Minto Park
In the mid-1950's before the Marion County Park and Recreation Commission was formed, Judge Rex Hartly and members of the County Court signed an order setting tax-reverted recreational properties along the North Santiam River. Minto Canyon Park is one of these areas.
The park was named in honor of John Minto who explored the Santiam Canyon in 1873 in search of a natural pass leading into Eastern Oregon. The Minto Trail, which starts in Eastern Oregon and ends in Gates, and Minto Creek are both named after him. A Land and Water Development grant in the late 1960's reimbursed Marion County for one-half the cost of developing 14 picnic sites and the extensive trail system through the park and along the Santiam River. Work relief crews were also used to assist in development of the park.
Wildfire Recovery Efforts
The long-term goal for Marion County Parks is to redevelop in a way that anticipates how the public will recreate in the future, while also building climate and environmentally resilient parks that future generations can enjoy.
Parks has been presented with a once-in-a-generation opportunity to start fresh and forge a new vision for recreation in the Santiam Canyon. This vision will provide diverse recreational opportunities and create a sustainable parks program that benefits the region and visitors.
You can explore the current recovery plan now.
Santiam Canyon Parks Recovery Plan
Facilities at a glance
- Open Year-Round
- 71.72 Acres
- Picnic Tables
- ADA Restroom
- Hiking Trails
- Water Activities
- Fishing
- Day Use Only
-
Smoking and alcohol are prohibited at all county parks (see
Marion County Code).
Directions
Located at 33200 N. Santiam Hwy SE (Hwy 22), the park is thirty-seven miles east of Salem and 1 mile east of Gates.
For More Information Contact:
Parks Coordinator
5155 Silverton Rd.
Salem, OR 97305
Phone: (503) 588-5036
Email:
Parks@co.marion.or.us
Location:
Minto Park
33200 N. Santiam Hwy SE, Gates, OR 97346
Park Hours:
Sunrise to Sunset
Open Year-Round
Day Use Only
Get Directions
