Springwater Corridor and Butler Creek Greenway Loop

The Springwater Corridor and Butler Creek Greenway Loop is designed for touring cycling and generally takes about 1 hour and 26 minutes to complete. This duration can vary based on your pace and any stops you make along the way.

The loop offers varied terrain. The Springwater Corridor section is primarily paved asphalt, wide and with a gentle grade. In contrast, the Butler Creek Greenway Trail features alternating single-track and wider gravel pathways, making it a soft-surfaced trail. Both sections are largely flat with only minor elevation changes.

Yes, this loop is generally considered easy and family-friendly, making it suitable for beginner touring cyclists. The Springwater Corridor is mostly flat, and the Butler Creek Greenway Trail has an easy physical rating with minor elevation changes. However, be aware of stop signs in urban sections of the Springwater Corridor.

The loop offers diverse scenery. Along the Springwater Corridor, you'll see urban views near Portland, wetlands like Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge, agricultural fields, and potentially views of Mount Hood. The Butler Creek Greenway Trail winds through dense forests, urban wetlands, and along scenic Butler Creek, leading to Binford Lake and Butler Creek Park.

Parking is available at various points along the Springwater Corridor. For specific parking information, it's best to check the official City of Portland or Gresham websites, as designated parking areas can vary. Many access points have small parking lots or street parking nearby.

The best time to cycle this loop is generally during the spring, summer, and early fall months when the weather is milder and drier. This allows for comfortable riding on both the paved and soft-surfaced sections. Wildlife viewing, especially Great Blue Herons in the refuge areas, is also excellent during these seasons.

Yes, both the Springwater Corridor and the Butler Creek Greenway Trail are generally dog-friendly. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Please be mindful of other trail users, including cyclists and pedestrians.

Yes, the route extensively uses sections of the 40 Mile Loop and the Springwater Trail. It also briefly connects with the I-205 Multi-Use Path and other local paths like the Gresham-Fairview Trail and Johnson Creek Trail.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the Springwater Corridor and Butler Creek Greenway Loop. Similarly, there are no fees to enter the nearby Gresham Butte Natural Area. Both are publicly accessible for recreational use.

You'll pass by the Gresham Woods Natural Area, Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge, and Beggars-Tick Wildlife Refuge, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Butler Creek Greenway Trail features a 135-foot span bridge over Johnson Creek and leads to Binford Lake. The Springwater Corridor also connects to various parks and natural areas like Powell Butte Nature Park.

While generally safe, some sections of the Springwater Corridor, particularly between I-205 and SE Johnson, have had past concerns regarding homeless encampments. Cyclists should remain aware of their surroundings, especially if riding alone or during off-peak hours. It's always advisable to ride with a buddy and carry a phone for emergencies.