A
s railroad companies
of the past laid track
across the American
landscape, they created
pathways through portions of
the country that would otherwise
remain unseen by human eyes.
Today, trail users traveling along
the footprints of these former rail
lines find the unique access offers
rare opportunities to view wildlife
in its native habitat. From moose
in Maine and alligators in Alabama
to cormorants along the California
coast, animals seen from rail-trails
give their human visitors incentive
to sustain these habitats and
conserve resources to help them
thrive. These four trails showcase
some of the diverse wildlife you
may see on your next visit.
a view from...
DAVID REID
Astoria Riverwalk, Oregon
Situated just feet from the coastline of the
Pacific Northwest, Oregon’s 6.4-mile Astoria
Riverwalk is an urban trail with an unusual
wildlife attraction. More than 2,000 bark-
ing sea lions announce their presence even
before trail users reach the Port of Astoria’s
East Mooring Basin, where the pinnipeds
spectacularly congregate on the docks.
However, the 800-pound sea lions cause sig-
nificant damage to property along the docks
and to the boats moored there. Marine
mammal experts also note that the animals’
takeover of the docks and frequent interac-
tions with humans are detrimental to the sea
lions’ health.
The port is exploring nuisance strate-
gies—including an unsuccessful attempt
with a fake orca last spring—to encourage
the sea lions to relocate to the nearby rock
breakwaters, also visible from the riverwalk.
Despite the problems, the large colony of
sleek mammals attracts attention from tour-
ists and locals alike. Bald eagles, pelicans
and Canada geese also frequent the coastline
and give trail users wildlife viewing options
both in the skies and on the sea.
JENNILYN WILSON
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