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Salmon River Trail #742
This trail accesses the Salmon-Huckleberry Wilderness and travels through mossy old growth forest next to the wild and scenic Salmon River. Chinook and Coho salmon, along with Steelhead, Rainbow and Cutthroat trout are found in the river. There are several established campsites along the way for backpackers.
This trail climbs from the edge of Salmon River to a bluff with several view points and follows the north shoulder of the river. The trail generally follows gentle terrain, but there are several steep sections along the way. The width varies from narrow to wide with the better tread found on the west and east ends of the trail. Access to this trail is best from the west end and is a great through hike. To complete a difficult 14.5 mile loop, follow this trail southeast 6.3 miles to Kinzel Lake Trail #665. Go left (northeast) on Kinzel Lake Trail #665 and travel 2.2 miles to Hunchback Trail #793. Go left (northwest) on Hunchback Trail #793 and travel 3.6 miles to Green Canyon Way Trail #793A. Go left (southeast) on Green Canyon Way Trail #793A and travel 3.2 miles to Salmon River Road (Forest Road 2618) and Green Canyon Campground.
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | A bridge has been closed 0.25 mile from the Salmon River EAST Trailhead. The creek is passable by wading but use caution when passing and beware of high-water events. |
|---|---|
| Fees: | $5/vehicle/day to park at the trailhead. |
| Permit Info: | Free, self-issued wilderness permits are required between May 15 and Oct 15 when provided at a portal. |
| Usage: | Medium |
| Restrictions: | Wilderness restrictions apply in Salmon-Huckleberry Wilderness. Please practice leave no trace principles - pack out everything you packed in! |
| Closest Towns: | Welches, OR |
| Passes: | A valid recreation pass is required at the Salmon River West Trailhead from May 1 - October 31. |
| Operated By: | Forest Service |
| Information Center: | Zigzag Ranger District |
General Information
Directions:To reach the WEST end of the trail from Portland, OR - travel 17.3 miles east of Sandy on US Hwy 26. Turn right (south) on Salmon River road and follow it for 5 miles to the parking area. The Salmon River West trailhead is on the left (east) side of the road just north of the bridge.
To reach the EAST end of the trail from Portland, OR - travel 31 miles east of Sandy on US Hwy 26. Turn right (south) at Forest Road 2656 (across from Snow Bunny Snopark). Follow it for 1.8 miles past Trillium Lake Campground. Turn left (southwest) continuing on Forest Road 2656 for 1.9 miles to Forest Road 2656-309. Start right on Forest Road 2656-309 for 2 miles to the trailhead. This is also the north trailhead for the Jackpot Meadows Trail #492.
Activities
Day Hiking
Recreation areas with activity Day Hiking: While overall it is a fairly gentle trail but a few steeper grades are present. In a few locations the trail is carved into a steep rock outcropping overlooking the river, so good control of children and dogs is important. There are no trails down to waterfalls.Backpacking
Recreation areas with activity Backpacking: See day hiking description.Related Links
Location
