a bit of determination and exploration, visitors can navigate through the greenery, revealing a satisfying glimpse of Lake Union beyond the thicket.
**Crocket Street**
Street End #89, Crocket Street, offers a unique path down to the water, providing a more intimate shoreline experience.
As one descends the stairs leading to the lake, the bustling activity of nearby businesses creates a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere, setting it apart from the more open spaces previously visited.
The surrounding marina’s structure, supported by forest-like columns, offers a serene escape where dappled light plays on the water’s surface, inviting contemplation and relaxation.
**McGraw Street**
Rounding off our exploration is Street End #90, McGraw Street.
Currently, this area appears to be inaccessible due to maintenance needs, yet it presents an opportunity to partake in the lively environment of adjacent marinas from the boardwalk’s edge.
The prominent crane standing at this street end symbolizes the dynamic nature of Lake Union, showcasing its blend of industrial activity and leisurely pursuits.
In a city renowned for its remarkable natural beauty, Lake Union stands out as a treasure that is not only enjoyed by recreational enthusiasts but also by those who appreciate its historical and cultural significance.
With ongoing efforts from volunteers and organizations like Friends of Street Ends, accessibility to these vital public assets continues to grow, ensuring that Seattle’s shoreline remains a cherished community space for all.
As we wrap up our journey along Lake Union’s vibrant street ends, it’s important to remember the interconnectedness of these locations, forming a patchwork of opportunities for exploration, leisure, and education that defines the character of our city.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation on a bench or thrilling activities on the water, the shoreline street ends of Lake Union invite everyone to dive into the beauty, culture, and heritage that Seattle has to offer.
image source from：theurbanist
