See salmon migrating up Issaquah Creek right at Lake Sammamish State Park. The park has an excellent public viewing area for salmon and wildlife habitat. The outlet from Issaquah Creek feeds into Lake Sammamish at a peninsula in the park. A boardwalk built through wetlands along the creek in 2013 gives access to its mouth. Interpretive panels add to the educational experience. In the fall, this is where several salmon species make their final journey from the lake up the creek to the salmon hatchery and beyond.
Generally, the opportunity to see most species begins around mid-September and continues through October, with the best chance of spotting fish in early October. The best viewing locations in the park are from the bridge crossing Issaquah Creek, along the boardwalk through the wetlands, and at the end of the boardwalk where the creek flows into Lake Sammamish. Murky water can limit viewing.
If you decide to visit this site, please remember to recreate responsibly: plan ahead, practice physical distancing, wear a mask, choose a site near you and leave no trace.
