We'll be in Seattle the end of May and we're interested in seeing the salmon ladders at Ballard locks. Is there a certain time of year that salmon go up these ladders or can you see them anytime?

Hi mdod -

Fish and Wildlife does their count at the locks to determine when/if to open the sockeye seasons from mid-June through July. You'd likely see more fish then, but you shouldn't get skunked at the end of May.

Yes there is a certain time of year for each species of salmon to swim upriver to spawn, but it's different for each specie, each river and each year according to the weather. Each run lasts several days and there are peaks and valleys in the count within that range of days. Best of luck with your viewing.

While you are there, try and see the movie on the building of the locks in the main building on the left. It explains the significance of the ship canal and some interesting history.

Thanks everyone!