Western Piers of Astoria

Easy 3.0-mile hike along Astoria's waterfront, offering views of the Columbia River, Astoria–Megler Bridge, and historic sites.

The Astoria-Megler Bridge loop from Astoria offers a fantastic experience along the Astoria Riverwalk, providing expansive views of the Columbia River and the iconic Astoria-Megler Bridge. This paved and boardwalk trail is incredibly accessible, allowing you to enjoy the scenery, spot sea lions near Pier 39, and take in the historic waterfront. It's a moderate 7.2-mile (11.6 km) route with a gentle 111 feet (34 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect, leisurely hike for nearly three hours of exploration.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Riverwalk is easily accessible from various points in Astoria. Parking is available along the waterfront, and you can even hop on the historic Astoria Riverfront Trolley for part of the journey during its operating season from late March to October. Remember that walking directly across the Astoria-Megler Bridge is typically reserved for the annual Great Columbia Crossing 10K, so this route focuses on the excellent views from the Riverwalk.

This trail is notable for its blend of natural beauty and rich history, passing by interpretive panels related to the Lewis & Clark Expedition and the Columbia River Maritime Museum. The Astoria-Megler Bridge itself is a marvel of engineering, stretching 4.1 miles across the Columbia River, and is even famous for its appearance in movies like "The Goonies." It's a family-friendly option that combines exercise with cultural immersion.