One of the glories of living in the Pacific Northwest is our proximity to nature, no matter how urban our locale. A mere 30-60 minute journey can take us deep into the woods, even within the city limits. One of my favorite places to visit, a bit outside Portland, is Oxbow Regional Park on the Sandy River. In spring, it’s cold and wet, but also lush and green. In summer, it’s warm and dry and the river is a delightful spot to swim. I haven’t been in the snow, but I have no doubt it’s just as lovely then.

I do love to walk in nature in the wet, I just make sure to wear shoes with good traction and a hat for the rain. If you can’t make it out to Oxbow, here are a few of my other favorite spots within Portland City limits:

Killin Wetlands Nature Park
Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
Leach Botanical Garden
Mt. Tabor Park
Forest Park

by Jenny