Venture to Salish Ponds in Fairview for an unforgettable fishing excursion full of natural beauty and unique catches. Nestled at the crossroads of NE Halsey Street and Fairview Parkway, this former rock quarry now boasts lush trails and abundant wildlife, including ospreys and colorful warblers. Set your line at East Salish Pond for largemouth bass, or head to West Salish Pond for stocked trout on their accessible fishing docks. Delight in the ADA-friendly paths designed for everyone. Whether you're a pro angler or a family on an outdoor adventure, this hidden gem promises rich experiences that invite curiosity and exploration.
Key Takeaways
- Salish Ponds offers two prime fishing spots: East Pond for bass and crappie, and West Pond for stocked trout.
- The park features ADA-friendly paths and benches, making it accessible for all visitors.
- Catch-and-release fishing is encouraged to maintain the ecological balance of the ponds.
- Fishing amenities include platforms, docks, and trails for convenient bank fishing.
- Family-friendly activities include nature exploration, wildlife viewing, and special fishing events.
Discovering Salish Ponds
Tucked away at the crossroads of NE Halsey Street and Fairview Parkway, Salish Ponds is a delightful discovery waiting for you. Once an abandoned rock quarry used for the Interstate 84 expansion, this area has transformed into a serene natural oasis. The landowners generously donated it to the City of Fairview in 1999, paving the way for its conversion into a beautiful park. Thanks to the Salish Ponds Park Improvement Project, funded by a 2006 Metro bond and approved in 2012, it's now a thriving habitat. The project not only redeveloped the pond shores and hiking trails but also addressed issues of man-made erosion around the ponds.
Spread across 70 acres, Salish Ponds features 2.8 miles of hiking trails that wind through lush landscapes. The reverse lollipop loop trail, with a gentle 30-foot elevation gain, offers a leisurely walk for everyone. It even connects to Fairview Community Park via the charming Alex Brown Covered Bridge. From the parking area, cross the Inatay Bridge and take the East Pond Trail to fully experience the natural beauty. Accessibility is a priority here, with ADA-friendly paths and a welcoming atmosphere for pets on leashes.
As you explore, you'll encounter diverse wildlife and vibrant vegetation. Majestic ospreys soar above, while colorful warblers flit through willows and cattails. It's a nature lover's paradise, beckoning you to discover its tranquil beauty.
Ideal Fishing Spots
When it comes to fishing at Salish Ponds, you'll find two distinct hotspots that promise an exciting angling experience. The East Salish Pond is a vibrant habitat teeming with resident fish like largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and bullhead catfish. During the warm seasons, the pond comes alive, making it the perfect time to cast your line. Use artificial lures that mimic fish, frogs, crayfish, and worms to entice bass, while jigs and minnow-like lures are your best bet for crappie. With a fishing dock on the north side and a trail system for bank fishing, you've got plenty of access to these finned treasures. The park is also dog-friendly, allowing visitors to enjoy a day of fishing with their furry companions by their side. Remember to release larger specimens, especially for long-lived species like bass, to help maintain the pond's ecological balance.
Meanwhile, the West Salish Pond is smaller but deeper, renowned for its trout, which are periodically stocked by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. If you time it just right, fishing shortly after a stocking can lead to a bountiful catch. Access is easy with a dock on the north side and roadside parking along Glisan Street. Both ponds boast a variety of fish, offering a diverse and thrilling fishing adventure. Remember to check the catch limits and practice catch-and-release for larger specimens to preserve the ponds' aquatic life.
Exploring the Trails
Salish Ponds offer a delightful 2.8-mile reverse lollipop loop trail that invites you to explore its serene beauty. As you commence/set out/initiate/launch on this easy journey, you'll find a wide gravel path meandering around two picturesque lakes, surrounded by lush willows, cattails, and verdant ash woods. With an elevation gain of just 30 feet and a high point of 200 feet, the trail is perfect for a leisurely walk. Along the way, you'll witness a vibrant tapestry of wildlife, from the graceful swoop of ospreys to the cheerful melodies of warblers, thrushes, and wrens. The trail is known for its easy elevation, making it accessible to most hikers.
Begin your adventure at the Salish Ponds Elementary Trailhead, and make your way to Fairview Community Park Trailhead. Reserved parking near The Lodges at Lake Salish provides easy access, with alternative parking options available. If you're using public transit, hop on TriMet bus 77 and alight at 207th Ave, then enjoy a short walk south. The trail is popular, especially for birding, hiking, and running, but you can still find moments of solitude during quieter times. As you stroll, soak in the sights of Silver Star Mountain from East Pond's side, a truly breathtaking vista.
Abundant Fish Species
As you conclude your stroll along the peaceful trails, you'll be enthusiastic to cast your line into the waters of Salish Ponds, home to an impressive array of fish species. East Salish Pond is a haven for anglers seeking largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. The shallow, warm waters create the perfect environment for bass and crappie, especially during the warmer months. To lure in a bass, try using artificial lures that mimic fish, frogs, or crayfish. Crappie, on the other hand, respond well to small jigs and minnows.
Over at West Salish Pond, the excitement peaks during trout stocking periods in late winter, spring, and fall. In 2024, you'll find 3,167 stocked trout, with some trophy-sized rainbows included. For best results, try fishing soon after the ponds are stocked, casting 20-30 feet from shore. Using chartruse power eggs or Blue Fox spinners can boost your chances. Anglers will appreciate the fishing platforms that offer easy access to the water, making it convenient to find the perfect spot to cast your line.
For bluegill, small worms or artificial flies work wonders, while catfish will go for worms, nightcrawlers, or even prepared doughs. Adjusting your depth and technique is key to reeling in a prize catch at Salish Ponds.
Family-Friendly Activities
Nestled within the serene Salish Ponds Wetland Park in Fairview, Oregon, lies a treasure trove of family-friendly activities waiting to be discovered. With easy access from Reynolds School property, Community Park, or the Target parking lot, this park is perfect for a family day out. You'll find ADA-accessible paths and benches, making it easy for everyone to explore. Fishing platforms around the West Pond are ideal for families and beginners impatient to cast a line.
As you wander along the gravel nature trails, keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife and vibrant vegetation, offering excellent opportunities for budding naturalists to learn and explore. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's colorful engagement trailer, often present at events, is stocked with 50 fishing rods and educational activities. Children will love the play structures and picnic tables at Fairview Community Park, where you can enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature's beauty.
Special events, like free fishing days, add extra excitement. Volunteers often provide snacks and guidance, making your visit both enjoyable and educational. Collaborations with organizations like Get Hooked and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife offer enriching outdoor learning experiences.
Don't forget to bring your furry friend along—dogs are welcome on leashes. With minimal elevation changes and ample safety features, Salish Ponds is a delightful and secure place for family fun!
History of the Park
Once a bustling site of industrial activity, the area now known as Salish Ponds Wetland Park has undergone a remarkable transformation. Initially used as gravel pits for constructing I-84, the site has been brilliantly redeveloped by Fairview City into a serene wetland and greenspace. You'll be amazed at how the city turned the degraded pond fringes into vibrant habitats teeming with life.
Today, the park is a haven for both nature lovers and fishing enthusiasts. The ponds, stocked with trout, invite you to cast your line and enjoy a relaxing day by the water. But it's not just about fishing; the park's extensive walking trails offer an immersive experience through diverse ecosystems. As you stroll, you'll notice the ecological restoration efforts, with flourishing willows, ash, cottonwood, and cattails lining the paths.
The park is a sanctuary for wildlife, home to waterfowl, songbirds, turtles, and even deer. Trails connect seamlessly with the Gresham Fairview Trail, offering expansive exploration opportunities. Salish Ponds stands as an embodiment of sustainable development, blending ecological health with recreational enjoyment. It's not just a park; it's a symbol of community and environmental harmony. Visitors can explore the gravel path that surrounds two small lakes, providing an ideal vantage point for observing the thriving wildlife.
Getting There
Getting to Salish Ponds Wetland Park is a breeze, thanks to the variety of transportation options available. If you're using public transportation, hop on TriMet's Bus #8 from Fairview Blvd and SE Stark St, which stops near the park entrance. Alternatively, Bus #9 from SE 122nd Ave and SE Stark St will also drop you off within a short walking distance. For those taking the MAX, ride the Blue Line to 122nd Avenue Station, then transfer to Bus #8 for the last mile to this serene destination.
Driving to Salish Ponds is straightforward, too. From I-84 E, take exit 10 for I-205 N toward Vancouver, continue for 5 miles, and follow exit 22 for I-84 E/US-30 E toward Gresham. Exit at SE 122nd Ave, drive 2 miles, then turn left onto SE Stark St and continue for another mile. Ample parking is available near the entrance and pond areas, but remember, a parking permit is necessary for certain spots.
Cyclists and walkers can enjoy scenic routes, including the Eastbank Esplanade or the I-84 path. SE Stark St offers bike lanes, and there's bike parking near the entrance, making your journey eco-friendly and pleasant.
Accessibility Features
Salish Ponds Wetland Park is a haven for accessibility-focused outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of features designed to confirm everyone can enjoy its natural beauty. With ADA parking spots behind Salish Ponds Elementary School and at Fairview Community Park, you'll find convenient locations for easy access. These thoughtful accommodations don't stop at parking. The park boasts ADA-compliant ramps and fishing platforms at both West and East Salish Ponds, verifying that everyone can relish the joy of casting a line into serene waters. West Salish Pond is particularly well-equipped, featuring a concrete ADA ramp leading to a fishing station.
The park's accessible trailheads are strategically placed, with entry points from the elementary school, East Pond Trailhead off Glisan, Fairview Community Park, and even the Target parking lot. Although some trails feature gravel and natural surfaces that can become muddy, ADA ramps and footbridges make navigation smoother. In addition to its accessibility features, Salish Ponds offers a floating pier on the south side of the ponds, enhancing the fishing experience for all visitors.
Facilities like the restrooms near the East Pond junction, though occasionally locked, add a layer of convenience. Benches scattered along the trails invite you to pause and soak in the scenery. Whether you're here for a leisurely stroll or a fishing adventure, Salish Ponds guarantees your visit is both accessible and enjoyable, with plenty of amenities to enhance your experience.
Wildlife and Vegetation
You'll be captivated by the vibrant wildlife and lush vegetation that thrive at Salish Ponds. As you wander around East and West Salish Ponds, you'll encounter a rich tapestry of life. Birds such as Canada geese, great blue herons, and kingfishers are frequently seen, gracing the skies and waters. During your visit, keep an eye out for the majestic bald eagles and the vibrant red-winged blackbirds nesting in tall reeds. The red-winged blackbirds are known to congregate in large family gatherings, showcasing the complex social structures that can be observed in avian communities.
The ponds boast a robust aquatic ecosystem. West Salish Pond, stocked with trout, benefits from its aquatic vegetation, which supports a thriving fish community. Meanwhile, East Salish Pond offers a diverse habitat for bass and crappie, making it a haven for anglers and nature lovers alike. The health of these ponds is a testament to the importance of monitoring and protecting diverse marine ecosystems.
The surrounding vegetation is just as impressive. You'll find towering western cedars and Douglas firs, providing perfect perches for the birds. Graveled paths and grassy areas invite you to explore the serene environment. These ponds are not just a refuge for wildlife but an integral part of the local ecosystem, where birds and fish rely on the rich habitat for survival and interaction, offering an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Park Development Highlights
As you marvel at the rich tapestry of wildlife and lush vegetation around Salish Ponds, you might find yourself curious about the park's intriguing history and development. What was once an abandoned rock quarry for expanding Interstate 84 has transformed into a serene 70-acre city park. After mining operations ceased in the early 1980s, the property was generously donated to the City of Fairview in 1999. This marked the beginning of its rapid redevelopment into a natural haven, featuring two stunning ponds and 2.8 miles of inviting hiking trails.
In 2012, the "Salish Ponds Park Improvement Project" was launched, funded by a 2006 Metro bond. This project aimed to enhance the park's natural charm, shifting its focus from merely a "fishing spot" to a multi-use natural area. Shorelines were redeveloped, and trails were upgraded to gravel, ensuring a delightful experience for all visitors. Today, you can enjoy a wide range of recreational opportunities, from fishing in the well-stocked West Salish Pond to leisurely walks along scenic trails. Accessible and pet-friendly, Salish Ponds is a testament to thoughtful urban redevelopment, offering a peaceful escape just minutes from city life.
