Tryon Creek State Park

Tryon Creek State Park is another wonderful hiking option that is located just minutes from Portland. You truly don’t have to travel far to enjoy hiking amongst tall trees, bright green moss, blankets of ferns and interesting wildlife.

As its name suggests, the park is situated along Tryon Creek, giving hikers direct access to the unique ecosystem it provides. There are 8 miles of hiking trail, 3.5 miles of equestrian trail and 3 miles of paved trail so this park has something to offer every family. 

Several bridges (eight, to be exact!) and a wetland boardwalk allows hikers to really explore the habitats and observe the creatures that live there. The nature center located adjacent to the main parking lot offers loads of information and interpretive exhibits focused on the flora and fauna of the area. The trails are short with many create-your-own loop options, allowing you to hike as much or as little as you’d like. If you’re craving for a longer less populated hike, head for the longer trails along the periphery of the park. These gorgeous trails allow you to get some miles in without compromising on scenery. 

If you’re interested in community and education, consider checking out the weekly guided nature walks held every Saturday morning. Occasionally, there are also night walks so check out the Friends of Tryon Creek website for the full schedule. Tryon Creek State Park also hosts a nature day camp in the spring, summer and winter. These day camps are either half or full day (depending on age) and last a full week, giving caretakers some hard-earned time to themselves while knowing their kids are outside exploring and learning. 

Tryon Creek State Park was designed with families and communities in mind. There is a large picnic shelter next to the nature center for families to enjoy a midday snack or lunch. Restrooms have at least one large stall bathroom with a changing table, warm running water and soap. There are water fountains adjacent to the restrooms. For stroller-bound babes and cyclists, check out the 3 miles of paved paths. For the toddlers and young ones, check out the nature center and the beaver bridge that crosses Tryon Creek, only about 0.7 miles from the nature center. For the older explorers and babes in packs, create a longer loop to explore more of the park without the crowd. The park’s hours vary by the month so make sure to check the hours before you depart. Just think of the park closing when the sun goes down -- earlier in the winter and later in the summer. 

Tryon Creek State Park is another example of the magnificent outdoor hiking opportunities that are available in the Portland metro area. Tryon Creek is the perfect place to spend a day hiking with the family, meeting up with friends and learning about the beautiful plants and creatures that live amongst us.