Every fall, one of nature’s most impressive migrations takes place across the Pacific Northwest, and Olympic National Park is among the best places to witness it. The Salmon run draws visitors to the Sol Duc Valley and Salmon Cascades, where thousands of salmon fight their way upstream to reach their spawning grounds. The sight of powerful fish leaping through rushing water is both dramatic and awe-inspiring, offering a rare opportunity to experience the determination and resilience of this iconic species up close.
Salmon Cascades, located just a short drive from Sol Duc Hot Springs, is one of the most accessible and popular viewing areas to watch the annual Coho Salmon run. Between late September and November, visitors often gather along the viewing platform to watch the spectacle of salmon jumping against the current. You can also witness the impressive Sockeye Salmon run in the Quinault Valley at Big Creek. No matter where you see it, salmon jumping upriver is an unforgettable scene that connects you to the rhythms of the natural world.Â
Of course, watching the salmon run is just one of many things to do in the Olympic National Park this fall. Fall is an ideal time to hike through the Hoh Rain Forest, wander the shores of Rialto Beach, or soak in the mineral-rich waters of Sol Duc Hot Springs after a day of exploration. To turn your trip into a full long weekend, stay at one of the elevated properties from Travel Experience Lodging. These curated vacation rentals offer a more personal and memorable alternative to traditional hotels, providing a comfortable home base while you experience the best of Olympic National Park this season.
Watch the Fall Salmon Run at Salmon Cascades
If you’re planning to see the Salmon run in Olympic National Park this fall, Salmon Cascades on the Sol Duc River is one of the best spots to experience it. Located along Sol Duc Hot Springs Road, Salmon Cascades features a short path that leads to a viewing platform right above the river. From there, you’ll have a clear view of the salmon swimming upstream, leaping against the current, and navigating the rapids on their way to spawn. The accessibility of this location makes it ideal for families, photographers, and anyone hoping to witness salmon jumping without having to commit to a long hike.
Timing is key when planning your visit to Salmon Cascades. The salmon spawning season in this part of the park typically runs from late September through early November, with the highest salmon run activity often happening in October. Here, you’ll typically see Coho Salmon, though Chinook Salmon also make their way up this river. Each day brings its own unique activity, depending on water levels and weather. However, arriving in the morning or later in the afternoon can sometimes offer the best chance to see jumping salmon, as the light softens over the Sol Duc River.
Watching spawning salmon is a powerful reminder of the resilience of nature. When visiting Salmon Cascades, take time to appreciate not just the fish, but the entire environment. The sound of the rushing water, the sight of leaves turning brilliant shades of gold and red, and the possibility of spotting wildlife like eagles, black bears, and Roosevelt elk all add to the experience.
More Things to Do in the Sol Duc Valley
A visit to Salmon Cascades during the salmon run season is an incredible experience, but the Sol Duc Valley offers much more to explore. Just a few miles beyond Salmon Cascades lies the famous Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort, where you can soak in naturally heated mineral pools surrounded by forested ridges. The hot springs have been a destination for over a century, and today they remain one of the most relaxing ways to end a day of outdoor adventure in Olympic National Park.
For those who want to stretch their legs further, the Sol Duc Valley is also home to several hiking trails. The Sol Duc Falls Trail is one of the most popular, offering a relatively easy 1.6-mile round-trip walk through mossy forest that ends at a stunning waterfall plunging into a narrow canyon. More adventurous hikers can continue on the Lover’s Lane Loop or even venture deeper into the backcountry through the Seven Lakes Basin on the High Divide Loop.
This area is renowned for its alpine meadows, stunning mountain views, and diverse wildlife sightings. These hikes complement a visit to Salmon Cascades perfectly, giving you the chance to see more of what makes this valley so special. Whether you’re soaking in Sol Duc Hot Springs, hiking to waterfalls, or simply enjoying the peaceful scenery, the Sol Duc Valley rounds out a perfect day trip in Olympic National Park.
Unwind in the Best Olympic Peninsula Lodging
Experiencing the Salmon Run at Salmon Cascades and watching salmon jumping against the powerful current of the Sol Duc River offers a front-row seat to one of nature’s most dramatic events. Pair this with a restorative visit to Sol Duc Hot Springs, and you’ll have a day that blends the raw beauty of the wild with soothing relaxation. Yet the magic of the Olympic Peninsula in autumn doesn’t stop there.
The variety of things to do in Olympic National Park during the fall makes it a destination worth staying for. To fully embrace the otherworldly beauty of the Olympic Peninsula this fall, we invite you to stay in one of our Olympic Peninsula vacation rentals. Our curated group of properties offers some of the best lodging near Olympic National Park, including in Sequim, Port Angeles, and beyond. Each of our properties is unique and offers a stylish and comfortable alternative to traditional hotels, giving you the space and atmosphere to recharge between adventures.
If you’re traveling with kids so they can experience spawning salmon, we offer a wonderful range of family-friendly vacation rentals, including our unique Lavender Castle in Sequim. We also offer pet-friendly lodging near Olympic National Park, including our beautiful Eagles Nest Treehouse, located on the water in Port Angeles. If you’re traveling with your furry friends, please note the guidelines for visiting Olympic National Park with pets.Â
After a day spent watching salmon swimming upstream or hiking the local trails, you’ll return to a thoughtfully designed home base that enhances the entire experience. A long weekend here allows you to explore the park at a slower pace and discover why the Olympic Peninsula is one of the best fall destinations in Washington. Book your Olympic National Park lodging today!