Etienne Brûlé Park — Old Mill Dam (Humber River)
Arguably the most dramatic viewing in the city. Watch salmon attempt the weir and fish ladder just north of the Old Mill bridge.
Where & When to Watch the Salmon Run in Toronto & North York (2025 Guide)
Each fall, Chinook and Coho salmon surge up Toronto's rivers to spawn. Here's exactly when to go, where to watch in North York and across the city, and how to make it a safe, family-friendly outing.
When is the Salmon Run in Toronto?
The run typically starts in mid-September, peaks through early–mid October, and can continue into early November depending on temperature and rainfall. The day after rain—when flows rise—is often best for viewing the most activity.
Quick timing tips
- Best time of day: cool mornings or late afternoons.
- Weather: the day after rainfall often brings the strongest movement.
- Safety: banks get slippery; keep kids a safe distance from the water's edge.
Best Places to See the Salmon Run (Don & Humber Rivers)
These locations are known for reliable viewing and accessible spots, covering both the main rivers running through and near North York.
Charles Sauriol Conservation Area (East Don River)
Bridges and boardwalks provide safe vantage points for families along the East Don Trail, making it a great North York option.
Photo by Denley Photography on Unsplash
Evergreen Brick Works & Don Valley Trails (Lower Don)
Easy access, plus a weekend market. Walk north along the Bayview Multi-Use Trail for spotting fish heading upstream.
Raymore Park Fish Ladder (Humber River)
Quiet alternative upriver from Old Mill; a fish ladder offers close—but safe—views of salmon navigating the climb.
Photo by Jack Charles on Unsplash
Please stay on marked trails, respect closures, and avoid disturbing fish—look, don't touch.
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Getting There: TTC & Parking Info
🚇 TTC Transit
- Etienne Brûlé Park: Old Mill Station (Line 2), 5-minute walk south
- Charles Sauriol: Lawrence East Station + 54 Lawrence East bus to Leslie
- Brick Works: Castle Frank Station + 65 Parliament bus, or Broadview Station + 504 King streetcar
- Raymore Park: Jane Station + 35 Jane bus to Raymore Drive
🅿️ Parking
- Etienne Brûlé: Free parking on Old Mill Road (limited spaces)
- Charles Sauriol: Free parking at conservation area entrance
- Brick Works: Paid parking on weekends ($5), free weekdays
- Raymore Park: Free street parking on Raymore Drive
Family-Friendly Tips
- Arrive early to secure bridge/rail viewpoints; bring light binoculars for kids.
- Wear grippy shoes; muddy banks and wet boardwalks can be slick.
- Pack layers—valley trails run cooler than nearby streets.
- Consider transit + short walk for Old Mill and Brick Works on busy weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the peak of the salmon run?
- Usually early to mid-October in Toronto, often right after rainfall that raises river flows. September through early November is the broader viewing season.
- Can I see the salmon run in North York?
- Yes — the East Don River (e.g., Charles Sauriol Conservation Area) offers convenient viewing from bridges and boardwalks located directly in North York.
- Which river is better: Don or Humber?
- Both see runs. The Humber (Old Mill, Raymore Park) offers dramatic leaps at weirs; the Don has multiple bridges and easier access, especially for families.
- Where can I see the salmon run near me in Toronto?
- If you're searching "near me," the top central locations are Etienne Brûlé Park (Old Mill Dam) on the Humber and Evergreen Brick Works on the Don. In North York, Charles Sauriol Conservation Area is closest.
- Do I need to pay to see the salmon run?
- No — all viewing locations are free public spaces. Parking or TTC fares may apply depending on how you get there.
- What time of day is best to watch?
- Cool mornings and late afternoons are usually most active. Bring binoculars for kids and dress for cooler valley temperatures.
- Is the salmon run family-friendly?
- Yes, especially at spots with boardwalks and bridges like Charles Sauriol and Evergreen Brick Works. Just be cautious of slippery banks near the river edge. For more family outdoor activities, see our recreation guides and upcoming fall hikes in North York.