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Shilshole Marina and West Point (in Discovery Park), seen from Sunset Hill Park, Ballard, Seattle

Sunset Hill

Take in sweeping views over Shilshole Bay from a small viewpoint park in Sunset Hill, the northwest corner of Ballard, then head down to the beach, ponds and dog area at Golden Gardens.

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Frequently asked questions

Yes. Sunset Hill is the northwest corner of the Ballard neighborhood in Seattle.

Sunset Hill Park is at 7531 34th Ave NW. It is a small viewpoint park overlooking Shilshole and Elliott bays, with views toward the Olympic Mountains.

Golden Gardens Park includes a city-listed dog area. Check with Seattle Parks and Recreation for current rules and hours.

It was founded in 1922, making it one of the first neighborhood associations in Seattle.

About Sunset Hill

Shilshole and Elliott bays spread out below the high ground of Sunset Hill, with the Olympic Mountains rising on the far side of the water. Sunset Hill in Seattle is the northwest corner of the Ballard neighborhood, and its views are what it is best known for. Pair a small viewpoint park with nearby Golden Gardens Park, where a Puget Sound beach, bird-filled wetland ponds and a city-listed dog area make for an easy outdoor afternoon.

Sunset Hill's Place in Ballard

The two names overlap, which is why so many people search for Sunset Hill Ballard. Sunset Hill is not a separate district but part of Ballard, perched on the high ground at its northwest edge. That spot above the water is exactly why the views define the place.

Neighborhood pride here runs deep, too. The Sunset Hill Community Association was founded in 1922, making it one of the earliest neighborhood associations in Seattle, and the Sunset Hill Community Hall is part of that local story.

Read the full Sunset Hill guide

Take In the View at Sunset Hill Park

Head to Sunset Hill Park, sometimes called the Sunset Hill Viewpoint, at 7531 34th Ave NW. It is a small park, so think of it as a short stop rather than a long outing. Your reward is a wide overlook stretching across Shilshole and Elliott bays.

On clear days the Olympic Mountains rise across the water, and photographers love this spot. Bring a camera and aim for the later part of the day, when the light falls toward the west.

Golden Gardens: Beach, Ponds and Dogs

Just downhill, Golden Gardens Park gives Sunset Hill its waterfront. Stroll the sandy Puget Sound shoreline, then wander over to the wetland ponds, where plenty of birds gather.

Bringing your dog

The park includes a dog area listed by the City of Seattle, so it is a natural choice when you are visiting with a pet. Before you go, check the Golden Gardens dog area guide and official city sources for the current rules.

More landmarks to spot

Look for the Golden Gardens Bath House within the park. Around the neighborhood you will also find Webster Park, Daniel Webster Elementary School, and the historic Rosen House and Norvell House.

Plan Your Visit

Start at the viewpoint to take in the big picture, then make your way down to Golden Gardens for the beach and ponds. Park hours and facility details can change, so confirm current information with Seattle Parks and Recreation before you set out.

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