Champoeg was the first town to be settled in the Willamette Valley and the site of the formation of the first government in the northwest. The park offers historical sites as well as plentiful camping and some short day hikes. I decided to do the Townsite loop with my family on black friday #optoutside. The Townsite loop starts near the Riverside Day-Use Area and follows the Willamette River for the first leg of the loop. The second part of the loop goes along a disc golf course with beautiful views of a large meadow and autumn colors.

This loop is short and sweet and is perfect for a relaxing hike with friends and family. Be sure to stop by some of the historical sites to learn more about the early history of the northwest! Also be sure to check out the nation's largest black cottonwood tree!