Montlake Bridge
Bascule drawbridgeMontlake Bridge is a bascule drawbridge with 32 ft closed, opening to unrestricted height.
Clearances are from NOAA charts, referenced to mean high water. Actual clearance is lower at higher tides and storm surge. Always confirm against your vessel's air draft and the posted clearance gauge before transiting.
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.
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Frequently asked
What is the clearance under Montlake Bridge?+
Montlake Bridge is a bascule drawbridge. Its closed vertical clearance is about 32 ft, and it opens to unrestricted height. Heights are referenced to mean high water (MHW).
How do I get Montlake Bridge to open?+
Contact the bridge tender on VHF-FM Channel 13, 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
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