Row River Trail
Overview
Row River Trail is managed by Bureau of Land Management and is located near Cottage Grove, Oregon. This 14-mile, paved, multi-use National Recreation Trail follows the route of the now-abandoned Oregon Pacific & Eastern Railroad line, along the scenic shores of the Row (rhymes with 'cow') River and Dorena Reservoir. There are many trailheads and places to stop and enjoy views of Dorena Lake and the surrounding farm country. Several quaint, covered bridges are located nearby, as is the historic Bohemia Mining Area, which features remnants of late 1800s gold mines. The trestle bridge at Harms Park is one of several locations immortalized on the silver screen. Movies filmed along the railway include 'Stand By Me' with River Phoenix, 'Emperor of the North' with Ernest Borginine, and, in 1926, 'The General' with Buster Keaton.
Know Before You Go:
- No camping is allowed along the trail.
- No food or water is available on the trail. Several general stores are located in Cottage Grove, Dorena (across Row River Road from the trail), and Culp Creek (0.25 mile east on Row River Road).
- Parking and restroom facilities are located at 2- to 3-mile intervals along the trail.
- This Day Use area is open daily from dawn to dusk.
- Visitors should not enter old mine tunnels, which are both hazardous and located on private property.
Point of Interest:
The Mosby Creek Covered Bridge, located just off the trail, is a white bridge built in 1920. Extensive restoration work was completed in 1990. Row Point survives as a remnant of a native prairie community, featuring showy displays of wildflowers during spring.Row River Trail Brochure
Explore Oregon Recreation: Row River Trail
Things to Do at Row River Trail
Permits & Passes
Special permits are required for certain activities. Reserve your permits in advance to ensure access to popular areas.
Recreation Activities
Popular activities at Row River Trail include:
Nearby Activities
- Biking
- Boating
- Camping
- Climbing
- Day Use Area
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Historic & Cultural Site
- Horseback Riding
- Photography
- Picnicking
- Swimming
- Wildlife Viewing
Plan Your Visit
Reservation Tips
Row River Trail is a popular destination. Check individual facility pages for specific booking windows and availability.
Getting There
From Eugene, take Interstate 5 south to the Cottage Grove exit (#174), and turn east onto Row River Road. Travel for 3.5 miles. Turn right onto Layng Road and proceed 1.2 miles to the corner of Layng and Mosby Creek Roads.
GPS Coordinates: 43.77680000000000, -123.00830000000001
Contact & Resources
Phone: 541-683-6600
Additional Information:
