Things To Do
THINGS TO DO
Explore & Experience
At Toboggan Creek Hatchery, there's something for everyone—whether you're a nature enthusiast, a passionate volunteer, or a curious visitor. Explore our trails, experience the salmon migration, and discover hands-on conservation activities that make a real difference.
Toboggan Creek
Hatchery Trail System
Winding through forested paths, open meadows, and along the banks of Toboggan Creek, this trail system offers something for everyone — from casual walkers to wildlife enthusiasts. Each trail is interconnected, creating a continuous network that highlights the natural beauty, local history, and conservation work of the hatchery. Whether you’re here to spot spawning salmon, enjoy a peaceful walk, or learn about the creek’s ecosystem, every step brings you closer to the heart of nature.
Tips for Visitors:
Trails are open year-round but are especially scenic during salmon spawning seasons (Coho in fall, Steelhead in spring).
Please stay on marked trails to protect sensitive habitats.
Benches and picnic areas are available throughout the site for rest and reflection.
Outflow Loop Trail
The central loop of the hatchery’s trail system, the Outflow Loop Trail connects many of the other paths and key features on site. It meanders alongside Toboggan Creek, crosses the Cedar Bridge, and offers easy access to the Viewing Platform, Finnegan’s Trail, and the Easy Way Back route. This gentle path is ideal for families and first-time visitors exploring the hatchery grounds.
Finnegan’s Trail
Follow the creek on this tranquil path that leads directly to the Viewing Platform beneath a towering spruce tree. During fall (Coho) and spring (Steelhead) runs, visitors can witness salmon returning to spawn in Toboggan Creek. It’s a quiet and inspiring section of the trail system, perfect for reflection and photography.
Log Jam Loop
A slightly more rugged option, the Log Jam Loop brings visitors down closer to the creek’s edge, where you can see gravel bars, sandy banks, and calm back eddies. This trail provides a more natural experience, often rewarding hikers with glimpses of salmon, mink, or even the occasional river otter.
Easy Way Back Trail
As its name suggests, this short, well-maintained connector offers a simple route back toward Old Evelyn Station Road and the hatchery buildings. It’s a great return path after exploring the Log Jam or Finnegan’s Trails, especially for groups or families.
Spruce Grove Detour
A short but beautiful detour that branches off the main loop, leading to a memorial bench overlooking the creek. Surrounded by tall spruce and willow trees, this quiet rest stop offers peaceful views of the water — a perfect place to pause, listen to birds, and take in the natural surroundings.
Mack's Trail
The original path that started it all, Mack’s Trail was established by longtime volunteer Mack Schatt, whose dedication helped grow the entire hatchery trail system. This gentle, shaded trail runs behind the Hatchery Building and follows the creek closely — a wonderful introduction to the site’s natural and historical roots.
When
To Visit
Plan your visit around the best times to experience the hatchery and local wildlife in full bloom.
March, April, May
- Juvenile fry inside our facility
- Pre-smolts in our outdoor rearing ponds
- Spawning Steelhead on Mack's Creekside Trail (May)
September, October, November
- Spawning Coho on Mack's Creekside Trail & Outflow Loop Trail
- Juvenile fry in our outdoor rearing ponds
- Adult brood stock
- Egg & milt collection
- Eagles feeding on wild salmon
December, January, February
- Facility is still open on reduced hours
- Come play in the snow
- Winter stroll on Mack's Creekside Trail
Discover More About What You Can Do at the Hatchery
There’s so much to explore, from scenic trails to hands-on conservation activities. Whether you’re visiting to witness the salmon migration or enjoy the beauty of the wilderness, you’ll find an experience that brings you closer to nature.