The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Washington County

The Tualatin River Greenway Trail offers a delightful escape into nature, tracing the banks of the Tualatin River through serene wetlands and wooded areas. You'll find a mix of wide, paved paths perfect for a casual stroll, alongside more primitive dirt sections that lead closer to the water, providing a varied and engaging experience. Keep an eye out for the unique interpretive signs that tell the story of the region's past, from Ice Age floods to early settlers, and enjoy the views from the Ki-a-Kuts Pedestrian Bridge.

This easy 3.1-mile (5.0 km) hike involves a mere 39 feet (12 metres) of elevation gain, making it suitable for nearly everyone and typically taking about 1 hour and 16 minutes to complete. You can access the trail from several points, including Durham City Park, which offers convenient parking and facilities like restrooms and picnic areas. It's a great option for families and dog owners, just remember to keep your furry friends on a leash.

What truly sets this trail apart is its blend of natural beauty with a rich historical narrative. As you walk, you'll encounter fascinating "walk through time" elements, including information about prehistoric mammals and geological events like the cataclysmic Ice Age Floods. It's a chance to connect with both the environment and the deep history of the Tualatin area, offering more than just a simple walk.

The Hyland Woods Natural Area Loop offers an easy hiking experience, perfect for a quick escape into nature. This route covers 1.1 miles (1.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 70 feet (21 metres), taking you about 29 minutes to complete. As you hike, you will find yourself surrounded by a mature Douglas fir forest, providing a peaceful atmosphere on soft-surface paths that are generally well-maintained with natural dirt hard-pack.

Planning your visit to Hyland Woods Natural Area is straightforward, as the park is easily accessible within Beaverton. You will find parking generally available, making it convenient for a spontaneous outing. This urban forest is an excellent choice for families and anyone seeking an accessible natural space for a short, refreshing walk.

Keep an eye out for pileated woodpeckers as you explore the area; if you visit in spring, you might even spot wildflowers adding to the scenic beauty. A unique feature of this natural area is the innovative 1.5-acre "Off-Trail Play Area" located in the southeast corner, marked by blue posts, where both children and adults can freely explore and build forts.

The Skidder Row to Hares Canyon Trail offers an easy 3.5-mile (5.7 km) hike through L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, perfect for a relaxing outing. You'll wander through dense forests of Douglas-fir, western red cedar, and western hemlock, with abundant ferns lining the path. Expect gentle rolling hills and occasional open meadows, providing views of the Coast Range from higher elevations. This scenic route, with its manageable 398 feet (121 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hours and 36 minutes, making it an ideal choice for families and casual hikers.

To plan your visit, head to L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, where you can usually find parking at the Clayhill Horse Staging Area. The park is well-equipped with amenities like picnic spots and an off-leash pet area. While the trail is generally well-signed, it's wise to carry a trail map due to the park's extensive network. Be aware that sections can get muddy and have standing water, especially after rainfall, so choose your footwear accordingly.

This trail is notable for its integration into the larger L.L. Stub Stewart State Park system, allowing you to connect with other routes like the paved Banks-Vernonia State Trail. The names, like "Skidder Row," hint at the area's logging history. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer, elk, and various bird species like the Pileated Woodpecker, and you might even spot beaver ponds along the Hares Canyon section. The park is also a popular spot for stargazing, offering a unique evening experience.

Embark on the Rock Creek Trail for a moderate hiking experience that spans 8.5 miles (13.7 km), offering a diverse journey through varied landscapes. You'll gain 382 feet (117 metres) in elevation over approximately 3 hours and 34 minutes, making it a substantial yet accessible outing. The route features a mix of paved paths and boardwalk sections, guiding you through serene forests, vibrant wetlands, and open meadows. As you follow Springville Creek, you'll encounter a scenic bridge at Orenco Woods Nature Park, providing a picturesque spot to pause and enjoy the surroundings.

Planning your visit to the Rock Creek Trail is straightforward, as it's designed for ease of access and comfort. You'll find well-maintained paths and wide bridges throughout the route, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors. Conveniently, parking is typically available at various access points along the trail, allowing you to choose your starting point. Amenities such as picnic tables, water fountains, and even porta-potties are provided, ensuring a comfortable trip.

This trail is a highlight within the Rock Creek Greenway, offering a unique opportunity to explore a rich natural environment close to urban areas. As you hike, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various songbirds, majestic osprey, and Red-tailed Hawks soaring overhead. The path thoughtfully follows both Springville Creek and a powerline corridor, showcasing how nature and infrastructure can coexist. It's an excellent choice if you're seeking a blend of natural beauty and convenient amenities.