Distance: 3 mile loop with many options

Trail: Flat with all weather surfaces

 

This trail provides a neat opportunity to explore a relatively wild section of the Willamette River riparian zone. Depending on time of year and the weather various trail options exist. In the winter I would stay to the main paved or gravel trails.

 This winter a friend and I took an ill-advised unimproved path along the river only to find ourselves sloshing through mud puddles and very slippery side hills.  

 You can start at either Willamette Park or Crystal Lake Sports Park; I generally start at Crystal Lake just because the parking is better. To get there go south out of Corvallis on HW 99, cross the Mary’s River, turn left at the first stop light at Fisher Lane, follow the signs to Crystal Lake Sports Park or the boat launch. There is plenty of parking in this area. Willamette Park does have children’s play areas if you are taking young children so that could be a better option. To get to Willamette Park continue out Highway 99 until you come to Southeast Goodnight Drive, there are signs to Willamette Park, turn left.

 The trail starts out through the sports park, which during the summer could be filled with young kids playing baseball or soccer. You might also encounter groups of dog lovers throwing balls or Frisbees. I would stop and take a look that the sign post to look at the trail map.

 The trail is quite obvious and you basically can’t get lost, just always keep the river to you right or left depending on which direction you are going and the main path to your other side. In the summer do explore the various trails that head down and along the river.

At Willamette Park you can continue on the paved path on south for an additional mile or so and then loop back. For some added entertainment you can watch people playing Frisbee Golf. There is water and bathrooms at Willamette Park if you need them.

 This can be a very pleasant evening stroll in the heat of the summer.

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