South Slough Trail
Clay Pit Pond Trail the Park Service's write-up
15-60 Minutes · dogs allowed · entrance fee applies · season 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.
Start Fort Clatsop Visitor Center

The Clay Pit Pond Primitive trail may not be long, but it provides the thrill of a rugged hike. A great trail for viewing wildlife or taking a moment of silent solitude in nature without having to go far.
There are sections of the trail that can be slick and muddy as well as a lot of exposed tree roots. Know before you go what the weather will be like and where you are going. There are restrooms and a water bottle filling station at the Fort Clatsop Visitor Center. There are trash cans at the picnic area, but not along the way. Please practice principals of Leave No Trace . Please 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 a ranger regarding any trail closures or dangerous conditions.
Accessibility Clay Pit Pond Primitive Trail Substrate - 100% dirt Steep slope - Yes Narrow section of path - 12 inches Benches/rest areas: No Potential hazards: Muddy, flooded, trail washing out, high winds, downed trees, tree roots, steep steps The Clay Pit Pond Primitive 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
South Slough Trail the Park Service's write-up
1-3 Hours · dogs allowed · entrance fee applies · season 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.
Start 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.
Accessibility 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.