St. Helens Riverwalk

The St. Helens Riverwalk is easily accessible, with parking available near Columbia View Park, which is where Phase 1 of the Riverwalk was completed. Look for designated parking areas within or adjacent to the park to begin your walk.

Absolutely! The Riverwalk is designed to be very accessible and is considered easy, with minimal elevation gain. Its paved pathways and boardwalks make it ideal for a leisurely stroll with children, strollers, and people of all fitness levels. It's a great spot for a family outing along the Columbia River.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the St. Helens Riverwalk. However, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash at all times and that you clean up after them to maintain the cleanliness and enjoyment of the trail for everyone.

The Riverwalk features a combination of well-maintained pathways, boardwalks, and overlooks. While some sections of the broader Waterfront Trail in Saint Helens Waterfront Park might include dirt and grass, the Riverwalk itself is primarily designed for easy walking on paved or boardwalk surfaces, making it very accessible.

The St. Helens Riverwalk is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer particularly pleasant weather for walking. These seasons often provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also great, especially for enjoying the river views, but can be warmer. Winter walks can be crisp and offer unique perspectives, though you might encounter rain.

No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access and enjoy the St. Helens Riverwalk. It is a public amenity designed to provide free access to the Columbia River waterfront for all visitors.

Along the Riverwalk, you'll be treated to memorable views of the Columbia River, opportunities for bird watching, and glimpses of the surrounding natural habitat. Key features include Columbia View Park, rock terraces, concrete platforms for viewing, and potential 'Cascade volcano views' on clear days. The trail also runs adjacent to the city's historic downtown.

Currently, the St. Helens Riverwalk is primarily an out-and-back experience. While future plans aim to extend the pathway to create an approximately one-mile pedestrian loop connecting to the Bluff Trail and downtown, the completed Phase 1 offers a linear walk along the waterfront.

Phase 2 of the Riverwalk is planned to extend the pathway south to Plymouth Street, connecting to the Bluff Trail and ultimately creating an approximately one-mile pedestrian loop. Future additions include small plazas, interpretive signage, riverbank restoration, key overlook locations, a proposed rocky beach for river access, and a recreation hub with an in-water dock for non-motorized boats.

While the Riverwalk itself is relatively short, it's always a good idea to bring your own water, especially on warmer days. As the trail is still under development, amenities like water fountains might be limited along the immediate path. However, being close to downtown St. Helens, you'll find options nearby.

The Riverwalk is unique in its mission to transform former industrial land into a vibrant linear park, reconnecting the community with its waterfront. It offers accessible pathways, enhanced riparian habitats for wildlife, and stunning views of the Columbia River, all while being a short, easy stroll suitable for everyone.