Rail-Trail
State: OR Length: 1 miles Surface:
The Secretary of Interior, Dirk Kempthorne, designated this trail as a National Recreation Trail in 2006. Located in Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge just south of Salem, this 1-mile boardwalk rail-trail takes visitors through wetlands and woodlands where various wildlife (such as tree frogs, rough-skinned newts and black-capped chickadees) can be seen and heard year round.
State: OR Length: 21 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Banks–Vernonia Rail Trail is 21 miles of paved trail between the two Oregon towns of, what else, Banks and Vernonia. The trail links these town with other stops in between—Manning, Tophill, Stub Stewart, Beaver Creek and Buxton—providing a spectacular recreation opportunity for cyclists, walkers, runners or equestrians. Old railroad trestles, wildflowers and wildlife add to the charm of this nature-lover's trail. The trail is steep in places so cyclists are asked to walk their bikes or slow way down for your own safety and that of other trail users. The trail climbs from Banks toward Vernonia, passing through the Hilltop Day Use Area (camping available). The has 13 bridges and two 700-foot long, 80-foot high railroad trestles at Buxton and Horseshoe, offering amazing views. There's an equestrian bypass at Buxton, which crosses Mendenhall Creek. The route follows an abandoned railroad corridor, which was used between the 1920s and 1957 to haul timber from mills in Vernonia and Keasey to Portland. For five years during the 1960s, the rail was used as a passenger excursion; construction of the trail began in 1991.
State: OR Length: 1.80 miles Surface: Asphalt
State: WA Length: 7.70 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete
The scenic Burnt Bridge Creek Greenway Trail meanders through Vancouver along the creek from Stewart Glen on the shores of Vancouver Lake to Meadowbrook Marsh. Along the way, the trail passes through through forests, grasslands and city neighborhoods, as well as Leverich Park and Arnold Park mid-way. Travelers should take note that the trail veers onto sidewalks in a few well-marked places.
State: OR Length: 0.70 miles Surface: Asphalt
State: WA Length: 3.10 miles Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone
The Captain William Clark Park Trail follows the Columbia River from Steamboat Landing Park to the border of the Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Along the way, trail-goers will enjoy views of the river and Mt. Hood. The trail parallels Cottonwood Beach and is named for Lewis and Clark, who camped there in 1806. Walkers may enjoy taking a partial loop back on the Gibbons Wildlife Art Trail in the adjacent wildlife area.
State: OR Length: 4 miles Surface:
From Portland area Metro The proposed Cazadero Trail route follows the historic Oregon Water Power and Railway Co. rail line, which connected Portland to Cazadero, two miles upriver from Estacada. The trail would drop into Deep Creek Canyon from the northeast in Boring and extend the Springwater Corridor from downtown Portland to Barton. The creek serves as the principal corridor connecting the Clackamas River to habitat in the urbanizing Milwaukie and Johnson Creek watershed. Interested parties working on plans and coordinating efforts for the Cazadero Trail corridor include Clackamas County, the Boring CPO, the Salvation Army and Oregon State Parks. In the future, the Cazadero Trail could extend beyond Barton through Eagle Creek, Estacada, the Faraday, Cazadero and Promontory Park areas on up the Clackamas River corridor eventually connecting to Mount Hood and the Pacific Crest Trail.
State: WA Length: 33 miles Surface:
From Chelatchie Prairie Rail-with-Trail Corridor Study:
The Chelatchie Prairie Rail-with-Trail (RWT) is envisioned as a 33-mile multi-use trail within the railroad right-of-way where possible. In some areas the trail alignment will use existing trails, roadways or alignments outside of the right-of-way to meet width or terrain needs. Construction started in May 2011 for the initial 1-mile segment that will run from the entrance road inside Battle Ground Lake State Park southwest along the railroad tracks to Washington State Department of Natural Resources land.
State: OR Length: 4.30 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Columbia Slough Trail follows its namesake waterway on the northern end of Portland. Although there are currently gaps in the trail, it will one day follow the entire length of the narrow 19-mile stream. When completed, the trail will be an important component of the 40-Mile Loop, a greenway that will encircle the city and extend to other parts of Multnomah County. Although there are some industrial views along the way, the trail connects city dwellers to many natural areas. The pathway begins in Kelley Point Park, at the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers. Here, you can find a nice shady spot to picnic or watch ships traveling through the port. Further east is Delta Park, which abounds with recreational amenities, including football, soccer, and softball fields, a volleyball court, a playground, picnic tables and an off-leash area for dogs. To continue your adventure, you can hop on the trail's northern neighbor, the Marine Drive Trail, which follows the Columbia River, or connect to the Peninsula Crossing Trail, which heads southwest.
State: WA Length: 2.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Cowlitz River Trail follows its namesake river along dike on the east bank. The trail is asphalt and connects Kelso residents with the riverfront. The trail parallels the active BNSF line that carries Amtrak and much of the north-south freight in the Pacific Northwest. Access is limited to the trail because of grade separated crossings, but you can access at the endpoints or at Mill Street. The trail may be extended north in the future.
State: WA Length: 4 miles Surface: Dirt
Located above the Cowlitz Valley, Dry Creek Trail begins on Road 20, climbs steeply south through a dense, young forest and ends at the former site of Smith Point Lookout. Features include views of the Cowlitz River Valley, Goat Dike and Smith Point. An unmaintained trail continues past the former lookout site to Dry Creek Pass.
State: OR Length: 1.30 miles Surface: Asphalt
Start the Edgewater Trail on Water Street at the north end of Riverfront Park. The 23-acre park is a beautiful place to spend an afternoon and enjoy river views. It has two unique features: a carousel with dozens of hand-carved and hand-painted wooden horses, and the Eco Earth Globe, created by local artists and students. Ride the ascending ramp and cross the Willamette River on the Center Street Bridge. On the other side, the trail follows the bank of the river between Edgewater Street and Dallas Highway.
State: OR Length: 7.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
When complete, the Fanno Creek Greenway will be a 15-mile paved network of fully accessible urban trails, linking two counties and five cities: Beaverton, Tigard, Tualatin, Durham, and southwest Portland. As of autumn 2011, about half of the trail system is finished. The trail courses along Fanno Creek and will eventually run between the Willamette River in the southwest section of Portland to Fanno Creek's confluence at the Tualatin River. Traversing wetlands, forests, parks and neighborhoods, the trail corridor is home to much wildlife. In addition, many parks and recreation venues provide diversions along the way.
State: WA Length: 3.90 miles Surface: Asphalt
State: OR Length: 3.29 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Gresham–Fairview Trail is a north–south corridor that will one day link Portland's 40-Mile Loop Trail (Marine Drive section) with the Springwater Trail's section through Gresham. As of spring 2012 the trail runs for a little more than 3 miles between the Springwater Trail and NE Halsey Street in Gresham. Plans are underway to finish the remaining 2 miles north to Marine Drive in Portland. The Gresham–Fairview Trail will also provide access to nature areas along Johnson Creek, Fairview Creek, Columbia Slough and the Columbia River.
State: OR Length: 2.30 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete
State: WA Length: 0.80 miles Surface: Asphalt
State: OR Length: 10 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail is an innovative road-to-trails project commemorating the construction of the Historic Columbia River Highway (HCRH) -- the first major paved highway in the Pacific Northwest and the first scenic highway constructed in the United States. Following the path of the Lewis and Clark and the Oregon Trails, the HCRH was carefully carved out of the sheer cliffs of the south bank of the Columbia River between 1913 and 1922 to connect travelers with the magnificent overlooks offering views of the Columbia River Gorge and five waterfalls, including Multnomah Falls (the most visited natural site in Oregon). The roadway also connected Portland to the small settlements of Cascade Locks, Hood River, Mosier and The Dalles. During construction of Interstate Highway 84 in the 1950s, this engineering marvel was segmented and partially destroyed, leaving only small scenic loops at both ends. Today, the Oregon Department of Transportation is working to restore and resurrect the demolished segments as a multi-use recreational trail enabling bikers and hikers to experience the old highway's dramatic vistas and restored historic bridges, tunnels, guardrails and beautifully arched rock masonry walls first-hand. The center portion of the HCRH, between Warrendale and Mosier, is presently open for use. Eventually, the trail will link the city of Cascade Locks with the old waterfall section of the HCRH and the cities of Hood River and Mosier. The trail also highlights the development of early automobile transportation facilities and scenic highways in particular -- often from European precedents.
State: OR Length: 18.30 miles Surface: Asphalt
The I-205 Multi-use Path parallels Interstate 205 between Vancouver, Washington, just north of the Columbia River and Oregon City, Oregon. The trail breaks in a few places: in Oregon City near the shopping mall along Main Street (easily bridged via Main Street) and between High Rocks City Park and the Harley Davidson dealership, then between the junctions of I-205 at SR 212/224 and I-205 at 82nd Drive. The route also follows alongside part of the MAX Green Line rail. The trail is popular with commuters and recreationists alike, with access to parking at public transportation stops along the way and other amenities (e.g., restrooms and drinking fountains). The various segments are connected by bike routes and bike lanes. To connect the northern segment to the Gladstone segment, use bike lanes on 82nd Drive. To connect the Gladstone segment to the southern segment, use bike lanes and routes on Agnes and Main Streets.
State: OR Length: 4.90 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete
State: WA Length: 3.50 miles Surface: Gravel
The Lacamas Heritage Trail parallels Lacamas Creek and the western shore of Lacamas Lake under a canopy of old growth forest. Along this scenic gravel pathway, trail-goers can catch glimpses of the abundant wildlife in the area and enjoy views of the lake, waterfalls and interesting rock formations.
State: OR Length: 3.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Logging Road Trail runs along the eastern outskirts of Canby, about 20 miles south of Portland. The road was once used by logging trucks, but is now closed to vehicular traffic. Views along trail's paved southern end are a mix of residential and commercial properties, as well as rural landscapes. Here, the trail sits adjacent to Baker Prairie Middle School (with Trost Elementary School also nearby), offering a nice route for students to use. The northern end runs between a golf course and the densely forested Eco City Park, becoming quite scenic as it approaches the Willamette River.
State: OR Length: 1.80 miles Surface: Concrete
State: OR Length: 17.60 miles Surface: Asphalt
Marine Drive Trail follows its namesake roadway along the south shore of the Columbia River. You'll often find you're just feet from the river and can enjoy lovely views of the water, boats and marinas along the way. The trail is wide, flat and paved, making it a good bet for commuters in a hurry, as well as an easy and leisurely ride for families. Pets are also welcome. Although there are currently gaps in the trail, one day it will be an important part of the 40-Mile Loop that will encircle Portland and extend to other parts of Multnomah County. Its western end begins in Kelley Point Park, where you'll find beaches, wooded areas, a historical site, picnic tables and restrooms. You'll continue southeast to the Smith and Bybee Wetlands Natural Area, home to a diverse amount of wildlife, including more than 100 species of birds such as bald eagles, great-horned owls, red-tailed hawks and great egrets. The park offers scenic overlooks, walking paths and restrooms. East of I-5, the trail provides access to Broughton Beach, a popular recreational area north of the Portland International Airport. From here, the trail continues its eastward journey to Interstate 205. Note that there is little shade on this section. If you wish to cross the river and head north into Vancouver, or go south, you can hop on the 16-mile I-205 Multi-Use Path. From other points along the pathway, you can also access the Columbia Slough Trail, which offers connections to other scenic natural areas.
State: OR Length: 1 miles Surface: Asphalt
State: OR Length: 11 miles Surface: Crushed Stone, Dirt, Grass, Gravel, Sand
Norm's Trails are set on a beautiful piece of county land on which 11 miles of elaborate, single track loop trails have been constructed. All trails are marked with trail names that set the mood of that trail. Some of the features are hand made bridges over the swampy areas and nice small orchards to stop for a break or lunch in. A real treat for downhill mountain bikers! These are not "rail-trails."
State: WA Length: 5.30 miles Surface: Asphalt
State: OR Length: 5.10 miles Surface: Asphalt
As its name implies, the Peninsula Crossing Trail cuts through a peninsula between the Willamette and Columbia Rivers in northern Portland. The tree-lined trail traverses urban neighborhoods and features public artwork. Its southern tip approaches the Willamette Cove, a natural habitat on the banks of the Willamette River. From its northern end, you can continue your journey on the Columbia Slough Trail, which offers access to scenic natural areas along its namesake stream. To do so, you'll need to take a short off-trail route: take a right (go east) at Columbia Boulevard, taking the sidewalk on the right-hand side; cross the street at the Portsmouth Avenue traffic light and continue 1 block to Columbia Court. After 1 block north on Columbia Court, you'll take a right to get back on the pathway and reach the Columbia Slough Trail.
State: OR Length: 1.10 miles Surface: Asphalt
Salem's Riverfront Trail begins in Riverfront Park on the east bank of the Willamette River. The park offers expansive views of the river and contains two unique features: a carousel with beautiful hand-carved horses and a public art piece called the Eco Earth Globe. On its northern end, you can also connect with the Edgewater Trail. Riverfront Trail continues over Union Street Railroad Bridge, a steel and timber trestle completed by Southern Pacific Railway in 1913. In 2004, the city of Salem bought the bridge from Union Pacific Railroad (later owners) for $1. It's now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. On the other side of the bridge is Wallace Marine Park, stretching more than 100 acres with opportunities to picnic and access the water by boat. The park also houses Star Complex, where many state, regional, and national sporting events are held.
State: OR Length: 1.60 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Rock Creek Trail provides an important commuting route and natural escape in one of Oregon's largest cities: Hillsboro, located in the "Silicon Forest," a high-tech corridor on Portland's western side. The trail runs through a scenic greenway offering beautiful views of the creek, towering evergreens, meadows and wetlands. Orchard Park is a good place to start your journey; the park offers parking, restrooms and picnic areas. You'll then travel north across paved and boardwalk sections to the trail's end in Rock Creek Park. Future plans call for extending the trail south another six miles to Rood Bridge Park, which offers access to the Tualatin River.
State: OR Length: 21.50 miles Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone
The Springwater Corridor forms a major southeast segment of the 40-Mile Loop, a multi-use trail that circles the city of Portland, some of which is incomplete. The 21.5-mile Springwater Corridor extends from SE 4th Avenue at SE Ivon Street in Portland (near the Willamette River) to the town of Boring. Most of the trail is paved except for a short segment from Hogan heading east from Regg Road to Boring. Here, equestrians and mountain bikers will find their stride. In addition, there is a gap in the trail between 13th and 19th streets in Portland, which can be bridged by an on-road segment. Portland is renowned and envied for its parks, trails and general outdoors vibe, and the Springwater Corridor fits rights in. The trail winds along the banks of the Willamette River in downtown Portland to the rural exurbs, connecting a diversity neighborhoods, natural areas and industrial sites. It's important for both recreation and a transportation commuter corridor: the trail links bike lanes, transit, light rail, buses and other regional trails The Springwater's history stretches back to the early 1900s, when a rail line was built to bring people, produce and timber from areas south and east of Portland into the growing metropolis. Known variously as the Portland Traction Company Line, the Cazadero Line and the Bellrose Line, the railroad finally adopted the name of the Springwater Division Line, although neither the railroad nor the trail that bears the town's name ever reached this small community. As the automobile gained dominance, the Springwater line faded, and it finally ceased carrying passengers in 1958. Freight- and timber-hauling operations continued for three more decades, but by the 1980s derailments were common along the aging Springwater line. Portland eventually bought the railroad corridor for a multi-use trail. From the eastern terminus, you will enjoy views of the Willamette River and downtown Portland's different business districts. Headi
State: OR Length: 4.30 miles Surface:
Sullivan's Gulch is a project trail still in the early stages of development. Envisioned is a 4.3 to 5 mile long east-west corridor, connecting Portland to its outlying neighborhoods. The plans currently call for a rail-with-trail that will follow alongside local MAX light rail tracks, I-84 and an active freight line, from I-285 to the Willamette River. Running uninterrupted, this path could easily serve as direct access to downtown Portland as well as access to many rapid mass transit options. Currently, a series of feasibility studies are being conducted to better assess the master plan and the funding necessary for its completion. It is expected that the studies will take roughly a year. According to initial projections for the Sullivan Gulch trail, construction is expected to begin in 2015.
State: OR Length: 5.90 miles Surface: Asphalt
State: OR Length: 6 miles Surface: Asphalt
Oregon's Trolley Trail was once a streetcar line serving Portland's metro area. The old Oregon City Line trolley ran between Milwaukie and Gladstone from 1893 until 1968. As of 2012, 6 miles of the route are a brand new multi-use path. Eventually the Trolley Trail will become part of a 20-mile loop connecting Portland, Milwaukie, Gladstone, Oregon City and Gresham. It will also link the Springwater Corridor trail with the I-205 Multi-use Path. Most of the Trolley Trail runs along existing city streets but is separated from traffic by wide corridors of tree and grass. Some sections, such as the portion between SE Concord Road and SE Roethe Road, travel off-road through residential areas. The trail links neighborhoods with schools, parks and business districts, and many historical buildings along the route showcase Western Farmhouse and Craftsman-Bungalow architectural styles. Check out the Jacob Risley and Charles Risley houses near SE Risley Avenue—outstanding works of the Italianate and Queen Anne styles. Despite the trail's urban setting, you're also likely to see wildlife. Watch for opossums, beavers, great blue herons, green herons and western screech owls have been spotted here.
State: OR Length: 1.70 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Eastbank Esplanade traces Portland's Willamette River from Steel Bridge on the north end to Hawthorne Bridge on the south end. The trail is named for former Portland mayor Vera Katz, who supported the construction of the esplanade. Although the trail is less than 2 miles, it offers views of the river, downtown, and public art.
State: OR Length: 1.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Waterfront Bike Path follows the Willamette River in downtown Portland from Marquam Bridge north to Steel Bridge. Although short, the trail offers scenic views of the city skyline and waterway. Along the way, it passes through Tom McCall Waterfront Park, where you can find restrooms, historical attractions, and an incredible fountain with 185 water jets.
State: OR Length: 2.40 miles Surface: Asphalt