Minto-Brown Island Park

Picture a 1,200-acre park of lush open and wooded areas, making it the biggest in Salem, Oregon. If your interest and curiosity are piqued, head to the Minto-Brown Island Park. 

Before it was known as Minto-Brown Island Park, it was used by the Kalapuya Indians for thousands of years. 

In the mid-19th century, John Minto and Isaac Brown came to farm the island, leaving a lasting legacy still remembered today. John Minto also has his name preserved on Minto Mountain in Eastern Linn County.

In 1857, Isaac Brown settled on one part of the island, raising livestock and growing produce and tobacco. This part of the island came to be known as Brown Island. 

Minto-Brown Island Park was established in 1970 and has blended community, wildlife, and agriculture. It represents reconciling conflicting interests, providing a space for diverse individuals to enjoy and appreciate nature.

Fun Facts & Cool Features 

Minto-Brown Island Park is a haven for humans looking for a break from city life and a sanctuary for various wildlife. 

It's home to seasonal wetlands, essential habitats for many species. These wetlands have cultural significance, too; they are seen as vital aspects of cultural restoration for local tribes.

The park's size is another impressive feature. With over 1,200 acres to explore, you'll find a mix of open spaces and wooded areas, providing diverse landscapes for every outdoor enthusiast. 

Minto-Brown Island Park also has a farming history. It was once the site of significant agricultural activities, and this legacy continues to influence its management today. Balancing the community's needs, wildlife, and agriculture remains a priority, making it a unique case study in sustainable land use.

Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or looking for a great place to spend a day, Minto-Brown Island Park will provide a memorable Willamette vacation experience.

Getting There 

Below are directions to Minto-Brown Island Park from the Willamette Valley area:

• Follow I-5 N toward Portland. 
• Use the left 2 lanes to take exit 299B for I-405 N toward US-26 W
• Continue onto I-405 N
• Use the right lane to take exit 2B toward Everett St/Glisan St
• Use the right lane to merge onto NW 14th Ave
• Turn right onto NW Everett St.
• Turn right onto NW 13th Ave
• Turn right onto W Burnside St
• Continue straight to stay on W Burnside St
• Turn left onto SW Tichner Dr
• Turn right onto SW Kingston Ave
• Address: 400 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, OR 97205

Access the park from Riverfront Park by going over a pedestrian bridge.

Alternatively, you can go through Eola Bend County Park, which borders Minto-Brown to the northwest along the Willamette River.

Once in the park, there are numerous parking lots and trailheads that you can access, such as Parking Lot 1 or the Lot 3 Trailhead.

Cost 

• Minto-Brown Island Park is a public park with no cost to visit.

Prices are subject to change. Please check their website for updates.