Exploring Hardy Falls: Kokanee Salmon, Family Adventure & Homeschooling in Nature

Every September, the creeks in Peachland run red — not with leaves, but with salmon.

An artistic shot to capture the speed of the current.

On a warm September day, we packed our cameras, sketchbooks, and snacks, and headed to Hardy Falls Regional Park in Peachland. Known for its gentle trails and beautiful waterfall, Hardy Falls becomes especially magical in late summer and early fall, when Kokanee salmon return to spawn.

A Family-Friendly Trail

The trail to Hardy Falls is perfect for families. With flat pathways and multiple wooden bridges crossing the creek, even little legs can keep up. As we walked, the sound of rushing water and the anticipation of spotting bright red salmon kept everyone excited.

Niko ran ahead, full of energy, while Matteo carefully balanced his camera in one hand and sketchbook in the other—determined to capture the experience both on paper and through his lens. Watching the boys discover nature in their own way is one of the best parts of homeschooling.

The Kokanee Salmon Run

Once we reached the bridges, the water came alive. Bright flashes of red and green darted through the shallow creek, the Kokanee salmon making their way upstream. Some swam strong and fast, while others paused, fighting the current with quiet determination.

Matteo stopped to sketch the scene, carefully drawing the tall trees and a salmon he spotted beneath the water. Niko leaned over the railing, pointing out every movement with wide-eyed wonder.

Together, we learned not just with words, but by being present—watching nature’s story unfold in front of us.

He was a bit nervous that a couple of ducks enjoying the creek might hurt the salmon.

Why Salmon Matter This Year

This year, our salmon studies feel especially important. For the first time in more than 100 years, sockeye salmon (sc̓win in nsyilxcən) have regained access to more than 350 square kilometres of traditional habitat, thanks to a new passage into Okanagan Lake at Penticton.

The project, led by the Okanagan Nation Alliance, removes one of the last major barriers caused by colonization and damming of the Okanagan River. Penticton Indian Band Chief sil-teekin y̓il̓mixʷm Greg Gabriel called the grand opening:

“An amazing day for our Nation, for our relatives across the 49th parallel, and for our community in snpintktn (Penticton).”

Knowing this history added so much meaning to our visit. As Matteo sketched, we talked about resilience, restoration, and why the salmon’s return matters not just for our region, but for the health of entire ecosystems.

The Waterfall at the End

The trail leads to the park’s namesake, Hardy Falls, where water cascades down the rocky cliffs surrounded by lush greenery. Standing there with my camera, I felt the weight of it all—the roar of the waterfall, the determination of the salmon, the laughter of the kids. It was the perfect reminder that these wild places are worth protecting and revisiting again and again.

Captured hand held on my Canon R6 RF 50mm F1.2 L USM | 1/500 sec f/2.8 ISO 400

Why You Should Visit

Hardy Falls is more than a walk in the woods. It’s a place to learn, to connect, and to experience the cycles of nature up close. Whether you’re a family looking for an easy afternoon adventure, a tourist exploring the Okanagan, or a homeschooler weaving real-life lessons into your day, Hardy Falls offers something unforgettable.

This trip wasn’t just a hike—it was a living classroom and a memory we’ll carry with us, just like the salmon carry their story upstream year after year.

If you’re visiting the Okanagan this fall, pack a snack, bring your camera, and head to Hardy Falls. You’ll leave with not just photos, but memories that carry the story of the salmon — and the land — with you.