When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Jordan Woods Natural Area
Why Jordan Woods Natural Area is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Jordan Woods Natural Area is a refreshing 18-acre green oasis nestled in the Cedar Mill neighborhood, offering visitors a peaceful retreat into nature's embrace. This beautifully restored natural site features a quarter-mile paved trail that gently winds through a forest comprising native Douglas-fir, western red-cedar, and big-leaf maple trees, affording visitors lovely overlooks of the serene Cedar Mill Creek ravine. The area invites you to explore not only the paved path but also soft surface trails leading down to a picturesque boardwalk and a creek-spanning bridge, connecting to neighborhood trailheads. Restoration efforts have focused on removing invasive species and planting native shrubs and trees to support local wildlife, making it a habitat brimming with biodiversity. Adding a unique dimension to the experience, Jordan Woods hosts an innovative art installation called Mossuments, created by Seattle artist Vaughn Bell. These granite sculptures etched with the taxonomic names of moss species inspire visitors to appreciate nature's smaller details and witness how moss evolves over time. Easily accessed through Jackie Husen Park and additional entrances, Jordan Woods is a family-friendly and accessible haven perfect for reflective walks, nature observation, and subtle art discovery. Its proximity to other local parks and historical sites amplifies its appeal as a versatile outdoor meetup spot.
Here's what people think of Jordan Woods Natural Area
As of recent, Jordan Woods Natural Area holds a 4.7-star rating based on 72 reviews.
Visitors consistently praise Jordan Woods Natural Area for its serene atmosphere and well-maintained trails, highlighting it as an ideal spot for peaceful nature walks and family outings. Many reviewers appreciate the blend of natural beauty with thoughtful restoration projects that foster native wildlife, underscoring the scenic creek views and lush forest setting. The park's accessibility and the unique Mossuments art installation receive special mention for enriching the overall experience, drawing art and nature lovers alike. Positive feedback often notes the paved trail’s ease of use for all ages and fitness levels, making it a welcoming destination year-round. On the other hand, some less favorable reviews point to the park's relatively small size and occasional crowding during weekends, which can diminish the sense of solitude some visitors seek. A few users express a desire for more extensive trail options or additional amenities nearby. Nonetheless, the majority conclude that Jordan Woods Natural Area offers a pleasantly intimate and restorative environment for connecting with nature, combining environmental stewardship with cultural elements. The overall consensus reflects the park’s success as a cherished local gem for casual recreation and quiet exploration.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
The One You Hate
It's a small little hiking trail about 1/2 miles long round trip. There's a small little creek down below. It's wheelchair accessible in some part because it's cemented. However to get to the creek it require walking on dirt. As I was walking along I found these littles painted art rocks... I didn't took any hope whoever go next can find all the one I found or more. The trail is right by a park and the park does have a portable restroom 🚻.
Opinion Worth a Thought
This is a nice, well-maintained nature area with plenty of shade and wildlife. I enjoyed walking on the trail and bridges, and listening to wild life and water streaming along Cedar Mill Creek
Craig Kingsland
I wanted to find a new relaxing place to walk the dog so I did a Google maps search. Jordan Woods Natural area came up so I checked it out. It turned out to be a great choice. Beautiful walk with a feeling of being deep in the woods even though it is between two housing communities. Definitely worth the time.
A Brady
Approx quarter mile paved trail through the forest makes for a peaceful walk. There is also a fork that diverts to the north, a gravel trail that drops down to cedar mill creek and a bridge across it that leads to lost park street
Brett Gottfried
Wonderful small park in the middle of the suburbs. Greet to walk and feel like you just stepped into the forest.
How to reach Jordan Woods Natural Area
None
Website: None
Why Jordan Woods Natural Area may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Jordan Woods Natural Area with your friends? Because it offers a unique blend of peaceful natural beauty and thoughtfully designed facilities that make it an ideal gathering spot for groups seeking an outdoor adventure close to the city. Located in the heart of the Cedar Mill neighborhood near Portland, Oregon, Jordan Woods is a serene 18-acre sanctuary where friends and families can reconnect with nature while enjoying each other's company. The park’s wooded trails weave through a lush forest of Douglas-fir, western red cedar, and big-leaf maple, providing an immersive natural backdrop that encourages relaxation and discovery. Its accessibility features and convenient proximity to other parks like Jackie Husen and Cedar Mill Park make it easy to meet up and explore together. Whether you’re looking for a calm setting for conversation, an educational nature walk, or a launching point for more active group explorations, Jordan Woods Natural Area accommodates diverse interests perfectly. The addition of a nature art installation adds a creative element that inspires group conversations and moments of reflection on the interconnectedness of nature. For those wanting an inviting but unhurried environment away from the hustle and bustle, this natural area checks all the boxes to make any meetup memorable and refreshing.
What activities can you enjoy at Jordan Woods Natural Area?
Jordan Woods offers a variety of activities suited for groups looking to spend quality time outdoors. The highlight is the network of trails—a paved quarter-mile path accompanied by soft-surface trails and boardwalks that lead visitors through diverse ecosystems including wooded ravines and bottomlands along Cedar Mill Creek. These trails create opportunities for gentle hikes, nature walks, birdwatching, and casual strolls that accommodate all fitness levels, making them perfect for families with children or older adults. Group members can enjoy spotting native shrubs, trees, and wildlife that thrive due to the restoration efforts removing invasive species and replanting native vegetation. The presence of the creek and footbridges offers picturesque spots to pause, snap photos, or enjoy a snack together. For those interested in art as well as nature, the Mossuments—granite sculptures with moss taxonomy motifs—provide a compelling cultural experience that adds meaning to your visit and encourages close observation and discussion within your group. Beyond walking and admiring nature, visitors often bring small games, picnic supplies, or simply use the many benches scattered throughout the trails to relax and chat. Seasonal changes bring fresh colors and moods to these outdoor activities, keeping each visit unique.
Why is Jordan Woods Natural Area perfect for a group meetup?
Jordan Woods Natural Area is tailored to group gatherings through its accessibility, amenities, and multi-directional access points. The park’s proximity to Jackie Husen Park means groups can start or end their meetup with additional facilities like restrooms and picnic areas. The paved paths are wheelchair- and stroller-friendly, enabling participants with mobility challenges to comfortably join. Access points at NW 107th Avenue and NW Lost Park Drive spread out foot traffic and allow smaller subgroups to meet and explore different areas before regrouping. The natural area's layout—with benches, overlook points, boardwalks, and bridges—creates natural pause points where groups can comfortably stop and socialize without feeling crowded. Additionally, the relatively short 1.7-mile trail provides enough distance for a fulfilling walk without tiring participants, making it easy to tailor the timing of your meetup to your group’s preferences. The quiet environment ensures you won’t be interrupted by loud city noise, encouraging focused conversation and bonding. Importantly, the park’s stewardship under the Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District includes regular maintenance and safety measures that allow meetups to proceed worry-free. Collectively, these features combine to foster a welcoming atmosphere perfect for both casual and more intentional gatherings.
How accessible and convenient is Jordan Woods Natural Area for visitors?
Jordan Woods Natural Area scores high on accessibility and convenience for visitors, making it an excellent choice for groups with diverse needs. The most accessible entrance is via Jackie Husen Park, which offers convenient parking, paved loops, and ADA-designated parking close to the trailheads. The quarter-mile paved trail in Jordan Woods ensures that those with mobility devices can navigate the main section comfortably. For visitors looking for more natural trail experiences, gravel paths lead to the creek and boardwalk areas, though these include some stairs and uneven surfaces. Multiple neighborhood entrances allow easy access on foot or by bike, and the site's proximity to major roads like NW Cornell Road and NW Cedar Hills Boulevard provides straightforward driving directions. Restrooms are available at Jackie Husen Park, while benches and occasional stump seats along the trail system provide resting points for those needing breaks during the walk. The trail signage is clear and informative, aiding visitors in orienting themselves and planning their route. The park’s location within an established residential area also means that meeting spots, dining, and other amenities are just minutes away if your group wants to extend the outing.
What makes Jordan Woods Natural Area unique compared to other parks in the region?
What sets Jordan Woods apart is its dedication to ecological restoration combined with public art, designed to deepen visitors' connection with the environment. Unlike many parks that focus solely on recreation, Jordan Woods is a restored natural habitat where invasive plants have been deliberately removed to allow native species to flourish, attracting local wildlife and preserving biodiversity. The inclusion of a nature art installation called Mossuments by artist Vaughn Bell offers a distinctive interpretive element, blending science, art, and nature. These granite sculptures engraved with moss taxonomy invite visitors to observe microscopic life forms and consider slow processes of growth and change, a feature rarely found in typical neighborhood parks. Its connectivity to nearby sites such as Cedar Mill Park, Jackie Husen Park, and the John Quincy Adams Young House allows groups to extend their experience by exploring adjacent historical or recreational places in one outing. This integrative approach makes Jordan Woods not only a venue for relaxation but also a place of education and inspiration. Furthermore, its relatively recent development and ongoing maintenance reflect community investment in preserving open spaces in suburban Portland, giving visitors a sense of participation in a broader conservation effort.
How can groups make the most of their visit to Jordan Woods Natural Area?
To truly maximize a group meetup at Jordan Woods, preparation and engagement are key. Start by selecting an access point most convenient for all members, with Jackie Husen Park recommended for larger groups needing parking and restroom facilities. Bringing along items like binoculars or a field guide can enhance nature observation and help turn a casual hike into an interactive learning experience. Plan to spend time at the creek boardwalk and bridge area, as these scenic spots are perfect for group photos and moments of reflection. Incorporating the Mossuments into your visit by reading and discussing their details encourages mindfulness and interaction around the theme of natural cycles. Packing a picnic or light refreshments enables longer visits and more social time, using the trail benches and grassy areas to spread out comfortably. Finally, consider the season and weather: spring and early fall offer colorful foliage and mild temperatures, making group activities more enjoyable. With its combination of natural beauty, art, and accessibility, Jordan Woods Natural Area offers a versatile setting where groups can build memorable experiences through conversation, exploration, and shared appreciation of nature’s finer details.