Watch the Salmon Migration in Surrey

Surrey has long been called the “City of Parks,” and with over 600 parks and green spaces, it’s easy to see why. Within all that lush greenery are creeks and rivers winding through the trails, giving life to the land. But did you know that there’s a lot of life inside those creeks and rivers, too?

If you’ve ever wondered what time of year is best to see the salmon run in Surrey, or where to go for the best viewing, this guide will help you make the most of this incredible natural event.

What makes Surrey special is how close and convenient the salmon run is to the city. With urban trails, rivers, and volunteer-run hatcheries open to the public, you can witness one of nature’s greatest migrations just steps from the city. Be sure to add this experience to your fall bucket list of things to do in Surrey.

What Time of Year Is the Salmon Run in Surrey?

The salmon run in Surrey typically happens from October through December, when adult salmon return from the Pacific Ocean to the streams and rivers where they were born. During this time, you can spot species like coho, chum, chinook, cutthroat, and even steelhead trout swimming upstream to spawn.

In the spring months (April–June), you might also see the next generation of tiny juvenile salmon (fry and smolts) make their way out to sea to begin their own life cycle.

Every year’s salmon numbers can vary, with dominant years roughly every four years. The next dominant run is expected in 2026, when the rivers will be teeming with activity, a truly remarkable sight. 

Best Tip to See the Salmon Run in Surrey

Here’s a local tip: the best time to spot salmon is right after or during rainfall. Rain increases water flow, making it easier for salmon to travel upstream and for you to see them leaping through the currents.

Surrey’s fall showers add to the magic! Grab an umbrella, rain boots, and a camera, and turn a rainy day into an action-packed salmon viewing adventure along the city’s scenic urban trails.

Keep in mind: the salmon run is a natural phenomenon, so sightings can never be guaranteed. Every visit is a chance to witness this incredible wildlife event, but patience and timing matter.

Best Salmon Viewing Spots in Surrey

Tynehead Regional Park

Location: 16585 96 Avenue, Surrey, BC
Best viewing: October – December

Tynehead Regional Park is one of Surrey's largest parks, covering over 600 acres of meadows, cycling trails, picnic areas, rivers, an off-leash dog area and a fish hatchery. Adult salmon that have made the journey out to the ocean return to the Serpentine River after four years to complete their life cycle. Metro Vancouver also organizes salmon returning events every year in this lush rainforest.

Best Viewing Locations in Tynehead Regional Park

Note: The Tynehead Hatchery is operated by volunteers, who help ensure that populations of coho, chum, chinook, and steelhead continue to thrive in the Serpentine River. If the gates are open, visitors are welcome to stop by and learn about local conservation with an informal tour. And if you are lucky (usually during heavy rainfall), you might even see the volunteers pulling salmon right from the river!

Little Campbell Hatchery

Location: 1284 184 Street, Surrey, BC
Best viewing: October – January

The Little Campbell Hatchery, another volunteer-run site, plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of the Little Campbell River ecosystem. Here you’ll find coho, chum, chinook, and steelhead salmon returning each year. This hatchery is open to the public and even has an annual music festival to raise funds for the hatchery.

This hatchery is also behind the popular school salmon release programs, where students raise salmon fry in classrooms before releasing them in spring, a fun, hands-on project connecting youth with nature, conservation and salmon life cycle education.

If you are looking to roll up your sleeves and make a splash by volunteering during salmon spawning season, the hatchery recruits volunteers every year. This makes it perfect for locals and eco-travellers seeking an immersive, hands-on wildlife experience for all ages.

If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Bill Ridge at sfgclch@gmail.com.

Secret Spots to See the Salmon Run

If you’d like to explore off the beaten path, there are plenty of rivers and streams in Surrey to catch the Salmon spawns. These locations don't have guided tours; however, with a keen eye and patience, you may be able to observe this natural wonder like a local.

For a full map of all the locations to see salmon in Surrey’s rivers and creeks, click here.

How to Be a Responsible Salmon Watcher

To protect the salmon and their habitat, follow these simple guidelines:

Experience the Magic of the Salmon Run

Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or family looking for a meaningful fall outing, the salmon run is one of Surrey’s most spectacular seasonal experiences.

Every returning fish is a reminder of resilience — of life cycles that connect Surrey’s creeks to the Pacific Ocean, and communities across BC.

Follow this guide for your best chance to see the salmon run in Surrey and witness one of nature’s most awe-inspiring migrations up close.

Learn More about Surrey's Parks: