Chasing Salmon & Waterfalls in Owen Sound
Hop on the bus from Toronto and join us for one of Ontario’s most spectacular fall adventures: the salmon run in Owen Sound.
What’s in Store
Picture this: hundreds of salmon, each one fighting its way upstream against rushing water, leaping over rocks and rapids to complete their epic journey. It’s rare, it’s raw nature at its finest and Owen Sound is one of the few places in the province where you can witness it.
Along the way, you’ll discover:
- Waterfalls & Fall Colours – Follow the trails lined with fiery reds, golds, and oranges, leading to the breathtaking Inglis Falls.
- Urban Salmon Tour – Our guided walk takes you from the harbour into town, stopping at The Mill Dam, Harrison Park, and the Grey Sauble Arboretum — prime spots to watch the salmon run. Learn more online here.
- Local Flavours & Finds – Visit the Owen Sound Farmers Market, browse shops in the River District, or stop for lunch at the cozy Harrison Park Inn.
- Choose Your Ending – Wrap up your day at Inglis Falls (a 3–4 hr hike from the Arboretum, intermediate level) or continue on to the Grey Roots Museum. Either way, Parkbus will be there to pick you up.
Why Join Us?
This isn’t just a hike. It’s a chance to see an ancient natural cycle up close, explore charming trails and towns, and soak up the colours of autumn. Whether you come with friends or solo, you’ll leave with new stories, new connections, and memories that stick long after the leaves have fallen.
Details
- Start Point: West Side Boat Launch, Owen Sound (guided tour departs at 11:00 am)
- End Point Options: Inglis Falls or Grey Roots Museum
- Hike Level: Intermediate, well-marked trails
- Duration: Approx. 3–4 hours of walking with stops
Ticket Costs
Adults: $75
Student/Seniors: $67.50
Children: $52.50
Pickup Location
34 Asquith Ave
Pick up at 34 Asquith Ave, just north of the Yonge and Bloor Subway stop. We recommend getting there 15 minutes early to make sure you have enough time for the bus.
Departure
8:00 am
estimated return
8:00 pm
Drop off at Owen Sound West Side Boat Launch
Owen Sound is one of the few places in Ontario where you can watch the salmon spawning in their natural habitat, in streams and rushing rivers, migrating upstream to lay their eggs in the shallows before winter settles in.
Estimated arrival
12:00 noon
Departure
Pick-up at next stop
Pick up at Grey Roots Museum & Archives
Wrap up your day at Inglis Falls. We will pick you up at Grey Roots Museum -- a 15 min walk from the falls.
Estimated arrival
Departure
5:00 PM
Bus Type
Coach Bus: Travel in comfort with a full-sized coach bus. Air conditioning, washroom, and plenty of storage make longer rides smooth and relaxing.
What time does the trip start and end?
- Arrival in Owen Sound: Around 12:00 noon at the West Side Boat Launch.
- Departure from Owen Sound: 5:00 PM from Grey Roots Museum & Archives.
Where will I be dropped off and picked up?
- Drop-off: Owen Sound West Side Boat Launch (start point for the guided walk).
- Pick-up: Grey Roots Museum & Archives (about a 15-minute walk from Inglis Falls).
What will I see on this trip?
Owen Sound is one of the few places in Ontario where you can watch salmon spawning in their natural habitat. You’ll see salmon leaping waterfalls, navigating rivers, and resting in calm pools as they migrate upstream.
What activities are included?
- Urban Salmon Tour (guided walk): Explore key spots like The Mill Dam, Harrison Park, and Grey Sauble Arboretum while learning about the salmon run.
- Local Flavours & Finds: Free time to visit the Farmers Market, shops in the River District, or stop for lunch at Harrison Park Inn.
- Choose Your Ending:
- Inglis Falls: A 3–4 hour intermediate hike from the Arboretum.
- Grey Roots Museum: Explore exhibits if you’d like a shorter option before pick-up.
How difficult is the hike?
- The full guided walk is intermediate level, about 3–4 hours of walking with stops. Trails are well-marked but include uneven terrain.
- If you prefer something lighter, you can skip the longer hike and end your day at Grey Roots Museum.
What should I bring?
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots.
- Water and snacks.
- Weather-appropriate clothing (layers recommended).
- Optional: binoculars or a camera to capture the salmon run.
Is food provided?
No meals are included, but you can:
- Pack your own lunch/snacks.
- Visit the Owen Sound Farmers Market.
- Stop at Harrison Park Inn for a cozy sit-down meal.
Can I do this trip without joining the guided walk?
Yes, you’re welcome to explore Owen Sound on your own before meeting the bus at Grey Roots Museum at 5:00 PM.
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