Lake Washington offers a variety of activities and attractions for boaters, swimmers, beer drinkers, tourists, hikers, bikers, and engineers. Here are some of the highlights:

• Boaters: Lake Washington is a popular destination for boaters, with several marinas and public docks available for moorage. Some popular restaurants with boat moorage include Dock and Drink, Leschi Marina, and BeachHouse Bar + Grill. The Center for Wooden Boats is located on the connected Lake Union.
• Swimmers: Lake Washington has several public beaches and parks, including Seward Park and Juanita Beach Park, that offer swimming areas and other water activities.
• Beer drinkers: Several restaurants and bars on Lake Washington offer a variety of beer options, including Water’s Table, Dock and Drink, and BeachHouse Bar + Grill.
• Tourists: Lake Washington offers several tourist attractions, including the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI), which features exhibits on the history of Seattle and the surrounding area.
• Hikers: Seward Park offers several hiking trails with views of Lake Washington and the surrounding area.
• Bikers: The Lake Washington Loop Trail is a popular biking route that circles the lake and offers scenic views of the water and surrounding area.
• Engineers: The floating bridges on Lake Washington, including the Lacey V. Murrow Memorial Bridge and the Governor Albert D. Rosellini Bridge–Evergreen Point, are engineering marvels that offer unique views of the lake and surrounding area. So is the Montlake Cut.

The lake is open to fishing year round. It holds dozens of species including coastal cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, large and smallmouth bass, black crappie and yellow perch. There are also occasional opportunities to fish for chinook, coho and sockeye salmon.

History of the floating bridges on Lake Washington

The first floating bridge on Lake Washington, the Lacey V. Murrow Memorial Bridge, opened in 1940 and was the longest floating bridge in the world at the time1.

The bridge was named after Lacey V. Murrow, who was the director of the Washington State Department of Highways at the time of the bridge’s construction1. The bridge was replaced by a new one, which opened in 19931.

The Lacey V. Murrow Floating Bridge across Lake Washington did sink while undergoing renovation in November 1990 due to a storm that blew in over Thanksgiving weekend1.

The bridge broke apart and sank when one pontoon filled with water and dragged the rest down, because they were cabled together and there was no way to separate the sections under load1.

It was later discovered that hatchways into the concrete pontoon air pockets were left open, allowing water to enter23. No one was hurt, but a few construction vehicles that had been parked on the bridge for the weekend sank beneath the waves1. The entire bridge was replaced by a new one, in 19931.

The Governor Albert D. Rosellini Bridge–Evergreen Point, which is also known as the SR 520 bridge, opened in 1963 and was the world’s longest floating bridge until the replacement SR 520 bridge opened in 20161. The SR 520 bridge has a 14-foot-wide bicycle and pedestrian path on the north side of the bridge that connects with local and regional trails in Seattle and the Eastside2.

Montlake Cut

The Montlake Cut is a canal that connects Lake Washington and Lake Union in Seattle, Washington. Here is a brief history of the Montlake Cut:

• Prior to the Montlake Cut, Lake Washington and Lake Union never met. The Montlake Cut was the result of human influence and engineering in the late 1800s and early 1900s134.
• The idea of building a ship canal to connect Lake Washington and Lake Union started as early as 1853, but the idea didn’t move forward until 190913.
• Major C.W. Kutz was in charge of the project and gave C. J. Erikson the responsibility to carry out the project1.
• The Montlake Cut was completed in 1916 and marked the realization of a 62-year-old idea to link the lakes with Puget Sound, creating a freshwater harbor in Seattle and a navigable route for ships5.
• The creation of the cut lowered the water level of Lake Washington by 8.8 feet, drained the wetlands around the lake, and lowered the lake below the outflow at the Black River4.
• Before the construction of the Montlake Cut, it was known by the Duwamish as “Carry a Canoe” (Lushootseed: sxWátSadweehL). Indigenous people had been portaging between the lakes for centuries, either carrying canoes or shoving them along an intermittent creek that appeared when Lake Washington overflowed4.
• The Montlake Cut’s original name was Erickson Cut. Contractor C. J. Erickson commenced the big project in turning on his big steam shovel in celebration of the October 27, 1909, post A-Y-P Exposition era, in the final push to complete the Lake Washington Canal project4. The name “Montlake” comes from the Montlake neighborhood, which is located on the eastern shore of the cut.
• Although the ecosystem of the Montlake Cut has since recovered, the damages were major at the time. Present day, the industrial uses of the Montlake Cut have since decreased, and it is now primarily used for leisure boating and recreational uses46.

The Montlake Cut is a magnificent feat of engineering, with the Montlake Bridge bisecting the land into Montlake and the U-District2. The Montlake Cut is a popular location for recreational activities, including boating, rowing, and biking. The area around the Montlake Cut is also home to several parks, including the Washington Park Arboretum and the Union Bay Natural Area. The University of Washington light rail station to the north of the Montlake Bridge was completed in March 2015 connecting Montlake with downtown Seattle.

Boeing

Boeing has a plant on Lake Washington, which is located in Renton2. The plant is the primary assembly location for the Boeing 737, which is one of the company’s most popular commercial airplanes2.

The Boeing Seaplane Hangar was built on the shore of Lake Union in December 19151. The hangar was used for pilot training in preparation for World War I2.

The B&W Bluebill, the first plane that William E. Boeing helped to build, made its maiden flight from Seattle’s Lake Union on June 15, 19164. The B&W Bluebill was a two-seat, single-engine float plane that was designed and constructed in the Pacific Aero Club’s hangar-boathouse at the foot of Roanoke Street in Seattle4. Boeing founded the Pacific Aero Club in 1915 and studied flying with Glenn Martin in Los Angeles4. He purchased one of Martin’s TA seaplanes and built the Aero Club hangar for it4. The Boeing Seaplane Hangar still exists and is designated as a historic landmark3. Today, Lake Union is one of the busiest seaplane bases in the world, where airplanes, sailboats, kayaks, and wildlife mix with surprising harmony6.

Public docks on Lake Washington

There are several public docks on Lake Washington, including:

• Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, Renton
• Leschi Park, Seattle: Leschi Marina has several restaurants, including Daniel’s Broiler and BluWater Bistro, that offer moorage for boaters. There is public moorage in the Leschi neighborhood of Seattle5.
• Juanita Beach Park, Kirkland
• Seward Park, Seattle
• Magnuson Park, Seattle
• Lake Union, Seattle: Westward Seattle is a well-recognized restaurant with an “on-water” themed menu, featuring Northwest cuisine. A small slip nearby allows boaters to moor and walk up to enjoy raw oysters and ample outdoor seating looking out toward downtown over the water. There is public moorage in Lake Union, but getting moorage for large boats is next to impossible, so if you have a dinghy, it might be better to anchor somewhere quieter then motor in25.
• Agua Verde Cafe: Located on Portage Bay in Seattle, Agua Verde Cafe offers moorage for boats and a menu featuring Mexican cuisine.
• Ivar’s Salmon House: Located on the north end of Lake Union in Seattle, Ivar’s Salmon House offers moorage for boats and a menu featuring seafood and Northwest cuisine.
• 100 Pound Clam: Located on the south end of Lake Union in Seattle, 100 Pound Clam offers moorage for boats and a menu featuring seafood and American cuisine.
• Beach Cafe at the Point: Located on the eastern shore of Lake Washington in Kirkland, Beach Cafe at the Point offers first-come, first-served moorage for boats and a menu featuring American cuisine.

It is important to note that availability and pricing may vary depending on the season and weather conditions, so it is recommended to check with the restaurant or marina beforehand to confirm availability and make reservations if necessary.

Launching a boat on or near Lake Washington

There are several boat launches on or near Lake Washington, including:

• Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, Renton
• Magnuson Park, Seattle
• Sail Sand Point, Seattle
• Juanita Beach Park, Kirkland
• Kenmore Boat Launch, Kenmore
• Andrews Bay Boat Launch, Mercer Island

Anchoring a boat on Lake Washington

Boaters can anchor their boats in several areas on Lake Washington, including:

• Andrews Bay, Mercer Island
• Newport Shores, Bellevue
• Madison Park, Seattle
• Matthews Beach, Seattle
• Juanita Bay, Kirkland
• Seward Park

Yacht clubs on Lake Washington

There are several yacht clubs on Lake Washington, including:

• Seattle Yacht Club, Seattle
• Meydenbauer Bay Yacht Club, Bellevue
• Washington Yacht Club, Seattle
• Corinthian Yacht Club of Seattle, Seattle
• University of Washington Yacht Club
• Queen City Yacht Club

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How was Lake Washington formed?

Lake Washington was formed by the Vashon Glacier, which retreated about 10,000 years ago, leaving behind a depression that filled with water1.

Lake Washington has a maximum depth of 214 feet (65 meters) and an average depth of 108 feet (33 meters)6.

The level of Lake Washington was lowered for the Montlake Cut. The creation of the Montlake Cut lowered the water level of Lake Washington by 8.8 feet, drained the wetlands around the lake, and lowered the lake below the outflow at the Black River, leaving the Black River basically dried up. The Montlake Cut became the new outflow for Lake Washington12.

The Black River was the historic outlet for Lake Washington and the Cedar River watersheds, but it dried up when the Montlake Cut lowered the level of Lake Washington5.

Where did Indians have camps on Lake Washington?

Indigenous people, including the Duwamish tribe, had camps and settlements around Lake Washington for centuries. The Duwamish called the lake Xacuabš, which translates to “great amount of water” in their language. The Duwamish and other indigenous people used the lake for transportation, fishing, and gathering2.

Seaplane operation on Lake Washington

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There is a seaplane operation on Lake Washington. Kenmore Air operates seaplane flights from Lake Washington to several destinations in the Pacific Northwest, including the San Juan Islands and Victoria, British Columbia3.

Lake Washington events

There are several throughout the year, including:

• January: Polar Bear Plunge
• February: Seattle Boat Show
• March: Emerald City Lights Boat Parade
• April: Opening Day of Boating Season
• May: Seattle Yacht Club’s Opening Day Boat Parade
• June: Lake Washington Summer Regatta
• July: Seafair Weekend
• August: Lake Washington Triathlon
• September: Lake Washington Half Marathon
• October: Halloween Howl Paddle
• October through November Washington Husky Football
• November: Seattle Turkey Trot
• December: Christmas Ship Festival

It is important to note that event dates and details may vary from year to year, so it is recommended to check event websites for the most up-to-date information.

A Duck Dodge is a weekly sailing race that takes place on Lake Union in Seattle during the summer months. The race is open to all sailboats and is known for its fun and festive atmosphere. The race is organized by the Duck Dodge Committee and has been a Seattle tradition for over 40 years3.

The Frostbite Series is a series of sailing races that takes place during the winter months. The series is organized by the Seattle Laser Fleet and typically consists of six races1. The Frostbite Series is open to all sailboats and is a great way to stay active and engaged in sailing during the off-season. The dates for the Frostbite Series may vary from year to year, so it is recommended to check the Seattle Laser Fleet website for the most up-to-date information1.

What communities are on lake Washington?

There are several communities on Lake Washington, each with its own unique features and amenities that support boaters, swimmers, and beer drinkers. Here are some of the communities on Lake Washington:

1. Seattle: Seattle is the largest city on Lake Washington and offers a variety of dining options with boat moorage, including Dock and Drink and Leschi Marina. The University of Washington operates a boat rental facility right on the lake (in Union Bay) where you can rent canoes and kayaks by the hour.
2. Mercer Island: Mercer Island is a suburban community located in the middle of Lake Washington. The island has several parks and beaches, including Luther Burbank Park, which has a public dock for boaters.
3. Renton: Renton is a city located on the southern end of Lake Washington and has several parks and marinas, including Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, which has a non-profit organization that promotes the sport of sailing through classes, races, and recreational sailing.
4. Kirkland: Kirkland is a city located on the northeastern shore of Lake Washington and has several parks and beaches, including Juanita Beach Park, which has a public dock for boaters.
5. Leschi: Leschi is a neighborhood located on the eastern shore of Lake Washington and has several restaurants, including Daniel’s Broiler and BluWater Bistro, that offer moorage for boaters.
6. Lakewood: Lakewood is a neighborhood located on the southwestern shore of Lake Washington and has several parks and beaches, including Seward Park, which has a public dock for boaters.
7. Sand Point: Magnuson Cafe & Brewery is located near Sail Sand Point2. Magnuson Cafe & Brewery’s hours are Monday through Wednesday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Thursday and Friday 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 12 a.m.; and Sunday 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. 5. They serve breakfast on Saturday.
8. REI, a cooperative of outdoor enthusiasts, rents boats on Lake Washington. According to their website, REI offers kayak and paddleboard rentals at the boathouse at Meydenbauer Bay Park on Lake Washington in Bellevue, east of Seattle3. Additionally, according to My Mercer Island, REI operates watercraft rentals out of Bellevue’s Enatai Beach Park and Meydenbauer Beach Park2. The first hour of rental will run anywhere from $29-49 depending on your choice of boat, then drops to $10 for each additional hour2. It is important to note that rental availability may vary depending on the season and weather conditions, so it is recommended to check with REI beforehand to confirm availability and make reservations if necessary13.
9. The Waterfront Activities Center (WAC) at the University of Washington offers boat rentals and a dock for boaters to tie up and enjoy the natural area around Union Bay1. The Washington Yacht Club is a student-run club located at the Waterfront Activities Center2.
10. The Seattle Singles Yacht Club is a social club for singles who enjoy boating

It is important to note that each community may have different regulations and amenities for boaters, swimmers, and beer drinkers, so it is recommended to check with the local authorities or businesses beforehand to confirm availability and make reservations if necessary.

Here are some popular restaurants and bars on Lake Washington:

1. BeachHouse Bar + Grill: Located in Kirkland, BeachHouse Bar + Grill offers a casual atmosphere with lakefront views and a menu featuring American cuisine.
2. Dock and Drink: Located in Renton, Dock and Drink offers a dock for boaters to tie up and enjoy a menu featuring burgers, beer, and cocktails.
3. Seastar Restaurant & Raw Bar: Located in Bellevue, Seastar Restaurant & Raw Bar offers a fine dining experience with a menu featuring seafood and steak.
4. Daniel’s Broiler – Leschi: Located in Seattle’s Leschi neighborhood, Daniel’s Broiler offers a fine dining experience with a menu featuring steak and seafood.
5. Water’s Table: Located in Renton, Water’s Table offers a menu featuring Pacific Northwest cuisine and lakefront views.
6. Mediterranean Kitchen: Located in Bellevue, Mediterranean Kitchen offers a menu featuring Middle Eastern cuisine and a casual atmosphere.
7. Leschi Marina, Seattle: Leschi Marina has several restaurants, including Daniel’s Broiler and BluWater Bistro, that offer moorage for boaters. There is public moorage in the Leschi neighborhood of Seattle5.
8. Lake Union, Seattle: Westward Seattle is a well-recognized restaurant with an “on-water” themed menu, featuring Northwest cuisine. A small slip nearby allows boaters to moor and walk up to enjoy raw oysters and ample outdoor seating looking out toward downtown over the water. There is public moorage in Lake Union, but getting moorage for large boats is next to impossible, so if you have a dinghy, it might be better to anchor somewhere quieter then motor in25.

It is important to note that availability and pricing may vary depending on the season and weather conditions, so it is recommended to check with the restaurant or bar beforehand to confirm availability and make reservations if necessary.

Tourist Attractions

Lake Washington is a popular destination for tourists visiting Seattle. Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions around Lake Washington:

1. Luther Burbank Park: A 77-acre park on Mercer Island with a swimming beach, picnic areas, and a playground.
2. Chism Beach Park: A small park on the east side of Lake Washington with a swimming beach, picnic areas, and a playground.
3. Columbia Center Sky View Observatory: A 73-story skyscraper in Seattle with an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city and Lake Washington.
4. Seafair: An annual summer festival featuring concerts, food, and competitions, including the Torchlight Run and Parade and the Blue Angels air show.
5. Lake Washington Cruise: A leisurely boat tour around the lake, offering views of Mount Rainier, lakefront mansions, and the Seattle skyline.
6. Medina: A small town on the east side of Lake Washington known for its stately homes, including the Xanadu 2.0, the home of Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates.
7. Evergreen Point Floating Bridge: The world’s longest floating bridge, connecting Seattle to the east side of Lake Washington.
8. Bellevue Botanical Garden: A 53-acre garden in Bellevue with a variety of plants, including a Japanese garden and a rock garden.
9. Woodinville Wine Country: A wine region near Lake Washington with over 100 wineries and tasting rooms.

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What famous people have waterfront property on Lake Washington?

Lake Washington is home to several famous people, including:

1. Bill Gates: The co-founder of Microsoft owns a 66,000-square-foot mansion on the eastern shore of Lake Washington in Medina, which is valued at over $130 million3.
2. Jeff Bezos: The founder of Amazon owns a 29,000-square-foot mansion on the western shore of Lake Washington in Medina, which is valued at over $100 million3.
3. Steve Ballmer: The former CEO of Microsoft owns a 10,000-square-foot mansion on the eastern shore of Lake Washington in Hunts Point, which is valued at over $50 million3.
4. Kenny G: The jazz saxophonist owns a 12,000-square-foot mansion on the eastern shore of Lake Washington in Hunts Point, which is valued at over $20 million3.

We anchored for the night in Cozy Cove near Kirkland, off the east shore of the lake. Multi-million dollar houses wring the shore there, but are far enough away that we still had plenty of privacy. On Hunts’s Point to our east, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, singer Kenny G and cellular phone pioneer Craig McGraw own adjacent estates.

Dirona Around The World

What is the average price of a Lake Washington property with shoreline?

According to LakeHomes.com, Lake Washington homes for sale have an average list price of $2,176,0001. The Washington Waterfronts Team analyzed more than 30,000 closed waterfront transactions over a six-year span and found that the average price of a Lake Washington waterfront property is $2,500,0002. It is important to note that waterfront property prices can vary greatly depending on location, size, and other factors, so these averages should be taken as a general guide.

The best side of Lake Washington to own waterfront property depends on personal preferences and priorities. However, some factors to consider include:

• Mountain views: The western shore of Lake Washington offers views of the Olympic Mountains, while the eastern shore offers views of the Cascade Mountains.
• Prevailing winds: The prevailing winds on Lake Washington are from the south, so the northern shore may be more sheltered.
• Shadows: The western shore of Lake Washington may have more shadows in the afternoon due to the sun setting in the west.
• Sunrises and sunsets: The eastern shore of Lake Washington offers views of the sunrise, while the western shore offers views of the sunset.
• Public access for biking and walking: Both the eastern and western shores of Lake Washington offer public access for biking and walking, with several parks and trails along the shoreline.

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Do trains still travel on Lake Washington Shore Line?

No, trains do not currently travel on the Lake Washington Shore Line. The Lake Washington Belt Line, which was a railroad line that circled Lake Washington, was abandoned in the 1970s and has since been converted into the Eastside Rail Corridor, a multi-use trail for pedestrians and cyclists1.

How are planes routed over Lake Washington?

Planes frequently fly over Lake Washington, as the lake is located near several airports, including Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and Boeing Field. The exact flight paths and altitudes of planes can vary depending on weather conditions, air traffic, and other factors. However, planes are generally routed to and from Lake Washington based on air traffic control instructions and flight plans, which take into account safety, efficiency, and noise abatement considerations2.

SeaTac management works with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to route air traffic in a way that balances safety, efficiency, and noise abatement considerations. However, despite efforts to minimize noise impacts on surrounding communities, Sea-Tac Airport traffic has been a source of noise complaints from distant neighborhoods, including Mercer Island13. While there is no evidence to suggest that Mercer Island receives less air traffic than other neighborhoods, it is possible that some areas may be more affected by noise due to flight paths and altitude. It is important to note that air traffic can vary depending on weather conditions,

There are regulations in place to ensure fair air traffic distribution over Seattle. The FAA prescribes special air traffic rules for aircraft operating within the boundaries of certain designated airspace, including Class B, C, and E airspace56. These areas have procedures, nature of operations, configuration, size, and density of traffic that vary among the identified areas6.

Birds of Lake Washington

Lake Washington is a great place for bird watching, with a variety of species spotted throughout the year. Here are some of the best spots for bird watching on Lake Washington:

1. Juanita Bay Park: Located on the northeast shore of Lake Washington, Juanita Bay Park is a 110-acre wetland park that is home to over 110 species of birds, including great blue herons, bald eagles, and wood ducks1.
2. Mercer Slough Nature Park: Located on the southeast shore of Lake Washington, Mercer Slough Nature Park is a 320-acre wetland park that is home to over 170 species of birds, including great blue herons, belted kingfishers, and ospreys1.
3. Luther Burbank Park: Located on Mercer Island, Luther Burbank Park is a 77-acre park that is home to a variety of birds, including bald eagles, great blue herons, and woodpeckers1.
4. Seward Park: Located on the southeast shore of Lake Washington, Seward Park is a 300-acre park that is home to a variety of birds, including bald eagles, great blue herons, and pileated woodpeckers4.
5. Magnuson Park: Located on the northeast shore of Lake Washington, Magnuson Park is a 350-acre park that is home to a variety of birds, including bald eagles, great blue herons, and ospreys5.

Here are some of the birds spotted on Lake Washington by month:

• January: Bald eagles, common loons, and western grebes1.
• February: American wigeons, buffleheads, and common goldeneyes1.
• March: Great blue herons, ospreys, and tree swallows1.
• April: Barn swallows, cedar waxwings, and violet-green swallows1.
• May: Black-headed grosbeaks, common yellowthroats, and warbling vireos1.
• June: American goldfinches, common mergansers, and spotted sandpipers1.
• July: Caspian terns, double-crested cormorants, and western sandpipers1.
• August: Black terns, common terns, and red-necked phalaropes1.
• September: Bonaparte’s gulls, common loons, and surf scoters1.
• October: American pipits, common loons, and northern pintails1.
• November: Barrow’s goldeneyes, common loons, and hooded mergansers1.
• December: American coots, common loons, and horned grebes1.

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It is important to note that bird sightings may vary depending on the season and weather conditions, so it is recommended to check with local birding resources beforehand to confirm sightings and plan accordingly1.

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Lake Washington, a body of water so grand, Formed by glaciers and the earth’s own hand. A freshwater lake, so deep and wide, A place for boaters, swimmers, and birds to reside.

Two floating bridges, engineering feats, Connect the shores and the city streets. The Lacey V. Murrow and the SR 520, Toll bridges that cross, a sight so nifty.

The Montlake Cut, a canal so grand, A human-made link between lake and land. A place for ships to sail and pass, A border for UW’s campus.

A Macgregor 26X sailboat, launched in late October, Cruiseing the lake, a journey to remember. Noteworthy destinations, so many to see, Green Lake Boathouse, Dock and Drink, and more to be.

Rain for a few days, the crew takes the subway, Downtown for sightseeing, a fun-filled day. The University of Washington, a place to explore, A boat rental facility, a place to adore

Birds sighted, so many to name, Bald eagles, herons, and ducks, what a game. A place for nature, a place for fun, Lake Washington, a place for everyone.

Famous people long to join, A Macgregor 26X sailboat, a joy to find. Freedom not available to the mansion bound. A chance to escape, to be unbound.

The Macgregor 26X sailboat, a beauty to behold, A trailerable sailer, a story to be told. Introduced in 1995, a design so fine, Lets toast her builder With Washington beer and wine.

Renton

Renton, Washington, has a rich history shaped by its natural resources, strategic location, and the industries that have developed there. Initially, the area was inhabited by the Duwamish people, known as “The People of the Inside,” who lived along the local rivers and Elliott Bay.

European settlers arrived in the 1860s, with the town officially incorporating in 1901, spurred by coal mining and the influx of workers for this industry56.

Thousands of years before people of European descent came to the Pacific Northwest, the Duwamish called the Black, Cedar, and Duwamish River valleys home. The “People of the Inside” led lives uniquely adapted to the rivers. At least three villages with cedar plank longhouses were located in the Renton area: Sba’badid (“crags”), Tuxuididư’ (“Little Cedar River”), and Tuwa’b-go (“confluence”).

When White settlers first came to the Renton area in the early 1850s they encountered 300-400 Duwamish. The federal Land Donation Claim Act enabled settlers to claim ownership of Duwamish land. To remove the Native people, the government created a system of reservations, but it did not include one for the Duwamish. Left to choose among the Port Madison, Tulalip, and Muckleshoot reservations far from their ancestral lands, some Duwamish chose not to move at all. Chief William refused to go. An Indian Agent recorded Chief’s William’s feelings on the matter: “the country on the Black River is theirs and they will not sell it but they would live and die on it.”

The splintering of the community made it difficult for the Duwamish to continue their traditions, but they managed to keep some traditional cultural practices alive. In the late 1800s and early 1900s Renton remained a location for occasional Duwamish gatherings and spiritual ceremonies.

Renton History Museum

The city’s development was significantly influenced by World War II, with Boeing and PACCAR playing pivotal roles. Boeing’s Renton plant was crucial in producing the B-29 Superfortress, while PACCAR, initially focused on railway and logging equipment, contributed by manufacturing Sherman tanks23. 

The four to eight thousand pound logs were never strapped or chained down to the cross bunks in any way, but were dropped onto the upper knife edges of the cross bunks, the upper logs being wedged between the lower logs. The lower logs could not roll off because of the chocks or “cheeseblocks” wedged under them. The chocks were held in place by heavy chains that criss-crossed inside the bunks and were locked into place in the notches on the bunk ends. The chocks on the millpond side could be released and pushed off from the safe side.

The most critical part of carrying logs was during train movement. Three to four brakemen would ride a train from the woods to the mill. The engine crew and the brakemen worked in close harmony to keep the train from pulling apart on an uphill grade (1% maximum) or from telescoping together on a downhill grade (7 – 10% maximum). The average train speed in the woods was five to seven miles per hour.

These disconnected trucks were usually pulled by the Shay, Heisler, or Climax type steam locomotive and were used from the late 1880s to 1959. Renton’s history of logging lasted from the late 1800’s to about 1920. Locally the May Creek Logging Company used equipment such as this and dumped its logs in the southern end of Lake Washington near Kennydale.

Companies making the following display possible were the Burlington Northern Railroad, Mobile Crane Company, Renton/Issaquah Auto Freight, Rucker Brothers Trucking, the Weyerhaeuser Company, and the Barbee Mill Co.

Post-war, Renton continued to grow, with Boeing remaining a key employer, especially with the production of the 737 Max2.

Renton’s slogan, “Ahead of the Curve,” reflects its ongoing evolution and adaptation to new industries and technologies. The city has also preserved its history, with attractions like the Renton History Museum showcasing its heritage1.

For visitors with specific interests:

• Boaters can enjoy Lake Washington’s extensive waterways, offering recreational opportunities and scenic views.
• Engineers might find the Boeing plant and PACCAR’s technical innovations particularly fascinating23.
• Gamblers have access to local casinos offering a variety of gaming options.
• Architects can appreciate Renton’s mix of historical and modern architecture, including the unique Renton Public Library built over the Cedar River6.
• Germans, or those interested in German culture, might enjoy exploring Renton’s diverse community and cultural events that celebrate various heritages.
• Pilots will be interested in the Boeing plant’s rich aviation history and its contributions to aerospace engineering2.

For those coming by boat and looking to take advantage of the two-hour moorage, Renton offers a variety of restaurants and shopping opportunities near the waterfront, providing a convenient and enjoyable experience for visitors6.

Renton, Washington, offers a variety of attractions that cater to different interests, making it a vibrant place for tourists to explore. Here are some popular tourist attractions in Renton:

1. Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park: A favorite for both locals and visitors, this park is located on the southeast shore of Lake Washington. It features 57 acres of land, 5,400 feet of shoreline, picnic shelters, waterfront restaurants, sand volleyball courts, a swimming area, over 1.5 miles of paved walking trails, an interpretive botanical walk, and playground equipment. It’s an ideal spot for water-related activities, bird watching, and enjoying scenic views49.
2. Renton History Museum: Housed in a historic Art Deco firehouse, the museum offers a dynamic learning experience about Renton’s history through its vast collection of photographs, objects, and archives. It’s a great place for those interested in the local history and culture9.
3. Renton Civic Theatre: Located in a 1920s movie palace, this professional performing arts center showcases a wide variety of productions, making it a premier venue for quality theater in the Greater Puget Sound region9.
4. IKEA Performing Arts Center: Situated on the Renton High School campus, this center hosts student theatrical training, lectures, concerts, and community performances. It’s home to various arts organizations and offers a space for events year-round9.
5. Northwest Seaplanes/Friday Harbor Seaplanes: For those interested in aviation or looking for a unique way to explore the area, Northwest Seaplanes offers tour flights from south Lake Washington to the San Juan Islands and British Columbia’s Inside Passage9.
6. Waterway Cruises on Lake Washington: Enjoy a variety of cruises, whether you’re seeking a romantic sunset voyage, a family-friendly journey, or a wine or beer tasting expedition. It’s a perfect way to experience stunning views of mountains and city skylines9.
7. The Museum of Flight: Although located in Seattle, it’s a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts. The museum features a vast selection of WWI, WWII, commercial aircraft, and space-related artifacts. Visitors can walk through the 3rd Boeing 787 Dreamliner ever built, a Concorde Supersonic jet, or President Kennedy’s Air Force One6.
8. Jimi Hendrix Memorial Site: A tribute to the legendary musician who hailed from this area, the memorial site is a place of pilgrimage for music fans910.
9. Liberty Park Skate Park: For those interested in skateboarding, this park offers a space to enjoy and practice skateboarding skills9.
10. Henry Moses Aquatic Center: A family-friendly attraction with pools, slides, and water play areas, perfect for a day out with kids9.

These attractions, along with Renton’s restaurants, shopping opportunities, and natural beauty, make it a diverse and welcoming destination for tourists with various interests.