Trail in Hyland Forest Park
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Hyland Woods Natural Area

4.7
·393 reviews·Beaverton, United States

A serene 30-acre natural woodland in Beaverton, featuring mature Douglas firs, bird-watching, and a unique Nature Play Area.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers in bloom

CrowdLow
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Trail in Hyland Forest Park

Hyland Woods Natural Area

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers in bloom

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene 30-acre natural woodland in Beaverton, featuring mature Douglas firs, bird-watching, and a unique Nature Play Area.

4.7
(393 reviews)

"Great little forest / nature trails in the middle of a residential neighborhood."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Trail Footwear

Wear sturdy shoes, especially during the rainy season, as trails can get muddy. :athletic_shoe:

🐶 Dog Etiquette

Leash your dog and be mindful of others; waste stations are available. :dog:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mature Douglas Firs

Mature Douglas Firs

Throughout the woods

Towering ancient trees create a majestic canopy, offering a sense of deep forest tranquility.

Nature Play Area

Nature Play Area

Off main trails

An imaginative space where visitors build forts and sculptures from sticks and natural elements.

Bird-Watching Opportunities

Bird-Watching Opportunities

Along trails

Spot diverse bird species, including woodpeckers and songbirds, amidst the lush greenery.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Woods, Even in the City

Hyland Woods Natural Area offers a serene escape within Beaverton's neighborhoods. While trails are generally well-maintained, expect some mud during the rainy season. It's a perfect spot for a quick nature walk without venturing far.

Respect the Nature Play Area

Discover the unique 'Nature Play Area' where visitors build structures with natural materials. It's a creative space, but remember to leave it as you found it for others to enjoy.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Wildflowers in bloom
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Crisp air, fall colors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Park Suggestions in Beaverton

👟 Trail Footwear

Wear sturdy shoes, especially during the rainy season, as trails can get muddy. :athletic_shoe:

🐶 Dog Etiquette

Leash your dog and be mindful of others; waste stations are available. :dog:

reddit.com

Any good abandoned forest/meadow areas?

reddit.com

Places you like

🌳 Leave No Trace

Respect the Nature Play Area; leave natural materials as you found them. :evergreen_tree:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Off-Trail

Discover hidden paths and the unique Nature Play Area for an immersive experience. :hiking_boot:

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Trail Footwear

Wear sturdy shoes, especially during the rainy season, as trails can get muddy. :athletic_shoe:

🐶 Dog Etiquette

Leash your dog and be mindful of others; waste stations are available. :dog:

🌳 Leave No Trace

Respect the Nature Play Area; leave natural materials as you found them. :evergreen_tree:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Off-Trail

Discover hidden paths and the unique Nature Play Area for an immersive experience. :hiking_boot:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(393 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Hyland Woods Natural Area is praised as a lovely, accessible woodland escape within a residential area, perfect for quick nature walks and bird-watching. Visitors enjoy the mature trees and the unique Nature Play Area, though some note occasional muddiness on trails and instances of uncollected dog waste.

"Great little forest / nature trails in the middle of a residential neighborhood. All of the trails are dirt and they are in good shape, but might not be ideal during rainy season. The full length of the outer trail is probably just under a mile, and it's mostly flat. Anyway, it's nice for a relatively quick walk through nature in the city."

Damian Garcia

"Lovely neighborhood Forest park. Has something called a "Natural Play Area" which I'm not really sure what that is, but the concept seems neat. Definitely lots of people, though it's not so crowded that you'll feel like you're in the city. Worst pay is lots of dog poop that owners aren't picking up (I say this as a dog owner("

Baird Milam

"Nice little neighborhood park with trees, mosses, mushrooms, wildflowers, ducks, woodpeckers and songbirds. Today the trilliums were all over the park in huge bunches."

Adam Gniewosz

What People Like

Peaceful woodland setting
Unique Nature Play Area
Good for dog walks

What People Dislike

Muddy trails in rain
Occasional dog waste

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Hyland Woods Natural Area is located within a residential neighborhood in Beaverton. It's accessible by car, with street parking often available nearby. Public transportation options might require a walk from the nearest bus stop, so checking local transit routes is recommended.

While there isn't a dedicated large parking lot, street parking is generally available in the surrounding residential areas. Be mindful of local parking regulations.

Yes, biking is a great way to access Hyland Woods, especially if you live locally. There are no specific bike racks, so plan to secure your bike appropriately.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Hyland Woods Natural Area is a public park and is free to enter. Enjoy the natural beauty without any admission cost.

As an outdoor natural area, Hyland Woods is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit during safe light conditions.

No advance booking is required for Hyland Woods Natural Area. It's a walk-in park for everyone to enjoy.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The trails are primarily dirt paths, offering a natural walking experience. The outer loop is approximately one mile and mostly flat, making it suitable for a leisurely stroll. Some areas can become muddy after rain.

Yes, Hyland Woods is a popular spot for dog walkers. There are pet waste stations available, and many visitors appreciate the natural setting for their pets. Remember to keep dogs leashed.

The Nature Play Area is a unique section where visitors are encouraged to build with natural materials like sticks and logs. It's a creative space for imaginative play, and visitors are asked to leave it as they find it.

While there are no designated picnic tables, you can bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic in various spots throughout the natural area. Remember to pack out all your trash.

The main trails are mostly flat and dirt, which may be challenging for strollers or wheelchairs, especially after rain. The Nature Play Area is not designed for accessibility.

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the towering Douglas firs, the moss-covered ground, and the seasonal wildflowers like trilliums. The Nature Play Area also offers unique photographic opportunities.

Absolutely! With its mature trees, diverse plant life, and bird activity, Hyland Woods is a great location for nature photographers looking for serene woodland scenes.

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, creating a soft, diffused glow through the trees. Golden hour can be particularly magical.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hyland Woods Natural Area is a fantastic spot for families looking for a free, nature-filled outing. The Nature Play Area is a huge hit, offering a unique opportunity for kids to build and create with natural materials. It's a great way to encourage imaginative play and a love for the outdoors. The main trails are relatively flat and short, making them manageable for little legs, though they can get muddy in wet weather, so waterproof shoes are a good idea. Keep an eye out for wildflowers in spring and various birds throughout the year, which can add an educational element to your visit.

🐶 Dog Owners

Dog owners will find Hyland Woods a welcoming place for their furry companions. The dirt trails provide a natural and engaging environment for walks, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. It's important to remember that dogs must be leashed at all times to ensure the safety and comfort of all visitors and wildlife. The park provides pet waste stations, so be sure to clean up after your dog to help keep the area pristine for everyone.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails of Hyland Woods

Hyland Woods Natural Area features a network of dirt trails that wind through its 30 acres of woodland. The most prominent is the outer loop, which is just under a mile long and remains relatively flat, making it an accessible option for a casual stroll. These paths are designed to immerse visitors in the natural environment, offering a peaceful escape from the surrounding urban landscape. While generally well-maintained, it's worth noting that during the rainy season, these trails can become quite muddy, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

Beyond the main loop, smaller paths branch off, allowing for more exploration and a chance to find quieter spots within the woods. These less-trodden routes can lead to interesting discoveries, from unique fungi to secluded clearings. The variety of trails ensures that whether you're looking for a quick walk or a more involved exploration, Hyland Woods can accommodate. Remember to stay on marked paths where possible to help preserve the delicate ecosystem.

Many visitors appreciate the natural feel of the trails, which are unpaved and blend seamlessly with the forest floor. This natural aesthetic enhances the feeling of being truly in nature. The presence of pet waste stations along the way is a thoughtful addition for dog owners, contributing to the cleanliness and enjoyment of the area for everyone.

The Enchanting Nature Play Area

One of the most unique features of Hyland Woods Natural Area is its 'Nature Play Area.' This isn't a typical playground with manufactured equipment; instead, it's an open space designed to spark creativity using natural elements. Visitors are encouraged to build forts, sculptures, and other imaginative structures using fallen sticks, branches, and logs found within the vicinity.

This area fosters a connection with nature through hands-on engagement. It's a place where children and adults alike can let their imaginations run wild, collaborating with the environment to create temporary works of art. The ever-changing nature of these creations means that each visit can offer a new and surprising discovery. It’s a testament to the simple joy of building and playing with what nature provides.

When visiting the Nature Play Area, the unspoken rule is to respect the space and its purpose. While it's a place for building, it's also important to leave the natural materials as you find them for others to use, and to avoid damaging living plants. This collaborative approach ensures the area remains a vibrant and inspiring spot for future visitors.

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