Hayden Island
Hayden Island is a 20-acre peninsula located just across from downtown Portland. As the largest island in the Columbia River, Hayden Island has been home to Native Americans for thousands of years and was once a bustling port town. Today it is a vibrant residential community with many things to do both on land and water!
If you are looking for a place to relax and take in the natural beauty of Portland, head to Hayden Island. There are plenty of parks and green spaces to explore, as well as miles of walking and biking trails. You can also go fishing, kayaking, or windsurfing on the Columbia River.
There are several excellent restaurants, pubs, and breweries on the island. There are also many shops for you to explore at The Shops at Jantzen Beach Center.
The community is known for being pet-friendly, with many bars and cafes having outdoor dining areas where your dog can join you!
History of Hayden Island
Native Americans have inhabited the Hayden Island peninsula for over 11,000 years. The island was initially known as “Island of the Dead” and was used as a burial ground. In 1805, Lewis and Clark camped on the island during their journey westward.
In 1846, John C. Ainsworth built a sawmill on the island, leading to a booming logging industry. The area around Hayden Island became known as “Frog Town” due to all of the bullfrogs that were harvested for frog legs.
In 1883, Henry Villard established the Portland & Vancouver Railway Company and built facilities along the Columbia River, including at Ainsworth State Park on Hayden Island. This led to a population and commercial boom on the island, including a cannery, fish hatcheries, lumber yards, and more.
The island was once known as the “Port of Portland,” but in the 1950s, the Port of Portland moved its operations to Vancouver, Washington. The island has been home to the Jantzen Beach Amusement Park since 1928, but this was also closed down in 1970.
Today, Hayden Island is a thriving residential community that has retained much of its historic charm. It continues to be an essential port location and hub for transportation on Portland’s waterfront.
Facts About Hayden Island
– The Columbia River flows around the island to the east, south, and west.
– Hayden Island is home to more than 11,000 residents.
– There are over two miles of walking trails on the island.
– The island has several parks, including Jantzen Beach Park and Ainsworth State Park.
– There are several restaurants, pubs, and breweries on the island.
– The island is known as being pet friendly.
– Hayden Island was once known as the “Port of Portland.”
– The first inhabitants of the island were Native Americans.
Things to Do at Hayden Island
- Bring your dog and dine at a pet-friendly restaurant.
- Relax in one of the island’s parks or green spaces.
- Walk or bike on the miles of trails that crisscross the island.
- Fish, kayak, or windsurf on the Columbia River.
- Explore The Shops at Jantzen Beach Center for shopping and dining options.
- Head to one of the many restaurants, pubs, and breweries on the island.
- Explore Ainsworth State Park for camping, hiking trails, and more!
Hayden Island is a vibrant residential community with something to offer everyone in Portland. It’s easy to see why people love living here, with miles of walking trails, parks galore, and plenty of dining options!
What to See at Hayden Island
- Jantzen Beach Amusement Park – closed down in 1970.
- Ainsworth State Park – home to camping, hiking, and more!
- The Shops at Jantzen Beach Center – for shopping and dining.
- Hayden Island Community Church – built-in 1883.
- Hayden Island School – built-in 1892.
- Columbia River Maritime Museum – for maritime history and exhibits.
If you’re looking for a great place to spend a day or weekend, head to Hayden Island! There’s something for everyone on this vibrant peninsula located right in the heart of Portland!
Activities and Events at Hayden Island
Hayden Island is a vibrant community that comes to life during its many events and activities!
- The Island Fair – held annually in September.
- Jantzen Beach Race Week Regatta – annual event in July.
- Hayden Island Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting – held annually in December.
- Portland Rose Festival Grand Floral Parade – held annually in June.
No matter what time of year you visit, there’s always something happening at Hayden Island! Head on over for a day (or weekend) of fun!
Things to Bring to Hayden Island
If you’re planning on spending some time at Hayden Island, here are a few things to bring with you!
- Sunscreen and hats for protection from the sun.
- Bug spray to ward off the mosquitos.
- A camera to capture all of the memories.
- Good walking shoes as there are plenty of trails to explore.
- Lots of water and snacks to keep you nourished!
What Not to Do at Hayden Island
While there are plenty of things to do at Hayden Island, here are a few things you should avoid!
- Swimming in the Columbia River – the water is not safe for swimming.
- Feeding the wildlife – it’s essential to respect the island’s animals.
- Littering – please be conscientious and dispose of your trash properly.
How to Get to Hayden Island
By Car – take I-84 eastbound from Portland. Take exit 14 for WA 50 toward Vancouver and head south across two bridges until North Hayden Island Drive. Turn left onto N HID and follow the road to I-205 southbound. Take exit 12 for WA 500 toward Oregon City/Salem, turn right at NW Yeon Ave., then left on North Tomahawk Island Drive.
By Bus – take the #14 bus from downtown Portland. The bus will drop you off at Jantzen Beach Transit Center on Hayden Island. From there, it’s just a short walk to all the fun!
By Bike – you can get off at Jantzen Beach/Tomahawk Island Light Rail Station on Hayden Island. There are miles of trails that run along both sides of this island, making biking a breeze.
Address: 1620 NE Tomahawk Island Drive
Hours of Operation: 24 hours a day, seven days a week!
Phone Number: 503-285-7722
Website: portland.gov/parks/hayden_island_park.aspx
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