t̓uʔəlaltxʷ Village Park and Shoreline Habitat

Cultural Significance

t̓uʔəlaltxʷ Village Park and Shoreline Habitat, pronounced "t-oo-ah-lal-too-wx," means "Herring's House" in Lushootseed, the native language of the Coast Salish people. This isn't just a name - it's a window into the rich history of this special place.

Situated on what was once an old village on the west bank of the Duwamish River, the park received its current name in 2020 as part of the Port of Seattle's thoughtful initiative to honor the true cultural and historical significance of parks along the Duwamish River.

Park Features

Though modest in size at just 1.56 acres, this park packs in plenty of connection to both history and nature. It is an archaeological, cultural, and ecological treasure, offering you a chance to step back in time while enjoying the natural beauty of the Duwamish shoreline.

One of the standout features is the elevated fishing pier that rises about 30 feet above the water - plenty of room for you and fellow anglers to cast a line. If you prefer to be closer to the water, there's also shoreline access for fishing, but your luck might vary depending on when you visit.

Atmosphere

Looking for a quiet escape? You've found it. t̓uʔəlaltxʷ Village Park has an undeniable tranquility that's hard to find in the city. The waterfront setting creates a peaceful backdrop that makes it easy to forget you're still in Seattle.

It's rarely crowded here, making it a great spot when you need a moment of calm by the river - if you're fishing, reflecting, or simply watching the water flow by.

Ecological Importance

Beyond its cultural significance, this park plays a crucial role in the health of the Duwamish River ecosystem. It provides vital habitat for various species, most notably salmon, which are not only ecologically important but deeply significant to the cultural heritage of local Native American tribes.

If you're lucky, you might catch glimpses of salmon jumping in the river, especially during migration seasons. While they can sometimes be challenging to reach when fishing, just spotting these iconic Northwest fish making their determined journey upstream is a special experience in itself.