In true Portland fashion, we took the Hike of the Month and we put a bird on it — well, several actually. On a crisp March morning at Cooper Mountain Nature Park, we stretched our legs, observing darting Anna’s hummingbirds, noisy Steller’s jays + and one sleepy barred owl.

Quick facts

Starting point: Cooper Mountain Nature Park, 18892 SW Kemmer Rd., Beaverton
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Distance: 2.1 miles (varies depending on path)
Route type: Trail network
Elevation gain: ~324 ft.
Trail surface: Dirt
Wheelchair accessible: Only at Cooper Mountain Nature House
Open: Dawn to dusk, year round
Dog friendly: No

Brief overview

This 230-acre park overlooks the Tualatin River Valley, treating you to views of the Chehalem Mountains on the horizon. There, Metro + Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District work together to restore habitat, monitor wildlife, maintain hiking trails, and provide nature education programs for people of all ages. Ample parking, bathrooms, and a nature-inspired playground are also on site.

Rangers reserve this area beyond the trail for nature classes. | Photo by PDXtoday staff

Why you should try it

Walking the paths takes you on a journey through diverse environments, starting in conifer forest before opening up to untouched prairie and then oak woodlands; it feels like there’s something new to discover around every corner. Native plants like Oregon grape and red-flowering currant are abundant, adding splashes of color among the greenery. Keep your eyes low for blooming wildflowers, and of course critters.

Pro tip

Dispersed around the park are structures that look like oversized gramophones, but they’re not for playing music. Instead, they are pointed at bird hotspots — place your ear on the listening end, and if you’re lucky, birdsongs, chirps + trills will be amplified for your enjoyment.

You’ll look super cool, too. | Photo by PDXtoday staff

Let us know

Did you try this hike? Do you know of one we should check out? Send us your thoughts + recommendations.