Tall trees. A clear river. Gentle inclines. The Old Salmon River Trail has everything you’d want in a kid-friendly hike near Portland.
Just outside Welches on the slopes of Mt. Hood, the Old Salmon River Trail is perfect for families. On a recent trek on the trail, most of the fellow hikers we came across were parents and kids in hiking boots.
It’s no wonder. The path is easy enough for little walkers, though Peeper preferred to ride Dad’s shoulders much of the way.
The trail forks down to the river regularly, offering plenty of opportunities for exploring.
Little beaches here and there hold rocks perfect for throwing into the river (and there are even a few swimming holes that would be refreshing/freezing on a hot day).
It’s no wonder we had such a wonderful time.
A fun family hike near Portland
The trail runs along the river, so there are no loops. That means you’ll need to turn back and walk the same path you came in on when you’re close to finishing your family hike.
(Remember: Turn back before your kids are legitimately tired. If you wait too long, you risk on-the-trail tantrums, and that’s fun for precisely no one!)
Know, too, that although the vast majority of the trail is safe for little walkers, there are a few places that have steep drop-offs. Pay attention to the terrain coming up and hold kids’ hands whenever there’s any chance of danger.
It’s also wise to bring a change of clothes. It’s very likely someone may want to wade into the (very cold!) water or accidentally on purpose get overly sandy when playing on the many small beaches. There are also a few spots where you can cross a narrow creek to explore an island—quite the adventure for little hikers!
Old Salmon River Trail: Details
Directions: Head east on Hwy 26 toward Mt. Hood. In Welches, turn right on Salmon River Road. There is a parking lot about 5 miles down on the right, but it’s often full. Don’t sweat it: There are multiple other parking areas and trailheads just down the road.
Features: River, old growth forest
Good for: Toddlers, families, babies in carriers
Must-know: You’ll need a recreation pass from May 15 – October 15. Buy one at the ranger station in Welches.
Have you ever hiked the Old Salmon River Trail? Do you like other family-friendly outdoor spots on Mt. Hood?
This looks like such a great hike for a hot summer day and it’s good to know that it’s one of the safe ones for toddlers.
Toddler hiking safety has been in the news a lot lately for tragic reasons, so it’s really important to know what kind of trail you’re going to before you go.
Thanks for highlighting this hike that’s good for little ones, and I like how it’s nice and shady!
It’s a great hike to beat the heat!
I love that trail (and the fact that it’s near a river).
Your photos are great!
Thanks Brianne! The river is gorgeous AND keeps the temps reasonable on our hot summer days.
This is so perfect (and perfect timing!!!). I’ve been researching close places to take my boys on a day trip that involves hiking, shade, and water. And with the next 10 or so days of hot weather in the forecast, this looks like the exact kind of spot I’d love to explore. Thanks!!
I’ve never been on that trail but love how kid-friendly it is! I also appreciate your tips, especially the one about making sure you turn back before the kids are really tired.
This is actually perfect, Melissa and I have been attempting to find different places to go on a hike, and while we’re sans children this seems like it would be a great stop for us!
We loooooooove going on family hikes! In fact, that’s what we did for my birthday. We hiked Horsetail Falls in the Gorge, and it was a great hike for little ones, as well. We’re always on the lookout for new family-friendly hikes so I’ll add this one to our list of hikes to try. Thanks for the suggestion!
Beautiful! I lived in Eugene for 10+ years, but I never hiked near Portland.