Salmon River (Lincoln County, Oregon) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Salmon River |
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![]() Near mouth on the Pacific Ocean
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Location of the mouth of the Salmon River in Oregon
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Country | United States |
State | Oregon |
County | Lincoln, Tillamook, and Polk |
Physical characteristics | |
Main source | Saddlebag Mountain Central Oregon Coast Range, Lincoln County 3,050 ft (930 m) 44°59′42″N 123°46′35″W / 44.99500°N 123.77639°W |
River mouth | Pacific Ocean near Cascade Head 0 ft (0 m) 45°02′48″N 124°00′22″W / 45.04667°N 124.00611°W |
Length | 24 mi (39 km) |
Basin features | |
Basin size | 75 sq mi (190 km2) |
The Salmon River is a beautiful river in Oregon, United States. It flows from the mountains all the way to the Pacific Ocean. This river is about 24 kilometers (15 miles) long. It's a special place for many animals, especially fish!
It starts in the Central Oregon Coast Range. Most of its journey is within Lincoln County. The river also briefly flows through parts of Polk and Tillamook counties. A large part of the river runs through the Siuslaw National Forest.
Journey of the Salmon River
The Salmon River begins in the mountains. These mountains are near the border of Lincoln and Polk counties. First, it flows east into Polk County. Then, it turns north and west. It re-enters Lincoln County and briefly goes into Tillamook County. After that, it comes back into Lincoln County near Oregon Route 18.
The river continues generally west and southwest. It winds through the Siuslaw National Forest. Finally, it turns west again to reach the Pacific Ocean. This happens near a place called Cascade Head. This spot is about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) north of Lincoln City.
Roads and Scenery
Oregon Route 18 follows the river through the mountains. This road connects to towns like Sheridan and McMinnville to the east. It also links to U.S. Route 101 to the west. The river and highway pass by the Van Duzer Forest Corridor State Wayside. This is a scenic area where people can enjoy nature.
Amazing Fish in the River
The Salmon River is home to many types of fish. You can find wild steelhead here. There are also coastal cutthroat trout. These fish are native to the river.
The river is also important for salmon. Chinook and coho salmon are released into the river each year. These salmon come from a hatchery located in Otis. This helps to keep the salmon populations healthy.