Smith and Bybee Wetlands
A sprawling urban wetland sanctuary teeming with wildlife, offering biking trails, birdwatching, and serene nature escapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant colors & active wildlife
Smith and Bybee Wetlands
Best Time
Vibrant colors & active wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling urban wetland sanctuary teeming with wildlife, offering biking trails, birdwatching, and serene nature escapes.
"So many critters! Love this place and for it being inside portland city limits it can feel quite secluded."
🚶♀️ Respect Wildlife Paths
Walk bikes by hand on footpaths to avoid disturbing birds. Stick to designated trails.
☀️ Dress for the Weather
Layers are recommended as conditions can change. Sunscreen and hats are a must for sunny days.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Abundant Wildlife Viewing
Throughout the wetlands
Spot egrets, herons, ducks, frogs, and fuzzy caterpillars. A haven for birdwatchers year-round.
Paved Loop for Biking
Main paved trails
A 40-mile loop offers scenic views and a great way to cover more ground.
Serene Footpaths
Winding footpaths
Explore quieter, winding trails that feel secluded and offer intimate nature encounters.
Seasonal Kayaking
Bybee Lake
Kayak during summer when water levels are ideal, offering a unique perspective of the wetlands.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Wildlife
Navigating Trails & Noise
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Respect Wildlife Paths
Walk bikes by hand on footpaths to avoid disturbing birds. Stick to designated trails.
☀️ Dress for the Weather
Layers are recommended as conditions can change. Sunscreen and hats are a must for sunny days.
🗺️ Know Your Route
The main paved path is for bikes; footpaths are winding. Check your map to avoid confusion.
📸 Capture the Critters
Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a camera to photograph the abundant wildlife.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Respect Wildlife Paths
Walk bikes by hand on footpaths to avoid disturbing birds. Stick to designated trails.
☀️ Dress for the Weather
Layers are recommended as conditions can change. Sunscreen and hats are a must for sunny days.
🗺️ Know Your Route
The main paved path is for bikes; footpaths are winding. Check your map to avoid confusion.
📸 Capture the Critters
Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a camera to photograph the abundant wildlife.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months or longer explorations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the abundant wildlife and the feeling of seclusion within Portland city limits. The fall colors are particularly praised, and the paved bike loop is a hit. However, some find the noise and light pollution from the nearby airport and industry noticeable at times.
"So many critters! Love this place and for it being inside portland city limits it can feel quite secluded. One downside is that it's right under the airplanes heading in and out of PDX airport as well as being next to so much industry so the noise and light polution is very noticable at times."
Maya Lelugas
"Beautiful nature preserve, especially this time of year with all the vibrant fall colors! 🍁
I found the grounds to be very clean and in excellent condition. There are tons of side trails to vere off onto from the paved main trails where you will find mushrooms galore right now, along with interesting little critters such as centipedes and fuzzy bear caterpillars! 😊
If you like to bike, this is a 40-mile loop trail with so much to see! Being on foot hiking, I only got so much ground covered today, not arriving until late afternoon, but I still had an awesome time here! I will need to come back soon because I know I missed so much.
If you have not been here, come check it out before all the leaves fall. 👍🏼"
Cynthia Scott
"Great place to view birds (egrets, herons, all types of ducks) year round! The trail is paved, but the tree cover and plants make it seem like you are outside of the city. It’s a little bit of a walk from the parking lot to the trail entrance which can be confusing. Otherwise this is a great spot."
Lynn Huber
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Smith and Bybee Wetlands Natural Area is located in North Portland. It's accessible by car, with parking available. Public transportation options might require a walk from the nearest stop to the trail entrance.
Yes, there is parking available. However, it can get busy, especially on weekends. Arriving early is recommended.
Absolutely! The area features a 40-mile loop trail perfect for biking. Just be mindful of other users on the path.
The main paved trails are generally stroller-friendly, offering a smooth surface for easy navigation.
Restroom facilities are available, though their exact location might vary. It's a good idea to check a park map upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Smith and Bybee Wetlands is free. It's a public nature preserve open for everyone to enjoy.
The wetlands are generally open from dawn to dusk. It's always a good idea to check local park advisories for any specific closures or changes.
There is no entrance fee to visit Smith and Bybee Wetlands. Enjoy the natural beauty without any cost.
Typically, dogs are allowed on leash in many natural areas. However, it's best to confirm specific pet policies before your visit to ensure compliance.
While not always formally scheduled, community events like Sedge Fest sometimes offer stewardship activities and opportunities to learn from experts.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of birds like egrets, herons, and ducks, as well as frogs, lizards, and various insects.
There are paved main trails suitable for biking and walking, as well as more winding footpaths that offer a more intimate nature experience.
The trails are generally safe, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings, especially cyclists on the main paths and potential wildlife.
Yes, kayaking and canoeing are popular activities, especially on Bybee Lake during the summer months when water levels are suitable.
Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots. Layers are recommended, and bring sun protection like a hat and sunscreen.
📸 📸 Photography
Anywhere with good wildlife sightings! The winding footpaths and lake shores offer scenic views, especially during sunrise and sunset.
A telephoto lens is great for capturing wildlife from a distance. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive wetland landscapes.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require permits, so check park regulations.
Golden hours, just after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most beautiful light for landscape and wildlife photography.
Yes, there are areas with interesting graffiti art visible from the bike paths, offering a unique urban-nature contrast.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for birds, frogs, and interesting insects – it's like a natural scavenger hunt! 🚴♀️ Cyclists
🐦 Birdwatchers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Wetlands: Trails and Activities
It's important to note the distinction between the bike path and the footpaths. While the paved path is straightforward, the footpaths can feel more secluded and may lead you closer to marshy areas.
Remember to check the weather and dress accordingly. Comfortable footwear is essential, and bringing layers is advisable. The wetlands can feel quite secluded, offering a peaceful escape within the city limits, though occasional noise from nearby industry and the airport is present.
Wildlife Encounters and Conservation
To maximize your chances of seeing wildlife, visiting during dawn or dusk is highly recommended. These times often provide the most active periods for many species.
When exploring, it's crucial to be a responsible visitor. This includes staying on marked trails to avoid disturbing sensitive habitats and being mindful of noise levels, as suggested by discussions regarding bike chains potentially scaring birds. For those interested in learning more about the local flora and fauna, consider attending community events or simply observing the environment closely. The wetlands offer a fantastic opportunity for nature education and appreciating the delicate balance of ecosystems.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit