Posts Tagged ‘park’
What’s to Love: I recently asked for a sledding recommendation on the Portland Family Adventures’ Facebook page. White River Snowpark, located about 6 miles north of Government Camp on Hwy 35, was the unanimous winner! With such accolades, I had to go check it out with my family – we were not disappointed. While many great areas exist for sledding, hiking and/or snowshoeing in winter, this may be the best of the best.
What’s to Love: The picture featured above is Jim Ablao of Chockstone Climbing Guides. Our family has climbed with him in the past at Smith Rock State Park. When Jim is working, it’s a sure bet that he’ll be sporting a big smile on his face. Right before I took the aforementioned picture, I asked him, “Another great day at the office, huh?” Jim obviously loves his work as a climbing guide, but he also has a love for climbing, which shows in his enthusiasm (and competence) as a a guide. If you’re looking to take your family out, or you want to give rock climbing at try at one of the world’s premier climbing areas, get in contact with Jim as soon as possible. The fall is a great time to climb at Smith.
What’s to Love: Being a climber, I’ve always been fascinated, and a bit intimidated, by the 848 foot high monolith – “Beacon Rock.” So intimidated that my first trip to the top was along the mile-long paved walkway and not roped-up hanging off the side of the rock. While the hike (1.8 miles round trip) to the top and back is exhilerating, the volcanic core is just a small piece of the whole picture. Upon further exploration, you’ll see that Beacon Rock has much to offer the whole family.
What’s to Love: I can’t say enough good things about the entire Evergreen facility, which includes a space museum, aviation museum, digital 3D theater, and the Wings & Waves Waterpark. These are beautiful museums that will ignite your child’s imagination and fascinate the whole family. The sheer magnitude of Evergreen astounds me. All of these facilities are on par with anything on the national level, and believe it or not, they are located just 40 miles from Portland.
What’s to Love: A fan on my Facebook page recommended the Hondo Dog Park in Hillsboro, and I’m thankful for the recommendation! Hondo is the nicest city dog park I’ve ever seen, and it’s well worth the drive from Portland, especially if you have some other Hillsboro destinations in mind.
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What’s to Love: Magnolia is a very cute little park in a semi-residential area of Hillsboro. I say “semi-residential” due to the fact this area of Hillsboro has a combination of planned residential areas surrounded by retail/businesses. I’m not sure how this city plan works for Hillsboro. I will say with confidence that Hillsboro has one of the most comprehensive park systems you’ll find anywhere. You could spend weeks (or more) exploring all the various options for parks. Check-out the map!
What’s to Love: If your family is into disc golf, the 21 acre Orchard Park is worth the drive to Hillsboro. The park has a VERY nice 3-par, 9-hole course with a paved path winding throughout the length of the course. The paved path makes a 1/2 mile loop, which is a decent length for beginning bikers or kids on scooters.
OPENING THIS WEEKEND!!! Friday, May 11th at 5PM – 10PM. Make sure to bring your own bike, they don’t have a rental fleet yet. Restaurant will not be open. Check-out their Facebook page for more info.
What’s to Love: Before getting into specifics, I want to say that I haven’t been this excited about a new family-adventure-oriented-business since Sky High Sports opened in Tigard. The Lumberyard is opening soon, and my sons were lucky enough to get a trial run through the incredible ramps, whoop-de-dos, jumps, bank-turns, and much more. The various courses will test the skills of everyone from toddlers on push bikes to the most advanced mountain bike, free-ride, and BMX riders. Even with everyone working so hard to get the place open, we were treated so kindly by the entire staff – a staff that shares the same enthusiasm and excitement for this fun and challenging sport.
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What’s to Love: I’ve explored the rock climbing area up at Rocky Butte many times. I’ve been turned off by the trash and noise from highway 205, which runs underneath the bluff. The climbing itself looks pretty good and worth a shot. I’ll give that a try this summer with the kids. This trip, I was interested in exploring the structure on the summit of Rocky Butte, which I’ve heard offers excellent bouldering.
What’s to Love: Holly Farm Park is a lovely park right off Capitol Highway in SW Portland. While next to a busy road, this small park has a nice vibe and a strong community feel. It’s well kept with a relatively large lawn, newer play structure, paved paths, and a very cool mini-skate-park.
