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Gatewood School, a city landmark in West Seattle

Gatewood

Climb to Gatewood, the residential corner of West Seattle that sits on the highest hill in the city, for wide views and quick trips down to Lincoln Park and Lowman Beach Park.

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Map of Gatewood in Seattle showing 1 place we cover
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Frequently asked questions

Gatewood is part of West Seattle. It is roughly bounded by Raymond Street to the north, Thistle Street to the south, 35th Avenue to the east, and California Avenue and Fauntleroy Way to the west.

Yes. Gatewood sits on the highest hill in Seattle, with views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains and downtown.

Gatewood Elementary is the third-oldest school in West Seattle. Its original building closed for construction in 1989 and reopened two years later.

Lincoln Park is just minutes away, and Lowman Beach Park on Beach Drive SW sits close to Pelly Place Natural Area and Lincoln Park.

About Gatewood

From the top of Gatewood, the view stretches west across Puget Sound to the Olympic Mountains and swings back east toward the downtown Seattle skyline. This quiet, home-focused neighborhood in West Seattle sits on the highest hill in the city, and a trip to Gatewood, Seattle's loftiest corner, is all about the outlook, a historic elementary school and the parks waiting just downhill.

Gatewood's Boundaries

Picture a compact patch of West Seattle, a little over one square mile, framed by four easy landmarks. Raymond Street marks the northern edge and Thistle Street the southern one, while 35th Avenue runs along the east side and California Avenue and Fauntleroy Way shape the west.

Within that small footprint lives a fairly settled community. Figures from 2008 and 2009 counted 5,865 residents with a median household income of $77,693, though those numbers are dated, so think of them as a snapshot rather than a picture of today.

Read the full Gatewood guide

Take In the View From the Top

Height is what sets Gatewood apart. Because the neighborhood claims the highest ground in Seattle, the hill opens up sightlines that lower neighborhoods simply cannot match. Pick a clear day, look west for the water and the Olympics, and then turn east to catch the downtown skyline.

Visit Historic Gatewood Elementary

Make a point of seeing the Gatewood School, the neighborhood's best-known landmark and still a working public elementary school. Part of the Seattle Public Schools district, it ranks as the third-oldest school in West Seattle.

A Building Renewed

The original building closed for construction work in 1989 and welcomed students back two years later. If you are a family researching enrollment, check directly with Seattle Public Schools for current boundaries and programs.

Head Downhill to the Parks

Gatewood's location puts several green spaces within easy reach. Lincoln Park is only minutes away, so it slips naturally into your plans for a walk or a picnic.

Closer to the shoreline, stop at Lowman Beach Park on Beach Drive SW, a city park near Pelly Place Natural Area and Lincoln Park. Pair these spots for an easy outing that carries you from hilltop streets down toward the Sound.

More Local Names to Look For

As you explore, you will also come across Myrtle Reservoir, Orchard Street Ravine and the Kenney Seaview Building. Before planning a stop, check with the City of Seattle or Seattle Parks and Recreation for current access and details.

Plan Your Gatewood Day

Gatewood rewards a slow pace far more than a packed itinerary. Come for the elevation and the views, then drift downhill to Lowman Beach Park or over to Lincoln Park to round out your day.

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