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

Embark on the Skidder Row to Hares Canyon Trail for an easy hiking experience through L.L. Stub Stewart State Park. This route spans 3.5 miles (5.7 km) and involves a gentle elevation gain of 398 feet (121 metres), making it suitable for a relaxed outing. You can expect to complete the hike in about 1 hours and 36 minutes, moving through a landscape shaped by its history as an old tree farm, with occasional glimpses of the surrounding area from spots like the Hilltop Shelter & Viewpoint. The trail offers a straightforward path through a dense second-growth forest, providing a peaceful escape into nature. You will find the terrain to be generally well-maintained, offering a pleasant walking surface throughout your journey.

To plan your visit, know that the Skidder Row to Hares Canyon Trail is located within L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, which provides numerous amenities beyond just hiking. Parking is readily available within the state park, making access convenient for most visitors. While the route is generally well-signed, it is a good idea to carry a trail map, as some areas within the park can be a bit confusing to navigate without one. Consider visiting during the cooler parts of the day or year to fully enjoy the forest environment. Always check the park's official website for any specific alerts or operational changes before you head out.

This trail offers a unique opportunity to explore a landscape that was once an active tree farm, now reclaimed by nature. As you hike, keep an eye out for diverse local wildlife, including various bird species such as the Pileated Woodpecker. You might even spot larger animals like elk or bobcat if you are lucky and observant. The dense second-growth forest provides a rich habitat for these creatures and a refreshing atmosphere for hikers. This particular route connects several sections of the park's extensive trail system, offering a cohesive and accessible outdoor experience for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.

Embark on the Boomescooter and Skidder Row Loop, an easy hike through a vibrant second-growth forest. You will cover 2.9 miles (4.6 km) and gain 476 feet (145 metres) in about 1 hour and 20 minutes. As you hike, you'll find yourself surrounded by sword ferns and rolling hills, offering a pleasant and accessible outdoor experience. Keep an eye out for ponds and various fungi along the way, adding to the natural charm of the route.

L.L. Stub Stewart State Park offers ample parking for your visit to the Boomescooter and Skidder Row Loop. Since the park is full-service, you can expect good facilities. Be prepared for potentially muddy conditions and standing water on the trails, especially after rain, so wear waterproof footwear. It's also a good idea to bring a trail map, as the park's extensive network can sometimes have confusing signage.

This route provides a glimpse into the area's logging history, evident in the second-growth forest you traverse. While hiking, you might encounter fallen trees, a natural part of the forest's cycle. If you reach the Hilltop Shelter & Viewpoint, you could catch views of the Coast Range through the trees, making it a rewarding stop on your journey.

Embark on an easy hike combining a historic rails-to-trails path with a lush forested singletrack loop on the Banks-Vernonia State Trail and Williams Creek Horseshoe. This route covers 3.8 miles (6.2 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 507 feet (155 metres), typically taking 1 hours and 44 minutes to complete. You will experience diverse scenery, from agricultural lands to the thickly forested foothills of the Coast Range. A highlight is crossing the impressive Buxton Trestle, which offers expansive views. The Williams Creek Horseshoe section provides a fun, flowy feel through varied terrain.

Accessing this trail is straightforward, with multiple trailheads along the Banks-Vernonia State Trail providing convenient parking and restrooms. The route is wheelchair accessible and dog-friendly, making it a welcoming option for many visitors. When planning your visit, be aware that the Williams Creek Horseshoe Trail can sometimes have muddy patches and stinging nettles, particularly during damper seasons. Consider starting early to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

This trail is notable as it incorporates Oregon's first "rails-to-trails" park, offering a unique blend of history and nature. The Banks-Vernonia State Trail follows a former railway line, providing a generally gentle grade through varied landscapes. The Williams Creek Horseshoe Trail, rerouted in 2020, adds a dynamic, forested element to the experience. It is an excellent choice for those seeking a diverse and accessible outdoor adventure.

Hike the moderate 6.5-mile Bumping Knots Loop in L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, featuring forests, creek views, and an old railroad bridge.