The fish ladder was specifically engineered to assist Chinook and Coho salmon during their autumn spawning runs.
Artist Joseph Kinnebrew designed the structure to be as aesthetically pleasing as it is functional, aiming to bridge the gap between industrial utility and fine art.
The ladder utilizes a 'pool-and-weir' design to create resting spots for fish as they navigate the change in elevation.
Steelhead trout, which often spawn in the spring, are another primary species observed using the ladder.
The site acts as a focal point for the Sixth Street Dam area, which has historically been a significant fishing location for local residents.
Fish Ladder Park is a unique public sculpture and functional waterway designed by artist Joseph Kinnebrew in 1974. The structure facilitates the upstream migration of salmon and steelhead around the Sixth Street Dam on the Grand Rapids River. Constructed from concrete, the park features a series of stepped tiers that allow fish to bypass the dam's vertical barrier. It serves as a rare intersection of civil engineering, environmental conservation, and public art. The site is located directly on the west bank of the Grand River. It functions as both a recreational space for anglers and a viewing platform for natural wildlife cycles. The surrounding area connects to a wider network of riverfront walking paths in downtown Grand Rapids.
The lower observation deck near the river’s edge provides the best vantage point to photograph both the structural tiers and the water action.
Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce river surface glare, which significantly improves the ability to see fish moving through the ladder tiers.
Check the Michigan Department of Natural Resources migration reports before visiting to time your trip with peak salmon runs.
Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear as the concrete structures near the water can become slick when wet.
Do not attempt to climb or walk on the designated fish ladder tiers, as this interferes with migration and is dangerous.
Follow all local fishing regulations, including possession limits and catch-and-release rules mandated by the state of Michigan.
