Kelso: River Trails, Parks and the Highlander Festival

Kelso lies at the confluence of the Cowlitz River, Coweeman River and Columbia River. River trails and parks offer a variety of outdoor activities, alongside local history, an annual festival and rail connections. If you’re looking for a hotel in Kelso, you can start by deciding whether walks, the September dates of the Highlander Festival or the rail connection will shape your stay.

Riverside Walking Trails

The Coweeman River Trail is an easy, scenic walking trail in Tam O'Shanter Park, accessible from the park. Two other options differ in length and intended use: the easy Cowlitz River Trail runs along the river, is mostly flat and about 4.9 miles long. It is suitable for walkers, runners, occasional bike rides and families. Kelso Dikes via Coweeman River Trail is also an easy riverside walking trail, but at about 7.8 miles, it is the longer of the two routes described. Access and trail conditions can change seasonally; check conditions before setting out. The Riverside Park Loop adds another option: an easy, scenic walking trail along the Cowlitz River in Kelso.

Two trails in Coweeman River Park lead to the Coweeman River. The park is currently being developed to provide a public access point to the river; the trails are primitive and unstable. If you plan to visit this area, check trail conditions beforehand, as they may change.

Parks and Recreation

Tam O'Shanter Park is on the Coweeman River, covers 38 acres and is open year-round. It offers access to a regional trail network, as well as sports fields, picnic areas, restrooms and a playground. Along with the Coweeman River Trail, which is accessible from the park, you’ll find both a walking trail and other park amenities here.

Rotary Skate Park covers 10,000 square feet and features bowl and street elements. It is open year-round; operational details may change. Catlin Rotary Spray Park has a water play area with spray features, benches, picnic tables and restrooms. It operates seasonally, and its schedule may change. Check current operating information before visiting, especially if you’re planning your trip around the spray park.

Local History and the Highlander Festival

Kelso was founded in the 1840s on the banks of the Cowlitz River by surveyor Peter Crawford. Every September, the city hosts the Highlander Festival. It showcases Scottish and Celtic culture with clan displays, Scottish craft and food stalls, music, dancing and games. Dates and programming may change; check the current event dates if the festival is the reason for your trip.

Getting There and Getting Around

Kelso-Longview Amtrak Station is near downtown Kelso and connects travelers with Kelso, Longview and the surrounding Cowlitz County region. Train schedules and other service information may change; check the current timetable when planning your arrival or onward journey. The Kelso Visitor Center helps visitors get their bearings and provides information about local events, shops and attractions. As services and opening hours may change, it’s worth checking before your visit.

Golf Nearby

Near Kelso, Three Rivers Golf Course is situated between the Columbia River, Cowlitz River and Coweeman River. The course offers views and challenging play for golfers of all skill levels. Golf adds another option for travelers who want to include a round on the course alongside walks on the trails.

Explore more destinations: Longview, Kalama.

Return to the main travel overview: Cowlitz.