Official Visitors Guide - Tualatin Valley
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Official Visitors Guide
LAUREL VALLEY STORE WCVA_VG_2014-15_7.indd 2 11/6/14 6:00 PM
Washington County
Visitors Association
12725 SW Millikan Way,
Suite 210
Beaverton, OR 97005
503-644-5555 • 800-537-3149
tualatinvalley.org
info@wcva.org
Visit Oregon’s Washington County
@WCVA oregonswashcty
Oregon’s Washington County
Mobile website
contents
3 DISCOVER
CONTRIBUTING TEAM
PHOTO EDITOR
Carolyn E. McCormick
President & CEO
History, natural beauty and international flair are just WRITER/COPY EDITOR
Sylke Neal-Finnegan
some of the outstanding qualities you will find through- Director of Marketing &
out Oregon’s Washington County: The Tualatin Valley. Communications
19 EXPLORE CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Jackie Luskey
Scenic drives, high-flying adventures, bird-watching, Digital Content Creator
camping, hiking, cycling and kayaking are just some
of the adventures to be explored in this destination’s EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
outdoor spaces. Marie Prins
Visitor Information Specialist
30 TASTE departments PRODUCTION DESIGN
Christopher Glawe
As gateway to Oregon wine country, Washington 16 ANNUAL EVENTS Graphic Designer
County is home to vineyards and wineries that produce
acclaimed wines—from Burgundy-inspired Pinot Noir 50 SHOPPING ADDITIONAL WCVA STAFF
to German-style Gewürztraminer, as well as dozens of 53 ARTS & CULTURE Jason McGill
other varietals.
56 SPORTS Chief Financial Officer
49 PLAY 61 DINING Melissa Hay
Website Coordinator/
Pick your own fruits and flowers, or spend a day in the
country on the green. From cultural pursuits to tax-
68 LODGING Photographer
free shopping, see what the Tualatin Valley has to offer. 80 MAP Corey Kearsley
Director of Sales
WCVA Board of Directors Tracy Reynolds (Secretary) Darren Harmon Norman Penner Amber Wisdom
General Manager General Manager Research & Project
Jonae Waldroop (Chair) Beaverton Courtyard by Marriott Wilsonville Family Fun Center Stuart Wilson Coordinator
Property Manager Owner
The Streets of Tanasbourne Brandon Carter Debi Mollahan Garden Vineyards
& Oswego Town Square General Manager CEO Birgitte Simmons
Hilton Garden Inn Portland/Beaverton Tigard Chamber of Commerce Les Davis Tourism and Meetings
Josh Sanders (Chair Elect) Owner/CEO
General Manager Dan Murphy Sales Manager
Chairman Andy Duyck Lithtex Printing
The Grand Hotel at Bridgeport Washington County Board General Manager/Founder Solutions
of Commissioners Broadway Rose Theatre
Jim McElhinny (Treasurer) Company
Director of Park & Recreation Services Mayor Denny Doyle
Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District City of Beaverton
Official Oregon's Washington County Visitor Guide 2015-2016. ©November 2014, Washington County Visitors Association. Great effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, and the WCVA assumes no responsibility for errors or
omissions. All listings are subject to change without notice. The 2015-2016 Visitors Guide was printed on recycled paper from responsible resources.
For additional listings and a calendar of upcoming events, please visit tualatinvalley.org.
ALL PHOTOS BY KEN KOCHEY
WCVA_VG_2015-16_7.indd 3 11/13/14 10:49 AM
WELCOME!
Dear Guests,
It is my pleasure to welcome you to our version of paradise, Oregon’s Washington County:
The Tualatin Valley. Nestled on the outskirts of the city of Portland, you will find 727 square
miles of valleys, vineyards, orchards, golf courses, shops, main streets, festivals, restaurants
and a variety of lodging options. Along with all of that, you’ll also meet some of the
friendliest people in the Pacific Northwest.
In an area that is as beautiful as the Tualatin Valley, visitors and locals alike are happy—and
it shows. As you dive into this guide, you will get acquainted with the wineries, outdoor
activities and special events to explore, but also the people who make them so great. We
have taken great care to showcase our community in the following pages because they are
just as much a part of the Washington County experience as the scenery.
While planning your trip, please take a moment to call our office and speak with one of
our knowledgeable visitor representatives at 1-800-537-3149. Email us at info@wcva.org or
visit our website, tualatinvalley.org. We are excited to embrace technology to make finding
what you need on-the-go easier. Please like our Facebook page, “Visit Oregon’s Washington
County,” or follow us on Twitter @WCVA. We are ready to help make your travels to and in
Oregon’s Washington County easy and memorable.
Looking forward to your visit,
Cheers,
Carolyn E. McCormick
President & CEO
Washington County Visitors Association
ABOUT THE COVER
Ken Kochey is an award-winning photographer who has traveled the globe, many times over, capturing his
experiences through his camera for a wide range of editorial and advertising clients. Living in NYC with
his wife and two children, Ken specializes in travel and lifestyle photography and is known for the warmth
and humanity he brings to each of his assignments. Ken, whose work as contributing photographer is
showcased throughout this guide, shot the cover in a field along the Vineyard and Valley Scenic Tour Route
in the spring of 2014.
NEW TOURIST ASSISTANCE PORTALS
While visiting the Tualatin Valley, you’re never too far from expert advice about what to see and do! Located in participating hotels,
tualatinvalley.org
chambers of commerce and visitor information centers throughout Oregon’s Washington County, Tourism Assistance Portals are
touch-screen information kiosks that provide travelers with in-destination information. Map your way to wineries, breweries, shops,
attractions, restaurants and more with the portal’s interactive maps. Peruse the calendar for events and festivals that are happening
while you’re visiting. Or stop by our new visitor information center, located on the first floor of the City of Beaverton's new City Hall
at the Round, located at 12725 Southwest Millikan Way.
2
WCVA_VG_2015-16_7.indd 2 11/7/14 4:11 PM
Discover
the Region
Welcome to the gateway to Oregon wine country, Portland’s next-door
neighbor, the northern Willamette Valley, the Tualatin Valley, Oregon’s
Washington County. It may be known by many names, but one thing is
certain: this destination offers experiences unlike any other.
Although it may sound cliché, here in Oregon’s Washington County
tualatinvalley.org
there truly is something for everyone to enjoy. The hundreds of
attractions in this diverse region will satisfy history buffs, birders,
outdoor adventurers, wine and beer enthusiasts, culture connoisseurs
and other travelers.
3
WCVA_VG_2014-15_7.indd 3 11/6/14 6:00 PM
Where in the
world is the
Tualatin Valley?
(and how do you pronounce
Tualatin?)*
Washington County
The Tualatin Valley
OREGON One Destination.
Countless Experiences.
THE TUALATIN VALLEY OFFERS
A WEALTH OF ADVENTURES.
S
Located in the northwestern part of ituated between Portland aerial ropes course and zip-line parks
Oregon, the Tualatin Valley is centrally
and the Oregon Coast, the provide adventure.
located near many of the state’s biggest
tourism attractions. Tualatin Valley is one of the From late spring through early
gems of the Pacific North- autumn, the agricultural richness
• Located approximately 35 minutes west, with a multitude of celebrated of Washington County is evident at
from Portland International Airport attractions and amenities that are as nearly every turn. Crops are ready for
(PDX) surprising as they are crowd pleasing. the pickin’, and at area farms, picking
Oregon’s Washington County is your own fruit is encouraged. Locals
• Gateway to Oregon wine country, in the gateway to the Willamette Valley, and visitors alike gather at the region’s
the northern Willamette Valley
and with more than 30 wineries, there many farmers’ markets.
• Just minutes from downtown Portland are plenty of opportunities to taste No trip to Oregon is complete
a great Oregon wine. For without taking advantage of
• 50 minutes from/to the Columbia River a departure from the tax-free shopping. Wash-
Gorge and Multnomah Falls ordinary, visit the Explore Oregon’s ington County holds
world’s first Ameri- court for premier
• A short, 80-minute drive to the can-owned-and-op-
Tualatin Valley, shopping, ranging
Oregon Coast
erated large-produc- where the possibilities from high-end retail
• A 90-minute drive to Mt. Hood tion saké brewery to are endless. centers to quaint an-
taste a flight of locally tique stores and artisan
• Surrounded by the Chehalem produced saké. shops featuring locally
Mountains to the south, Tualatin Nature lovers, cyclists, hikers crafted delights.
Mountains (also known as the West and bird-watchers flock here year- Finally, all of the wine tasting,
Hills) to the east, and the Oregon round to take in the sights and outdoor recreation, farm visits and
Coast Range to the west sounds of the great outdoors. Several shopping can really work up an appe-
wetlands, nature preserves and parks tite, and when it comes to dining, the
• Bordered by Yamhill, Tillamook,
Columbia and Multnomah Counties offer magnificent photography and Tualatin Valley pleases with a mix of
bird-spotting opportunities, while cuisines from the far reaches of the
• Home to part of the Tillamook State forested areas untouched by motor globe.
Forest in the northwestern part of the vehicles provide miles of biking and Whether you’re visiting for a day,
county hiking trails, from rugged to smoothly a weekend or longer, Oregon’s Wash-
tualatinvalley.org
paved terrain. ington County: The Tualatin Valley
* (It's During warm-weather months, provides rewarding, affordable and
pronounced too-wall-uh-tin)
water recreation, hot air balloon rides, memorable experiences. We can’t wait
glider plane flights, and the area’s until you get here. Cheers!
4
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Mt. Hood Territory
T
he majestic Mt. Hood can be seen throughout the Tualatin
Valley and is one of the wonders of Oregon, an icon of the
Greater Portland Region. Located just 90 minutes from
Oregon’s Washington County, Mt. Hood is an easy day trip,
where year-round adventure is waiting to be explored.
With dozens of adventures to choose from, a getaway to Mt.
Hood has been a Northwest tradition for more than a century.
Fly fishing, hiking, cycling, skiing, snowshoeing and camping are
just some of the recreational activities available in this beloved
destination.
Government Camp, located at the 4,000 ft. elevation mark on
Mt. Hood’s south slope along the historic Barlow Road and Mt.
Hood Scenic Byway, is the mountain’s “base camp” for year-round
outdoor recreation.
While in the area, take a ride along the Mt. Hood Scenic Byway for
awe inspiring views of the mountain, rushing rivers and valley farmland.
For more information about this Oregon wonder, visit
mthoodterritory.com.
O
regon’s Washington County: The Tualatin Valley offers countless adventures for visitors, and its location provides a travel
experience that incorporates many of the state’s best attractions and activities. Situated minutes west of downtown Port-
land, Washington County is the gateway to Oregon wine country. The pristine Oregon Coast is just over an hour from here,
while the windsurfing mecca Hood River is an 80-minute drive and the ski slopes of Mount Hood are only 90 minutes away.
THE OREGON COAST EXPLORE YEAR-ROUND WINE COUNTRY
Drive for a little more than PORTLAND SNOW The Willamette Valley
an hour from Hillsboro Portland provides a mul- stretches from the Ore-
East of Washington County
down Highway 26, and titude of family activities gon-Washington border
is the Cascade Mountain
you’re at the famed, pristine that complement a day of down to the city of Eugene,
Range, where Mount Hood’s
Oregon Coast, which boasts exploration in the Tuala- and is home to more than
snow—and snow sports—
more than 360 miles of tin Valley. A day trip to 300 wineries. Located in
stick around all year. Before
public coastline, complete Washington Park (washing- the northern region of this
taking the short 90-mile
with evergreen forests, vast tonparkpdx.org) will open a celebrated wine-producing
jaunt, fuel your appetite
beaches and rugged cliffs new world of treasures for region, the Tualatin Valley is
with a hearty meal at one
matched with unique sand kids and adults of all ages. home to more than 30 win-
of the many restaurants lo-
and surf settings. While Downtown Portland fea- eries—the closest wineries
tualatinvalley.org
cated off Highway 26. Along
traveling to (or from) the tures its world-famous food to Portland—and the first
the way, take a quick detour
coast, stop by any of the carts and popular Saturday American-owned-and-oper-
and stop by the majestic
eateries along Highway 6, Market, as well as museums, ated large-production saké
Multnomah Falls.
or the wineries of western festivals and more. brewery.
Washington County.
CANNON BEACH PHOTO BY KEN KOCHEY, PIONEER SQUARE AND JACKSON TOWER PHOTO BY TRAVEL PORTLAND 5
WCVA_VG_2014-15_7.indd 5 11/6/14 6:00 PM
Discover
OLD SCOTCH
CHURCH
History of the
Tualatin Valley
Discover Ice Age relics
& Oregon Trail lore.
REMNANTS OF THE ICE AGE
M
ore than 15,000 years ago, the Missoula floods swept
through what are now the Willamette ("Will-AM-mit")
and Tualatin ("Too-WALL-uh-tin") Valleys. Immense
rocks (also known as glacial erratics), as well as bones
from now-extinct prehistoric creatures, have been discovered
throughout the region for more than a century.
The Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and
Minerals (26385 NW Groveland Dr., Hillsboro; 503-647-2418;
tualatinvalley.org
ricenorthwestmuseum.org), which houses the largest collection of
gems and rocks in the Pacific Northwest, also provides a glimpse
into the area's geological history with its assortment of fossils and
petrified woods.
6
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NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE
Prior to the arrival of Euro-American settlers, the
Atfalati tribe of the Kalapuya Native Americans
inhabited the Tualatin Valley. The Atfalati (also known
as the Tualatin) was a collection of 16 independent,
yet related, villages of the Kalapuyan people, who
were native to the Willamette Valley. These villages
encompassed the Tualatin Plains (now Beaverton,
Hillsboro and Forest Grove), the Wapato Valley (now
Gaston) and the Chehalem and North Yamhill valleys.
Many of the villages were centered around Wapato
Lake, which was a marshy lake in Gaston known for its
abundance of wapato, a staple in the native diets. THE OLD TRAIN STATION MUSEUM
While rich soils and abundant deer and elk sustained IN FOREST GROVE
the tribes, the Tualatin peoples were greatly affected by
disease. In 1855, only 65 Tualatin remained. It also was
at this time that the U.S. government concluded a treaty Among the first to arrive was Joseph “Joe” Meek (1810–
with all tribes in the Willamette Valley, and the Tualatin 1875), a fur trapper and cousin of Sarah Childress Polk, wife
people were moved to the Grand Ronde Reservation, of James Polk, the 11th president of the United States. Meek
approximately 60 miles south of their original lands. was instrumental in the creation of the Oregon Territory, of
Today, the Atfalati have all but disappeared, and the which he was Marshal from 1848 to 1853.
tribe’s influence on the area’s history is told through Meek and his wife, Virginia, are buried at the cemetery on
permanent artifacts that are on display at the Tualatin the grounds of the Old Scotch Church, also known as the
Heritage Center (8700 SW Sweek Dr., Tualatin; 503-885- Tualatin Plains Presbyterian Church (30685 NW Scotch
1926; tualatinhistoricalsociety.org). Church Rd., Hillsboro; oldscotchchurch.org).
Another important Oregon pioneer was Tabitha Moffat
Brown (1780–1858), known as “The Mother of Oregon.”
PIONEER HISTORY
Brown was an educator from Massachusetts and, at the age
In the 1800s, pioneers headed west along the Oregon
of 66, set out for Oregon with two of her children and her
Trail. In the years after the Lewis and Clark expedition,
brother-in-law, Captain John Brown.
word traveled east about this region’s exceptional
In 1848, Moffat Brown, along with Reverend Harvey
characteristics and ideal agricultural soils. By the 1830s
Clark, a Congregationalist minister, founded the Oregon
and 1840s, a colorful mix of pioneers was seeking earnings
Orphans’ Asylum and School at Tualatin Plains, to care
and adventure in the Tualatin Valley.
for and educate orphans of the Oregon Trail. A year
later—and 10 years before Oregon earned statehood—it
was chartered as the Tualatin Academy, the first formal
act of the territorial government. In 1854, the school
added higher education and today is known as Pacific
University (2043 College Way, Forest Grove; 877-722-8648;
pacificu.edu).
The lives of these Oregon pioneers and others who
made an indelible mark on Washington County, are
recounted at historical organizations, including the
Beaverton History Center (12412 SW Broadway,
Beaverton; 503-430-0106; historicbeaverton.org), the
Sherwood Heritage Center (22552 Park St., Sherwood;
503-625-1236; sherwoodhistoricalsociety.blogspot.com) and the
Tigard Historical Association/John Tigard House
Museum (10310 SW Canterbury Lane, Tigard; 503-747-9856;
tigardhistorical.org).
“I want to live long enough to see Oregon
securely American … so I can say that I
tualatinvalley.org
was born in Washington County (Virginia),
United States, and died in Washington
County (Oregon), United States.”
— Joe Meek, Early Oregon Pioneer
7
WCVA_VG_2014-15_7.indd 7 11/6/14 6:00 PM
Explore Our
Cities & Towns
tualatinvalley.org
tualatinvalley.org
The Tualatin Valley is a collection of 13 cities and dozens of small
communities, each with its own charm and personality. Join us for
a quick tour around the towns of Oregon’s Washington County.
DOWNTOWN BEAVERTON
88
WCVA_VG_2014-15_7.indd 8 11/6/14 6:00 PMBanks
T
he city of Banks is located on
Highway 26, en route to the Oregon
Coast. With a population of around
1,800, this small town is known for
its superb outdoor recreation. Banks marks
the start of the Banks-Vernonia State Trail, a
21-mile linear trail open to cyclists, hikers and
horseback riders.
Only a 45-minute drive to the Oregon
Coast, the city of Banks offers great views of
Mt. Hood and the Coast Range, and the city
features a wide variety of cultural and recre- BANKS-VERNONIA
ational opportunities. STATE TRAIL
This agricultural community is home to
a summer farmers’ market, several u-pick
and u-cut farms, and annual events such as
the Banks BBQ and Tractor Pull and the Ra- Banks is the gateway to the Oregon Coast—it’s
dio-Controlled Model Aircraft Show. (Banks
Chamber of Commerce, 13480 S. Main St.,
only a 45-minute drive to pristine beaches and
Banks; 503-324-1081; oregonbankschamber.com) the refreshing Pacific Ocean.
Cornelius
W
ith a population around round. Visitors can visit u-pick farms, shop
12,000, Cornelius is a small for locally harvested hazelnuts at Oregon
city situated in the heart of Orchard Hazelnuts, a farmers’ co-op, or
the fertile Tualatin Valley. play a round at one of the Pacific North-
Cornelius is an agricultural paradise, west’s oldest golf courses, Forest Hills.
where rolling hillsides, vineyards and Foodies can sample authentic Mexican
farms abound. Situated in the Chehalem cuisine at its taquerias and food trucks.
Mountains American Viticultural Area (Forest Grove/Cornelius Chamber of
(AVA), Cornelius is home to three winer- Commerce, 2417 Pacific Ave., Forest Grove;
ies, with two open to the public year- 503-357-3006; visitforestgrove.com)
North Plains
S
ituated in northwestern Washing- zip-line park and glider plane rides. This
ton County, just off Highway 26, small town also is home to one of Oregon’s
the main route between Portland most notable golf courses, Pumpkin Ridge
and the Oregon Coast, the small Golf Club. The city's downtown features
city of North Plains packs quite a punch. Abbey Creek Winery's tasting room, as well
North Plains (population 2,000) is as an antique shop and tavern.
surrounded by lush farmland, and attracts (North Plains Chamber of Commerce, 10395
throngs of sports enthusiasts and thrill NW Glencoe Rd., North Plains; 503-647-2207;
tualatinvalley.org
seekers who flock to the area for its collec- northplainschamberofcommerce.org)
tion of activities, such as biking, disc golf,
PUMPKIN RIDGE
GOLF CLUB
9
WCVA_VG_2014-15_7.indd 9 11/6/14 6:00 PMDiscover
Beaverton
& Aloha
B
eaverton is Washington County’s second-larg-
est city, with a population of more than
90,000. Nestled in the eastern edge of the
Tualatin Valley, Beaverton is surrounded by
farmlands and natural resources, and boasts 30 miles
of hiking trails and a 25-mile network of bike paths.
Beaverton has the distinction of being the state’s
most ethnically diverse city in the state. Several
events throughout the year celebrate this diversity, THE ROUND
including the International Celebration, Fiesta Latina
and Ten Tiny Dances, a showcase of dances from
across the globe.
This growing city also is home to a variety of
attractions, family entertainment centers, and arts
and cultural offerings. In recent years, Beaverton
has gained recognition in culinary circles and has
attracted many foodies to the area with the Beaver-
ton Farmers Market—the largest “all-agricultural”
market in the region—and its collection of acclaimed
restaurants, specifically its variety of authentic Kore-
an eateries.
In the agricultural region of Beaverton, visitors can
visit u-pick farms, farm stores and two winery tasting
rooms.
Aloha (pronounced “a-LOW-ah”) is an unincorpo-
rated town between Beaverton and Hillsboro, and
is home to one of the region’s most prestigious golf
courses, The Reserve Vineyards and Golf Club. (Bea-
verton Area Chamber of Commerce, 12655 SW Center St.,
Beaverton; 503-644-0123; beaverton.org)
Beaverton’s Historic
Downtown District
Downtown Beaverton is experiencing
a renaissance lately. Restaurants, new
antique shops and the venerable Beaverton
Farmers’ Market combine to make the
historic downtown district in Beaverton a
must-visit destination.
The Historic Downtown District offers
many surprises, including history and art
and culture, best to be explored during
First Friday, held the first Friday of each
month May-October. Quaint antique and
tualatinvalley.org
specialty shops dot the area, while highly
acclaimed restaurants and shops, including
the iconic and beloved Beaverton Bakery,
attract food lovers from around the Greater
Portland area.
10
WCVA_VG_2014-15_7.indd 10 11/6/14 6:01 PMForest Grove
& Gales Creek DOWNTOWN FOREST GROVE
L
ocated in the foothills of the Coast of the oldest educational buildings west of wine tasting event; and Sidewalk Chalk
Range at the base of the Tillamook the Mississippi. Art Festival, among others.
State Forest, Forest Grove has Forest Grove’s appeal extends beyond its Located just outside of the city is Gales
a population of about 21,000. quaint downtown to its rural, agricultural Creek, a small, unincorporated town in
Home of Pacific University, it transcends landscapes. This area boasts an impressive the foothills of the Coast Range. Named
the college-town atmosphere with its collection of six estate wineries, as well for pioneer Joseph Gale, who settled the
collection of charming antique shops, as the region’s only saké brewery and area in the late 1800s, as well as the creek
a summer farmers’ market, three wine Washington County’s only cidery. In that runs through the area, Gales Creek
tasting rooms and notable restaurants, addition to wineries, Forest Grove is home features a quaint country store, nursery
most of which are located on Main Street to a bison ranch, which sells bison jerky and catch-and-release fishing along the
and are navigable via the downtown’s way- and other unique products. creek.
finding signs. Annual events are numerous here, (Forest Grove/Cornelius Chamber of
This small city has a lot of history, from such as the medieval themed Faire in the Commerce, 2417 Pacific Ave., Forest Grove;
having some the oldest vines in the valley Grove; Concours d’Elegance car show; 503-357-3006; visitforestgrove.com)
at David Hill Winery to College Hall, one Forest Grove Uncorked, a food, beer and
Main Street Forest Grove
Forest Grove’s Main Street harkens to a simpler time, with a
Pacific Northwest twist. Among the ice cream parlor, antique
shop, art gallery, pub and restaurants, Main Street has not one,
but two wine bars and bottle shops, a testament to the genuine
appreciation of wine in the community.
The city’s farmers’ market takes place on Main Street each
Wednesday (May-October), as does First Wednesday, when shops
keep their doors open and local artists and wineries share their
talents and wares. Each August, Forest Grove Uncorked! holds
its event on Main Street, which showcases locally produced wine,
beer, saké and hard cider.
Gaston
L
ocated in the southwestern part of the county, the small city of Gaston
(population under 700) is the smallest city in Oregon’s Washington
County. Despite its small population, there is no shortage of places to
visit in northern Gaston.
Agriculture reigns supreme, as Gaston is home to four acclaimed wineries,
each producing a variety of wines, including Pinot Noir, from their estate
vineyards.
tualatinvalley.org
With miles of outdoor recreation opportunities, cyclists, bird-watchers,
hikers, swimmers and boaters enjoy the recreational areas such as Henry Hagg
Lake and Scoggins Valley Park, a popular spot for triathlons and other endur-
ance sports. Visitors also flock to the region’s first aerial ropes course and zip-
line park, Tree to Tree Adventure Park, located minutes from the lake. DOWNTOWN FOREST GROVE
11
11
WCVA_VG_2015-16_7.indd 11 11/7/14 4:07 PMDiscover
DOWNTOWN
HILLSBORO
Hillsboro, Scholls
& Helvetia
H
illsboro is Washington County’s largest
city—and the county seat—with a pop-
ulation approaching 100,000, and also is
among the oldest communities in the state.
With the emergence of the technology sector, as part
of the region’s “Silicon Forest,” Hillsboro is home to
some of technology’s biggest and brightest names,
and this city continues to grow.
The city boasts several parks and sports fields, and
Hillsboro has a state-of-the-art stadium, which is
home to a Single-A, minor-league baseball team, the
Hillsboro Hops.
Hillsboro offers a plethora of activities in addition
to sports. The Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve,
attracts hundreds of birds—and bird watchers—
annually, while three unique museums showcase
a variety of exhibits from rocks and minerals to
historical artifacts and classic aviation. The Hillsboro
Airport (www2.portofportland.com/Airports/Hillsboro)
is a general aviation airport used by private and
corporate planes and jets, and is home of the annual
Oregon International Air Show.
Hillsboro also is a burgeoning beervana, with
several breweries centrally located near the eastern
edge of the city.
The agricultural core of Hillsboro is located in nities showcase great pride, and each offers a variety
the rural towns of Scholls (south of Hillsboro) and of attractions, such as u-pick farms, pumpkin patches,
Helvetia (north of Hillsboro). These small commu- wineries and lavender farms. Helvetia, in particular,
showcases the region’s history with pioneer cemeter-
ies and historic churches, including the Old Scotch
Church, which is among Oregon’s oldest churches still
in use. (Hillsboro Chamber of Commerce, 5193 NE Elam
Young Pkwy., Hillsboro; 503-648-1102; hillchamber.org)
Main Street Hillsboro
Hillsboro’s quaint downtown area has transformed into the city’s
arts and cultural hub with a selection of galleries, antique shops,
a museum, live music venues and a live theatre company, all
located on Main Street.
This Main Street also boasts one of the very few pharmacy lunch
counters in the region, as well as a restaurant/tasting room/bottle
shop, which has the largest selection of Oregon wines available
under one roof.
The Hillsboro Farmers Market is located here each Saturday, May
tualatinvalley.org
through October. On Tuesdays, the popular Hillsboro Tuesday
Marketplace sets up shop on Main Street (June-August), and on
the first Tuesday of each month is the First Tuesday Art Walk, an
HILLSBORO evening of new exhibits, receptions and conversations.
FARMERS
MARKET
12
WCVA_VG_2014-15_7.indd 12 11/6/14 6:01 PMSherwood
& King City
L
ocated in the southern part of Oregon’s
Washington County, minutes from the
college town of Newberg, is the small city of
Sherwood. With a population of more than
18,000, this city is steeped in tradition, and the his-
toric Old Town is the community’s center.
Located in the Chehalem Mountain American Vi-
ticultural Area (AVA), Sherwood is one of the fastest
growing wine destinations in the northern Willa-
mette Valley, with seven (and counting) vineyard-es-
tate wineries. Its agricultural region also is growing,
and boasts a number of u-pick farms and tree farms.
Adding to the quaint charm of Sherwood are its
year-round Christmas shop, Sleighbells; a new road-
side farm store, the Red Berry Barn; and a wildlife
area, the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge,
which hosts an annual bird festival each May.
(Sherwood Chamber of Commerce, 22566 SW
Washington St., Sherwood; 503-625-7800; sherwood-
chamber.org)
The closest lodging to Sherwood is located in
King City, a small community situated minutes
north of the city. King City (population 3,300) was
established as a retirement community in the mid-
1960s, and today is a growing, vibrant residential
community for retirees and young families alike.
(City of King City, 503-639-4082; ci.king-city.or.us)
Old Town Sherwood
Old Town Sherwood is the community
center of this small, growing city. An-
tique and specialty shops and historic
buildings recall small-town living from
another era. Popular gathering places,
such as a locally owned coffeehouse,
a venerable restaurant/tavern, baker-
ies and restaurants, new wine tasting
bar and new community performance
arts center, are must-see stops while
perusing quaint shops and galleries in
Old Town.
tualatinvalley.org
Annual events, including the Cruisin’
Sherwood car show (June) and the
Sherwood Robin Hood Festival (July)
attract visitors from all over the region
to Old Town.
SHERWOOD
13
WCVA_VG_2014-15_7.indd 13 11/6/14 6:01 PMDiscover
Tigard
& Durham
W
ith a population of about 50,000, the
city of Tigard is located just south of
Portland in southeastern Washing-
ton County. It is home to the region’s
premier tax-free shopping destinations—Wash-
ington Square and Bridgeport Village—and has a
community that is devoted to the arts, with the only
professional musical theater company in the region.
Outdoor recreation opportunities include easy
access to the Tualatin River, which runs through
much of Washington County.
Recreation is tops here, with Tigard’s Cook
Park providing access to the Tualatin River, a calm
waterway that is popular with paddlers. The Fanno
Creek Greenway Trail connects Cook Park with
Durham City Park—located in the small city of
Durham (population 1,400)—and continues to the
Tualatin Community Park. Highlights of this trail
include wetlands and ponds, oak forest and the
flowered landscape of the Tupling Butterfly Garden.
Main Street, located in Tigard’s downtown,
showcases do-it-yourself shops where visitors may
create a glass masterpiece at the area’s only public
glass-blowing art studio or learn how to blend
wine. A few favorite local restaurants and a brewery
also attract many to this reinvigorated downtown
street. (Tigard Chamber of Commerce, 12345 SW
Main St., Tigard; 503-639-1656; tigardchamber.org)
TUALATIN
RIVER
Old Town Tigard
The thriving city of Tigard blends the amenities of a modern city with the community spirit of
a small town. Look no further to see an example of this spirit than Tigard’s Main Street.
Located in Tigard’s downtown area, Main Street showcases the community’s do-it-your-
self approach, with a wine blending shop, art supply stores and the region’s only public
tualatinvalley.org
glass-blowing studio. There is no shortage of eateries along this walkable street, with a cof-
feehouse, brewery and brew pub, and restaurants featuring cuisine from around the globe.
On Sundays, from May to October, the Tigard Area Farmers Market is open for business, not
far from Main Street.
14
WCVA_VG_2014-15_7.indd 14 11/6/14 6:01 PMTualatin
T
he city of Tualatin, with a population of
nearly 27,000, is located in the southern
part of Washington County, just south
of Tigard. This small community boasts
a number of attractions and activities and events
MASTODON SKELETON
that are of interest to residents and visitors alike. TUALATIN PUBLIC LIBRARY
Signature events such as the Tualatin Crawfish
Festival, held each August, and the West Coast Giant
Pumpkin Regatta in October, are examples of this
welcoming community's signature attractions. Easy
access to the Tualatin River and a new 100,000 The Tualatin Commons
square–foot Cabela’s outdoor store add to the The Tualatin Commons, the city’s town center, is a 19-acre promenade
recreational opportunities available. and plaza complete with a three-acre lake surrounded by a collection
This “young” city has an interesting prehistoric of shops, restaurants and a hotel. Close to the Commons is the city’s
story. Some 15,000 years ago, the Missoula floods, library and the city park.
a series of Ice Age floods, swept through the Wil- During the summer months, the Commons bustles with the Tualatin
lamette and Tualatin valleys. Rocks weighing in at Farmers Market, and free concerts featuring a diverse slate of musical
thousands of pounds, or glacial erratics, have been genres, held every Friday (June-August).
found in the area for more than a century. Cur-
rently, these erratics and other prehistoric artifacts In October, the Lake at the Commons is home to Tualatin’s annual
are on display at the Tualatin Heritage Center and event, the West Coast Pumpkin Regatta, where the racers' boats are
the Tualatin Public Library. (Tualatin Chamber of carved out of large, 1,000-pound pumpkins.
Commerce, 18791 SW Martinazzi Ave., Tualatin; 503-
692-0780; tualatinchamber.com)
DEVONWOOD EQUESTRIAN CENTRE
Wilsonville
S
ituated at the southeast corner of Washing-
ton County along the Willamette River, the
city of Wilsonville offers both the comforts of
a big city and the qualities of small-town life.
A fast-growing city of about 21,000, Wilsonville is
a gateway to nurseries, vineyards and produce farms
in the lush Willamette Valley. The city also boasts
an amusement park with a variety of indoor and
outdoor activities. In addition to hotels, an RV park
and easy access to many of the Tualatin Valley's
attractions, Wilsonville is home to the new World
of Speed race car museum.
Wilsonville (as well as Sherwood) is part of “Or-
egon Horse Country,” a distinction given for its
tualatinvalley.org
outstanding equestrian facilities and events.
(Wilsonville Chamber of Commerce; 800-647-3843;
wilsonvillechamber.com)
15
WCVA_VG_2014-15_7.indd 15 11/6/14 6:01 PMEvents
VERBOORT SAUSAGE & KRAUT DINNER
Annual Events F
estivals and special events are a regular
part of life here in the Tualatin Valley.
What follows is just a sampling of the fun,
& Festivals
quirky and festive events held annually.
For exact dates, please visit the individual
websites.
January Valentine’s Wine Loop Burning Of The Böögg
America’s State Parks First Day Hike Cupid is visiting Oregon Wine Country for the Welcome spring with this annual Swiss tradition,
Start the year off exploring nature during this annual annual Valentine's Wine Loop, featuring participating which celebrates the vernal equinox. This festival fea-
New Year’s Day ranger-led hike at L.L. Stub Stewart wineries for a weekend of special wine tastings and tures seasonal treats, breads, music, arts and crafts,
State Park. oregonstateparks.org pairings. tualatinvalley.org and ends with a ceremonial burning of the Böögg
(symbolizing "Old Man Winter").
Bottle Up Your Love facebook.com/pages/Burn-theBoogg/278053436593
Crab Feed
The cities of North Plains, Tualatin and Beaverton Montinore Estate welcomes visitors to make their
participate in the annual Meals on Wheels Crab Feed, own “love potion” during this annual Pinot Noir St. Patrick’s Day
featuring crab and steak dinners and live entertain- blending event, complete with a custom bottle and
Murphy’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade
ment. mealsonwheelspeople.org personalized label. Space is limited. montinore.com
Hillsboro’s annual parade celebrates all things Irish
and culminates with an authentic Irish meal, games
February March and entertainment. murphysfurniture.net/Events/
Zwickelmania Barbershop Ballad Contest
This annual backstage pass to Oregon’s breweries Every year, the best balladeers in the Northwest com- Luckython Race and Relay
includes many of the Tualatin Valley’s breweries pete in Forest Grove in this lively Ballad Town Contest Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in sporting style with a 5K,
during this day-long experience. Meet the brewers featuring two days of harmony. balladtownusa.com 10K or 15K race and relay for all ages. After the run,
and sample their favorite beers. re-fuel with a potato bar.
oregonbeer.org/zwickelmania Rang Barse Holi Festival of Colors uberthons.com/luckythonhome
Experience the traditional—and colorful—Festival
Maialata: Festival Of The Pig of Colors at the Washington County Fair Complex. St. Patrick’s Weekend Festival
Montinore Estate continues this annual “pork extrav- bollywoodmovez.com Hand-crafted Irish dishes, Irish cocktails, live music
aganza” that began in the mountains of Northern and the St. Baldrick’s head-shaving event benefiting
Italy. Make sausage and ravioli and enjoy with a feast Sister Spirit’s Pagan Faire children’s cancer research are among the highlights
paired with Montinore wines. montinore.com Join in the spirit of the Spring Equinox Faire and Ritu- of this annual festival. thirstylionpub.com
al, complete with vendors, entertainment, workshops
and food. paganfaire.org McMenamins St. Patrick’s Day
Valentine’s Events McMenamins Grand Lodge in Forest Grove and the
tualatinvalley.org
Wines Of Love Pacific Northwest Reptile Cornelius Pass Roadhouse and Imbrie Hall in Hillsboro
Join Artistic Director Scott Palmer and many favorite & Exotic Animal Expo kick up their heels with an Irish celebration with live
Bag&Baggage actors for an intimate evening of holi- This two-day expo showcases a variety of exotic music, bagpipers, Irish food and drinks, leprechauns
day-themed performances paired with romantic wines reptiles, mammals and birds from around the world at and more. mcmenamins.com
and light appetizers. bagnbaggage.org the Washington County Fair Complex. pacnwrs.com
16
WCVA_VG_2015-16_7.indd 16 11/7/14 4:07 PMApril
North Willamette Wine Trail Weekend
Wineries join together and open their doors for a
weekend complete with food, fun, wine and a little
education, such as wine blending, biodynamic farm-
ing and more. Guests will receive a commemorative
wine glass for complimentary tastings and a bag filled
with coupons and other goodies. nwvintners.org
Annual Lu’au at Pacific University
Enjoy a traditional Hawaiian feast and Polynesian
dance at this popular event held each year at Pacific
University. pacific.edu/studentlife/luau Concours D’elegance
Memorial Day Washington County’s premier car show features more
Every Husband’s Nightmare Bazaar Memorial Weekend In Wine Country
than 300 classic cars on display.
Oregon’s finest handmade goods, home décor, art, forestgroveconcours.org
Wineries throughout the Willamette Valley invite
collectibles and more are showcased at this annual guests to celebrate the dawn of summer during
event. nightmarebazaar.com Memorial Day weekend. This annual event features Washington County Fair
tastings of new releases, barrel samples, food pair- This annual fair returns to the Washington County
Favorite 5 Farms Spring Country Tour ings, live music and other activities. Fair Complex for a weekend of carnival rides, food,
Take a self-guided tour of farms throughout southern tualatinvalley.org agricultural exhibits and more. Admission is free.
Washington County and beyond during this annual bigfairfun.com
open-house event.
favorite5countryfarms.blogspot.com June Oregon International Airshow
Cruisin’ Sherwood Classic planes and military jets take flight in this
Wines of Spring Old Town Sherwood’s classic, custom car show annual air show, where spectators can view jets on
Join Artistic Director Scott Palmer and members of features hundreds of cool cars from yesteryear. display and thrill in evening fireworks.
the Bag&Baggage theatre company for an intimate cruisinsherwood.com oregonairshow.com
evening of wine, food and poetry all to celebrate the
return of spring. bagnbaggage.org Dixie Mountain Grange
Annual Strawberry Festival
Independence Day
Hillsboro 4th of July Parade
Annual Latino Cultural Festival Celebrate the juicy goodness of Oregon strawberries
Oregon’s second largest Independence Day parade
Latino Food, entertainment, cultural arts and sports at this festival held each Father’s Day weekend.
has been a long-held tradition in Hillsboro since 1926.
are showcased during this one-day festival, complete grange.org/dixiemtor860/
hillsbororotary.org
with a parade, arts village and street soccer tourna-
ment in downtown Hillsboro. Tigard Festival of Balloons
Freedomthon Run
hillsborochamberor.com/latino-cultural-festiv.html Colorful hot-air balloons fill the early-morning skies
Celebrate Independence Day with this 5K run/walk,
over the city of Tigard during a weekend full of activi-
followed by a pancake breakfast feast.
ties, including a carnival, live entertainment, food and
May more. tigardballoon.org
uberthons.com
Tualatin River Bird Festival
Celebrate the spring bird migration at this annual North Plains 4th of July Celebration
festival at the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge. July The city of North Plains celebrates the 4th of July
tualatinriverbirdfestival.org Oregon Lavender Festival with a street festival, including a "Cruisin'" car show,
This annual self-guided tour of lavender farms live music, parade and a special area just for the kids.
Faire in the Grove throughout the Willamette Valley features a host of npfun.org
Each May, the grounds of McMenamins Grand Lodge activities, including lavender picking, demonstrations,
are transformed into a medieval village during the food and crafts vendors, lavender products for sale, 4th of July Celebration
Faire in the Grove. faireinthegrove.com and more. oregonlavenderdestinations.com This fun family event features fireworks, live music,
kids' games, concession stand offering light snacks
Ten Tiny Dances and more. tigard-or.gov
Walk around downtown Beaverton,
starting at the Farmers' Market at July 4th Berry Festival
City Park, where five stages invite Celebrate the red, white and blue at this annual festi-
you to witness 10 dances repre- val highlighting the bountiful harvest of fresh berries.
senting diverse cultures and dance Enjoy family activities, berry picking, homemade
genres. tentinydances.org berry desserts, local wines and live entertainment.
smithberrybarn.com
Sherwood Robin Hood Festival
This charming, medieval event fea- Old Fashion 4th of July Celebration
tures a parade, archery tournament, Bring a picnic or purchase food on-site and enjoy live
tualatinvalley.org
castle-building contest, live entertain- music and more at this annual Forest Grove tradition.
ment and more revelry. forestgrove-or.gov
robinhoodfestival.org
17
WCVA_VG_2015-16_7.indd 17 11/12/14 5:06 PMEvents
August
Tualatin Crawfish Festival Harvest Century Ride
The nation’s oldest crawfish festival is a fun-filled Welcome fall with a crisp bicycle ride through Oregon’s
family event with a variety of activities, such as Washington County. Routes ranging from three to 100
crawfish eating contests, doggie fashion show, miles all start and end at the Hillsboro Civic Center. Partic-
car show and more. tualatincrawfishfestival.com ipants are rewarded with a finish-line party, complete with
a hot, catered meal and live music. harvestcentury.org
Elephant Garlic Festival
Experience three days of good music, food, enter- October
tainment and all-things garlic. The event features North Willamette Harvest Trail
a 10K run and two-mile walk, vintage car show, October’s wine harvest season is an exciting and active
old-fashioned parade and more. funstinks.com time at area vineyards, when grapes are picked, de-
stemmed and crushed into juice. Explore the region with
Banks BBQ and Tractor Pull a guided tour of three wineries and discover the many
This community event epitomizes small-town different phases of wine production, from vineyard to
Americana with its fun combine demolition derby, barrel, with a variety of hands-on experiences.
beer garden and barbecue. bankssunsetpark.com nwvintners.org
Canines Uncorked Great Onion Festival
Explore North Willamette Valley wine country Onion-eating contests, arts and crafts, kids’ games and
during this one-of-a-kind event, which invites “Best Dang Onion Dish” are among the highlights of this
wine lovers and their faithful four-legged friends annual fest, celebrating the onion-growing heritage of
to sample tastings at several participating the city of Sherwood. sherwoodchamber.org
wineries, with each winery featuring dog-friendly
activities. nwvintners.org Oregon Heritage Farms Apple Fest
Sample more than a dozen apple varieties at the annual
Beaverton, Banks & Beyond Bicycle Tour Applefest, a country-style, family festival with pony and
Cyclists can pedal 32, 64, 86 or 100 miles while hay rides, live country music and apple tastings.
enjoying the bucolic beauty of the cities of Bea- oregonheritagefarm.com
verton, Banks, North Plains and Vernonia, as well
as portions of L.L. Stub Stewart State Park. West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta
nwbicyclesafetycouncil.org The Giant Pumpkin Regatta is the largest festival of its
kind in the western U.S. Witness the series of wacky December
Forest Grove Uncorked boat races, where boaters—often dressed in outrageous Forest Grove’s Holiday Light Parade fea-
During this one day event, Forest Grove’s Main garb—navigate the waters in 1,000-lb. pumpkin "boats." tures a parade of lighted floats. fgcityclub.com
Street becomes a grand tasting, featuring dozens tualatinoregon.gov
of local wineries, craft breweries and restau-
North Plains Jingle consists of a festive parade,
rants, each showcasing and celebrating locally Heirloom Apple Festival caroling and a visit from Santa.
produced food and beverages. Sample the tastes Taste an array of heirloom and modern varieties of npfun.org/jingle.html
of the northern Willamette Valley, while enjoying apples and pears, picked fresh from the orchard. Plus,
live music, great food and fine local hospitality. enjoy wine and beer tastings and live music. The Annual Tree Lighting & Holiday Open
fguncorked.com smithberrybarn.com
House at City Hall in Beaverton also features
caroling, crafts, and a visit from Santa.
Renaissance Festival
For 13 days of merriment, the Washington County
November beavertonoregon.gov
Fair Complex is transformed into a 16th century Verboort Sausage & Kraut Dinner
European village during weekends in August and Nearing its 80th year, this annual event (formerly known Starry Nights & Holiday Lights in Tualatin
September. oregonrenfest.com at the Verboort Sausage Festival) is a time-honored offers kids’ activities, caroling, refreshments, tree
tradition in the small, Dutch-influenced community of lighting and a visit from Santa. tualatinoregon.gov
Verboort. The dinner features an all-you-can-eat meal of
September handmade sausage, sauerkraut and applesauce with all Hillsboro’s Holly Days has a holiday farmers’
Warrior Dash the trimmings. verboort.org/dinner market, live music, tree lighting and a visit from
The mud pits, barbed wire, log roll and fire effects Santa. hillsborohollydays.org
on the hilly grounds of Horning’s Hideout make a
fun, mucky run of epic proportions. Though this
Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving Wine Weekend Sherwood’s Old Town Winter Festival
race is a mere 3.18 miles, it’s not easy to trail lights up the town with a parade, tree lighting,
run in wet shoes. Finish line festival includes live A long-standing tradition in Oregon's Willamette Valley,
Wine Country Thanksgiving features open houses at live music, refreshments and a visit from Santa.
music and a beer garden. warriordash.com robinhoodfestival.org
more than 30 wineries throughout Oregon’s Washington
County. Enjoy special tastings—including tastes of
Sidewalk Chalk Art Festival & Corn Roast
new releases, special pairings and library and barrel
tualatinvalley.org
Grab some chalk and take to the street—Main
tastings—entertainment and light bites. The weekend
Street in Forest Grove—to create a sidewalk
provides rare opportunities to visit small wineries that
square of artistry. In conjunction, there’s a Corn
are not open to the public, as well as check out the
Roast at Pacific University, showcasing locally For a complete list, please visit
special festivities planned at wineries that are open year-
grown, fresh corn. valleyart.org tualatinvalley.org/events-festivals
round. tualatinvalley.org
or click on the code.
18
WCVA_VG_2014-15_7.indd 18 11/6/14 6:01 PMExplore Our
Outdoors
The vastness of the Tualatin Valley, especially when venturing beyond the urban cities, offers
tualatinvalley.org
innumerable options for outdoor recreation. Many of the valley's 727 square miles are devoted to
pristine, rural wetlands, nature parks, wildlife refuges, verdant forests, tranquil waters and open
fields. Explore our outdoors and find the perfect spots for hiking, cycling, paddle trips, fishing, wildlife
watching, scenic drives and other outdoor pursuits.
19
WCVA_VG_2014-15_7.indd 19 11/6/14 6:01 PMExplore
Biking the
Tualatin Valley
O
regon’s 10th designated scenic bikeway is Washington
County’s first! The Tualatin Valley Scenic Bikeway is a
cycling tour showcasing many of the destination’s most
scenic routes through agricultural and natural spaces.
The Tualatin Valley Scenic Bikeway features the best of the
northern Willamette Valley, from friendly downtowns to fertile
farmlands and lush natural areas. Set in the heart of Washington
County, the bikeway extends more than 50 miles point-to-point
and includes the Banks-Vernonia State Trail. Much of the bikeway
shares space with vehicle traffic and is best for intermediate and ad-
vanced cyclists, but the bikeway’s 21-mile portion along the car-free
Banks-Vernonia State Trail is recommended for all skills.
ATTRACTIONS ALONG THE ROUTE Approximately four miles from Rood Fern Hill Rd., Forest Grove), one of the area’s
Much like the Vineyard and Valley Sce- Bridge Park is Oak Knoll Winery (29700 most popular bird-watching spots.
nic Tour Route, which was developed with SW Burkhalter Rd., Hillsboro; 503-648- The northernmost portion of the
automobiles in mind, the Tualatin Valley 8198; oakknollwinery.com). Open daily, bikeway is the 21-mile Banks-Vernonia
Scenic Bikeway offers plenty of options to year-round, Oak Knoll is one of the area’s State Trail (42425 NW Banks Rd.,
stop, rest, refuel and experience some of pioneering wineries, and produces a wide Banks; oregonstateparks.org). Built along
the area’s attractions. variety of red and white varietals, as well as an abandoned railway, this eight-foot
The route starts at Rood Bridge its signature berry wines. wide, year-round, multiuse paved trail
Park (4000 SE Rood Bridge Rd., Hillsboro; Duyck’s Peachy Pig Farm (34840 is popular among cyclists, hikers and
hillsboro-oregon.gov), which is home to a SW Johnson School Rd., Cornelius; 503-357- equestrians. With 12 bridges and two
seasonal Rhododendron garden. (Several 3570; peachypigfarm.com) is a farmstand railroad trestles, the path takes cyclists
parks are located along the bikeway, offer- and u-pick farm located approximately through fields and forest, and offers
ing public restrooms and water fountains.) seven miles from Rood Bridge Park. Open spectacular views.
Tuesday through Sunday, the
farm offers seasonal u-pick CAMPING ALONG THE BIKEWAY
produce, including a variety of Cyclists venturing along the Tualatin
berries, rhubarb, tomatoes, nuts, Valley Scenic Bikeway have various lodging
pumpkins and more. The farm options. The cities of Hillsboro, Forest
stand features seasonal “already Grove and Vernonia all have camping and
picked” cherries, apricots, corn, lodging facilities.
prunes, nuts, apples, peaches and L.L. Stub Stewart State Park (locat-
pears. ed approximately midway on the Banks-Ver-
Just a tad down the street from nonia Trail; 30380 NW Highway 47, Buxton;
Duyck’s is Unger Farms (34880 800-452-5687; oregonstateparks.org), is
SW Johnson School Rd. Cornelius; a year-round, full-service campground
971-285-7507; ungerfarms.com), with hike-in camping, RV spots and rustic
a family-owned farm and farm cabins.
store that sells fresh berries. Its Anderson Park (located at the Verno-
café features sweets treats, such nia terminus/trailhead of the Banks-Vernonia
as waffles topped with fresh State Trail; 450 Jefferson Ave., Vernonia;
tualatinvalley.org
berries, and a variety of Panini 503-429-2531; vernonia-or.gov) offers RV and
and sandwiches. primitive camping.
While traveling north through After trekking the 50-mile bikeway to
THE TUALATIN VALLEY Forest Grove, cyclists can stop Vernonia, consider an overnight stay at the
SCENIC BIKEWAY
at Fernhill Wetlands (1125 SW
20 PHOTOS BY KEN KOCHEY
WCVA_VG_2014-15_7.indd 20 11/6/14 6:01 PMCoastal Mountain Sport Haus (66845 "Historic Helvetia Loop" rolls mostly along
Nehalem Hwy N, Vernonia; 503-429-6940; quiet country roads.
coastalmountainsporthaus.com), a quaint, With a little planning and the desire
European-style inn located in a forested to pedal, your Washington County bike
area outside of Vernonia. adventure can also be smooth, scenic and
enjoyable. Plan the perfect route with the
ADDITIONAL CYCLING TRAILS Washington County Bike Map, a
Many miles of bike paths allow for an free map outlining bike paths and routes
exciting and invigorating day, weekend or and bike-friendly roads throughout the
week of discovery. From urban trails con- Tualatin Valley. Request a bike map today
necting cities, to rural paths in the forest, at tualatinvalley.org/bikemap.
there is no shortage of places to take the
road less traveled. BICYCLE RENTAL, REPAIR
For road biking along paths and & SERVICES
streets, an outstanding option is the loop The Tualatin Valley Scenic Bikeway features
around Henry Hagg Lake and through two bicycle rental and repair shops along
Scoggins Valley Park (50250 SW the route, providing additional services for
Scoggins Valley Rd., Gaston; co.washington. cyclists:
or.us/hagglake). Olson’s Bicycles (1904 Elm St., Forest
If dirt paths are desired, there's prime Grove; 503-359-4010; olsonsbicycles.com)
mountain biking at the Gales Creek Banks Bicycles (14175 NW Sellers Rd.,
Camp area (located off the Wilson River Banks; 503-680-3269; banksbicycles.com)
Highway, Highway 6), complete with
seven miles of a single-track trail for For more information, including
technical riding. A freeride mountain bike maps, turn-by-turn directions
trail is located at L.L. Stub Stewart and safety information, visit
State Park, and provides exciting thrills tualatinvalley.org.
to riders who enjoy the dirt-grinding
challenge of climbs, descents and jumps.
Prime routes for a day of road cycling
tualatinvalley.org
are also an option in the Tualatin Valley.
The 20-mile "Fern Hill Loop" winds past
wetlands and through the lush Tualatin
River Basin, close to wineries. The
21
WCVA_VG_2014-15_7.indd 21 11/6/14 6:01 PMYou can also read
