|
Kelley
Point |
| Overview |
In
many cultures, the confluence of two rivers is a place of special
power and mystery, where two primal powers join to become one.
This gentle hike in a little known park has a special claim to
fame - the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers.
Never been here? That's okay. Lewis and Clark apparently
missed it
too. It's mostly a destination of fisherfolks, bike riders, blackberry
pickers (in August), and dog walkers. This trip features views of Mt.
Hood, groves of huge cottonwood trees (that drop lots of
"cotton" in June), lots of overhead airplanes,
passing freighter ships, (remember the "port" in
Portland?) and best for us, the nicest beach in the Portland city
limits. Bring your favorite sand
toys! If you have a dog, this would be a good hike for the
ruff. Pack a lunch, as we'll stop at a beach and have a bite.
This is more of a easy stroll in the woods and hanging out with the
kiddos on a nice little beach. If you want a casual pace to a
neat new spot, this hike is for you. |
| Location |
The
very north point of Portland |
| Trailhead
amenities |
Bathrooms
and no water |
| Hike distance |
about
1/2 mile, no elevation gain |
| Stroller friendly? |
Yes,
paved trail |
| Driving
distance/time from downtown Portland |
about
12 miles, and about 20 minutes |
| Red tape/Fees |
None |
| Getting there |
- From
downtown Portland, take 1-5 north about 7 miles. Take the
Delta Park, Marine Drive exit. Following all signs to the
Expo center, get on Marine Drive West. Go 5 miles past the Expo Center,
passing Smith-Bybee Lakes on your left and many huge mysterious buildings somehow related to
global capitalism. In 4.8 miles, the 4 lane road you are on will
narrow to 2 lanes. About 1/4 mile past this convergence,
look for a right-hand signed turn to Kelley Point. Take
it.
- After
you take a right, go about 6/10 of a mile and park in the big paved
lot at the end of the road. (You'll pass 2 parking areas
on your left, the first a tiny dirt lot for canoe put ins, and
the second a paved lot.)
|
| Route: |
From the
parking area, we'll head northwest on the paved path. We'll
convene at the far north beach at the confluence of the rivers,
about a 10 minute easy walk from the parking area. If you're running
late, look for us there.
|
| Depart from trailhead |
11:00am sharp |
| Leader |
John
Godino, 503-796-0022 |
| References |
none
I can find |
| Map |
Google map - Kelley Point
|
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