10 Best Places to See Salmon Spawning Around Seattle and the Eastside
Photo:
Salmon in the fish ladder at the Ballard Locks swim past the viewing windows. Credit: Nancy Chaney
Ballard Locks, Seattle
At the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, commonly known as the Ballard Locks, boats of all sizes ease in and out of Seattle’s ship canal. A few yards away, spawning salmon thrash their way up a 21-step fish ladder, which is actually more like a staircase of water.
From the refurbished viewing area, you can watch the salmon swim through the 18th "step" through underwater windows. Whether you spot a salmon or not, the Ballard Locks make a great destination for families any time of year.
When: Peak salmon viewing times are in August and September, and some stragglers continue through October. The visitors center is currently open Wednesday–Sunday (closed Monday and Tuesday), 10 a.m.– 6 p.m. Be sure to check the website for updates, the open hours will shift Nov. 1, 2023.
Location: 3015 N.W. 54th St., Seattle
When: August, September and October
More info: Salmon SEEson Ballard or call 206-783-7059. The Ballard Locks Facebook page also has helpful info.
Next spot: Cedar River
