The Willamette River Water Trail is an effort that seeks to connect people to the Willamette River, and provide for a high quality recreational and educational experience. In connection with our River Discovery Program and WR’s close ties to canoe and kayak paddling, we believe that the Water Trail will help bring new people to the Willamette River, and to engender a renewed river ethic. Beginning in 2004, Willamette Riverkeeper has worked with riverside cities and counties, along with the National Park Service, American Heritage Rivers Initiative, and Oregon State Parks to launch the Willamette River Water Trail which was fully designated in 2008.
The Trail itself is an assemblage of parks and public spaces along 187 miles of the mainstem Willamette River, as well as several miles of the Coast and Middle Forks. The trail seeks to increase the public’s use, appreciation and stewardship of the Willamette River and watershed, and offer new economic benefits to local communities. Along with the designated trail are interpretive materials, such as waterproof maps and signage that highlight amenities along the river such as put-ins, take-outs, camping locations, water, etc. Continued efforts are currently underway to improve these amenities and the overall recreational opportunities along the Trail.
If you’ve ever wanted to explore the River, you can now take advantage of the Willamette Water Trail Guide by purchasing or downloading a guide today.
