Continued from Page 6
elevation, the trail loops through a temperate
rainforest dominated by Sitka spruce, passing
by wetlands and intersecting with the Fort to
Sea Trail and others.
A variety of lengths of loops can be found
on this trail to match time and diffi culty lev-
els. Between boardwalks, through wetlands
and underneath a lime green canopy, some
sections of this hike can climb steeply uphill
or downhill, depending on the loop and start-
ing point. Make sure to wear proper foot-
wear as the trail can get muddy in the rainy
season.
Netul River Trail, 1.2 miles
Starting from the Fort Clatsop Visitors Cen-
ter, the Netul River Trail is an easy hike that
runs alongside scenic wetland and river views.
The route is easy and relatively fl at, and
the path is appropriate for all skill levels of
hikers. With an elevation gain of only 45
feet, this hike is perfect for a spring picnic or
walk along the wetlands.
This hike marks the end of the Lewis and
Clark trail, marking a spot where the expedi-
tion found a landing for their boats and estab-
lished Fort Clatsop. It’s hard to imagine the
living conditions of Lewis and Clark, sleep-
ing under the same tree canopy, while hikers
and history buff s alike are bundled in a puff y
waterproof jacket and hiking boots.
South Slough Trail, 1 to 3 miles
(depending on loop)
This beautiful hike also weaves through
a temperate rainforest with boardwalks atop
wetland restoration areas that appear through-
out the park. The South Slough Trail inter-
sects with both the Fort to Sea and Kwis
Kwis trails.
The relatively easy loop hike not only con-
nects to many other trails in the park but is
also a hot destination in the area for birding,
trail running and hiking as well. However,
sections of this trail can be very steep either
uphill or downhill for some hikers depending
on skill level and the starting point.
Clay Pit Pond Trail, 0.5 miles
This short loop, easily accessed from the
Fort Clatsop Visitor Center, is one of the
shortest strolls in the park, yet it off ers hikers
so much rich history. A short and relatively
fl at walk, this trail takes hikers through a for-
est of Sitka spruce and Western hemlock. It’s
the perfect short walk for adventurers of all
ages.
This trail also leads to the Fort to Sea Trail
junction, but is perfect for a short stroll from
the visitor center to take in the dense green of
the Sitka forest or enjoy a moment of quiet
solitude bliss, surrounded by Oregon history.
Fort to Sea Trail, 6.5 miles
(13 miles down and back)
Hikers can start this trail from either Fort
Clatsop or Sunset Beach, setting off on a
journey that encapsulates the vast history of
the Clatsop tribes and Lewis and Clark E xpe-
dition. This relatively fl at hike is quite easy
but can have mud as well as visible tree
roots along the route. With the proper gear,
though, this will make an enjoyable day trek.
Parts of the trail might be steep and slip-
pery for some, continuing both uphill and
downhill. It’s a long, mossy, wet and lus-
cious green hike, perfect if that kind of route
is in the cards for a day’s adventure. Do note
that while there are bathrooms along the trail,
there are no water fountains.
At all times when hiking, plan accord-
ingly. Take all trash that is packed in out with
you or place trash in the appropriate garbage
can. Come prepared with the right clothing
and gear and keep pets on a leash. Above all,
make it a National Park W eek to remember.
TOP: A small bridge crosses part of the Lewis and Clark River on the Netul River Trail.
MIDDLE: A sign points hikers toward Fort Clatsop from a trailhead at Sunset Beach.
BOTTOM: The South Slough Trail is lined with lush greenery.
Photos by Lissa Brewer
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