Cowlitz Riverwalk Trail | Longview

The Cowlitz Riverwalk Trail, commonly known as the Cowlitz River Trail, is a prominent recreational pathway located along the eastern bank of the Cowlitz River in Kelso, Washington. This trail plays a vital role in connecting the community with the scenic riverfront while providing a safe and accessible space for a variety of outdoor activities such as walking, running, cycling, and inline skating.

Location and General Overview

Stretching approximately 2.5 miles, the Cowlitz Riverwalk Trail follows a relatively straight path atop a dike system that runs parallel to the river. This positioning offers users continuous, unobstructed views of the Cowlitz River, its adjacent wetlands, and the natural landscape beyond. The trail’s surface is paved with smooth asphalt, ensuring comfortable use for people of all ages and abilities, including wheelchair users and families with strollers.

Access points to the trail are located primarily at the trail’s endpoints and at Mill Street, with additional parking options available on nearby city streets. The trail’s location near residential neighborhoods makes it easily accessible for local residents, and it also attracts visitors interested in enjoying riverside outdoor activities.

Trail Features and Experience

The trail is predominantly flat with minimal elevation change, making it an easy route suitable for all fitness levels. Its wide, paved surface accommodates multiple users simultaneously, allowing joggers, cyclists, and walkers to share the space safely.

One of the defining characteristics of the Cowlitz Riverwalk Trail is its proximity to the active BNSF railroad line that runs adjacent to the river. While the railroad adds a layer of industrial heritage to the area, safety measures such as fencing and signage are in place to keep trail users separated from the tracks. The trail’s design, including grade-separated crossings, limits access points to ensure user safety and reduce conflicts between pedestrians and trains.

As users travel along the trail, they are treated to panoramic views of the river, which is a vital habitat for local fish and wildlife. The trail’s proximity to the river allows for frequent wildlife sightings, particularly of bird species such as herons, eagles, and waterfowl, especially during migration seasons. The natural scenery provides a serene atmosphere, offering an escape from urban noise and bustle.

Environmental and Community Importance

The Cowlitz Riverwalk Trail is more than just a recreational path; it serves as a crucial link between Kelso’s community and its natural river environment. The trail helps promote environmental awareness by encouraging residents to engage with and appreciate the local ecosystem.

The riverfront corridor along the trail includes patches of wetlands and riparian buffers that play an important role in maintaining water quality and providing habitat for native plants and animals. The trail encourages responsible outdoor recreation, urging visitors to respect the natural surroundings and adhere to leash laws for pets to protect local wildlife.

Facilities and Amenities

While the trail itself is primarily natural and undeveloped, the city of Kelso provides basic amenities in nearby areas, such as parking on city streets close to the trailheads and benches along the trail for resting. Informational signage about trail rules and safety is placed at access points.

The trail’s easy accessibility and connection to Kelso’s downtown and residential zones make it a practical route for both recreational use and commuter cycling or walking.

Visitor Tips and Recommendations

Visitors to the Cowlitz Riverwalk Trail should wear comfortable footwear suitable for paved surfaces and bring water, especially during warmer months. Dogs are welcome but must remain on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other trail users.

Because the trail runs adjacent to active railroad tracks, caution is necessary when near crossings and along sections close to the rails. Users should obey all posted safety signs and be alert to train sounds.

The best times to visit are during spring through fall when the weather is mild and wildlife is most active, but the trail is open year-round for outdoor enjoyment.

Summary

The Cowlitz Riverwalk Trail is a vital recreational asset for the Kelso community, offering an accessible, scenic route that promotes physical activity and environmental appreciation. Its combination of smooth paved surfaces, river vistas, and wildlife viewing opportunities make it an inviting destination for families, fitness enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. The trail exemplifies how urban infrastructure can harmoniously coexist with natural river ecosystems, enhancing quality of life while preserving ecological value.