Life in the North Santiam Canyon
North Santiam River-
The North Santiam River has a rich history of recreation, fishing, kayaking, and an excellent escape for "water-dogs" of all ages. Beginning at Packsaddle Park, kayakers anxiously paddle through the challenges of the Line Hole, Spencer's Hole and over the correct side of Mill City Falls. Novices...there is a "right" and wrong way to go over the falls. These locations require some experience to navigate. This river can be unpredictable and has several dangerous locations with serious undertow currents. For a lighter-side float, try putting in at the Mill City Bridge, Fisherman's Bend Campground or North Santiam State Park. Life jackets are highly recommended.
Gates Oregon –
First settled in 1882, but not incorporated until 1950, the City of Gates straddles the North Santiam River in both Marion and Linn Counties.
What to Do:
eNRG Kayaking
Packsaddle Park
Minto Park - Planned Opening for Spring 2024
Niagara Park- Closed
Rocky Top Hike
Big Cliff Dam- Fishing and Kayaking
Detroit Dam- Fishing
Santiam Horse Camp- Riding
Mill City Oregon -
This timber town was once home to several lumber mills, including the Santiam Lumber Company and Hammond Lumber Company, which were among its largest employers. Currently, only two operating mills remain: Frank Lumber Company and Freres Wood.
A little bit of History: If we ain't got it, you don't need it was the motto of Stewart's Grocery Store, smartly located in the center of town close to the River. It was not unusual to see several idling log trucks parked in front of the store throughout the day. As you walked into the store, one of the first things you would notice, besides Marie's welcoming smile, was the thousands of tiny holes deeply pressed into the scruffy fir floors as a result of countless years of cork boots walking across the planks. Charley could be found butchering meat or handing out a paycheck in ten-dollar bills. Charley and Marie generously helped thousands of locals when work was slow and times were lean. During a particularly hard winter, one of my friends used to joke that his family would be eating boiled tennis shoes for dinner if his dad didn't get back to work soon. While the Store is closed, memories remain in our hearts. The building is now home to Hearts to Arts, the former KYAK 94.6 FM Radio Station, concerts, community events, and the Mill City Odd Fellows #144 occupies the second level. In the late 80's, the endangerment of the Spotted Owl and the subsequent controversy over owl breeding sites vs timber sale sites brought Mill City to the forefront of the nation as the timber industry suffered.
What to Do:
Hammond Park - Great place to put in the Santiam for a leisurely and picturesque float down the river
Mill City Falls Park- a great spot to rest
Kimmel Park- Home and starting place of the annual Fourth of July Parade and Celebration
Where to Eat:
Giovanni's Mountain Pizza - Locals and travellers alike love their Pizza and famous Breadsticks
Eddy's Philly's - Melty and hot off the grill- great menu!
The Get-A-Way- New to the Canyon but already a favorite for delicious burgers and thick ice cream shakes.
Mill City Grill - Restaurant and Bar
Rosie's Mountain Coffee House- Coffee and homemade pastries, sandwiches and salads
The Mill House - Opening soon
Mountain Grounds Coffee Co - All your favorites in one spot, served with a smile
Bell's Brews - Espresso and specialty coffee drinks
Where to Shop:
Mill City Marketplace- Quick stop for Hot Deli Food and Snacks
Rex Images - For local Suveniours
Santiam Sports Store - Liquor and 76 Gas Station - Snacks, tackle and beverages
Dollar General - A little bit of everything
US Bank - Check out the spoiled bank cat in the lobby. He's happy and well fed
Seven Eleven - Snacks and Beverages
Where to Charge:
Next to Mill City Laundromat and Dollar General
Mill City Falls Park
Where to Fuel:
Mill City Mobil Station
76 Gas Station - Sportsman's Center and Liquor Store
Where to Stay:
VRBO North Santiam Canyon
Where to Heal:
Santiam Medical Clinic Open Monday - Friday 9:00-5:00 weekly
Lyons, Oregon-
Approximately 22 miles East of Salem on North Santiam Highway 22, its a quick trip to reach the incredible North Fork Recreation Area. Picnicking, hiking, biking, and swimming are just a few of the enjoyable activities available.
What to Do: North Fork Road is now open but sadly the Parks are closed until dangerous trees from the fire can be removed.
North Fork County Park
Bear Creek County Park
Three Pools Day Use Area
Shady Cove Campground
Opal Creek Wilderness
Elkhorn Golf Course
Where to Eat:
Gingerbread House Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Dragon Chinese Kitchen Dinner
Your Country Kitchen Breakfast and Lunch
The Red Barn Tavern Lunch and Dinner
Where to Shop:
Mehama Ace Hardware Tools, Paint, and Hardware products
The Corner Market - Snacks and beverages
Lyons Market
Where to Fuel:
Pratum Co-op Energy - Mehama - Corner of Hwys 22 and 226