Mary S. Young Park
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Mary S. Young Park

4.7
·1k reviews·West Linn, United States

A 128-acre natural oasis with river views, wooded trails, and a top-tier dog park. Perfect for peaceful walks and outdoor fun.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fall mornings

Vibrant autumn colors

CrowdLow
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Mary S. Young Park

Mary S. Young Park

Best Time

Fall mornings

Vibrant autumn colors

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 128-acre natural oasis with river views, wooded trails, and a top-tier dog park. Perfect for peaceful walks and outdoor fun.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"Absolutely beautiful park! So many different trails to choose from."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐾 Doggy Day Out

The off-leash dog park is a highlight! Bring your pup for a fun-filled day with water features.

🚶‍♀️ Trail Variety

Choose from many trails, some paved, some natural surface. Easy hikes with a few steep spots.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.7 · 1,494 reviews

Type

Park

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Willamette River Access

Willamette River Access

Riverfront

Enjoy scenic river views and a small swimming beach. The paved path down is steep, but rewarding.

Off-Leash Dog Park

Off-Leash Dog Park

Designated Dog Area

A spacious, fenced-in area with water features and sand, perfect for your furry friends to play.

Wooded Trails

Wooded Trails

Throughout the park

Explore numerous walking and hiking paths winding through peaceful, well-maintained forest.

Pollination Station

Pollination Station

Near gardens

A charming, dedicated garden area designed to attract and support bees.

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Planning Your Visit

Getting There by Public Transit

Mary S. Young Park is accessible via TriMet bus line 35, making it a great nature escape without a car. Plan your trip to avoid long waits, especially on weekends.

Dog-Friendly Paradise

This park is a haven for dog owners, featuring a large off-leash area with pools and sand. Remember to keep dogs leashed on trails and be mindful of other visitors.

Best Times

When
Fall mornings
Why
Vibrant autumn colors
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Tranquil and less crowded
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Cooler temperatures by the river
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Good place to go and sit with a view? Surrounded by nature minimal/amount of people...

...possibly after eating 🍄...

🐾 Doggy Day Out

The off-leash dog park is a highlight! Bring your pup for a fun-filled day with water features. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Trail Variety

Choose from many trails, some paved, some natural surface. Easy hikes with a few steep spots. Reddit

reddit.com

What's some nice nature or hikes I can get to by bus?

Car 없어요 Would like to maybe take a day trip somewhere nice and peaceful via trimet. Ideas?

reddit.com

Any recommendations for a day trip from Portland?

This is my first weekend living in Portland/Oregon. I’d need something dog friendly, Off-Leash is ideal, somewhere I can play fetch. I was thinking of heading somewhere on the coast or possibly towards Mt. Hood to a wide open park. Something with an open field would be nice too.…

🚗 Parking Availability

Never seen the parking lot full, even on busy days. Plenty of space for everyone. Reddit

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Find picnic tables nestled in the forest for a peaceful meal surrounded by nature. Reddit

reddit.com

Best river or swimming hole for teens within an hour of PDX?

We’ve do sauvie island a lot, and they love high rocks, but we’d love to visit a new spot this week. Thanks!

Tips

from all over the internet

🐾 Doggy Day Out

The off-leash dog park is a highlight! Bring your pup for a fun-filled day with water features. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Trail Variety

Choose from many trails, some paved, some natural surface. Easy hikes with a few steep spots. Reddit

🚗 Parking Availability

Never seen the parking lot full, even on busy days. Plenty of space for everyone. Reddit

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Find picnic tables nestled in the forest for a peaceful meal surrounded by nature. Reddit

♿ Accessibility Note

The walk down to the beach is paved but steep. Be prepared for some inclines. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Mary S. Young Park's natural beauty, extensive trails, and exceptional dog-friendly amenities, particularly the off-leash area. It's praised as a peaceful, well-maintained escape that feels secluded yet is easily accessible. Some note the steep path to the river beach and limited restroom facilities.

"Wow is this place cool! Such a beautiful Park and it isn't too huge that you'll get lost in it, which was my concern. It's well-kept, it has bathrooms with a place to hook up your pet, picnic tables in the forest, beautiful fenced-in floral gardens, a dog park, and many trails. I can't wait to come here in the fall with a chai latte, a sweater and the colored leaves."

L N

"Gorgeous area. It has many paths to take and is leashed dog friendly. We have been coming here for years and have never seen the parking lot full. It’s always calm and tranquil. There is a lovely off leash open area for dogs that has water and sand! It’s clean and secluded. It’s an overall must if you have dogs!"

Z Puryear

"Absolutely beautiful park! So many different trails to choose from. The off-leash dog park is pretty big, there's little pools for the dogs as well. Cute little 'pollination station' just for bees. There was also a lacrosse game going on while I was there, so there's a lot of community connections there. Had a wonder time."

Nyxx

What People Like

Beautiful natural setting
Excellent dog park
Variety of trails

What People Dislike

Steep river path
Limited restrooms

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Mary S. Young Park via TriMet bus line 35. This bus route provides direct access to the park, making it a convenient option for those without a car. Reddit

Yes, there are parking lots available. Reviewers consistently mention that the parking lot is rarely full, even during peak times, ensuring easy access. Reddit

Restrooms are available at each parking lot. While convenient, some visitors note there are only two restrooms per parking area. Reddit

Absolutely! Mary S. Young Park is described as a hidden gem and a peaceful escape that feels deep in the forest, yet close to the city, perfect for a day trip. Reddit

There is access to the Willamette River bank and a small swimming beach. Be aware that the paved walk down to the beach is steep. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Mary S. Young Park is a public park and does not require an entrance fee. Enjoy the natural beauty and amenities free of charge. Reddit

While specific hours are not always listed, public parks are generally open from dawn until dusk. It's best to check local listings or arrive during daylight hours. Reddit

The park offers picnic tables in the forest. While reservations are not typically mentioned, arriving early on weekends is advisable if you have a specific spot in mind. Reddit

The park hosts community events, such as lacrosse games, indicating a vibrant local presence. Keep an eye on local event calendars for specific dates. Reddit

Yes, the park offers beautiful scenery with river views, wooded trails, and floral gardens, making it a great spot for photography, especially in the fall. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The park features numerous trails, including paved paths and natural-surface trails. They offer a peaceful walking or running experience with some steeper sections. Reddit

The park's description mentions birding as an activity, and its natural setting with river access and wooded areas likely supports a variety of bird species. TikTok

Amenities include restrooms, picnic tables, a dog park with water features, and access to the Willamette River. Reddit+1

There is a small swimming beach, but visitors should exercise caution and be aware of river conditions. Dogs are allowed in the park, so be mindful of them near the water. Reddit

The off-leash dog park is a significant draw, featuring little pools for dogs and a sandy area. It's described as clean, secluded, and a must-visit for dog owners. Reddit+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants or cafes within the park itself. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks for picnics. Reddit

The park is located in West Linn, which offers various dining options. It's recommended to explore local eateries in the surrounding area before or after your visit. Reddit

While picnic tables are available, specific information about barbecue grills is not provided. It's best to assume personal grills may not be permitted unless explicitly stated. Reddit

Packing a picnic is the most popular way to dine at Mary S. Young Park. Enjoying a meal at one of the forest picnic tables is a highly recommended experience. Reddit

There is no mention of regular food truck visits. For food options, it's advisable to rely on nearby restaurants or bring your own provisions. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The riverfront offers scenic views, while the wooded trails provide a natural, serene backdrop. The floral gardens and the 'pollination station' are also picturesque. Reddit

Fall is highly recommended for photography due to the vibrant colored leaves, creating a beautiful autumnal atmosphere. Reddit

No specific restrictions on photography are mentioned. However, always be respectful of other visitors and private events. Reddit

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, will provide soft, warm light that enhances the natural beauty of the park. TikTok

Drone usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with the park authorities or local regulations regarding drone operation before flying. TikTok

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Mary S. Young Park (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide