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    Fernhill Wetlands

    5.0 (12 reviews)

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    Ruby throated hummingbird
    Frances L.

    Lovely trails that meander through different water environments filled with wildlife. We saw so many nutria and geese we couldn't count, a few swans herons and other birds of prey. They have a story trail for the kids to add to the fun. Parking is ample and restrooms where clean. Visitors center was not open when we went, will be back to check it oit.

    Big leaf maple
    Roger M.

    Fernhill Wetlands is a birder's paradise! The site encompasses nearly 800 acres mostly wet except for walks on the levee around. Waterfowl populations during migration number in the thousands from November through March. All year lots of birds make this place home. See hundreds of birds and just a few "peeps" make this a peaceful place to soak up the natural world and break loose of your daily routine. So keep an eye out for shore birds, blue herons, hawks, bald eagles (saw the nest), beavers, otters and mink and just a few "peeps" like me! "Fernhill Wetlands has undergone a large-scale wetland restoration project to enhance wildlife habitat as well as help treat wastewater more naturally and cost-effectively. In addition to the natural treatment wetlands, the site also includes a scenic water garden, ADA trails and other relatively flat trails, a public rest room and picnic shelter on more than 700 acres owned by Clean Water Services" (Audubon Portland). Restoration! Wetlands! It's a work in progress --- but the many birds birds birds birds birds already get it! Get there and see for yourself! Bring binoculars and SLR digital camera with zoom lens. It was raining so we were just walking in the rain not shooting any birds! But the birds are ready to pose for you.

    Katie R.

    One of my favorite spots for a nice stroll. I have seen lots of wildlife there including nutria, misc birds, a few danger noodles, & baby weasel or stoat (I think).

    Smith Q. J.

    Day trip to Fernhill Wetlands (stopped to eat at Ninja along the way, in Hillsboro). Learned about Nutria for the first time (giant rat-like creatures that we saw all over, that were harmless and not scared of humans). The Ten Year Old counted 14 total. Highly recommend both Ninja and the Wetlands (free) if you're anywhere near Hillsboro.

    Sandy B.

    Beautiful! Nice trails, beautiful scenery and wildlife. Nice waterfalls, shaded benches a long the way and we got to see a Bald Eagle.

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    Ask the Community - Fernhill Wetlands

    Review Highlights - Fernhill Wetlands

    Even if you are not a birder, this place would be a gorgeous place for strolling!

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    Beaver Falls - Standing underneath Beaver Falls is a Must-Do!

    Beaver Falls

    5.0(1 review)
    41.1 mi

    What a wonderful under the radar waterfall this is...Beaver Falls!…read more Located 6 miles east of Clatskanie, Oregon, this area near the Columbia River is beautiful. Let's get straight to the heart of what Beaver Falls is all about... If you plug "Beaver Falls Trailhead" into Google Maps, you'll have no problem finding it. Then just park along the side of Highway 30 and hike 1/3rd of a mile through the forest to the base of the falls. It's that easy. When I visited on a Thursday in early afternoon of July, there was hardly anyone around which was good for taking quality photos. Best of all, you can swim in the waters. So definitely bring a bathing suit, towel and a pair of water shoes so the rocks won't hurt your feet while entering the pool beneath Beaver Falls. The water is cold but once you jump in and get comfortable, it's a terrific setting. There's also a long rope where you can swing across and splash down below. It's great for kids (and adults too, lol) to have playful times. For me, I was content soaking in the pool and appreciating the surroundings. More info... - It's free to visit. - Cell phone reception works fine. - You can walk underneath the falls! This is a Must-Do. You can capture some amazing moments standing beside Beaver Falls. It's not hard or dangerous and offers a unique perspective. - Beaver Falls is just one of many outstanding waterfalls situated around Oregon and especially near the Columbia River. There's also Lower Lewis River Falls, Panther Creek Falls and Spirit Falls, to name a few. - You can spend a few hours hanging out or as little as 30 - 40 minutes. It depends on your time horizon. But overall, it's really pleasant to be here that I'd suggest bringing snacks, lunch and maybe having a picnic. This Beaver Falls is absolutely so much fun to hang out at. When you can swim in the waters, swing from a rope and even walk underneath the falls, It makes for a worthwhile summer visit.

    Photos
    Beaver Falls - Quiet setting at the falls and ideal for going swimming in the waters.

    Quiet setting at the falls and ideal for going swimming in the waters.

    Beaver Falls - Hiking down towards Beaver Falls.

    Hiking down towards Beaver Falls.

    Beaver Falls - Beautiful Beaver Falls!

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    Beautiful Beaver Falls!

    Adventures Across Oregon - Mount Hood in all her splendor!

    Adventures Across Oregon

    5.0(3 reviews)
    1.1 mi

    In planning our trip to Oregon, my boyfriend and I decided to think outside the box and experience…read moresomething different. After searching on Yelp, we stumbled upon Adventures Across Oregon. After reading their excellent reviews, I contacted Ethan and Wendy. They were incredibly prompt to respond through email and phone call and not only did they help us plan an excellent excursion but they also suggested other "must sees" during our vacation. At the start of our adventure with Ethan and Wendy which included fly fishing and hiking, they were on time, full of energy, and made sure we had everything we needed to have a comfortable and FUN day!! The word "passion" does not start to explain their commitment to their "adventurers" as well as their love for their state of Oregon. Ethan is a master fly fisher who helped both my boyfriend and I with much patience and guidance which lead to us catching 6 fish and enjoying every minute of our experience. After refueling with a delicious homemade lunch by Wendy, we were led on one of the most beautiful & lush hikes along the riverside! Ethan & Wendy's love for nature and Oregon was so inspiring that my boyfriend and I changed our trip originally headed into the city of Seattle and continued on our journey exploring Oregon's 7 wonders that Ethan & Wendy helped map out for us. My boyfriend & I are looking forward to a future excursion with Ethan and Wendy! We would highly recommend Adventures Across Oregon, you will not be disappointed and perhaps inspired as we were!!

    You will have a terrific time with Ethan. Not only is he a fine fisher but as a host and teacher he…read moreis top-notch. His ability to relate to persons of diverse back rounds and ages is excellent. If you have never fished or have fished a lifetime he will always leave you with a store of new knowledge.

    Photos
    Adventures Across Oregon
    Adventures Across Oregon - Specializing in photography trips and outings.

    Specializing in photography trips and outings.

    Adventures Across Oregon - The Adventures Across Oregon van and our loving mascot - Zuzu

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    The Adventures Across Oregon van and our loving mascot - Zuzu

    Banks - Vernonia State Trail - Free grapes and apples from neighbors

    Banks - Vernonia State Trail

    4.5(35 reviews)
    7.6 mi

    Recently did this 40-mile bike ride and it was a spectacular ride! A friend and I decided to ride…read moreon a gloomy + rainy day which ended up being worth it! It wasn't crowded at all and the views were still great. It was a full day, as we arrived around 10:30 am and were back in the car around 5:30 pm, so expect to take the whole day to enjoy this ride and to stop at the town of Vernonia. I love how this trail had multiple bike hubs and came in handy to put some air in my tires about 15 miles in. It was generally all family-friendly riding, with only a couple of hills where we did walk our bikes, but you can ride uphill if you are looking for an uphill challenge. But do note, that there were considerable amount of uneven spots/small potholes on the trail which my friend didn't remember on her last ride here so just be prepared for that. Luckily, most of them are marked! I will also agree with other reviews - about first 10 miles from Banks was a noticeable workout. We decided to grab some burgers in Vernonia and stretch our legs - which I totally suggest to do. We did see that a neighbor on our way to Vernonia had some free grapes and apples for us, which was such a sweet treat and extra fuel. I will suggest this to all my newbie and more advanced biker friends looking for a workout with a view!

    This is a fine trail, but the reviews that mention great views must have never been anywhere with…read moretrees and forests. There are no overlooks or valley views, just forests and a few grass fields. We just completed another section on our e-bikes. We will end up making three visits to complete the trail. Parking at Banks is very limited. Parking in Vernonia is unlimited. Someone has been marking roots and bumps with paint and it was greatly appreciated on our bikes. Our first visit was on a hot sunny day and was not near as enjoyable as yesterday in a cool drizzle. Not real rain, just threats of it.

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    Banks - Vernonia State Trail
    Banks - Vernonia State Trail
    Banks - Vernonia State Trail

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    Progress Lake

    Progress Lake

    5.0(2 reviews)
    13.6 mi

    Im not sure how successful folks are with catching fish in this large pond, but sitting by the dock…read moreis very peaceful. The lake is centered around the shopping mall so there are a few restaurant that overlook the lake. There are also ducks that live there.

    Came here today with fishing friend who did some actual fishing. Nothing was caught (fish 1 -…read morehumans 0), but it was really OK, and I thoroughly enjoyed sitting in my camping chair and watching the fish jump in the air and the world passing by. A few other people were down on the dock casting for fish, others sat on the various rock formations sort of zoning out, and it was a real pleasure to see the children and parents sharing something they really loved. If the youngsters aren't interested in the fishing, they can come down and feed the ducks - such fun. The water is so clear you can see down to rocks and plants on the bottom and also nearest the dock flashes of the goldfish as they glide along (these goldfish eventually grow into some very large carp). There are evidently some sturgeon as well along with the rainbow trout, and also lots of ducks and other water birds (a few still with babies). Oh yes, lots of dragonflies - flashes of black and fiery orange red - add to the charm. People who fish welcome you right into their society and talk readily about their fishing experiences and how the big one got away and even why. This is a terrific family experience and for those who want to come out alone. The best time is to come early, before 7, and especially after the lake has been re-stocked, if you want to catch some fish. But like I said, it's a wonderful experience whether fish are caught or not. Give it a try. And remember if you don't catch any fish, you can hike back up to the shopping center above and get some breakfast. Not a bad day at all, in fact a damn fine one if you ask me.

    Photos
    Progress Lake - Love fishing for trout

    Love fishing for trout

    Progress Lake - Quack quack

    Quack quack

    Progress Lake

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    University Falls - University Falls

    University Falls

    3.5(2 reviews)
    16.0 mi

    This was a much better time of year of course as far as water flow, as compared to our last visit…read morewhen it was a trickle. Its a beautiful (albeit short) walk in from the trail head...but truthfully it's quite a drive back in there just for this falls...especially when you consider how many stunning falls we have in the PNW.

    5 star hike, minus one star for noisy conditions…read more Less than 1 hour from Portland, this trailhead is about 17 miles west of Banks. The turn off, Beaver Dam Road, from Hwy 6, is well marked and you get lots of warning. Immediately on the right is a road crew area. There is a trailhead on the other side of that, but you can't park there. If you go straight though, and then make a left at the T, you'll come to a large parking area with potties, info, and another trailhead. You can see it as point of origin on the map I posted, this is where I set out for my 8.2 mile hike. I ended it at the trailhead by the work area. You could also turn right at the T and drive to any number of trailheads, including one that makes getting to University Falls a shorter walk. I prefer the long way. I took to the trail on Jan 3, during a break in the rain. It was very wet. Often there was water running directly down the trail, and it got deep enough to slosh over the toes of my boots. Mud was often 3" deep, or more. Large puddles on the trail you just have to walk through. No going around. Not a big deal since I had my waterproof hiking boots and merino socks. Just wanted you to know your converse high tops aren't going to cut it. It was about 45-48 degrees, and the sun broke thru a couple of times. Not very windy, so my merino base and lite mid were just right. Kept my shell open most of the hike. It was beautiful, truly. The river was kind of raging, all churned up mud and white rapids. The trail was well marked and easy to follow up and down the groves of trees. The two waterfalls were breathtaking, especially University Falls, which was as full as any photo I've seen. The water was definitely higher than usual. I loved every bit of the trail. And now the minus one star. There was constant noise from motorcycles and firearms. I don't want to editorialize about dirt bikes and hand cannons, but it was hard to immerse myself in nature with the omnipresent noise. There was no place on that trail where I couldn't hear it. The dirtbikes are thankfully not on the hiking trail. There is a separate trail system for that, and the tracks do cross sometimes so keep an eye out. For mountain bikes, you'll hear the dirtbikes. I have no idea where the shooters were, but they were close. No comment, not looking to have that discussion. It's just good to know before you get there what it will be like. Enjoy the photos. Here is a link to this location on AllTrails so you can check it out more if you think you'd like to give it a try. If you are in for dirt biking, I think you'll love it. https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/oregon/university-falls-trail--4&ved=2ahUKEwiX-K-ikYHuAhWNv54KHb9VAMEQFjAQegQIKRAB&usg=AOvVaw3sWGn85abOsy97LikFomke

    Photos
    University Falls - University Falls

    University Falls

    University Falls
    University Falls

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    Fernhill Wetlands - hiking - Updated May 2026

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