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North York, Toronto

Feature: Salmon Run in North York: Best Viewing Times and Spots (2025 Guide)

Each fall Toronto's streams come alive as Atlantic and Pacific salmon push upriver to spawn. In mid-September through October (often peaking around Thanksgiving) our rivers – especially after heavy rains and cooler weather – fill with jumping Chinook and Coho salmon. Witnessing these powerful fish leaping up weirs and small falls is both awe-inspiring and family-friendly.

To catch the run at its best, plan visits in September–early November (peak mid-Oct) when water temps drop into the optimal 3–18°C. Mornings and late afternoons (especially after rain) tend to see the most activity.

Where to see the salmon run

Charles Sauriol Conservation Area (Don River) – Located at 1191 Lawrence Ave E, this North York ravine park offers gentle shaded trails along the East Don. From the bridge crossing, large Chinook salmon are often visible fighting upstream. This serene spot has boardwalks and easy viewing platforms, perfect for a calm salmon-watching stroll.

Evergreen Brick Works & Don Valley Trails – Just south of North York (550 Bayview Ave), Evergreen's weekend farmers' market is a great prelude. Afterwards, walk north along the Bayview Multi-Use Trail to the Pottery Road bridge. From there you can see salmon leaping in the Don (Evergreen has parking and facilities, making it suitable for families.)

Etienne Brûlé Park (Humber River) – This park (13 Crosby Ave) sits in Etobicoke just south of North York. It's very family-friendly: paved paths and easy access (just off Old Mill subway). Here salmon famously leap the ~1.5 m Old Mill dam. Visitors can watch them make multiple attempts over the falls to reach upstream spawning grounds. Picnic areas and benches make it great for kids.