Attractions and Places To See around Forest Grove - Top 12

Forest Grove offers several natural preserves and outdoor spaces. You can visit Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve, a 635-acre sanctuary with 4.5 miles of trails perfect for wildlife watching, especially birds. Another excellent spot for birders is Fernhill Wetlands, known for migratory birds, herons, and beavers. For a larger recreational area, Henry Hagg Lake provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking, surrounded by trails.

Yes, the area around Forest Grove is rich with trails. Chehalem Ridge Nature Park offers extensive hiking, biking, and riding opportunities with stunning views. For cyclists, the Tualatin Valley Scenic Bikeway provides scenic routes along the Tualatin River, including segments of the Banks-Vernonia Trail. You can find more detailed routes for various activities on komoot, such as easy hikes, gravel biking, and running trails.

Forest Grove boasts a rich history. Pacific University, the oldest chartered university in the West, features the historic Old College Hall (built in 1850), one of the oldest collegiate buildings west of the Mississippi. The Alvin T. Smith House, built in 1856, is another one of the oldest structures in the area. You can also explore the Historic Downtown Forest Grove, known for its late 19th and early 20th-century architecture, and consider a historic walking tour to learn more about the Painters Woods and Clark Historic Districts.

Absolutely! Many natural attractions are suitable for families. Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve and Fernhill Wetlands offer easy trails and wildlife viewing. Henry Hagg Lake is a popular spot for picnicking, swimming, and water skiing during warmer months. Chehalem Ridge Nature Park also provides family-friendly hiking and biking opportunities.

Forest Grove is home to some distinctive local spots. You can visit David Hill Winery, which features some of the oldest vines in the Tualatin Valley, for tours and tastings. For a truly unique experience, SakeOne is the only American-owned and operated sake brewery in the country, also offering tastings and tours. Don't miss the quirky World's Tallest Barber Pole, a distinctive landmark in the city.

McMenamins Grand Lodge is a historic property offering lodging, dining, and entertainment, including a theater, soaking pool, and live music events. The Historic Downtown Forest Grove also features charming antique shops, restaurants, and wine-tasting venues. During the season, the Forest Grove Farmers Market on Main Street is a great place to sample fresh produce and local treats.

The spring and fall months generally offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities, with comfortable temperatures for hiking, biking, and exploring the wetlands. Winter (November through March) is particularly good for birdwatching at Fernhill Wetlands due to thousands of waterfowl. Summer is ideal for water activities at Henry Hagg Lake, though trails might be busier.

When visiting Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve, it's recommended to call ahead for trail updates, especially after wet weather, as some lower trails may be inaccessible due to high water. Always stay on designated trails and refrain from collecting plants or animals. The preserve is open seven days a week from sunrise to sunset, offering exceptional wildlife watching opportunities throughout the seasons.

Chehalem Ridge Nature Park offers stunning panoramic views of the Tualatin Valley and the Coast Range. It's an excellent spot to appreciate the natural landscape while enjoying hiking, biking, or riding through diverse wildlife habitats.

Yes, Henry Hagg Lake is a very popular spot for fishing, stocked with rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, and brown bullhead. It's also ideal for boating, water skiing, and swimming, especially during the summer months. The lake features several large day-use areas with picnic tables for visitors.

The Tualatin Valley Scenic Bikeway is renowned for its picturesque cycling routes. Riders can enjoy scenic views of coastal mountains, dairy farms, vineyards, and natural reserves while navigating the Tualatin River and its basin. It's essentially divided into two main sections, with the northern part being the Banks-Vernonia Trail.

Yes, Forest Grove is considered a gateway to Oregon Wine Country. David Hill Winery is a notable establishment with some of the oldest vines in the Tualatin Valley, offering tours and tastings. The surrounding area also boasts an impressive collection of six estate wineries, providing ample opportunities for wine enthusiasts.