< Previous 40 VISIT CORVALLIS | 2024-2025 PLAY OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES OUTSIDE IN CORVALLIS With its mild seasons and diverse landscapes, the countryside surrounding Corvallis is the perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether seeking panoramic views, heart-pounding biking adventures or a refreshing dive into cool waters with fishing, kayaking and swimming, Corvallis has it all. Hikes One of the best ways to connect with the natural wonders of Corvallis and Benton County is by exploring the myriad hiking trails that crisscross the area. From expansive vistas to serene strolls through parks and natural areas, therighttrail.org is your go-to resource for planning your hiking escapades. This expert-curated website provides a comprehensive list of hiking options in the Mid-Willamette Valley, including family-friendly routes and an interactive map to guide your exploration. Check out these must-trek trails! Finley Wildlife Refuge PHOTOS REED LANE PHOTOGRAPHY Scan to view the Heart of the Valley Outdoor Recreation MapVISIT CORVALLIS | 2024-2025 41 OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES PLAY PHOTO BOTTOM LAINEY MORSE Calloway Creek, McDonald-Dunn Forest and Vineyard Mountain Loop Delight in the Calloway Intensive Loop Trail, offering views of Calloway Creek amid a lush forest. Explore the McDonald-Dunn Forest, home to breathtaking towering trees and winding paths ideal for peaceful hikes. Traverse the Vineyard Mountain Loop, a historic trail leading to a summit where remnants of a 1930s cabin and chimney await. Be surrounded by thick forests adorned with vibrant wildflowers and ferns. Bald Hill Trail Discover the natural charm of Bald Hill Natural Area with this 2.7-mile loop that takes you through the diverse landscapes of upland prairie and oak savanna. The area is ideal for birding, hiking and horseback riding. The moderately challenging trail is a year-round escape, welcoming leashed dogs. Around the base of the hill, keep an eye out for recently reintroduced native flora and fauna. Alsea Falls Recreation Area Venture 30 to 45 minutes southwest of Corvallis to witness the enchanting Alsea Falls cascading 30 feet and Green Peak Falls plummeting another 45 feet. Take on the 2.4-mile out-and-back trail, meandering through old-growth forests and passing both waterfalls. Enjoy the sight of blooming rhododendrons, lush greenery and colorful wildflowers along the way. Alsea Falls Recreation Area McDonald-Dunn Forest 42 VISIT CORVALLIS | 2024-2025 PLAY OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES Cooling Off in Corvallis What’s better than getting out onto the water on warm summer days? Corvallis’ summer temperatures average in the 80s and 90s, creating the perfect climate for a refreshing dip. Luckily the area offers a plethora of opportunities to cool off, whether it’s in a pool or the scenic rivers winding through the town. Discover various swimming holes easily accessible from Corvallis for boundless summertime fun. At Riverfront Park in the heart of downtown, join in the whimsy of Splash Fountain in the Helen M. Berg Plaza. For a natural respite, explore the wetlands of Marys River Natural Area and splash around its designated swimming hole, located at the end of the ADA compliant boardwalk. Nearby, Avery Park , a family and dog-friendly haven, features a rope swing for a rush of adrenaline. Just 16 miles south of town lies Irish Bend Park , a versatile destination where you can picnic, camp and take a refreshing swim in the Willamette River. For those seeking a non-river option, the Osborn Aquatic Center in Corvallis is the answer. Dive into both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and don’t miss Otter Beach, the Center’s outdoor water park complete with a waterslide and playful toys sure to make for a memorable day for kids of all ages. Willamette River Water Trail Ready for an adventure? Grab your paddle and personal flotation device to explore Benton County via the Willamette River Water Trail, boasting 187 miles of crystalline waterways. Along the way, float past beautiful meadows, forests and parks waiting to be explored. Whether you have just an hour to spare or a few days to fully explore, the Willamette River Water Trail accommodates various preferences and crafts, such as kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, rafts, canoes or drift boats. Local guides and outfitters such as Willamette Tides offer sales, rentals and instructions to ensure you’re well-prepared for your river journey. With approximately 50 campsites along the way, you have the flexibility to plan a short excursion or an extended river exploration. Remember to follow river etiquette—be courteous, respect private property and leave no trace, including human waste. The collective effort to leave the campsites better than you found them ensures the longevity of this remarkable water trail for future generations. Prepare for your excursion by visiting the essential resource for trip planning and river hazard information—willamettewatertrail.org. Here, you’ll find details on required Waterway Access Permits (WAP), itinerary inspiration, and recommended packing lists, including essentials such as the proper gear and PFDs for river safety. The site also provides downloadable maps for identifying campsites, understanding river features, obtaining information about shuttling and delving into the rich history of the region as you paddle along the river. O s b o r n A q u a t i c C e n t e rSP O K R A T E S P SINCE 1971 YEARSYEARS SALES SERVICE RENTALS ADVENTURES EVENTS DOWNTOWN CORVALLIS Bike and Outdoor 207 NW 2nd St Annex 140 NW 3rd St. C BIKE AND OUTDOOR Find Your Happy Outdoors Place! The Heart of the Valley Outdoor Recreation Map makes it easy to find your perfect spot. Available at the Corvallis Visitor Center (113 SW 3 rd Street, Suite 101). visitcorvallis.com 44 VISIT CORVALLIS | 2024-2025 PLAY OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES Pedal Paradise Recognized as a gold-level bicycle-friendly community by the League of American Bicyclists since 2003, Corvallis provides plenty of trails for cyclists to explore. Find the perfect route for your mountain, town or gravel bike on therighttrail.org. Rentals are available at Peak Sports downtown, offering options for both adults and children. For a faster or more leisurely ride, check out Corvallis Electric Bicycles or Electric Avenue Corvallis . Don’t forget to pick up a bike trail map from any bike shop or the Corvallis Visitor Center. Check out visitcorvallis. com or the AllTrails app for more cycling inspiration and information. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or a casual rider, Corvallis has the perfect trail for you to pedal and explore. Biking at Bald Hill Chip Ross ParkVISIT CORVALLIS | 2024-2025 45 PHOTO LEFT LAINEY MORSE; RIGHT REED LANE PHOTOGRAPHY Clemens Park, Alsea Located on the Alsea River, stop here for a quick snack break and to stretch your legs. Clemens Park has excellent fishing options for those looking to turn the drive into a leisurely road trip. Deb’s Cafe, Alsea Ready for lunch? Deb’s Cafe is a great stop for filling up on comfort food almost halfway down the byway. Take a seat in the warm atmosphere and enjoy a slice of pie. Hayden Covered Bridge On the way out of Alsea, check out the nostaglic Hayden Covered Bridge—a perfect photo op and a break from driving. Alsea Bay Historic Interpretive Center, Waldport Next to the Alsea Bay Bridge, stop by the interpretive center and learn about the historic artistic bridges of Oregon, or catch a clamming or crabbing demonstration during the summer. Go to visitcorvallis.com for more information, or download the new Scenic Byway Driving Tour App. Learn more at travelstorys.com/tours/marys-peak-to-pacific-scenic-byway. The Thyme Garden Hayden Covered Bridge Benton County Courthouse, Corvallis Beginning in Corvallis, the Benton County Courthouse teaches you about the history of the area and acquaints you with the town before you set off on your adventure. Standing as the oldest courthouse in Oregon, construction for the Benton County Courthouse began in 1888. Timber Towne Coffee, Philomath In Philomath, stop and pick up a mouthwatering biscuit from Timber Towne Coffee. While you’re there, grab a delicious hot beverage to fuel yourself for the rest of the drive. Marys Peak At 4,097 feet, Marys Peak is the highest point in the Oregon Coast Range. The summit has panoramic views of the Willamette Valley and the Cascade Range, with one of the rare alpine meadows on the Oregon Coast. The Thyme Garden Make a pit stop at this family-owned garden, specializing in more than 600 herbs and hops. At the shop on the property, find salves, balms, teas and bath products to take home as a souvenir. Alsea Falls Recreation Area A hidden gem, Alsea Falls is tucked behind a mossy forest where falls tumble into the Alsea River. If you want to turn your road trip into an overnighter, there are camping spots available at the falls. MARYS PEAK TO PACIFIC SCENIC BYWAY Embrace diverse landscapes and raw Oregon beauty on this historic scenic byway. From the rolling hills and lush greens of the Willamette Valley to the vast Oregon Coast Range, this 72-mile journey is an escape in and of itself, featuring endless points of interest along the way. MARYS PEAK TO PACIFIC SCENIC BYWAY PLAY 46 VISIT CORVALLIS | 2024-2025 Corvallis cycling tour. Situated on the outskirts of town, the Bald Hill Trail offers a gentle introduction for beginner riders, featuring well-established dirt roads which wind their way to the summit. The extensive trail network, including a link to the 308-acre Fitton Green Natural Area, ensures a smooth ride amidst the natural surroundings. Also, be on the lookout for little creatures; encounters with wildlife are common and add to the charm of the ride. Venture 25 miles south of Corvallis to Alsea Falls Recreation Site , which boasts an extensive mountain bike trail system with a progressive design and action- packed challenge for all levels. The Highballer trail, an intermediate route adorned with roots, drops and weaving paths through the lush forest, promises an exhilarating ride. The downhill trails at Alsea Falls feature berms and friendly banked turns, creating an ideal setting for maintaining speed and relishing a rewarding descent. For a more challenging escapade, tackle the ascent to Marys Peak standing at 4,097 feet, the Coastal Range’s highest point. Once you’ve reached the top, revel in breathtaking views extending all the way to the ocean on clear days. The climb involves a formidable 2,500 feet of elevation gain, marking it as a memorable and hard- earned accomplishment for avid riders. Another thrilling ride awaits in the McDonald-Dunn Forest, where a 30-mile-long trail features varied terrain, including dirt berms and smooth dirt rollers. Supported by Team Dirt, a local advocacy group, plans are in motion to expand the trail system in the coming years, ensuring even more exciting rides for biking enthusiasts. Team Dirt at Alsea Falls HITTING THE TRAIL Corvallis takes great pride in its rich mountain biking scene, which attracts thousands of riders annually. Visitors are drawn by diverse trails and breathtaking landscapes, catering to a range of biking styles. With local cycling advocates constantly working to expand the city’s network of enduro, flow, downhill and cross-country trails, biking enthusiasts of all levels will find new and tried-and-true rides to tackle. In Corvallis, the thrills know no bounds. Located a 20-minute ride from Peak Sports, the ultimate hub for bike rentals and gear, the Bald Hill Natural Area is an excellent place to kick off your PHOTO TOP COURTESY OF PEAK SPORTS; BOTTOM REED LANE PHOTOGRAPHY PLAY MOUNTAIN BIKING Mountain biking the C2C Trail VISIT CORVALLIS | 2024-2025 47 DOG-FRIENDLY TRAVEL PLAY A DOG-LOVERS GUIDE TO CORVALLIS Who let the dogs out? Corvallis did! The town isn’t just dog-friendly, it warmly welcomes your furry friends. From browsing downtown stores to exploring nearby trails, Corvallis ensures your canine companion can be an integral part of your visit. Keep an eye out for stickers near doorways at select retailers downtown, indicating pet- friendly establishments. When it comes to dining, Corvallis has you covered with a variety of dog-friendly options. Begin the day at Greenhouse + Plants for coffee with your furry companion right by your side. Relax with your pup at outdoor seating spots such as American Dream Pizza, Murphy’s and other downtown eateries. Don’t miss the Common Fields food truck pod for a dog-friendly dining experience where you can treat your dog to a new toy and locally made treats. In south Corvallis, 4 Spirits Distillery offers plenty of outdoor seating and warmly welcomes your four-legged friends. Looking for a cozy spot to rest those paws? Corvallis has pet-friendly hotels such as Hotel Corvallis, Holiday Inn Express on the River , Corvallis Comfort Suites, Best Western and Hilton Garden Inn . If you prefer the comforts of home, explore pet-friendly guest houses such as Fernwood Circle and Red Tail Ridge , or select from local VRBOs and Airbnbs. For active tails and happy trails, discover dog-friendly parks and activities throughout Corvallis. Most city and county parks, including Bald Hill Natural Area, Alsea Falls, Chip Ross Park, Fitton Green Natural Area, Marys Peak, McDonald-Dunn Forest and Peavy Arboretum, all welcome your furry friends. Avery Park , a few-minute drive from OSU and downtown, provides scenic paths and open green spaces, perfect for family outings with your four- legged companions. If your pup loves off-leash fun, explore the fully fenced dog park near the Eric Scott McKinley Skate Park or the partially enclosed area at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park. Need more details about leash requirements? Visit the City of Corvallis’ Dogs in Parks webpage for further clarification. Unleash the fun for you and your four-legged pals in the dog-loving city of Corvallis. PHOTO LEFT AND BOTTOM RIGHT HONEYSUCKLE PHOTOGRAPHY Irish Bend Covered BridgeCommon Fields 48 VISIT CORVALLIS | 2024-2025 PLAY CORVALLIS-TO-THE-SEA TRAIL CORVALLIS TO THE SEA Running from Corvallis to the Pacific Ocean, the Corvallis-to-the-Sea (C2C) Trail is a 60-mile trail with deep forests, open vistas and a variety of wildlife and forestry. Whether on bike or foot, headed out for a day or taking a week for a thru-hike, the C2C Trail offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the Oregon Coast Range. The entire route is open to gravel bikers and hikers. As the trail traverses the Oregon Coast Range, there are more than a dozen trailhead access points to choose from on Forest Service land. C2Ctrail.org is a great resource for learning more about parking, access points, permits and camping. In addition to dispersed camping PHOTOS BOTTOM COURTESY PEAK SPORTS on U.S. Forest Service land, the Big Elk Campground is a great option for an overnight stay. Plan ahead and check your map as you travel. Traveling without a car? Experience the car-free charm of the C2C Trail by riding Amtrak’s Cascade Route running between Eugene and Vancouver B.C., with stops along the way. By disembarking at Albany and catching the NW Connector bus linking Albany, Corvallis and Newport, riders can easily enjoy the route without the need for a personal vehicle, making it accessible and appealing for a weekend adventure. For detailed maps and information, visit C2Ctrail.org, or stop by Peak Sports and Bike ‘N Hike in town. Valley Rock Gym CLIMB ON It’s easy to get your climb on in Corvallis at the Valley Rock Gym , an expansive climbing facility spanning more than 8,000 square feet and conveniently located right downtown. This dynamic space features diverse climbing terrains, a dedicated yoga space, a specialized kids’ climbing zone, a fitness studio and even a vibrant party room. All are welcome, irrespective of age, identity or skill level, to engage in a community-driven space where socializing, learning and movement converge. Get your feet wet with climbing lessons tailored to your ability, guided by seasoned instructors committed to your progress and safety. The gym offers a variety of youth programs throughout the week, ensuring an inclusive experience for everyone. Additionally, you can partake in fitness and yoga classes or join informative workshops to enhance your overall well-being. Situated on Southwest Jefferson Avenue, the gym also houses the Ants on a Log Cafe. This inviting eatery boasts a menu filled with nutritious salads, refreshing smoothies, enticing snacks and an entirely gluten-free selection. On summer evenings, relax on the patio and savor a craft beer at the Beer Place food cart. Whether you’re an avid climber or just want to try out a new hobby, the gym offers flexible options to make the most of your time and have fun. Explore Albany Discover farm-fresh menus, hand- crafted local gifts, and warm memories here and in the surrounding Willamette Valley. We are #authenticallyAlbany and we can’t wait to share it all with you. Plan your day or weekend getaway at VisitAlbany.com Download our free Albany Explorer app today Explore AlbanyExplore Albany H O P • G A T H ER • S T A Y “Victorian Splendor” (Camron Settlemier), “Life on 2nd Avenue” (Melinda Martin), “Future Ketchup of Albany” (Katrina Wilson) 20 minutes up Highway 20 - 1st right on 1st avenue20 minutes up Highway 20 - 1st right on 1st avenue 503 1st ave west in beautiful, historic downtown albany www.albanycarousel.com | 541-497-2934 beautiful, historic downtown albanybeautiful, historic downtown albany CLIMBING PLAYNext >