Related Party Transactions Deferred Fee Liability to Related Party (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
0 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Jul. 15, 2009
Dec. 31, 2012
Dec. 31, 2011
Dec. 31, 2010
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]        
Increase (decrease) in deferred fee liability to related party   $ 11,448 $ (6,107) $ 6,268
WGL Capital Corp
       
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]        
Deferred fee liability to related party, amount assumed 51,594      
Consideration received, in cash 4,487      
Consideration received, in common units (in shares) 2,725,533      
Consideration received, share price per common unit (in dollars per share) $ 17.28      
Increase (decrease) in deferred fee liability to related party   11,448 6,107 6,268
Deferred fee liability   $ 0 $ 58,747