Day 1 You'll See:
- Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge
- Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve
- Tree to Tree Adventure Park
Oregon has so much to offer when it comes to nature excursions and eco-trips, which is why we have included this one-day Washington County nature tour on our list. This trip allows you to see the very best of what mother nature has to offer in the gorgeous state of Oregon, a place with coastline, coastal ranges, and coasts full of forests! Not only will you get to see it all, but you will also have the chance to explore it all and learn about all the local flora, fauna, and interesting geography while here! Kick back, relax, and get ready to see the best of Washington County’s wetlands, lowlands, treetops, and state parks! Spend your night after such an adventurous day in the nearby city of Portland to truly relax and have a great trip!
1
Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge
On the outskirts of Portland, in the northwest corner of Oregon known for its wetlands, your group will find the 1,856-acre refuge known as the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge. These gorgeous 2.9 miles of wetlands and lowlands were established as a protected site in 1992, one of only a handful of urban national wildlife refuges in the country. This refuge is situated in the floodplain of the Tualatin River, comprising only one percent of the total 712 square miles of watershed in this region. The rich and diverse habitats within this refuge support some of the most abundant and varied wildlife, with over 200 species of birds, 50 mammals, 25 reptiles and amphibians, plus many insects, fish, and plants. Your group will love the various vistas and views and you will love all the educational opportunities to learn about regional wildlife and geography. This park is a key stop on the Pacific Flyway, so prepare yourselves to see many migratory waterfowl, shorebirds, and songbirds!
Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve
Get ready for some more natural fun as your group heads over to Hillsboro’s 725-acre wetland area along the Tualatin River, the Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve. This land was first used by native peoples for agriculture and hunting, a patch of land full of waterfowl and, well, water! The scene here provides a diverse, innovative, and exceptional recreational and cultural opportunity for the public, not to mention the pure beauty found here. Wear comfortable shoes and bring your camera as you explore the many different trails, as well as the 12,000 square foot Education Center, an exhibit hall filled with changing interactive exhibits on the wetlands. Here you will find natural history information and the only authentic bald eagle nest exhibit in the country. Head over to the Nature Store before you go to pick up any wanted souvenirs or educational materials, or just soak in the sights from this observation deck.
Tree to Tree Adventure Park
Next stop, Tree to Tree Adventure Park (T2T Park) a playground in the trees located a short distance from both Portland and the Oregon Coast, at scenic Hagg Lake. Here your group will find aerial rope courses, zip lines, and treetop obstacles, unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. Experience the thrill of moving from limb to limb via shaky bridges, tight ropes, ziplines, and more. The company offers team-building sessions in which your group can experience nature while enhancing their interpersonal skills. These courses will challenge you to reach beyond the norm on both the ground and in the air, offering both half-day and full-day sessions. Whatever your group decides to do here the certified staff will safely assist along the way in this lush forest setting and ensure you have a great time. The park is open from March till mid-November, with team-building offered year-round. Stop by the gift shop on your way out to pick up any apparel, art, decor, or gift cards you may want for next time (because you’ll have to come back once you’ve tried it)!