A 19.1-acre public park that used to be Seattle Gas Light Company gasification plant. This unique park is located on the north shore of Lake Union at the south end of the Wallingford neighborhood.
The views from this park are amazing. It is like standing in a panoramic picture of Seattle. While taking a moment to appreciate the scene in front of me, I had that ‘little fish in a big pond’ experience. The world is so much bigger than just myself. This city is so large. Some days I feel swallowed up in the energy of it and it creates some anxiety for me. Other days, I can appreciate that so many other humans are here in this place, at this time, enjoying this beautiful spot in the world.
From Seattle Magazine: For 50 years, the Seattle Gas Light Company used the 19-acre property for a coal gasification plant, superheating coal in sealed ovens to meet the city’s energy demands. The gas was first used to light the city’s streetlamps and then households, and later was used to fuel cooking stoves and eventually for heating.
This is an interesting spot because there are many unique qualities – definitely a must see, even if its just for a few moments. The short, winding paved path to the top of the hill is a beautiful spot to take a photo or feel the waterfront breeze. The Gasworks machinery (seen in photo above) has an apocalyptic feeling to it. The turbines and stacks are now being overgrown with berry bushes and wildflowers. I appreciate the city allowing visitors to enjoy the historical aspect of the space.
There is a children’s playground that seems to be kept up pretty well and was covered with children having a good time. There was also a DJ setting up for a concert and people milling around waiting for the show to begin. There is an energy in this space of community. I enjoy a more quiet, intimate park when it is a bit less busy, so maybe I’ll return again when its less crowded.
Life is full of beauty. Notice it. Notice the bumble bee, the small child, and the smiling faces. Smell the rain, and feel the wind. Live your life to the fullest potential, and fight for your dreams.
Ashley Smith
While standing at the edge of the park closest to the water, I was watching the boats pass by, feeling the wind fly through my hair and press against my face and clothing. I closed my eyes to take it in. I was reminded again about how it felt to sit at the front of my dad’s sail boat while it cross the water. I could feel the sun on my face, wind around me. It is one of my best memories from childhood, an experience of when it felt like time stood still for me to enjoy the moment. Although I didn’t realize it at the time that moment was very grounding for me. I can truly appreciate the ability to draw on that beautiful memory for times that I am feeling that the wind in my life may be blowing to hard.
Deep Breath Adventures 
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