The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in L.L. Stub Stewart State Park

The Skidder Row to Hares Canyon Trail offers an easy 3.5-mile (5.7 km) hike through L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, perfect for a relaxing outing. You'll wander through dense forests of Douglas-fir, western red cedar, and western hemlock, with abundant ferns lining the path. Expect gentle rolling hills and occasional open meadows, providing views of the Coast Range from higher elevations. This scenic route, with its manageable 398 feet (121 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hours and 36 minutes, making it an ideal choice for families and casual hikers.

To plan your visit, head to L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, where you can usually find parking at the Clayhill Horse Staging Area. The park is well-equipped with amenities like picnic spots and an off-leash pet area. While the trail is generally well-signed, it's wise to carry a trail map due to the park's extensive network. Be aware that sections can get muddy and have standing water, especially after rainfall, so choose your footwear accordingly.

This trail is notable for its integration into the larger L.L. Stub Stewart State Park system, allowing you to connect with other routes like the paved Banks-Vernonia State Trail. The names, like "Skidder Row," hint at the area's logging history. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer, elk, and various bird species like the Pileated Woodpecker, and you might even spot beaver ponds along the Hares Canyon section. The park is also a popular spot for stargazing, offering a unique evening experience.

The Boomescooter and Skidder Row Loop offers a delightful journey through L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, blending forested paths with open views. You'll wander through mature Douglas-fir and cedar forests, encountering the tranquil Boomscooter Pond where beaver sightings are possible. The trail's varied terrain, including dirt and gravel paths, culminates in rewarding views of the Coast Range from the Skidder Row segment.

This easy 2.9-mile (4.6 km) hike, with 476 feet (145 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete. It's an excellent choice for beginners or families, though some sections, particularly on the Skidder Row portion, do present a moderate challenge with steeper grades. Parking is readily available at the Clayhill Horse Staging Area, making access straightforward.

Beyond its natural beauty, the trail offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's logging history, with names like "Boomscooter" and "Skidder Row" harking back to the timber industry. This historical context, combined with the chance to spot wildlife and enjoy diverse scenery, makes the Boomescooter and Skidder Row Loop a distinctive and engaging option among L.L. Stub Stewart State Park trails.

The Banks-Vernonia State Trail offers a unique hiking experience, transforming an abandoned 1920s railroad line into a diverse recreational path. You'll journey from open agricultural fields near Banks into the dense, cathedral-like forests of the Coast Range, with the impressive 733-foot-long Buxton Trestle providing panoramic views. This difficult route covers 27.0 miles (43.5 km) with 1094 feet (333 metres) of elevation gain, making it a substantial day hike or an ambitious overnight trip for those seeking a full immersion in Oregon's natural and historical landscape. Expect a mix of gentle grades and some challenging climbs, particularly around the Tophill Trailhead.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with multiple accessible trailheads like Banks, Buxton, and Manning offering parking and restrooms. The trail is open year-round, but spring and fall offer particularly scenic conditions with lush greenery or vibrant autumn colors. Consider starting early, especially if you plan to tackle the entire 11 hours and 19 minutes estimated duration, to ensure ample daylight. The trail also connects directly to L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, providing additional facilities and camping options for longer excursions.

As Oregon's first "Rails-to-Trails" park, this route holds significant historical value, showcasing the state's logging and railroad past. It's a multi-use trail, often featuring separate paved and gravel paths, accommodating hikers, bicyclists, and equestrians. This blend of historical significance, varied terrain, and connection to a full-service state park makes the Banks-Vernonia State Trail a standout option for those looking for a long, engaging hike in Washington County.