how far is kirkland wa from seattle

How Far is Kirkland, WA from Seattle?

Kirkland, Washington, and Seattle, Washington, are neighboring cities in King County. The distance between Kirkland and Seattle is approximately 10 to 20 miles (16 to 32 kilometers) depending on the specific starting and ending points and the route taken.

This close proximity makes it a common commute for people working in Seattle and living in Kirkland and vice-versa. The route typically involves crossing Lake Washington via one of the floating bridges.

Distance by Car

The most common way to travel between Kirkland and Seattle is by car. The drive usually takes between 20 and 45 minutes, but this can vary greatly depending on traffic. During peak commute hours, the floating bridges across Lake Washington can experience significant congestion.

The primary routes are:

• State Route 520 (SR 520): This route involves using the Evergreen Point Floating Bridge.
• Interstate 90 (I-90): This route uses the Homer M. Hadley Memorial Bridge and the Lacey V. Murrow Memorial Bridge, both floating bridges.

You can use online mapping services like Wikipedia’s article on Kirkland or Google Maps for real-time traffic updates and the best route at the time of travel.

Other Transportation Options

While driving is the most common option, there are alternative ways to travel between Kirkland and Seattle:

• Bus: King County Metro operates bus routes that connect Kirkland and Seattle. The travel time is typically longer than driving, especially during peak hours.
• Bike: Cycling is possible, but it’s a considerable distance, especially if commuting.
• Ride-sharing Services: Services like Uber and Lyft are readily available.

Factors Affecting Travel Time

Several factors can influence the travel time between Kirkland and Seattle:

• Traffic: As mentioned earlier, traffic is the biggest factor, especially during rush hour (typically 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM).
• Construction: Road construction can cause delays. Check for updates before you travel.
• Weather: Inclement weather, like heavy rain or snow, can slow down traffic and increase travel time.
• Specific Locations: The distance varies depending on where in Kirkland you are starting from and where in Seattle you are going.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fastest way to get from Kirkland to Seattle?

The fastest way is usually by car, but only if traffic is light. Consider using a ride-sharing service or carpooling to use the HOV lanes.

Is there a ferry from Kirkland to Seattle?

Currently, there is no direct ferry service between Kirkland and Seattle.

How much does it cost to cross the 520 bridge?

The toll on SR 520 varies depending on the time of day and whether you have a Good To Go! pass. Check the Washington State Department of Transportation website for current toll rates.

Can I take a bus from Kirkland to Seattle?

Yes, King County Metro operates bus routes that connect Kirkland and Seattle. Use their trip planner to find the best route and schedule.

Is Kirkland a suburb of Seattle?

Yes, Kirkland is often considered a suburb of Seattle due to its proximity and the high number of people who commute between the two cities.

Summary

The distance between Kirkland and Seattle ranges from approximately 10 to 20 miles, with travel time heavily influenced by traffic conditions. Driving is the most common method, but buses and ride-sharing services are also viable options. Plan your journey accordingly, taking into account potential delays due to traffic, construction, or weather.