The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) will offer naturalist-led tours on Saturdays in October for a unique salmon-viewing opportunity on the Yuba River.

The fall run of king salmon as they return from the sea to spawn in the Yuba River east of Marysville can be enjoyed by participants via access provided by the University of California Sierra Foothill Research and Extension Center. Ninety minute tours beginning at 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. will explore a section of the Yuba River featuring scenic vistas and close proximity to salmon spawning beds.

The tour will focus on the salmon lifecycle and its natural history. While salmon will be the primary focus, participants may be able to view wildlife such as bald eagles, osprey, mergansers, kingfishers and American dippers.

Advance registration via the CDFW website is required at Yuba River Advanced Salmon Tour Resgistration. Space is limited to 30 per tour with supervised children allowed. Participants are encouraged to dress for changeable weather and to bring drinking water and snacks. Bringing binoculars is also suggested although a spotting scope and some loaner binoculars will be available.