The first time I experienced the breathtaking salmon run in Ontario, I was utterly amazed. Observing these determined fish swim upstream and leap over obstacles with such resilience is a memory I will cherish forever. The spectacle was so captivating that I felt compelled to discover more locations throughout the province to witness this remarkable natural event.
Ontario offers numerous locations to witness the salmon migration each fall, and each site presents a unique perspective on this extraordinary journey. Port Hope, with its delightful downtown and the Ganaraska River abundant with salmon, is a favored spot. Meanwhile, the Credit River in Mississauga offers a beautiful urban backdrop for this event.
Whether you’re an avid nature lover or simply curious about the event, be sure to include one of the following salmon run locations on your fall itinerary. It’s an unforgettable experience for both children and adults!
When Do the Salmon Run in Ontario?
The salmon run begins at the end of summer and lasts into fall, typically starting near the end of August and continuing until the end of October.
Top 6 Locations to See the Salmon Run in Ontario
Port Hope
My first encounter with the salmon run was in Port Hope. On a fall visit, I was blown away when I arrived at the Port Hope fish ladder at Corbett’s Dam. As I watched countless fish swimming up the Ganaraska River, I was amazed by their size—they looked almost like small sharks with their dorsal fins slicing through the water.
The fish ladder is one of the premier spots to observe in Port Hope, especially in the fall. As the fish approach the dam, they leap at the entrance of the fish ladder. Witnessing these fish launch themselves out of the water, sometimes reaching heights of 4 to 5 feet, to enter the opening is truly mesmerizing. Standing there with a small gathering of spectators, it felt as if we were all cheering every time a fish made it up the ladder.
I believe Port Hope is the best location to witness the salmon run in Ontario, and the town agrees, as they host an annual festival known as the Salmon Run.
Mississauga
If you’re searching for a location near Toronto to see the salmon run, visit Mississauga. The Credit River flows from Lake Ontario through the city and runs through several parks, providing an excellent opportunity to observe the salmon migration.
One of the best spots in Mississauga is the Riverwood Conservancy. The Culham Trail in the park follows alongside the Credit River, providing several viewpoints to catch sight of the salmon.
Other parks in Mississauga along the Credit River to view the salmon run include Erindale Park and Meadowvale Conservation Area, where the bridges offer fantastic views of the river!
Owen Sound
Owen Sound is a fantastic day-trip destination to witness the salmon migration in Ontario. Renowned for its many waterfalls, the city also offers several unique activities, including a visit to the Mill Dam & Fish Ladder.
Located along the Sydenham River, the Mill Dam & Fish Ladder provides an excellent viewpoint for observing the salmon migration in fall. Additionally, you can paddle along the Sydenham River in a canoe or kayak to see the fish up close for an unforgettable experience.
Fun Fact: Chinook salmon consume their body weight in food daily in preparation for spawning.
Sault Ste. Marie
Sault Ste. Marie is not only one of the best stops on a northern Ontario road trip between Toronto and Thunder Bay, but it is also popular for salmon fishing. The St. Marys River, flowing right through downtown, is reputed to be one of the best fishing locations, hosting Steelhead and Atlantic Salmon starting as early as July.
Whether you’re looking for unique places to observe the fish or hoping to participate in world-class fishing, don’t miss adding Sault Ste. Marie to your list.
Thornbury
Thornbury is famous for its Apple Pie Trail and is also a great location to view the salmon run. Right downtown, you’ll find the Thornbury Fishway, situated near Georgian Bay, allowing salmon to swim up the Beaver River to spawn.
This fishway, operated by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, is located off Bridge Street between Mill and Hester Streets. I recommend observing from the east side of the river, where you’ll see Chinook Salmon enthusiastically jumping in their quest upstream.
Just south of downtown Thornbury lies Clendenan Conservation Area, another prime spot for observing the salmon migration in the fall. This sprawling park covers nearly 120 acres, with the Beaver River coursing through it. There’s a trail, the Beaver River Trail, that offers glimpses of the river, making it easy to see the salmon navigate their path. There’s also another dam here with a fish ladder.
Manitoulin
For an extraordinary place to observe the salmon migration, consider visiting Manitoulin Island. At one of the island’s top attractions, Bridal Veil Falls, you can witness the salmon spawning in the pool at the base of the falls.
I recommend starting your adventure in town and hiking along the Kagawong River Trail. The scenic route follows the Kagawong River, leading to Bridal Veil Falls, where you may spot Chinook salmon as they swim along the river toward the waterfall.
Additional Locations to Observe the Fall Salmon Migration in Ontario
Toronto
If you want to see the salmon run in Toronto, the Humber River provides a fantastic opportunity. As one of the major rivers in Toronto and a tributary of Lake Ontario, it stretches for 100 km, offering various spots to watch the salmon migration each fall.
Etienne Brule Park is one of the best locations in Toronto for viewing the salmon migration. You can get up close to the Humber River and watch the fish, including a small waterfall where you can see them leap.
Bronte Creek Provincial Park
Another nearby location to see the salmon run is Bronte Creek Provincial Park in Oakville. Alongside a variety of fall activities, this park is an excellent site to observe the salmon in the fall. You can take the Half Moon Valley Trail, which leads you to the water’s edge for viewing Steelhead and Chinook Salmon. Fishing is also available with a valid permit.
Goderich
One of the most picturesque small towns in Ontario, Goderich is another fantastic destination to observe the salmon migration. Known for its beautiful beaches and charming downtown, Goderich is home to Falls Reserve Conservation Area, located about 15 minutes southeast of downtown.
This scenic park features the Maitland River, which flows through it with wide and shallow sections interspersed with small waterfalls, making it an excellent location to witness the salmon run!
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If you’re looking for a unique experience this fall, witnessing the salmon migration in Ontario is a must! It also provides a wonderful excuse to embark on a fall day trip to explore new locations throughout the province while experiencing this incredible natural wonder.
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