Fall is here, and that means it’s salmon migration season! If you’re looking for a fun family outing or just want to witness one of nature’s most incredible spectacles, there are some amazing spots within driving distance of London where you can watch these determined fish swim upstream.

A recent discussion on the London Ontario Reddit community highlighted some great options for locals wanting to experience this natural phenomenon. Here are the top destinations that fellow Londoners are recommending for salmon watching this season.

Port Hope

About a three-hour drive from London, Port Hope offers visitors the chance to walk along the riverside and watch migrating salmon in action. The town has embraced its role as a salmon-watching destination, and you can find more information about fish migration viewing opportunities on their official tourism website.

Port Hope provides an accessible way to see salmon migration without having to venture too far into the wilderness, making it perfect for families with kids who want to learn about this natural process.

Thornbury and the Beaver River

Located in the Blue Mountains area, Thornbury is another excellent option that’s about three hours from London. The Beaver River in this region hosts salmon runs, and the town has created infrastructure specifically for viewing.

The highlight of Thornbury’s salmon-watching experience is the Fishway, a fish ladder where visitors might actually see salmon jumping upstream. This engineered structure helps fish navigate around barriers and provides an excellent vantage point for spectators.

If you’re planning a day trip to Thornbury, local recommendations include stopping at The Mill Cafe for lunch, which is conveniently located opposite the Fishway. For those willing to extend their trip slightly, Grandma Lambe’s bakery near Meaford comes highly recommended as a worthwhile stop on the way.

Both destinations offer unique opportunities to witness salmon migration while providing family-friendly amenities and dining options. The migration season typically runs through the fall months, making this the perfect time to plan your visit.