Last updated: June 28, 2021
Thing to Do
South Slough Trail
Enjoy a hike in the beautiful Sitka Spruce Temperate Rainforest. The South Slough Trail is south of the Fort to Sea Trail and can be combined with the Fort to Sea and Kwis Kwis trails for a longer hike. The South Slough Trail includes a boardwalk over a wetand restoration area.
The South Slough Trail makes a great day hike if you have prepared well. There are sections of the trail that are steep, going both uphill and downhill and sections of the trail that can be slick and muddy.
Know before you go what the weather will be like, where you are going. There is a bathroom at Netul Landing and one at the Fort to Sea Trailhead. There are no water fountains, so make sure you bring plenty of water and snacks. Please also plan on packing out anything you pack in as there are no trash cans along the trail.
Check out our safety page for more tips to prepare for your hike, and stop in at the visitor center before you go to pay the entrance fee, grab a trail map and check in with the ranger regarding any trail closures or dangerous conditions.
The South Slough Trail makes a great day hike if you have prepared well. There are sections of the trail that are steep, going both uphill and downhill and sections of the trail that can be slick and muddy.
Know before you go what the weather will be like, where you are going. There is a bathroom at Netul Landing and one at the Fort to Sea Trailhead. There are no water fountains, so make sure you bring plenty of water and snacks. Please also plan on packing out anything you pack in as there are no trash cans along the trail.
Check out our safety page for more tips to prepare for your hike, and stop in at the visitor center before you go to pay the entrance fee, grab a trail map and check in with the ranger regarding any trail closures or dangerous conditions.
Details
Duration
1-3 Hours
Activity
Hiking
Take a hike on this moderately difficult winding three mile loop trail with steep changes in elevation among Sitka Spruce trees and ferns. Keep an eye out for birds, newts and fungi!
Pets Allowed
Yes
Your leashed dogs are welcome on the trail, please pick up after them.
Activity Fee
Yes
The entrance fee can be paid at the visitor center prior to departing. Your entrance fees go toward maintaining and improving the trails.
Location
South Slough Trail
The South Slough Trail can be accessed from the Fort to Sea Trailhead just south of the Fort Clatsop Visitor Center or from the North Netul Landing approximately one mile south of the Fort Clatsop Visitor Center.
From Astoria, head south on U.S. Highway 101 and follow the signs to Fort Clatsop.
From Astoria, head south on U.S. Highway 101 and follow the signs to Fort Clatsop.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Trails tend to be more muddy and can be flooded in areas during the winter and spring. If you are planning a hike during those times please also check wind and weather advisories. It is not advisable to utilize any trails at Lewis and Clark National Historical Park during periods of high wind. Downed trees are common and may make the trail difficult or impossible to pass.
Time of Day
Day, Dawn, Dusk
Trails are open from dawn to dusk. The visitor center parking lot is gated, and closes at 5 p.m. in the winter and 6 p.m. in the summer. There is easy access to this trail from the Fort to Sea Trailhead just south of the Visitor Center and from the Netul Landing via the Netul River Trail.
Accessibility Information
Substrates - 40% Compacted ¾” gravel; 40% compacted dirt; 20% boardwalk
Steep slope - appx. 30% grade at highest
Narrow section of path -32 inches
Benches/rest areas: Bench along path, pit toilets at Fort to Sea Trailhead and Netul Landing.
Potential hazards: Muddy, flooded, trail washing out, high winds, downed trees, slick boardwalks.
The South Slough Trail is not designated as wheelchair-accessible. For specific inquiries please e-mail the Lewis and Clark NHP Accessibility Contact or call (503)861-2471.
Dennis Adams