On a nice spring day, I returned to Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Less than five miles southeast of home, the 670-acre tract is the only Oregon state park within a major metropolitan area. I enjoyed a 6.5 mile (1,100-foot elevation gain) loop hike through the Park, passing over the Iron Mountain and High bridges. Trilliums were still in bloom, as were waterleaf, wood violets, salmonberry and other delightful additions to the beauty along the trails.
As always, it was a joy to visit – – – no litter, well manicured trails, Douglas fir and red cedar trees approaching 150 years old, a few huge cedar stumps remaining from logging in the 1860’s, luscious green ground cover, and interesting riparian areas along Tryon Creek. A fun outing.
An attentive House Wren
Wood Sorrel
Oregon Grape
One of many pleasant trails
Salmonberry
Bleeding Heart
Red Elderberry
I used to live right across the street from that park.
I often see Lewis & Clark students and profs running the trails in the park. It remains a very pleasant place to visit.