Mt. Pisgah Arboretum – Hiking, Festivals, Gardens

Mt. Pisgah Arboretum is a beautiful 209-acre arboretum located between Eugene and Springfield, Oregon on the banks of the Willamette River. Full of miles of hiking trails and nature paths, Mt. Pisgah and the surrounding Howard Buford Recreation Area are best known for their diverse wildlife, expansive gardens, and unique habitats. There are several trails along the Willamette River, across the wildflower meadows, through the evergreen forests, and around the stunning water garden. Location: Mt. Pisgah arboretum is located in Lane County, … [Read more...]

Sunset Bay and Shore Acres

Sunset Bay, OR - The Oregon coastline is world famous for its stunning scenery, and the area south of Coos Bay is no exception. Erosion and seismic action have created a crumbling, fractured coastline full of geologic interest and curious rock formations. Location: Getting There Take 101 through Coos Bay, and turn right onto Empire Rd before you leave town. Take Empire/Coos Bay Hwy for 2.8 miles, then veer left onto Newmark for 0.5 miles, left again to get onto Cape Arago Hwy, and drive for 8 miles.   Adventure … [Read more...]

Alton Baker Park

Alton Baker Park is Eugene's largest developed park with over 400 acres to explore. The park features miles of running trails (paved and dirt), river paths, duck ponds, large open fields, a dog park, and an overall beautiful environment. Named after Register-Guard founder Alton F. Baker, the park is divided into two distinct areas: the more developed West Alton Baker Park and the natural and serene East Alton Baker Park. Location: North bank of the Willamette River smack dab in the middle of Eugene. Click Here for a Google Maps … [Read more...]

Buford Recreation Area – Hiking, Scenic Viewing, Picnicking

The 2,363-acre Howard Buford Recreation Area (HBRA) is the largest of Lane County's 58 parks. The park is home to many activities, including hiking, picnicking, horse back riding, and general recreation use. The park's dominant physical feature is Mt. Pisgah, rising 1,531 feet above sea level or 1,000 feet above the Willamette River's Coast and Middle Forks, which flow around its base. From the summit, hikers and equestrians can enjoy expansive views in all directions except to the north. The HBRA is also home to the Mt. Pisgah Arboretum , and … [Read more...]

Clear Lake – Hiking, Fishing, Boating, Camping

Clear Lake is a crystal clear glacial spring fed lake located 90 minutes outside Eugene on highway 126. If was formed over 3,000 years ago when lava flows damned the McKenzie river and created the lake the see today. The lake itself is divided up into two sections, the North end and the South End. The water in the lake has a temperature of about 40 degrees farenheit year round. (COLD!) Location: Clear Lake is located approximately 90 minutes outside Eugene Oregon directly off of highway 126. Look for the sign for Clear Lake on the right … [Read more...]

Hendricks Park

Hendricks Park is Eugene's oldest city park. Its 78 acres include a mature forest, a world-renowned rhododendron garden, and now a new native plant garden. Laced with trails, the park is a haven for hikers, birders, and others who enjoy retreating to the tranquility of nature. Without leaving the city, visitors can walk among Douglas fir trees two hundred years old, ferns, and wildflowers, such as trilliums and irises, and over six thousand varieties of rhododendrons and other ornamental plants. Location: Hendricks Park is located just south … [Read more...]