Paddle Bike Hike Salem Oregon by The Grand Hotel in Salem in Salem, OR

It's not hard to come up with an excuse to visit Salem, Oregon. No matter the season, a road trip to our area can be a delightful experience. Wherever you go, Salem is brimming with rich history, culture, and charm. The summer and fall months are the perfect time for outdoor lovers to experience our one-of-a-kind natural attractions by foot, by bike, and by boat! With dozens of outstanding outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the Mid-Willamette Valley, this is the perfect destination for road-trippers, hikers, bikers and kayakers alike! Here are some great local tips and itineraries for those of you ready to paddle, bike and hike your way through Salem & the Willamette Valley area. Where to Paddle Our region boasts a healthy number of rivers, streams and lakes perfect for canoeing, kayaking and rafting. If you're looking for a family-friendly float, try the Buena Vista to Independence stretch of the Willamette River. Be sure to stop halfway at Rogue Farms, Rogue Ales' 33-acre working hop farm and tasting room, which has a sandy beach and takeout area for kayaks and canoes. For a bold water adventure, head to Mill City for a guided whitewater kayak or rafting experience on the Santiam River with eNRG Kayaking. In downtown Salem, stop in at Salem Summit Company and rent a standup paddleboard (SUP) or kayak, then drive the short distance to put in at Wallace Marine Park. Where to Bike Mountain bikers will love the thrills, twists and turns at Black Rock Mountain Bike Area near Falls City. If you want to bike past beautiful vineyards and taste world-class wine, be sure to join Eola Hills Wine Cellar's popular Bike Oregon Wine Country rides. Occurring every Sunday in August, these fully-supported rides include stops at area wineries, topped off by a salmon bake on the patio of Eola Hills' tasting room. Road cyclists will also love the unique 6 Bridges Loop, which brings you to six different historic covered bridges on the 57-mile trek, which starts and ends in Stayton. Where to Hike It's hard to talk about Willamette Valley hiking without highlighting a few of its stunning waterfall hikes. The Shellburg and Stassel Falls Trail is a 6.1-mile moderately trafficked loop located near Mehama that is accessible year-round. Stunning Abiqua Falls offers hikers a close-up view of a 92-foot waterfall surrounded by a spectacular basalt amphitheater. Insider's Tip: contact nearby Abiqua Wind Vineyard before your hike and arrange for a private tasting afterwards. If you want the ultimate Mid-Willamette Valley outdoor experience, sign up for the Salem River 2 Ridge Relay, taking place on Sunday, September 16. The one-day event includes a 6-mile kayak on the Willamette River, a 40-mile bike ride through beautiful vineyards and farmland and a 5.8-mile hike through the old growth forests of Silver Falls State Park. Participants are welcome to compete as individuals or as part of a two or three-person team. For more outdoor activities in the Salem area and to create your personalized itinerary, visit TravelSalem.com.