Pinard Falls is a breathtaking 105 ft. waterfall on Layng Creek near Cottage Grove, Oregon, in the Row River Drainage. This unique waterfall squeezes and twists through a narrow notch carved in the bedrock before it plunges into a picturesque pool surrounded by mossy basalt walls. Open almost year round, the falls are accessed via a 1/2 mile hike (one way) through the Umpqua National Forest. Pinard Falls are definitely worth the time involved and hiking to nearby Spirit and Moon Falls make a great full day adventure! Location: Pinard Falls … [Read more...]
Tire Mountain – Hiking & Wildflower Meadows
July 7, 2012 By
Tire Mountain outside of Oakridge, Oregon is a relatively easy 7.6 mile round trip hike through old growth forests and sloping meadows filled with seasonal wildflowers. Mid-June through mid-July will provide the best variety of wildflowers. Tire Mountain was once home to a small fire lookout, now all that remains is the cleared spot on the top of the mountain. Since its decommissioning, trees and brush have overgrown the clearing obstructing all views from the top. This trail is open to hikers and bikers so be prepared to share the … [Read more...]
Spirit Falls – Hiking and Photography
July 7, 2012 By
Spirit Falls is a gorgeous 40ft channeled waterfall, flowing over moss covered rock on Alex Creek near Cottage Grove, Oregon. Accessible year round at an elevation of 1900 ft and only a 2/3rd mile round trip day hike, Spirit falls is a great adventure for the whole family. Spirit Falls and nearby Moon Falls and Pinard Falls make a great full day adventure! Location: Spirit Falls is located approximately 50 miles from Eugene, on Forest Service Road #1790 off Layng Creek Road (FS Road #17) outside of Cottage Grove, Oregon. The trailhead is … [Read more...]
Mt. Pisgah Arboretum – Hiking, Festivals, Gardens
June 19, 2012 By
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...]
Delta Ponds – Bird Watching and Nature Walk
May 7, 2012 By
Known for their fantastic wildlife viewing, birdwatching, wildflowers, and nearby running and biking trails, the Delta Ponds are one of Eugene, Oregon's most well known casual recreation areas. The area is a 150 acre network of ponds, sloughs, and waterways near Valley River Center that act as a major haven for wildlife of all kinds. Over 100 species of birds have been recorded at Delta Ponds and the adjacent stretches of the Willamette River along with numerous fish and aquatic wildlife, including the threatened Western Pond … [Read more...]