Fish Ladder Park

Unique Architectural Artwork

Fish Ladder Park is situated along the Grand River and features a functional piece of architectural artwork designed by artist Joseph Kinnebrew in 1974. This structure serves as a fish ladder, allowing migrating fish to bypass the Sixth Street Dam on their journey upstream.

The fish ladder consists of a series of pools arranged like steps, enabling fish such as salmon, steelhead, and other species to "climb" over the dam by swimming and jumping from one pool to the next. This design helps fish navigate around the powerful water flow of the man-made rapids in the Grand River.

Seasonal Fish Migration

Visitors can observe this natural phenomenon during specific times of the year. In the spring and late summer, various fish species, including Chinook and Coho salmon, steelhead, and occasionally suckers, walleye, and smallmouth bass, can be seen using the ladder.

The best times to witness the salmon run are typically between early September and late October. Steelhead can be observed from early November to mid-December and again from mid-February to late April.

Visitor Experience

The park offers several vantage points for fish watching, including walkways and viewing platforms that provide excellent opportunities to observe the fish as they make their journey. In addition to its primary function as a fish passage, the park serves as a popular spot for fishing, walking, and enjoying views of the Grand River and downtown Grand Rapids.

Educational Value

Fish Ladder Park is not only a site of ecological importance but also a place of artistic and educational value. The fish ladder itself is considered a sculpture, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal.

The park often serves as a venue for environmental education, helping visitors understand the importance of river ecosystems and fish migration.