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On National Trails Day, get outside and celebrate the great outdoors near Portland.
On June 5, there are lots of opportunities for you to explore nature near your home, including free fishing, free entrance to Washington State Parks and free volunteer opportunities at some Portland’s best urban parks.
Start planning your nature day with these National Trails Day activities.
National Trails Day Free Activities
Free Fishing Weekend in Oregon
Every year, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife invites reeling newbies and advanced anglers to participate in free fishing weekends. During these events, no fishing licenses or tags are required to fish, crab or clam in Oregon.
On June 5 and 6, you can fish for free throughout Oregon. Check out some of best fishing locations near Portland.
Free Entrance at Washington State Parks
Enjoy Washington’s best nature trails for free on June 5. In 2021, the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission is offering outdoor enthusiasts 12 free days to get out and see the wild side of the Evergreen State. One of them happens to be National Trails Day.
There are seven Washington State parks close to Portland. Plan your trip on June 5.
Volunteer Opportunities
Some Portland parks are offering special volunteer opportunities on National Trails Day. No experience? No problem! The staff at these events are there to train you. Be sure to follow the links below to claim your spot.
Hoyt Arboretum
Visit Portland’s museum of trees to learn about and care for rare and unusual trees and plants from around the world. From 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., volunteer projects may include invasive species removal, weeding and mulching, and trail maintenance.
Volunteers must be at least 16 years old. Plan on wearing long pants, long sleeves, and sturdy, closed-toe shoes. Bring your own water, snacks, face mask and hand sanitizer. The event will take place rain or shine.
Hoyt Arboretum staff will provide training, tools, gloves, and volunteer parking passes are provided. Registration is required.
If you have enough energy after volunteering, hope on the free Washington Park shuttle and visit all the park’s attractions. I recommend swinging by the International Rose Test Garden to see all the flowers in bloom.
Forest Park
Head to one of Portland’s most popular nature escapes to improve the trails. From 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., help with brushing trails to cut back the excess growth along the trails. This will ensure that the path stays wide and safe for visitors, and helps prevent erosion.
Be sure you pack water, a face mask and dress for all weather conditions. Long pants and sturdy, closed-toe shoes are required. Forest Park staff will be providing training, tools and work gloves. Registration is required.
Tualatin Hills Nature Park
Head to Beaverton to help improve the trails at Tualatin Hills Nature Park. From 9-11:30 a.m., you’ll work together to resurface trails with gravel.
Be sure to dress for the activity and bring a water bottle with you. Tools and gloves will be provided. Registration is required.
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