Some of Oregon’s best hikes can be found along some of the more than 2,100 miles of designated Wild & Scenic Rivers across Oregon – from the Rogue River headwaters to its famous lower stretch; Fifteenmile Creek on the east slope of Mount Hood to Central Oregon’s treasured Metolius and Deschutes; and the Ponderosa-pine lined Malheur and Imnaha Rivers in eastern Oregon.
Of course, there are many more rivers and streams in Oregon that are deserving of Wild & Scenic River protection. The River Democracy Act, one of Oregon Wild’s priority campaigns, would protect an additional 3,215 miles of Wild & Scenic Rivers across the state. Developed with an extensive public process, Senator Ron Wyden first introduced the bill in Congress in 2021. Under the Act, each Wild & Scenic River segment would gain a protected buffer of ½ mile on each side – enhancing the recreation experience, as well as safeguarding fish and wildlife habitat, clean drinking water, and preventing reckless and exploitative development like logging and mining.
At a time when we are seeing unprecedented attacks on public lands and waters, protections for Oregon’s rivers and streams are more important than ever.
Let’s get hiking!
Many of the waterways proposed as Wild & Scenic Rivers in the River Democracy Act feature trails that wind through the wild forests and meadows along their shores. Want to experience some of these places for yourself? We’ve developed a trail guide to 20 streamside hikes (plus suggestions for 16 more) to help you explore, enjoy, – and most importantly – advocate for these special places all across the state.
Download the RDA hiking guide here!
Before you head out on a hike, be sure to download a good map, and be well prepared. Check out Oregon Wild’s resource library for what you need to know!
Oregon Wild staff also lead guided hikes throughout the year, including some in this guide. Check here for upcoming guided hikes.
Learn more and take action
- Learn more about the River Democracy Act here.
- Read our report on how the River Democracy Act protects drinking water sources in Oregon.
- Want to do more? Become a citizen co-sponsor of the River Democracy Act and contact your Congressional representatives about supporting the Act.
