Tualatin Hills Nature Park & Nike Woods loop from Beaverton

The full loop, which covers approximately 10 kilometers (6.3 miles), generally takes around 2 hours and 35 minutes to complete. This duration can vary depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery or observe wildlife.

The terrain is quite varied. Within the Tualatin Hills Nature Park, you'll find a mix of natural surfaces, compacted gravel, and boardwalks, with about 1.5 miles of paved trails. It's generally flat and considered easy, making it suitable for most fitness levels, including families and seniors. Some sections, like the Oak Trail and parts of the Vine Maple Trail, are even wheelchair-accessible. The Nike Woods section is a 1.5-mile paved loop. Overall, the combined route is rated as moderate, requiring good fitness, but still features mostly accessible paths.

The Tualatin Hills Nature Park is a 220-acre wildlife preserve, offering excellent opportunities for nature observation. You can often spot various species of birds, deer, insects, reptiles, and amphibians, especially around the ponds, creeks, and the cattail marsh, with Big Pond being a particularly good spot.

Dogs are generally allowed in Tualatin Hills Nature Park but must be kept on a leash. For Nike Woods, which is part of the Nike World Headquarters, official access is primarily for employees. While many individuals report walking or running through Nike Woods with dogs without issue, especially if they appear to be exercising, it's important to be aware of the official policy.

The Tualatin Hills Nature Park is highly accessible. There is parking available at the Nature Park's main entrance. For public transport, you can reach the park via the MAX light rail, getting off at the Merlo Road/SW 158th Ave station, which provides convenient access to the area.

No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access the Tualatin Hills Nature Park. It is a public wildlife preserve. Similarly, there are no permits required for Nike Woods, though it's officially part of the Nike World Headquarters and primarily intended for employee use.

This route can be enjoyed year-round. However, spring and fall offer particularly pleasant conditions with mild temperatures and vibrant natural scenery. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while fall showcases beautiful foliage. Summer is also a good option, with the dense tree cover providing ample shade.

The route features several notable points of interest. You'll pass through the serene Nike Woods, a forested environment with a paved loop. The Tualatin Hills Nature Park Forest Trail offers immersion in a 220-acre wildlife preserve with towering trees, ponds, and a cattail marsh. You'll also encounter Beaverton Creek, adding to the natural beauty.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other trails. You'll find yourself on parts of the Westside Trail, Beaverton Creek Trail, Waterhouse Trail, Vine Maple Trail, Oak Trail, Big Fir Trail, Hollister Trail, Ponderosa Loop, Owl Path, Lupine Trail, Big Pond Trail, Ash Loop, Chickadee Loop, Trillium Loop, Old Wagon Trail, Elliot Path, Mink Path, Nature Education Area, Lily Pond Trail, Tadpole Ponds Loop, Tadpole Pond Trail, Beaverton Wetlands Trail, Jeff Johnson Trail, and Nike Woods Cycleway.

While Nike Woods (also known as the Hollister Trail) is part of the Nike World Headquarters and officially for employee use, casual public use is often tolerated. Many individuals report walking or running through it without issue during the day, especially if they appear to be exercising. Security sometimes patrols the area, so be mindful of your presence.

Yes, given its location in Beaverton, there are various cafes, restaurants, and other amenities available in the surrounding urban area, perfect for a post-hike refreshment or meal.