Tryon Creek
Located in Washington County, Tryon Creek is a large park that offers many recreation opportunities. The most popular of these activities are hiking and bird watching. With over 1500 acres to explore, there are plenty of places to get away from the hustle of daily life. If you want to get back to nature without sacrificing too much luxury, this is the place for you!
You can enjoy at Tryon Creek other activities include fishing, horseback riding, and mountain biking. There are also picnic areas and a nature center where you can learn more about the flora and fauna of the area. If you’re looking for a unique Portland experience, be sure to check out Tryon Creek!
History of Tryon Creek
The Clackamas Indians originally inhabited the Tryon Creek area. The first Europeans to explore the area were led by John McLoughlin in 1818. McLoughlin, who later became a founder of Oregon City, established a fur trading post in the area.
Henry Villard acquired the land that would eventually become Tryon Creek Park in 1882. He named the area after William Tryon, a British governor of New York known for his military success during the French and Indian War.
In 1969, Henry Crown purchased most of Tryon Creek State Park from Union Pacific Railroad with plans to develop it into housing communities similar to those near the park today. However, the development plans were scrapped due to public opposition, and the land was donated to Oregon in 1971.
Tryon Creek State Park was opened to the public in 1978.
Facts About Tryon Creek
Tryon Creek watershed is the largest in Portland, draining over 40 square miles of land.
About one-fifth of the watershed is parks and open space, including the Tryon Creek State Natural Area.
The creek that flows through Tryon Creek State Park has been federally recognized as a Wild & Scenic River because it provides habitat for many endangered species, including salmon and steelhead trout. As you hike along the trails at Tryon Creek, keep an eye out for these beautiful fish.
Since the area is heavily wooded, Tryon Creek provides shelter for many species native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America. You’ll also see plenty of plant life during your visit! There are over 400 different types of plants throughout the park, and they range in size from tiny mosses to substantial old-growth trees.
The nature center at Tryon Creek offers educational programs for people of all ages throughout the year. Be sure to check out their website or call them ahead of time if you want to learn more about the park and its wildlife!
What to See at Tryon Creek
The Tryon Creek Nature Center is a great place to start your visit. This building offers information about the park’s trails, plants, animals, and educational programs for children and adults.
After checking out the nature center, you may want to hike one of the many trails found in Tryon Creek State Park. There are currently ten different hiking trails that vary in length and difficulty.
Some of these trails lead to picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy the serenity of your surroundings! Others connect with roads, so it’s easy for people driving through Tryon Creek State Park as well as those who want to bike or hike along its paths.
Even some trails within Tryon Creek State Park intertwine and lead to the same destination! This is an excellent way for families with young children who may not hike far distances but still want to explore the park.
The main trail at Tryon Creek starts near the nature center, where you can pick up maps of all ten trails. It leads southward and is about three and a half miles long. This trail takes you through all of the different habitats found in Tryon Creek State Park, so it’s a great way to see everything the park has to offer!
If fishing is your thing, be sure to check out Cottonwood Pond, located just south of the nature center. You can access this area by taking one of the trails along Tryon Creek.
When you’re visiting Tryon Creek State Park, be sure to bring your camera! You’ll discover beautiful scenery and exciting wildlife at every turn. If you want to view some unique birds in their natural habitat, take a hike on the Cheatham Hill Trail, which starts near the junction of the North and South Park Loop Rd.
What to Bring with You on Your Visit to Tryon Creek State Park
There are ten trails at Tryon Creek, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes! Even if it’s sunny out, the path can get slippery after rainstorms or during the winter months, so wearing appropriate footwear is essential.
Since many of the trails at Tryon Creek are hilly, there is a good chance you’ll get hungry after hiking around for a while! Be sure to carry some snacks and water with you whenever possible because it’s easy to become dehydrated when exercising outdoors. Sun protection is also significant since this area can see hot temperatures during the summer.
Although Tryon Creek State Park is open year-round, some trails may be closed during winter due to icy conditions. Be sure to check the park’s website or call ahead if you’re unsure about trail closures.
Things Not to Do at Tryon Creek State Park
Please remember that dogs are not allowed on any Tryon Creek State Park trails. This is because the park is a wildlife refuge, and many of the animals here are scared of dogs.
Also, be sure to take your trash with you when you leave! Tryon Creek State Park is a beautiful place, and we want to make sure it stays that way.
There are so many fun things to do in Tryon Creek State Park! It’s an excellent place for people of all ages who want to spend time outdoors. If you’re interested in learning more about this park, be sure to check out their website or call them ahead of your visit!
How to Get to Tryon Creek State Park
The easiest way to get to Tryon Creek State Park is by driving. The park is located south of Portland and can be accessed from Highway 43 or Interstate 205. Several TriMet bus routes will take you close to the park!
If you’re interested in biking or walking to Tryon Creek State Park, several trails within the park connect with roads. The main trail starts near the nature center and is about three and a half miles long. It takes you through all of the different habitats found throughout Tryon Creek State Park, so it’s great for people who want to see everything the park has to offer!
There are also several parking lots located throughout Tryon Creek State Park. Be sure to check the park’s website for a map of all the different parking locations.
Address: 11321 SW Terwilliger Blvd., Portland, OR 97223-8922
Phone: (503) 620-5300
Website: tryoncreek.org
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