The Willamette Valley is spoiled with an abundance of incredible hikes just begging to be explored—and many of them are located close to Salem! Whether you’re looking for an easy nature walk or a challenging hike up a mountain, there’s sure to be a trail close by that’s perfect for your family. Here are five of our favorites.
Silver Falls State Park
Located just 30 minutes east of Salem, Silver Falls State Park is a hidden gem that’s perfect for a day trip. With gorgeous waterfalls and plenty of opportunities for picnicking and swimming, it’s the ideal place to spend a day with the family. This lovely state park is home to some of the most gorgeous waterfalls in Oregon, and you can walk right behind several of them.
For hiking, the 10+ mile loop hike is gentle and easy enough for families with small children, but it’s also scenic and beautiful enough to please everyone in your group. Along the way, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take photos, have a picnic lunch, or take a quick dip in one of the cascading pools.
If you’re looking for a fun and scenic outing that’s close to Salem, Silver Falls State Park should definitely be at the top of your list!
Mary’s Peak (West Of Corvallis, Oregon)
Are you looking for a quick and easy hike to do with the family? Or maybe you’re a solo hiker looking for a peaceful place to get away from it all? Either way, Mary’s Peak is the perfect place for you! Located in the Oregon Coast Range outside of Corvallis, Oregon, Mary’s Peak is the tallest mountain in the area and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Best of all, it’s only a quick hike to the top!
Mary’s Peak is a popular hiking destination for both locals and visitors to the Corvallis area. The trailhead is located just off Highway 34, about 20 minutes outside of town. From the trailhead, it’s about 2 miles to the summit. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow. However, there are some steep sections, so be sure to take your time and watch your step.
Once you reach the top of Mary’s Peak, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Mount Shasta in California! Make sure to bring your camera so you can snap some photos to remember your adventure.
When you’re ready to head back down, simply follow the same trail back to the parking lot. Remember to take plenty of water with you, as there is no water available along the trail.
Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or an easy walk in the woods, Mary’s Peak is sure to please. So what are you waiting for? Grab your hiking boots and hit the trail!
Baskett Bluff Loop (Baskett Slough)
Even if you don’t consider yourself an outdoorsy person, there’s something for everyone on the Basket Bluff Loop, which is located at the Basket Slough.
The Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge is a must-see for any wildlife lover. This stopover spot sees thousands of migratory waterfowl in the fall and winter, but it’s also home to many different birds that stay around all year round such as great blue herons, bald eagles, or red tail hawks!
This 1.5-mile loop trail is popular with hikers and walkers alike, but you can still enjoy some peace and quiet if you visit during a less busy time of day. The best part? The trail is open year-round, so you can enjoy its beauty no matter what season it is.
The Baskett Bluff Loop is generally considered an easy route, taking an average of 38 minutes to complete. But even if you’re not the most experienced hiker, there’s no need to worry — the trail is well-maintained and easy to follow. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding countryside as you meander through this picturesque part of Oregon. Trust us, it’s worth the effort!
Just be sure to leave your four-legged friends home — dogs aren’t allowed on this trail.
Minto Brown Island (Salem, Oregon)
Minto Brown Island Park is a sprawling trail located in Salem, Oregon. The park is teeming with birdlife and is a popular spot for hiking and mountain biking. scenic wetland views and ample opportunities to create your own adventure, Minto Brown is the perfect place to explore nature year-round. Dogs are allowed on the trails but must be on a leash at all times. So round up the family, put on your hiking boots, and let’s explore Minto Brown!
Minto Brown Island Park is a hiker’s paradise. Boasting over 15 miles of trails, the park has something for everyone. If you’re looking for a relaxing stroll, stick to the main loop trail. This path winds through wetlands and offers stunning views of the Willamette River. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, take one of the many trail offshoots and explore the wooded areas of the park. No matter which route you choose, you’re sure to encounter an abundance of birdlife. The park is also popular with mountain bikers, so keep your eyes peeled for two-wheeled explorers zipping by on the trails!
Minto Brown Island Park is open year-round, making it the perfect place to get some fresh air no matter what time of year it is. That being said, different seasons offer different experiences at the park. Springtime brings vibrant wildflowers to the wetlands while autumn leaves blanket the trees in shades of red and gold. Winter sees fewer visitors as rain washes over the trails but brave hikers are rewarded with peace and quiet during their exploration. No matter when you visit, you’re sure to find natural beauty around every bend in the trail!
There are a few things to keep in mind before heading out on your hike. First and foremost, be sure to wear comfortable shoes as some of the offshoot trails can be uneven and muddy. Also, remember to pack plenty of water. And last but not least, don’t forget your four-legged friend! Minto Brown Island Park is dog-friendly as long as Fido stays on a leash at all times. Now that you know what to expect, it’s time to hit the trails!
(Reader Update: There is a water fountain for both people and dogs located in parking lot 3 and another is located at the dog park)
The trail is excellent for families, millennials, boomers, and dogs too! So round up your hiking buddies (furry or otherwise) and hit the trails at Minto Brown Island Park today!
Willamette Mission Loop (Keizer, Oregon)
Looking for a great way to get outside and get moving? Look no further than the Willamette Mission Loop! Located in the beautiful Willamette Mission Park, the Willamette Mission Loop is a 2.7-mile loop (or a longer loop of 6.9 miles) and is a perfect place to take a walk, go for a jog, or just enjoy some time outdoors.
The loop is located in the Willamette Mission Park and is a popular spot for families, millennials, and boomers alike. The loop provides stunning views of the Willamette River and is a great place to walk, run, or bike. It has several highlights, including the Willamette Station Site, Methodist Mission (listed on the National Historic Register of Historic Places), and the Wheatland Ferry Crossing.
The Willamette Mission Loop is a great spot for a day out with friends or family. With beautiful views of the river and plenty of points of interest along the way, you’re sure to have a memorable day exploring all that this loop has to offer.
Go Explore!
We hope this list inspires you to get out and explore some of the incredible hiking trails that the Salem area has to offer! Have fun and happy hiking!
Featured Photo by Josh Hild on Unsplash
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Feb. 25th, 2023