Discover Portlands Hip and EcoConscious Outdoors

Portland, Oregon is a city known for its hip, vibrant, quirky, ecoconscious, artistic, laidback and progressive culture. But did you know that there are also many outdoor spaces in the area that reflect these same values? Here are some of the best places to explore while getting in touch with nature that also capture the essence of Portland.

First on our list is Forest Park (NW 29th Ave., Portland OR 97210), located within the city limits. With more than 80 miles of hiking trails weaving through its oldgrowth forest and along clear streams it is easy to forget how close you are to a major metropolis. As one of Americas largest urban parks it offers many opportunities for exploration including bird watching where over fifty species have been spotted so far.

Next up we recommend Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge (SE Milwaukie Ave & Sellwood Blvd., Portland OR 97202). This wetland sanctuary serves as critical habitat for hundreds of species including beavers who can often be seen working on their lodges from an observation deck above them.The trail system here includes boardwalks which make navigating easier plus Meadowbrook Marsh, one of only two remaining marshes in Multnomah County; support this local treasure by staying on marked paths.

If youre seeking adventure outside city limits then head out to Sauvie Island (10745 NW Sauvie Island Rd.,Portland OR 97035), part way between St. Johns Bridge and Scappoose Bay on Highway #30. Surrounded by Willamette River near Columbia River confluence , this island offers vast tracts wildlands managed by State Parks Department/Dept Fish&Wildlife . Hiking trails meander through fields filled with livestock grazing within sight striped coast range mountains or climbing Mount St.Helenas flank bluff stand at edge cliffs jutting into river while bald eagles circle overhead.

Another choice is Powell Butte Nature Park (16160 SE Powell Blvd., Portland OR 97236), located in Southeast Portland that encompasses over 600 acres of oak savannah and meadow habitat once used by indigenous peoples. Primarily a hiking park, there are also opportunities for mountain biking and horseback riding, plus a network of unpaved roads to allow easy access different areas scattered around the hilltop with great views! Bird watchers should pack their binoculars because this area hosts many raptors species including redtailed hawks.

Finally dont leave town before visiting the Leach Botanical Garden (6704 SE 122nd Ave., Portland OR 97236) where you will be enchanted by its explosion of natural beauty on display year round from flowering trees shrubs bulbs perennials succulents ferns , not to mention seasonal colour schemes dressed up ecoartsy installations that reflect local commitment living symbiotically with nature even within city limits. With over two miles trails winding through wooded terrain it provides an opportunity for relaxation as well contemplation solitude among greenery silence..

These outdoor spaces may seem like just another list but each place holds a special significance beyond its ecological or recreational value they represent who we are as locals: environmentally conscious people invested in our surroundings; artistic souls inspired by natures beauty; foodies driven by sustainability focused on locally sourced fare; progressive thinkers reimagining how we can coexist harmoniously within our natural world.. So come explore these places for yourself and discover why Portlands outdoors truly embody what makes us unique.

Supporting Facts:

Forest Park

More than 5,000 acres in size making it one of the largest urban parks in America

Home to more than fifty species of birds

Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge:

Critical wetland habitat for hundreds of bird species

Beavers are often seen working on their lodges from the observation deck

Sauvie Island:

Managed by State Parks Department/Dept Fish&Wildlife, vast tracts of wildlands

Bald eagles can be spotted circling overhead

Powell Butte Nature Park:

Over 600 acres of oak savannah and meadow habitat once used by indigenous peoples.