Kelso lies at the confluence of the Cowlitz River, Coweeman River, and Columbia River. River trails, city parks, and an annual cultural festival held in September offer different things to explore. When planning a visit, you can weigh walking, park amenities, culture, and transportation as separate considerations.

Walking Trails along the Cowlitz and Coweeman

The Coweeman River Trail is an easy, scenic walking trail in Kelso, accessible from Tam O'Shanter Park. The Cowlitz River Trail is about 4.9 miles long, runs mostly flat along the river, and is suitable for walkers, runners, occasional bike rides, and families.

A longer route option is Kelso Dikes via Coweeman River Trail: it is about 7.8 miles long and an easy riverside walk. The two approximate lengths provide a concrete comparison for planning; trail conditions and access at Kelso Dikes may change seasonally. The Riverside Park Loop is another easy, scenic walking option along the Cowlitz River in Kelso.

Parks and Recreation

Tam O'Shanter Park covers 38 acres, is located on the Coweeman River, and is open year-round. It offers access to a regional trail network as well as sports fields, picnic areas, restrooms, and a playground. This means there are other park amenities to choose from in addition to the trail network.

Rotary Skate Park is also open year-round. Spanning 10,000 square feet, it includes bowl and street features; operational details may change. Catlin Rotary Spray Park offers a water play area with spray features, benches, picnic tables, and restrooms. Its seasonal operating schedule may change, so check current conditions before visiting.

At Coweeman River Park, two trails lead to the Coweeman River; trail conditions are primitive and unstable. The park is currently being developed to provide a public access point to the river. Access conditions may change, so it is a good idea to check the current situation before visiting.

Culture, History, and the Surrounding Area

Kelso hosts the Highlander Festival every September. It showcases Scottish and Celtic culture with clan displays, Scottish crafts and food vendors, music, dancing, and games. As dates and programming may change, check these details when planning your trip.

The city’s history includes its founding in the 1840s: surveyor Peter Crawford founded Kelso on the banks of the Cowlitz River. The Three Rivers Golf Course is also located in the area around Kelso, between the Columbia, Cowlitz, and Coweeman rivers. It offers scenic views and challenging play for golfers of all skill levels.

Getting There and Finding Your Way

The Kelso-Longview Amtrak Station is near downtown Kelso and connects travelers to Kelso, Longview, and the surrounding Cowlitz County region. As train services and schedules may change, it is worth checking the current timetable before traveling.

The Kelso Visitor Center helps tourists find their way and provides information about local events, shops, and attractions. Services and opening hours may change; check before visiting.

When choosing a hotel in Kelso, you can first decide what your stay will focus on: river trails, park amenities, cultural events, or rail travel. These different themes can help you match Kelso to your travel plans.

Discover more destinations: Longview, Kalama.

For the broader travel overview: Cowlitz.