SALEM IS MOPO OUTDOORS outdoors WATER ADVENTURES Running through Salem and connecting several scenic towns, the 187-mile Willamette Water Trail is like a hiking trail on water and a wonderful way to explore the region. Grab a stand-up paddleboard, kayak or canoe and float your way through forests, meadows, parks and farms. A few of the most popular “put-in” points are Wallace Marine Park in Salem, Keizer Rapids Park in Keizer and Independence’s Riverview Park. Step ashore and hike, picnic or spend the night at a campsite. A permit is required for paddlecraft 10 feet or longer. Just south of Salem, Turner Lake Park offers a beach, picnic tables and access to a lake that’s perfect for beginner paddlers. East of Salem, the Santiam River Territory is rebuilding after devastating wildfires in 2020, but there are many exciting water experiences open to visitors. Consider fishing for bass on picturesque Detroit Lake, or turn up the adventure by booking a guided whitewater-rafting tour with eNRG Kayaking on the North Santiam River. If you’re looking for a family-friendly swimming hole, both North Santiam State Recreation Area and Silverton Reservoir are perfect for a cool dip. WALKING AND HIKING TRAILS The Mid-Willamette Valley is a walker’s playground. Whether you like your hikes along vineyards or near waterfalls and through old-growth forests, there’s a trail near Salem to explore. For a relaxing urban stroll, Salem’s Riverfront Park, Minto-Brown Island Park and Wallace Marine Park are connected by over 30 miles of pedestrian bridges, footpaths and paved trails. Wander along the Willamette River and keep your eyes peeled for eagles and osprey. For one of the most enchanting hikes in the state, head to Silver Falls State Park, a temperate rain forest east of Salem. Wind along the mossy and fern-draped North Rim Trail, a new half-mile route that’s ADA-accessible and leads to the magnificent North Falls. For an easy riverside loop, try the Willamette Mission Trail north of Salem and you’ll see the nation’s largest black-cottonwood tree, nearly 300 years old. About 20 miles south of Salem, hikers can park at Luckiamute Landing’s North Trailhead and take the 3-mile North Unit Loop Trail through a hardwood forest of Oregon ash and bigleaf maple. TIP If you plan to take to the water, never paddle alone and always wear a properly fitting life jacket. Wear bright colors to ensure you’re seen by other boaters, and be courteous in sharing the waterway. Oregon State Historic Preservation Office Union Street Railroad Bridge Kayakers TravelSalem.com 10
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