In the heart of the Pacific Northwest, where emerald forests meet the untamed Oregon coast, a hidden gem awaits those seeking an adventure off the beaten path. The Nehalem River, a pristine 118-mile waterway, is a testament to the rugged beauty of the region, offering a bounty of breathtaking vistas, rich history, and a vibrant ecosystem that beckons outdoor enthusiasts from far and wide.
Nestled in the North Coast region of Oregon, the Nehalem River weaves its way through a remarkable tapestry of nature, home to some of the last remaining wild salmon and steelhead runs in the Lower 48. This river, celebrated by Oregonians, is a sanctuary for those who yearn to hike, fish, camp, and meander along its crystal-clear waters. The Nehalem is a cherished retreat that welcomes all who dare to explore its hidden wonders. As the Wild Salmon Center rightly proclaims, it's an Oregon North Coast gem that beckons the adventurer's spirit.
As you embark on your journey through the Nehalem River, you'll be met with a magnificent display of nature's majesty. This 118-mile watercourse is not only one of the longest rivers in Oregon but also boasts an expansive drainage area of approximately 855 square miles. Its course takes you on a scenic tour, circling around the northern tip of the Oregon Coast range before gracefully flowing southwestward to meet the Nehalem Bay and ultimately the mighty Pacific Ocean.
Fueling this pristine river's flow is the relentless cascade of heavy rain, with the Nehalem Basin receiving over 100 inches annually, even more so at its higher elevations. The Nehalem River is nurtured by several tributaries, including Beneke Creek, Humbug Creek, Quartz Creek, Bull Heifer Creek, Sager Creek, and the Salmonberry River, adding to its natural grandeur.
Rooted in history, the name "Nehalem" is a tribute to the indigenous Nehalem Tribe that called this watershed home for thousands of years before European settlers arrived. The Nehalem Tribe's small villages dotted the landscape, much like the river itself, which stands today as the largest "wild fish only" river on the Oregon Coast.
In the early 20th century, the Nehalem River bore witness to immense log drives. Loggers erected temporary wooden dams along the river and its tributaries to transport timber to mills in towns like Nehalem and Wheeler. This history adds a layer of intrigue to the Nehalem's story, as the river has witnessed the transition from an industrial waterway to a preserved natural wonder.
The Nehalem River, teeming with life, plays host to an array of fish species, including Coho salmon, Chinook salmon, rainbow trout (commonly known as Steelhead), and Coastal cutthroat trout. It's worth noting that the Columbia and the Nehalem rivers are the sole Oregon coast rivers recognized for their summer Chinook salmon runs, a testament to the river's ecological significance.
But the Nehalem River isn't only about fish. It's a haven for wildlife, including deer, otters, beavers, and elk that call its banks home. In the skies, you may spot osprey and golden eagles soaring majestically, while the elusive marbled murrelet, described by the Audubon Society as "a strange, mysterious little seabird," finds refuge along these waters. The Nehalem River is a living museum of biodiversity that welcomes all who seek to witness the wonders of the natural world.
In 2019, recognition of the river's outstanding beauty culminated in the designation of a 17-mile stretch of the Nehalem as a state scenic waterway, further safeguarding this pristine gem for generations to come. As you explore the Nehalem River, you'll discover that it's not just a destination; it's a journey through the heart of the Pacific Northwest, where the Oregon Coast's splendor meets the untamed wilderness. Come, experience the grandeur of the Nehalem River, and let its timeless beauty captivate your soul.