Washougal River Greenway Trail

Enjoy a family-friendly paved path along the Washougal River near its confluence with the Columbia River. This is a good hike for kids because there’s so much to look at without steep grades or narrow places that might be difficult for toddlers. Although surrounded by industrial areas, the riparian forest provides a buffer that makes the greenway feel peaceful and remote.

The highlight of the hike is the large arched footbridge spanning the Washougal River. Looking downriver, you can just glimpse the smokestacks at the paper mill. The trail also passes by three ponds (two at high water) that are former gravel quarries now managed as fish and wildlife habitats and crosses a seasonal wetland on a boardwalk. Benches along the way provide places to pause and enjoy the scenery and watch or listen for birds.

The eastern end of the trail is located away from the river on a grassy upland with some impressively large Oregon white oak trees.

Signs along the trail warn that swimming is prohibited to protect sensitive fish and wildlife. If you want to swim in the Washougal River, the historic Sandy Swimming Hole Park upstream on N Shepherd Rd provides a swimming beach, picnic tables and restrooms.

WTA Pro Tip: Read up on the birds you might come across on your hike on eBird.org.