If there’s one asset our region has in abundance, it’s free-flowing waterways near perfect as trails for recreational canoers and kayakers. Warrenton is absolutely on the right track in considering modest steps that will formally designate the Skipanon River as a water trail.

There’s nothing quite like getting down on the surface of the water, in a canoe or kayak, for enhancing a person’s appreciation of the nature that surrounds us at the mouth of the Columbia. Birds and wildlife are far easier to observe as one glides silently along in what they may interpret as a floating log.

Every passing moment may bring a new surprise in the form of a grazing elk or lazily sunning heron. But even in the absence of such star attractions, paddling along local streams and creeks is a nearly mystical way to soak up the potent light that suffuses the water with its own unique sense of tranquil life.

Water trails build political constituencies in favor of sensible conservation measures that keep water pure and riparian areas free of inappropriate development. Camouflaged behind tall stands of grass, blackberry bushes and trees, unassuming little rivers like the Skipanon can be neglected or forgotten unless people are provided convenient ways to get out and experience them first-hand.

Paddling any of the tidally influenced tributaries that flow into the Columbia estuary presents special opportunities and challenges. Time the tides right, and you can have a quick paddle-free voyage inland with the flow of the tide, stop to picnic, and then float back down as the tide ebbs. Time it wrong and you have some real exercise on your hands.

The Lower Columbia River Estuary Partnership has been working for years to enhance and promote water trails in our region. As Lewis and Clark’s expedition discovered, the main stem of the river can be a wild and difficult place for small boats, so most paddlers tend to haul out in Skamokawa, before the main estuary opens out.

But there clearly are many streams besides the Skipanon where a morning or afternoon of memorable but not life-threatening adventures may be enjoyed. The same is true on Willapa Bay.

So long as local governments are willing to make the investments needed to make sure garbage and sewage are dealt with in a responsible manner, water trails can become a great part of our recreational infrastructure. Warrenton is to be commended for helping lead the way.