City: Portland, OR

Category: Tours & Attractions

Telephone: (503) 865-8733 (visitor center

Address: 4000 Southwest Fairview Blvd.

Description: Hoyt Arboretum, which is part of Washington Park, not only provides more than 900 species of trees and shrubs to observe, but it also provides 183 acres and 10 miles of trails with striking views of the city, Mount Hood and Mount St. Helens, the Coast Range, and the rolling hills to the west, north, and east. Oaks, maples, cherry trees, Douglas fir, redwoods, blue spruce, Himalayan spruce, and bristlecone pine are but a few of the species that keep the arboretum fragrant in the spring, fresh and cool in the summer, and flushed with color during the fall. For those of us who weren’t paying attention during Outdoor School, most species are labeled, and for those who want to learn more, tours are offered during the weekends from Apr through Aug. The trails do twist up and down the hills, so comfortable and sturdy footwear is suggested. A 1-mile section of the Bristlecone Trail is paved for wheelchair access and offers a good introduction to Washington Park. The grounds are open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. The lovely visitor center is open from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. and until 3 p.m. on Sat. It’s closed on Sun and major holidays. Admission is free, though for $3 you can take a guided tour.