At Lake Sacajawea, Longview brings together a range of interests: trails for walking, jogging, and cycling, Japanese Gardens, and the Solar System Walk. The trails around the lake span 3.5 miles. The Frank Willis Arboretum adds another dimension to your visit, with 119 tree species represented along a loop of about 3.5 miles around the lake. Their similar length offers two different ways to experience the area around the lake: the trail network and the loop with its tree species.
Trails and Park Loops
There are also trails away from the lake, with different lengths and features. A 3.6-mile gravel trail loops around Lake Sacajawea Park. Along the levee at Ditch Number 6, a 2.5-mile gravel trail is used for birdwatching, cycling, and walking dogs. For shorter park loops, the 0.25-mile Vandercook Park Trail loops around Vandercook Park in the historic Old West Side neighborhood.
The Altrusa Park Trail, also called the Mt. Solo Trail, and a trail with access to Archie Anderson Park are each 1.3 miles long. The Altrusa Park Trail provides access to Altrusa Park; the fully paved, landscaped, and lighted trail leads to Archie Anderson Park. In the Cloney Park area, a trail provides access to Cloney Skate Park and a BMX track. When choosing a route, you can therefore consider both its length and the park or activities mentioned.
Historic Sites and Local Landmarks
R.A. Long Park is in the Longview Civic Center Historic District, and a 0.3-mile gravel path loops around the park. The district is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places and the Washington Heritage Register. This makes it possible to combine a short park loop with a visit to an officially recognized historic district.
Another local landmark is the Nutty Narrows Bridge over Olympia Way near Civic Center Circle. Local builder Amos Peters constructed the squirrel bridge in 1963. As of 2023, Longview had nine squirrel bridges. A 50-foot-long Shay locomotive is also on public display on the west lawn of the library grounds; a pavilion protects it from the weather.
Theater, Market, and Getting There
The Columbia Theatre presents a 2026–2027 Mainstage season. The Stage Door Concert Series offers café-style seating on stage. The Fibre Family Series emphasizes a shared experience for children and adults. As the program may change, it is worth checking the current schedule before your visit.
The Cowlitz Community Farmers Market offers produce, flowers, baked goods, and hot food. The selection may vary by market day. For train travel, the nearby Kelso-Longview Amtrak Station connects travelers to Longview. Check schedules and station services when planning your trip, as these may change.
Discover more destinations: Kelso, Kalama.
Return to the main travel overview: Cowlitz.
