Hoyt Arboretum

When I first visited Oregon, I had a very limited amount of time for sightseeing. I was here for only three days, two of which were completely devoted to one interview after another. I made sure to ask anyone I could find, "Where should I go and what should I see?" The answers, surprisingly, did not vary much. Almost everyone first mentioned the coast, so I took my extra day on an amazing drive down the Three Capes Scenic Route. There were a few other suggestions on areas to see, but the one that noone mentioned is a place I've visited more times than any other since moving to Oregon. The Hoyt Arboretum.

I've found the Arboretum to be an incredible place. It has miles of trails winding down through thick forest, into wide meadows, and up to some wonderful scenic views. But you really can't beat the location. While most of the popular places to go involve hours of driving, the Arboretum is nestled in Washington Park, a short drive from anywhere in the Portland metro area. It is also accessible via the MAX train, so you can avoid the Sunset Highway's renowned traffic.

The most important aspect of the Arboretum to me is an escape from the crowds. In the summertime, you can expect every travel destination to be packed with people. Try going to Multnomah Falls, you'll be lucky to even find a parking space. The other attractions in Washington Park will be filled with people as well. Fortunately, when you are finished strolling through the roses (at the International Rose Test Garden) and japanese maples (at the Japanese Garden), you can drive, take the zoo train or the short bus ride back over to the arboretum for a quiet, peaceful picnic.

If you take the time to explore some of the trails, you will find that there are several grassy areas interspersed amongst the towering trees. These places usually have very few people around and can be used for activities like throwing frisbee, picnicking, playing chase with your dog, or tapping away at your laptop. One grassy area is an archery field, though, so I'd avoid that one if anyone is carrying a bow and arrow.

The Arboretum is well labeled and includes over 1100 species, so it is an excellent learning environment for kids all the way up to professional arborists. It boasts a small gift shop run by volunteers and a large pavilion for barbecues and gatherings. If you drop by on a weekend afternoon or evening, you may even see a wedding there, partying it up northwest style.

There are a few paths that are paved and wheelchair accessible. For a short tour, you can start at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, then cross the street to the paved path leading to a good partial view of the city framed by some of the parks oldest trees. This is especially beautiful in the late afternoon.

For the more adventurous, there is the Wildwood trail, which stretches for 30 miles, winding through Forest Park. You can use it to walk to other sites, like Pittock Mansion, the International Rose Test Garden and the Japanese Garden.

The one negative about the area is the lack of dining. Though the Rose Garden has a small vending stand, it is hardly the kind of fare to take you through a full day of hiking. I tend to forget things like food and water, but at least I remember the necessities: my camera and old hiking hat. Before you go however, I suggest you visit the arboretum's website and print out a map. I learned this from experience after managing to get turned around on the Wildwood trail. I ended up hiking an extra 5 miles in the dark. Of course, I doubt there are many people as directionally challenged as I am.

Oregon is an amazing place to either visit or live, but when planning your vacation or day off, it is easy to forget about attractions nearby. Take one day and enjoy a short drive followed by a long, relaxing day amongst the trees. Just don't forget the picnic!

For more information go to www.hoytarboretum.org