Powell Butte Nature Park Loop

Before officially becoming a nature park in 1987, Powell Butte was primarily known for being home to four 50-million gallon underground reservoirs. Today, the wide expanse of land is packed with miles of trails-- the perfect place for hikers, mountain bikers, and even horseback riders to get their fix of outdoor time. 

At Powell Butte, each breath of fresh air will feel good as you look out onto the open meadows, forests filled with Western red cedar, and the wetlands near Johnson Creek. What might be most impressive, however, are the views from the old volcano's summit, which include sights of Mount Saint Helens, Mount Adams, and Mount Rainier. On your way to the summit, you might want to stop at the charming summer orchard picnic area for a chance to sit and enjoy a little mid-hike snack. While you'll likely appreciate the chance to go for anything from a quick 30 minute walk to several hours of hiking, you'll also have a unique opportunity to take in the surrounding wildlife. Here, you can find birds of prey, ring-necked pheasants, gray foxes, coyotes, and black-tailed mule deer. 

It's easy accessibility and usable trails make it a prime location for those looking for a moment away from busy urban life. Trail junctions are clearly marked with painted metal posts to help you find your way. The park is family friendly and dogs on leashes are welcome too. The impressive network of trails means you have a lot of options to choose your own adventure.