Old Salmon River Trail #742A

This trail is very kid-friendly. Only 1.9 miles long, it parallels the wild and scenic Salmon River. Although this trail is near the road, the closeness and constant sound of the river as well as the old growth features of the forest make this one of the most outstanding hikes on the Zigzag District.

Other than a short hill on each end, this is a relatively flat trail. It has several bridges that cross small creeks. It does pop up onto the road a couple of times, as the trail is located on a narrow slice of land between the Salmon River and Salmon River Road.

Trail Description and Map (PDF File)

At a Glance

Current Conditions:	Winter access to Salmon River Road trailheads may be limited. County plowing stops at the junction of Salmon River Road and Welches Road.
Closest Towns:	Welches, OR
Passes:	A valid Recreation Pass is required to park at the Old Salmon River Trailhead.
Operated By:	Forest Service
Information Center:	Zigzag Ranger District: (503) 622-3191

General Information

Directions:

From Sandy, OR - follow US Hwy 26 17.3 miles east. Then turn south on Salmon River Road (Forest Road 2618) following it 2.6 miles to the first trailhead access.

Other access points lie further along Salmon River Road on the pullout areas on the right-hand shoulder. The southern end of the trail is 2.4 miles past the first along Salmon River Road and is just before a bridge across the river.

Activities

Mountain Biking

See day hiking description.

Day Hiking

The trail follows the Salmon River in lush old growth forest. While the grade is mostly gentle, there are some short hills. The trail comes up onto the road at a few points. During winter and spring seasons, be prepared for fording a couple creeks. Other than a short hill on each end of the trail, this is a relatively flat trail. It has several bridges that cross small creeks. It does pop up on the road a couple of times since it is located on a narrow slice of land between Salmon River itself and Salmon River Road.