What is the ballard locks?

The Ballard Locks, officially known as the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, are a complex of locks located in Seattle, Washington, that connect Puget Sound with Lake Washington and Lake Union. Completed in 1917, they facilitate the passage of boats between the saltwater of the Sound and the freshwater lakes, accommodating both recreational and commercial vessels. The locks also feature fish ladders to support salmon migration, making them an important site for both navigation and wildlife conservation. Visitors can observe the locking process and the surrounding gardens, making it a popular destination.