Willamette Park
This 27-acre city park features plenty of activities for nature lovers. Enjoy a picnic, walk your dog off-leash, play soccer or tennis, and bike or jog on the paved and unpaved paths---all while enjoying the spectacular views of the Portland skyline, Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge and several local islands. Featuring a boat dock and boat ramp, the park draws many visitors each year who want to kayak or canoe on the Willamette River. Wildlife abounds on the river, and visitors will be pleased to see many birds, including purple martins, kingfishers and osprey. The river gets crowded as the day goes on, so visitors wishing to kayak in peace may want to set out in the early morning. The park is open daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Willamette Park
SW Macadam Ave. and Nebraska St.
Portland, OR 97204
(503) 823-7529
portlandonline.com/parks
Hoyt Arboretum
At Portland's Hoyt Arboretum, learn about nature and explore the local landscape. This 232-acre park features a visitor center, mature trees, walking paths, picnic areas, 21 miles of hiking trails, open nature areas, and a collection of more than 10,000 different plants and trees. Hoyt Arborteum offers several self-guided walking tours on paths and trails designed for visitors of every age and ability. Visitors can get free trail maps and information at the visitor center. Hoyt Arboretum park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. The visitor center is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Admission is free.
Hoyt Arboretum
4000 SW Fairview Blvd.
Portland, OR 97221
(503) 865-8733
hoytarboretum.org
Tryon Creek State Park
Located just minutes from Portland's bustling downtown, Tryon Creek State Park offers 645 acres of wooded forests, streams and green spaces that are home to an abundance of local wildlife. Hikers and cyclists appreciate the park for its 14 miles of trails, including a paved trail that's ideal for younger cycling fans and visitors in wheelchairs. The park features a nature center that offers interpretive exhibits, a gift shop and restrooms. Leashed dogs are allowed on most trails, and admission to the park is free.
Tryon Creek State Park
11321 SW Terwilliger Blvd.
Portland, OR 97221
(503) 636-9886
(800) 551-6949
http://www.tryonfriends.org/
