Let’s face it. We have our share of spectacular autumn colors in Western Washington, but we’re known as the Evergreen State for a reason. When I think of fall, I think of deepening greens, browns, and burnt oranges. I think of forests soaking up rain after a long, dry summer. Most of all, I think of salmon runs. That’s why, if you’re searching for a fall day trip near Olympia, you should check out Kennedy Creek. If you time your visit for November, you’ll witness one of nature’s most spectacular migrations.
Located off Highway 101, Kennedy Creek is protected within the Kennedy Creek Natural Area Preserve, a 203-acre parcel comprising stretches of tidal salt marsh, winding waterways, and thick forests.
This humble creek is the location of Puget Sound's largest Chum salmon run. Every fall, over 24,000 fish return to spawn at the exact gravel bed where they themselves were born, completing a life cycle that plays a critical role in our region's ecology.
But the creek wasn't always well cared for. By the end of the 20th Century, habitat degradation had damaged Kennedy Creek beyond recognition. In the summer, locals used the waterway as an ATV track. A discarded sofa was famously left abandoned in the creekbed. This neglect had reduced the salmon run to an average of only 100 fish per season.
Luckily, and with the help of a couple of passionate nonprofits, the Squaxin Island Tribe intervened and began the difficult work of restoring the salmon run. Now, Kennedy Creek is considered one of Washington's premiere salmon-viewing trails, with interpretive signs and trained docents available to answer any of your questions.
At only half a mile, this guided route is approachable for all visitors regardless of experience. In fact, it's my opinion that the wheelchair-accessible path actually contains some of the creek's best vantage points.
Beyond appreciating the salmon run for its critical impact on our local environment, witnessing the spawning Chum is powerful. It's rare that visitors to Kennedy Creek don't walk away moved by the grit and sheer determination of this remarkable and quintessentially Northwest species.
