Time was you could walk the nature trail from Salmon Point RV Resort and Marina’s waterfront pub at the north end all the way south to the Fisherman’s Pub on the Oyster River A short stroll from there gets you to from Pacific Playground RV Resort and Marina. The trail covers about 3 kilometers each way.
The Fisherman’s Pub sadly closed several years ago now and, sadder still, the Salmon Point Pub burned down this past winter.
Although you may not be able to treat yourself to a pint and a meal after making there trek I would still highly recommend the walk, it is a beauty!
Public trailhead access and parking is located at both ends and there is also a portable potty near the south end entrance.
From the north access you will stroll through open fields along a rocky path with Salmon Point’s lighthouse area to the north and the public trail through the trees to the south. The path will become sandier and will narrow as you pass by the marshlands.
There is the first of strategically placed benches where you can rest and observe the local bird life in the marsh.
As you continue along the path will fork, the left trail going along the water’s edge and the right through the trees, a very pretty choice that fronts the private lands of the Shelter Point Distillery.
I find that I am always drawn to the beachside portion, as the open views are spectacular. The path is groomed with bark mulch so bare feet or sandals be warned!
On clear days the mainland mountains are on display in all their snow capped majesty. Take the time to watch the water as you go, as you will see seal lions, seals and even schools of dolphins!
Can you feel your stress slipping away already?
The trail continues to follow the rocky beachfront lined on each side by mounds of driftwood piled high from winter storms. Farther ahead you will start to see the Oyster river and before you make the inland turn to follow along its’ banks you will see that the beach now has lots of spots with perfectly positioned driftwood logs to sit a while and watch the river meet the sea.
Further up the river bank you will want to watch your step as the trail is crisscrossed with many tree routes and no one needs to take a header here!
This is a beautiful section featuring tall fir and cedar trees and winds along the riverbank.
Instead of the sound of waves lapping the rocky shoreline you will be surrounded by the sounds of the rushing river.
In a short while you will come to a small pedestrian bridge that crosses the river. There is also a choice of paths here but both lead to almost the same spot, one along the river and one through the forest.
You are almost there. A bit farther up the road from the Fisherman’s Pub is a small grocery (Discovery Foods) Oyster Creek Liquors and The Forbidden Zone, a nice little coffee shop and Pizza place, a great place to fuel up before making the return hike.
This trail is easy and although there is a bit of mixed terrain that can be uneven, there are very few changes in elevation. It is also extremely dog friendly.
