Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls, formerly Tumwater Falls Park, is undergoing some exciting new changes. The park recently completed a modernization of the popular salmon hatchery. Visitors can soon enjoy a large bank of fish viewing windows which are part of the newly constructed hatchery. The windows offer an underwater view and a glimpse at just how big the salmon really are. The salmon hatchery modernization project was constructed by the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife, the City of Tumwater, the Squaxin Island Tribe, and the Olympia Tumwater Foundation. In addition to the new hatchery, the park now features enlarged ADA compliant bathrooms and a ramp to the hatchery viewing area making it accessible to everyone.

Another ongoing project is the construction of the Deschutes Valley Trail, a new walking and cycling trail. Walkers, joggers, and sightseers will soon be able to travel by trail between Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls and Tumwater Historical Park. Construction of the trail began in April and will continue through December 2020. Future plans for the trail expand to connect more neighborhoods and parks. You can learn more about the trail here.

Due to COVID-19 and the ongoing construction, the park has been closed to the public and will remain closed until the first quarter of 2021. That means the much-loved annual Salmon Run cannot be enjoyed from Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls this year. It also means that funding for the park has been affected. Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls is privately owned and maintained by the Olympia Tumwater Foundation. The Foundation relies on the generous support of private donors and support from the community to keep the park open.

Consider donating today to maintain this urban jewel. Make a donation and stay informed about announcements on the park reopening and other park happenings by visiting the Olympia Tumwater Foundation website.