Timber Road Loop

The Timber Road Loop is designed for jogging and typically takes around 1 hour and 1 minute to complete. This duration can vary based on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The terrain is varied. The Timber Road itself starts with a short section of large, loose gravel before transitioning to compacted dirt. Other interconnected trails, like the Woodland Trail, feature compacted gravel and natural surfaces. Be aware that some parts can be steep and loose, and you might encounter obstacles such as stumps, erosion, and horse excrement.

While the Timber Road section can be physically demanding due to steep grades, the overall Chehalem Ridge Nature Park trail system offers routes for various fitness levels. For a less strenuous jog, consider trails like the Woodland Trail, which has gentle climbs and a compacted crushed rock surface, making it more beginner-friendly. You can customize your route to match your comfort level.

The route winds through 1,260 acres of diverse habitat, featuring old Oregon white oaks, Pacific madrone trees, and shrubby areas. As you ascend, you can find views of the Tualatin Valley and Coast Range. Notable viewpoints include the Iowa Hill Viewpoint and an overlook along the Ammefu Trail with a bench and one of the "Three Elders" statues. The Woodland Trail and Valley View also offers scenic vistas.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. In spring, you might see wildflowers like tough-leaved iris and lupine. Even in rain, some trails are designed to be less muddy. Winter conditions might include some slippery or wet sections, so appropriate gear is recommended.

Yes, the trails within Chehalem Ridge Nature Park, including Timber Road, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's important to keep your dog on a leash and be mindful that these are multi-use trails shared with hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders.

The Timber Road Loop is located within Chehalem Ridge Nature Park. Parking is available at the park's designated entrance. One of the "Three Elders" statues is located at the park entrance, which can help you identify the main access point.

Chehalem Ridge Nature Park, where this route is located, does not currently require permits or charge entrance fees for public access. You can enjoy the trails freely.

Yes, the Timber Road Loop is part of an extensive network within Chehalem Ridge Nature Park. The route primarily follows Timber Road but also passes through sections of the Mampaɬ Trail, Witches' Butter Trail, Woodland Trail, Ayeekwa Trail, Zorzal Trail, Chehalem Ridge Trail, Castor Trail, and Ammefu Trail, allowing for varied route combinations.

Beyond the natural beauty of Chehalem Ridge Nature Park, the park features a series of statues called "The Three Elders." These were created in partnership with The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde and add a cultural element to the scenery. One Elder is at the park entrance, another along the Ammefu Trail, and the third watches over the Mampaɬ Trail overlook.

The diverse habitat of the park provides opportunities to observe local wildlife. You might spot deer, coyotes, and various bird species throughout the area. Keep an eye out, especially during quieter times of the day.