The Shilshole Staircase of Doom.

   Living at Shilshole Marina has quite a few perks. Not having to go through the Ballard Locks every time you want to sail in the saltwater for one. Beautiful sunsets, a great little live-aboard community, restaurants (Paseo!), the beach. But, the grass is always greener on top of a giant hill.
   Sure you could just head down to the Purple Cow next to West Marine, Ray's happy hour, or the Paseo Cuban restaurant...but you want more - like, more of my two favorite things -  great coffee and Mexican food.
  The closest great coffee and Mexican food? Just a few clicks East from Golden Gardens and the Marina. What stands in the way? The staircase of doom.

View Larger Map

   Beware: Hiking up & down the staircase of doom is, like, doom. Notice how every picture in this post is on the way down - the way up I didn't even have the strength to snap one photo. The coffee at the top is delightful and Cocina Esperanza is one of my favorite Mexican restaurants in Seattle, but by the time you go up, eat and drink, and then come back you'll likely burn every calorie you gained. Doom...with pretty views:)
   P.S. - If you like walking/exercising and stuff you'll love it. Oh ya, and there is a great dog park at 'half-doom'...that you can drive to.
   ~Paul & Amber   ETC

Art at Golden Gardens.

Golden Gardens at the bottom of doom.