Once the largest salmon hatchery in the world, it is still busy producing nearly 13 million salmon every year. Returning salmon are collected; their eggs harvested and then kept in a series of pens until they are strong enough for release on their journey to the Pacific.

Discover the Cowlitz Salmon Hatchery’s award-winning Visitor Center, where interactive exhibits bring the salmon life cycle and restoration efforts to life. Hands-on activities like guiding salmon eggs downstream, lifting life-size salmon, and sorting fish make learning fun for all ages. Guests can also enjoy a self-guided outdoor tour of public hatchery areas. Find hours and more information about the Cowlitz Salmon Hatchery and Visitor Center.