The Tualatin River Water Trail runs through farm lands, cities, and the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge. It provides convenient access for paddling, fishing and wildlife observation to the Portland Oregon Metropolitan area. Eleven developed launch sites managed by city, county, and regional governments currently support the trail. Informal access occurs at road right-of-ways under 2 bridges. Metro Regional Government and the City of Tigard have acquired three additional parcels for future access development. Excellent promotion and marketing of the Tualatin River Water Trail is provided by Washington County Visitors Association and the Intertwine Alliance. Ecological and flow management is provided by Clean Water Services (a regional service district). Regional planning for habitat restoration and public access is provided by Metro (regional government). U.S Fish and Wildlife Service manages 2000 acres at various locations along the water trail. The Tualatin River has the significance as the first water body to successfully implement Total Maximum Daily Loads (water quality standards) under the Federal Clean Water Act. Tualatin Riverkeepers and Alder Creek Kayak and Canoe currently offer canoe and kayak rentals at two sites on the river in the summer. Tualatin Riverkeepers offers regular public guided trips. Washington County Visitors Association has funded new wayfinding signage for the trail. Tualatin Riverkeepers placed river mile signage along the river since 1990. Roamers Rest RV Park (privately owned) provides the only camping facility currently on the river.
The US Army Corps of Engineers has determined that the Tualatin River is navigable from the mouth of Gales Creek at river mile 56.8 to the Willamette River.