Molalla River Recreation Corridor in Oregon: Hiking, Swimming & Camping

The Molalla River Recreation Corridor follows the scenic upper Molalla River, with numerous places to stop and admire its clear green waters as they wind through dramatic basalt and andesite rock formations.

In addition to its beautiful scenery, the corridor is a popular destination for swimming, hiking, biking, camping, picnicking, whitewater rafting, and fishing.

The paved road with river access extends for approximately 12 miles, while the broader area features about 20 miles of non-motorized trails.

Along the corridor, you can enjoy quiet swimming holes with rocky beaches, river rapids, basalt and andesite lava flows, forested slopes and foothills, and views of the Cascade Range.

Molalla River Corridor Hiking

The Molalla River Trail System offers more than 20 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The system combines single-track trails with old forest roads and offers a variety of difficulty levels. The trails wind through the forested foothills and slopes of the Molalla River Valley, with occasional scenic views of the surrounding forests and Cascade Range.

Hardy Creek Trailhead is the largest trailhead and provides ample parking, restrooms, maps, and information about the area.

Trails are closed when wet, while gravel roads remain open year-round. Single-track trails are closed from October 15 through April 15.

Check Molalla River Trails System Map & Guide.

Molalla River Fishing

Fishing for steelhead here is considered one of the best in the state. Trout and bass are also present.

The river from the mouth to the Pine Creek Bridge is open the entire year for coho salmon, adipose fin-clipped Chinook salmon, and steelhead.

Non-adipose fin-clipped steelhead can be retained from July 1st to August 31st. Bait can be used between May 15th and July 15th.

The rules and regulations can be changed without notice, so always check with Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Molalla River Rockhounding

The Molalla River flows through basalt and andesite rock formations, carrying boulders and pebbles downstream from the Cascade Range.

During our multiple trips to the river, however, we did not find any notable rocks or minerals that we would specifically recommend collecting.

Molalla River Recreation Area Campgrounds & Day-Use Areas

Camping in the area is generally limited to designated developed campgrounds, including Cedar Grove Campground and Three Bears Campground. Advance camping reservations may be available through Recreation.gov.

In addition to campgrounds, numerous day-use areas along the scenic corridor provide access to the river. Depending on the location and current regulations, you can enjoy activities such as swimming, fishing, picnicking, and exploring the riverbanks.