April 7th, 2011 by WCVA
When it comes to outdoor adventure, Oregon is tops! In Washington County, miles of beautiful countryside are waiting to be explored. From kayaking and cycling to birding and hiking, and so much more in between, the options are endless.
Activities and attractions such as Tree to Tree Adventure Park, the state’s only public aerial ropes course of its kind; Banks-Vernonia State Trail, a 21-mile trail open to hikers, cyclists and equestrians; and the Tualatin River, which is perfect for kayaks and canoes, are just a sample of the dozens of adventures to be discovered in Washington County.
Create your own Washington County journey via the Create Your Adventure Video Series, interactive videos that allow you to choose a couple’s Washington County adventure.
Don’t just sit there! Plan your Washington County Adventurecation today!
Tags: adventure, Adventurecation, banks-vernonia state trail, Biking, birding, camping, contest, cycling, Forest Grove, Gaston, getaway, hiking, Oregon, outdoor recreation, promotion, state park, Stub Stewart, trails, Travel Oregon, tree to tree, trip, video, washington county oregon, zip line
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March 17th, 2011 by Sylke Neal-Finnegan
Enjoying Washington County without Breaking the Bank
Several miles of biking and hiking trails are open year-round throughout Washington County
Let’s face it, we often think the sky’s the limit when on vacation, and when we return home, we have to face the sticker shock. The good news is that a vacation doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, Washington County, Oregon, is an affordable vacation getaway–and with plenty of things to see and do that are free (or close to it), it’s an ideal destination for families, couples and solo travelers alike.
Visit protected wetlands and wildlife habitats
Washington County boasts several wetland areas that offer walking trails, as well as great viewing spots for birdwatchers and photographers. The Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge, Jackson Bottom Wetlands, Cooper Mountain Nature Park and the Tualatin Hills Nature Park are just some of the locations to spot native plants, wildlife and migratory birds, sans admission fees (donations are accepted).
Tiptoe through the tulips
The tulips, or rather, rhododendrons, are a sight to behold at The Lloyd Baron Rhododendron Garden, located at Rood Bridge Park in Hillsboro. Colorful, seasonal rhododendrons and scenic woodlands, plus waterfalls and a pond, provide visitors with a serene, calm place to reflect. The garden doesn’t charge admission; donations are accepted.
Hike there
Don your hiking boots and set off on trails situated in the verdant countryside. With miles of trails to discover, including the 21-mile Banks-Vernonia State Trail, adventurers can explore for hours, without paying a dime. (Bike rentals available for a fee at the Banks trailhead.) Got a bike? Venture out along the the dozens of trails open to cyclists throughout Washington County.
Taste the varietals
Most of Washington County’s wineries, located in the lush northern Willamette Valley, have tasting fees under $10; however, one winery still offers complimentary tastings to guests. Shafer Vineyard Cellars, established in 1978, pours a selection of varietals, plus offers complimentary cheese, crackers and coffee. (While there, check out Miki’s Christmas Shop, which has an impressive collection of German smokers and other “Old World” holiday items.)
These are just a sampling of the fun things to see and do in Oregon’s Washington County. To learn more about the myriad attractions and activities, visit our website or peruse the digital edition of the official Washington County, Oregon, Visitor Guide.
Sylke Neal-Finnegan is the director of marketing and communications for the Washington County Visitors Association. During her free time, she explores many of the riches of Washington County, Oregon, and shares her experiences throughout the destination.
Tags: Biking, free things to do, gardens, hiking, parks, preservers, trails, wetlands, wildlife viewing, wine, wine tasting, Wineries
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June 2nd, 2009 by Julia Adam
This Saturday, June 6, is Oregon State Parks Day. Stub Stewart State Park is offering a full slate of events to get kids of all ages outside to celebrate; activities range from guided mountain bike rides and trail hikes to disc golf demonstrations and bike safely checks.
You can get a guided tour of the upcoming single track biking trail, and a preview of the location for the park’s Gold Tee Disc Golf Course, to be built this summer. The park is also hosting a hot dog lunch from 11:30-1:30, so don’t miss out!
•Stub Stewart Activities •State Parks Day Flyer
Oregon State Parks are also offering FREE day-use and overnight camping (in traditional campsites only).
To reserve your campsite for June 6, call 800-452-5687 today!
Tags: disc golf, Events, family activities, Family Fun, hiking, mountain biking, outdoors, parks, state parks, Stub Stewart, trails
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