Photo by Rhonda Dorsett, courtesy of Hoyt Arboretum Friends
Take your family on a stroll through Portland’s museum of trees. This summer, Hoyt Arboretum hosts Family Forest Days.
This beautiful nature oasis features 2,300 species of trees and plants from around the world along 12 miles of trails. Hoyt Arboretum is free to visit with lots of great cheap events available each week, including free tours, tai chi and preschool walks. You can also hop on the free Washington Park shuttle at the visitor center.
Family Forest Days invite you and your family to explore and learn at Hoyt Arboretum.
Family Forest Days at Hoyt Arboretum
During Family Forest Days, Stevens Pavilion at Hoyt Arboretum is transformed into a nature center with activity tables and special guests covering different nature education topics. There’s also themed games, science exploration stations, nature crafts and guided nature walks. Activities are created elementary school-age children, but participants of all ages are welcome.
While you’re there, take some time to stroll along the trails and explore nature with your family.
Family Forest Days are free to attend and no registration is required. Stop by from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to participate.
Here are the 2025 Family Forest Days:
July 12: Trees Are Homes
At this event, Hoyt Arboretum educators lead interactive stations, including nature painting and a maraca bar with natural materials. Activities and nature walks are available in both English and Spanish.
Local author Fern Wrexler hosts multiple readings of “Families of a Feather,” a story of the diversity of family structures by exploring a variety of bird families and the many ways they raise their young.
Also, participate in leaf rubbings with Washo Shadowhawk, the ‘Portland Basecamp Coordinator’ from Roots and Shoots. Washo shares educational resources about protecting the region’s cultures and ecosystems.
Plus, Portland Parks & Recreation shares about its Leave No Trace program.
August 16: Best Trees Forever
In August, nature educators, volunteers and community partners lead and share activities for all to learn about and connect with native trees and nature. Participants use all their senses to connect with their new Best Trees Forever, Douglas fir, western redcedar, bigleaf maple, western hemlock, and learn how to recognize them in their own neighborhoods. Activities and nature walks are led in both English and Spanish.
Illustrator and author Audrey Sauble shares her book, which asks the very poignant question: “Can A Tree Be Blue?”
Also, sing, dance, and play along with fun and interactive music for kids and families with Make Music with Matt.
Plus, Alberta Cooperative Grocery provides free snacks at a build-your own trail mix bar at this event.
Steven’s Pavilion is located at 4000 SW Fairview Blvd. For more information, visit the Hoyt Arboretum website.
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