Spring in West Salem: Where to Play, Hike, and Relax

It is officially Spring in the Willamette Valley, even though it might not feel like it yet. 

Like most of us in this part of the state, now is the time of year where we emerge from the darkness of winter and ease back outside. Lucky for us, West Salem boasts plenty of parks to visit when those sunny days make their appearance. Or perhaps you are the parkgoer bundled up in rain gear and boots. Whichever adventure you choose, there’s a park to match it. 

Below is a list of where to picnic, play fetch with Fido, or walk around in the fresh air that smells of blooming flowers and fresh earth. Happy Spring. 

West Salem Park

265 Rosemont Ave NW

This neighborhood park is behind the Safeway on Edgewater Street. It features a playground, a grass field with plenty of trees, and a small, covered stage. There are restrooms and a splash pad, but these are only available seasonally. Street parking is available. Pick up some snacks on the way over and relax on a picnic blanket or at one of the several benches scattered around the area. 

Orchard Heights Park

1165 Orchard Heights Rd NW

Up the hill on Orchard Heights Rd, this park has it all: A playground. Tennis courts and a baseball field. A picnic area with BBQs available for use, and benches and tables to relax at. But wait, there’s more, including a fenced-in dog park and a mile-long walking path that’s part concrete and park bark chips, and draped in towering trees. Parking is available on site or in the surrounding residential area.

Brush College Park

2600 Doaks Ferry NW

If you’re hoping for a quieter experience, you’ve come to the right place. Amenities include a playground, a picnic shelter with six picnic tables, and horseshoe courts. There are also trails that run along Gibson Creek, offering a quiet, wooded setting that you can explore with your dog. Parking is available in the two distinct lot areas. 

Eola Ridge Park

2546 Dan Ave NW

Smaller, and less developed than others in the area, this park offers users a tranquil atmosphere with picnic tables, benches, and a paved walking path shaded by trees. Parking can be found off of Dan Avenue. Tiny but mighty, there isn’t much to do here, but maybe that is the point. Take a load off and immerse yourself in nature. 

Straub Nature Park

1910 Doaks Ferry Rd NW

Behind Kalapuya Elementary School, this little gem offers plenty of nooks and crannies for walkers to explore as they navigate the soft walking path. Trees and mushrooms exist in abundance, and it’s easy to feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere among the dense foliage. Take thirty minutes or several hours to get lost in the magic of exploration. 

Spring Valley State Park

8425 Wallace Rd NW #7989

Six miles north of Salemtowne lies a park that’s so off the beaten path, you might miss it as you drive down Wallace Road. Grab Fido and his leash or your family and take them along this one-mile loop that’s tucked back into the trees, with a patch of gravel to count as the parking lot. 

Kayak and Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) entry points exist out here, too, as does a stretch of beach where you can relax or go fishing. 

Wallace Marine Park Sports Complex

200 Glen Creek Rd NW

Likely the most well-known park in West Salem, and the largest at 114-acres, there are walking paths tucked back in the trees along the river; a five-field lighted softball complex with seating for over 1,000 spectators; several grassy soccer fields; and a playground. On the south side is a large paved parking lot, a floating dock, a boat ramp, and beach access for river access and fishing.