• D River holds the distinction of being one of the world's shortest rivers
The D River in Lincoln City, Oregon, is famous for its extraordinary brevity—so short, in fact, it once held the title of the "shortest river in the world."
How Short is the D River?
The D River measures just 120 feet (37 meters) as it flows from Devils Lake to the Pacific Ocean—roughly the length of a basketball court. But here’s the twist: its length isn’t fixed! Depending on the tides, the river can shrink to as little as 58 feet (18 meters).
At one point, the river was listed in the Guinness World Records, with a recorded length of 440 feet (134 meters). However, in 1989, Montana's Roe River was measured at 201 feet (61 meters), snatching the title. Determined to reclaim the crown, Lincoln City submitted updated measurements of just 120 feet (37 meters).
Since then, there has been a playful rivalry between the two rivers. Lincoln City locals cheekily referred to the Roe as a “drainage ditch surveyed for a school project,” while supporters of the Roe defended its claim. The debate became so lively that Guinness eventually decided to stop listing the world’s shortest river altogether.
Regardless of its official status, the D River remains a charming curiosity and a must-see for visitors to Oregon’s scenic coast.
D River and Devils Lake
Where is Short River
You can find the D River right in the heart of Lincoln City.
It flows under Highway 101 and empties into the ocean at the D River State Recreation Site.
This spot is easy to visit, with public restrooms, paved parking, and direct access to the beach.
It's a great place to stop, stretch your legs, breathe in the fresh air, and take some cool pics.
