Salmon Come Home

Each fall, the City and the Hoy-Scott Watershed Society celebrate the return of salmon to local creeks. Visitors can watch the salmon make their journey back to their spawning grounds. Coquitlam has several great salmon-viewing spots, with one of the best being Hoy Creek Linear Park.

Annual Salmon Come Home Event

Join us at the Hoy Creek Hatchery for Coquitlam’s beloved Salmon Come Home event, a family-friendly celebration of the annual salmon return.

Visitors can explore the fish hatchery, learn about salmon fry, view returning salmon, and even watch a fascinating salmon dissection up close. Interactive exhibits and a food cart with vegetarian options add to the fun. Attendees can also enjoy:

  • Nylon Zoo: A fan-favourite, this inflatable salmon-themed adventure includes a costume parade for children.
  • Well-Worn Trail: Interactive storytelling, songs and remarkable facts about wildlife in Canada.
  • Musical Entertainment: Enjoy live performances throughout the day.
  • Explore Nature Passport Contest: Participate in this family-friendly contest for a chance to win eco-friendly prizes.

Parking Information

Parking near the trail is limited. Visitors are encouraged to walk or take public transit when possible.

  • By transit: Take SkyTrain to the Lafarge–Douglas Station. From there, cross Pinetree Way and follow Guildford Way to the trailhead entrance.
  • By car: Free parking is available on Sundays in the aboveground City staff lot by Coquitlam City Hall, accessible from Burlington Drive. This lot is a short walk to the trail entrance across Guildford Way.

Additional parking is available at the TransLink Park and Ride lot at the corner of Pinetree Way and Guildford Way.

Salmon Viewing Map and Nature Scavenger Hunt

Chum salmon typically return from early October to mid-November, while Coho arrive from late October to mid-December. The timing can vary based on weather conditions, so Coquitlam residents are encouraged to visit Hoy Creek and other local streams throughout the fall to catch a glimpse of this natural wonder. For self-guided exploration, check out the Interactive Scavenger Hunt Map (PDF). 

Please remember that bears are active at this time of year as they prepare to den for the winter. Spawning salmon are one of their primary food sources. Stay safe by respecting nature – remain on trails, stay alert and watch and listen for bears.

Stay Safe Outdoors and Be Bear Smart

While enjoying the outdoors, stay alert and watch for signs of bears:

  • Follow posted signs about animal activity. If you see a bear, make a wide detour and leave the area the same way you entered.
  • Watch for signs of bears, such as tracks, droppings, overturned rocks, torn or clawed trees, bear trails, fresh diggings or trampled vegetation. These may indicate a bear is in the area.
  • Make noise near streams by talking, singing or clapping to alert bears of your presence.
  • Keep dogs on leash. Dogs that chase or bark at bears can trigger aggressive behaviour.

If you see a bear:

  • Stay calm and keep at least 100 metres away.
  • Do not scream, run or approach the bear.
  • Speak in a calm, low voice while slowly backing away.
  • Warn others in the area.

Enjoy the Community Responsibly

While exploring the community, consider supporting Coquitlam businesses by shopping locally, dining out or picking up takeout.

Please also remember to pack out what you pack in. Leaving garbage is not only unsightly, it can attract wildlife, including bears.