Skipanon River Trails

Full Color PDF Map of the Skipanon River Trail Loop
Easy to Print PDF Map of the Skipanon River Trail Loop

The Skipanon River Trails feature a loop hike of about 2 miles and the southeast Spur Trail, between the 8th St Dam and old Hwy 101, of about one mile in distance and level grassy terrain.  While the logging and fishing industry remain part of the Skipanon River history and present day culture, we now have trails along this quiet and intimate tidal river that meanders through the middle of Warrenton.  Just two blocks from City Hall, where there are restrooms, is the small craft access ramp and launch site on 2nd St. and a marble bench to encourage us to sit a bit.  Several islands and a maturing sitka spruce forest dominate the east bank of the river while established neighborhoods and an historic post office line the west shoreline.  There are restrooms at the City Marina and gravel portage paths on the east side of the 8th St Dam.  Ducks, great blue herons, cormorants, bald eagles, river otters, harbor seals, sea lions, and elk are frequently observed. The Skipanon is also home to a struggling salmon run, a salmon hatchery at the high school and the family owned and operated Skipanon Cannery.  The Skipanon River was once home to several Clatsop Villages and the People who called it something like Skiperanawin meaning snake like.

Location: Trail head at Skipanon River Park, Second and Third streets in Warrenton (follow main street to 3rd for the Skipanon River Park parking lot.) Access from the Skipanon City  Marina on Harbor Drive where restrooms are located.

Distance: 2 miles for the loop trail and one mile for the southeastern Spur trail

Difficulty: Flat, easy

Type of Trail: Walking/Biking

Trail Surface: Asphalt, Grass, Gravel

Features: River views, wildlife viewing,  Access Ramp for small watercraft launching at 2nd St.

Pets: Dogs on leash please