Join members of the Umatilla River Trail Steering Committee for a hybrid tour along 2 miles of the proposed Umatilla River Trail, a trails system that inter-connects Umatilla, Hermiston, Stanfield, and Echo to increase recreation, health and community livability. Learn more about the project and its collaborative vision. The segment of the Umatilla River Trail currently in design and construction will provide both beautiful views of the river and a safe walking and biking route and is funded through ODOT's Oregon Community Paths grant program.
The group will meet at Nobles’ Gazebo for an introduction to the project before shuttling to the footbridge, which marks the start point of the trail. There, participants will learn more about the undeveloped section in this area before shuttling to the walking portion of the tour along a 1-mile section of the Umatilla River back to Nobles’ Gazebo. Participants will then shuttle to Clyde Nobles Park while learning about the proposed sections along the way. The tour will conclude with a discussion and Q&A about further sections of the trail, during which time participants will receive a map that they can use to travel to additional sections of the proposed Umatilla River Trail on their own.
The Umatilla River has been a life source and focus to peoples living along its banks since the beginning of time. In Indian tongue, “Umatilla” means “laughing waters”, probably because it is so vibrant and alive. It has provided a natural road map to follow from one location to another whether it be hunting ground-to-gathering ground-to-fishing or just from community -to -community. The river has provided fish and water to refresh humans and wildlife; water to nourish trees and croplands along its course. Umatilla County drew its name from the river when it was founded in 1862. It is part of our heritage; an important part of our life.
To learn more about the history and development of the trail, and to see additional maps and images, be sure to check out the Umatilla River Trail Concept Plan.
For questions, please contact Everett Ó Cillín at everett@oregontrailscoalition.org
