Minto

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 aside as recreational areas tax reverted properties along the North Santiam River. Minto Canyon Park is one of these areas. The park was named in honor of John Minto, who, in 1873, explored the Santiam Canyon in search of a natural pass into Eastern Oregon. The Minto Trail, which starts in Eastern Oregon and ends at Gates, is named after him. Minto Creek, which runs through the park, is also named for 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.