An oasis of greenery in the scenic environs of Northwest Portland, this municipal park's topography is defined by the slopes and opaque old-growth forests that are sustained by the Tualatin Mountains. A large establishment as far as urban parks go, these protected lands are spread over 5,100 acres (2,064 hectares) that are dotted with relatively-even pathways and trails for hiking and bicycling, which make virtually every nook and corner of the park easily-accessible. A landscape of diverse and complex ecosystems, these forests are home to the hairy woodpecker, Pacific jumping mouse, orange-crowned warbler, northern pygmy-owl among many others. A paradise for plant lovers, the park grounds are bejeweled with exotic Hooker's fairy bells, evergreen violets and English ivy.
A tributary of the mighty Columbia River, the Willamette plays a crucial role in enriching the economic and agricultural fabric of the state of Oregon. It flows north, making its way through as many as 19 cities and 9 counties in the state. At every turn and bend of the river, there is a different scenic view to be discovered, with various species of animals dotting the landscape. The river offers plenty of opportunities for recreation that include fishing, boating, canoeing, swimming, wildlife viewing and even biking and hiking along its stunning shore.
Willamette Jetboat Excursions is an exciting journey that takes you up and down the Willamette River for a two-hour, 37-mile (59 kilometer) boat ride. You will not have the usual slow rolling tour, this boat is fast and you do end up covering quite a bit of the river. Comfortable seats and a smooth ride make it fun. Some sights are incredible, like the plunging falls where the upper Willamette meets the lower part of the river. Also, you could get a glimpse of marine mammals, reptiles and exotic birds on the ride, so keep a keen eye throughout the excursion. This boat ride is one the quintessential experiences of Portland.
As Portland's premier sports and entertainment district, the Rose Quarter features the biggest shows and best sports in town. Watch Portland Trailblazers NBA basketball team in action, enjoy concerts with big-name artists, as well as many other exciting events at the Rose Quarter. The area includes the 20,000-seat Moda Center and the 12,000-seat Memorial Coliseum, as well as parking lots, open space, restaurants and bars. You will appreciate its prime location, just across the river from downtown. The ticket office, located in the middle of the commons, is a good place to find last-minute tickets and avoid online booking fees.
Formed by a volcano that erupted around 40 million years ago, this gorgeous island is known for its jagged rocks. Explore this natural wildlife habitat and stroll along its hiking trails that wind around the bay, where blue herons feed and sturgeon swim in some of the deepest waters of the Willamette River. The island has seven different habitats, including Emergent Wetland, Riparian Forest, and Willamette Valley Grassland. See if you can spot a bald eagle's nest in one of the trees!
Apart from renting kayaks and retailing in outdoor apparel, what Scappoose Bay Kayaking excel in is tours of the great outdoors. The wetlands of the surrounding area is rich in wildlife and home to a variety of migratory birds. A lot of the area comes under protected forest reserves where few venture and the habitat is as virgin. The variety of tours, including Wetlands, Cunningham Slough, Eco-Quiet Kayaking, Full Moon Cruises, for all ages, conducted by Scappoose Bay Kayaking give paddlers the opportunity to observe wildlife and marine habitat from up close.
Apart from renting kayaks and retailing in outdoor apparel, what Scappoose Bay Kayaking excel in is tours of the great outdoors. The wetlands of the surrounding area is rich in wildlife and home to a variety of migratory birds. A lot of the area comes under protected forest reserves where few venture and the habitat is as virgin. The variety of tours, including Wetlands, Cunningham Slough, Eco-Quiet Kayaking, Full Moon Cruises, for all ages, conducted by Scappoose Bay Kayaking give paddlers the opportunity to observe wildlife and marine habitat from up close.
An oasis of greenery in the scenic environs of Northwest Portland, this municipal park's topography is defined by the slopes and opaque old-growth forests that are sustained by the Tualatin Mountains. A large establishment as far as urban parks go, these protected lands are spread over 5,100 acres (2,064 hectares) that are dotted with relatively-even pathways and trails for hiking and bicycling, which make virtually every nook and corner of the park easily-accessible. A landscape of diverse and complex ecosystems, these forests are home to the hairy woodpecker, Pacific jumping mouse, orange-crowned warbler, northern pygmy-owl among many others. A paradise for plant lovers, the park grounds are bejeweled with exotic Hooker's fairy bells, evergreen violets and English ivy.
The sprawling lands of Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge are home to numerous marshes, grasslands and woods, which welcome an array of waterfowls and other wetland wildlife. Apart from the mesmerizing wilderness, the refuge comprises the Cathlapotle Plankhouse along with splendid trails such as the Oaks-to-Wetlands Trail and the seasonal Carty Lake Trail. Among the splendid trails, the Kiwa Trail, which is a seasonal hiking trail, is particularly famous. The trail is home to the Oregon Ash, which serves as nesting homes to the flocks of migratory birds.
Formed by a volcano that erupted around 40 million years ago, this gorgeous island is known for its jagged rocks. Explore this natural wildlife habitat and stroll along its hiking trails that wind around the bay, where blue herons feed and sturgeon swim in some of the deepest waters of the Willamette River. The island has seven different habitats, including Emergent Wetland, Riparian Forest, and Willamette Valley Grassland. See if you can spot a bald eagle's nest in one of the trees!
This 105-acre portion of Forest Park is filled with a lush forest, a remarkable trail and stories of times past. Donald Macleay donated this parcel of land to Portland in 1882 when he was tired of paying the taxes for it. The only stipulation was that hospital patients must have access to the area in the warmer months. The original owner of this corner of Portland was hanged for killing his nemesis and daughter's father-in-law with a shotgun.
Willamette Jetboat Excursions is an exciting journey that takes you up and down the Willamette River for a two-hour, 37-mile (59 kilometer) boat ride. You will not have the usual slow rolling tour, this boat is fast and you do end up covering quite a bit of the river. Comfortable seats and a smooth ride make it fun. Some sights are incredible, like the plunging falls where the upper Willamette meets the lower part of the river. Also, you could get a glimpse of marine mammals, reptiles and exotic birds on the ride, so keep a keen eye throughout the excursion. This boat ride is one the quintessential experiences of Portland.