Hyland Woods Natural Area

30-acre forested park in Beaverton, Oregon with 1.85 miles of trails and an Off-Trail Play Area.

We love urban forests like Hyland Woods Natural Area! They offer the opportunity of Nature therapy right in the middle of the city. I had this small park on my list for a long period of time until last week when we finally visited it.

Activities

We are hiking again! It seems forever since our last hike at Lower Macleay Park to Pittock Mansion. After all these months with Oregon’s stay-at-home order and home-schooling due to COVID-19 our outdoor activities slowed down.

But subsequently last week with the excuse of some school homework to do about natural habitats, we headed out with my daughter to this Natural area just 20 mins from home.

The Douglas firs forest and the wildflowers (Hello Springtime!) captured our hearts. Most parts of the trails are wide enough to keep 6 feet distance from other hikers, important characteristics these days.

With the 1.85 miles of trails you can hike, run, watch birds and small wildlife. Additionally it’s a beautiful spot for photography (I really enjoyed taking photos of my daughter as well as wildflowers and trees).

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Another innovative feature found on this place is the Off-Trail Play Area. Marked with blue posts and located on the southeast corner of the park, this designated area is intended for playing free with logs, building forts, or just exploring off-trail.

We are adding Hyland Woods Natural Area to our list of places to visit close to home when we need some fresh air or a session of nature therapy.

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If you want to explore more natural areas, wildlife refuges and preserves, you will really enjoy some or all of these options.

Main features/Amenities

• 30-acre forested park with mature and beautiful Douglas Firs.
• 1.85 miles of trails.
• Off-Trail Play Area located in the southeast corner of the park, marked by blue posts.

Important information

• Location: Hyland Forest Park Trail, Beaverton, OR 97008 (Access off 135th or Sexton Mountain, E of Murray)
• Website: http://www.thprd.org/parks-and-trails/nature-play-areas
• Open daily, dawn to dusk.
• No restrooms.
• Parking: there is no dedicated area. Park around the surrounded neighborhood.