Whitehorse Fish Ladder and Hatchery

A large underwater viewing window at the Whitehorse Fish Ladder allows you to watch a variety of Yukon fish making their way upstream. You’ll learn about the salmon run and other Yukon species from interpretive displays throughout the building. Several underwater cameras and TV monitors also show the fish migrating through the ladder in real-time. Just downstream from the ladder, the Whitehorse Fish Hatchery is also open to visitors, but advanced reservations are required.

• This fish ladder is one of Whitehorse’s most popular tourist stops.
• There is no admission fee, but a small donation is suggested.
• Don’t miss the locally created fish artwork found outside the interpretive center.

The Whitehorse Fish Ladder and Hatchery is located along the east side of the Yukon River just south of downtown Whitehorse. Ample parking is available at the hatchery. Alternatively, you can take public transportation or follow the riverside trail from downtown.

The Whitehorse Fish Ladder is open daily from June through early September. The attraction is typically open from 9am to 5pm, but is open later while the salmon are running. The first salmon are expected around the beginning of August each year. You can view the Whitehorse Rapids fish cam online to see if the fish are running prior to your visit.

The Whitehorse Fish Ladder is a series of ascending pools that span 50 feet (15 meters) high. The fish swim through or jump to each step resting in pools before jumping to the next step until they are eventually out of the ladder. About halfway up the ladder, the fish enter a holding area where they can be viewed in the observation window and details such as type, size, and condition are noted by hatchery staff.