Montlake Bridge
Bascule drawbridgeMontlake Bridge is a bascule drawbridge with 32 ft of clearance closed, measured to a local datum. Its open clearance is not charted.
Clearances are from NOAA chart US5WA13M, measured to a local datum. Actual clearance is lower whenever the water stands above that level. Always confirm against your vessel's air draft and the posted clearance gauge before transiting.
Pathr nautical charts
Montlake Bridge on the chart
Find the bridge and its charted vertical clearance in one view. Select a pin to compare nearby bridges, see open and closed clearances where charted, and open its operating details.
How to request an opening
(e) The draw of the Montlake Bridge, mile 5.2, shall open on signal, except that: (1) The draw need not open for a period of up to 10 minutes after receiving an opening request, if needed to pass accumulated vehicular traffic. However, the draw shall open without delay, when requested by vessels engaged in towing operations. (2) For any vessel or watercraft of less than 1,000 gross tons, unless the vessel has in tow a vessel of 1,000 gross tons or over, from Monday through Friday, except Federal Holidays: (i) The draw need not open from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. from April 30 to September 1 and from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and from 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. from September 1 to April 30. (ii) The draw need open only on the hour and half hour from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. and from 6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Source: US Coast Guard drawbridge regulations, 33 CFR 117.1051 (Lake Washington Ship Canal). Confirm before transiting.
Frequently asked
What is the clearance under Montlake Bridge?+
Montlake Bridge is a bascule drawbridge with 32 ft of clearance closed, measured to a local datum. Its open clearance is not charted. These figures are from NOAA chart data. Real clearance drops whenever the water stands above the level they are measured to, so leave a margin for your air draft.
How do I get Montlake Bridge to open?+
Contact the bridge tender on VHF-FM, or sound the required signal. Operating schedule: (e) The draw of the Montlake Bridge, mile 5.2, shall open on signal, except that: (1) The draw need not open for a period of up to 10 minutes after receiving an opening request, if needed to pass accumulated vehicular traffic. However, the
Tides & conditions at this crossing
Clearance under Montlake Bridge shrinks as the water rises. Check the water level and marine conditions at the nearest NOAA station, Seattle (Madison St.), Elliott Bay (3 mi away).
