Hike the McDonald Research Forest in Corvallis, Oregon
The McDonald Research Forest in Corvallis, Oregon, is an outdoor paradise with 30 miles of well-maintained trails and 100 miles of forest roads to explore. Whether you're walking or biking the trails, there's something for everyone. In between adventures, be sure to rest and fuel up at local restaurants and hotels.
The McDonald Research Forest is a working research forest owned by Oregon State University. For your safety, follow all posted trail and road closures. Travel with caution on forest roads, and yield to all vehicles. Protect the forest by leaving research sites and markings undisturbed, and travel only on authorized roads and trails.
Saturday
Start your weekend away at Peavy Arboretum, a gorgeous part of the OSU Research Forest that includes the McDonald-Dunn Forest. The Arboretum offers shorter, easier hikes on mostly flat, graveled paths through beautiful forested land. You'll find identification signs for trees and plants as you stroll, as well as a grove of giant sequoias.
More than 11 miles of trails are broken up into looping sections, so you can make your walk as short or as long as you'd like. Popular hikes include the Forest Discovery Trail, which comes in at 1.5 miles, and the Woodland Trail, which is 0.4 miles. Consider hiking the Calloway Creek Loop Trail, which is 3.5 miles, if you're looking for something longer.
After a walk in the woods you'll be pretty hungry, so end the night at the Bière Library. the Bière Library's menu is inspired by the beer and cuisine of Belgium, and the decor brings to mind a cozy and welcoming library. We suggest the Croque Monsieur, a toasted ham and Gruyere sandwich with mustard and bechamel, with house-made paprika chips.
Corvallis has lodging options to fit everyone's needs. The Courtyard by Marriott Corvallis provides comfortable rooms at the heart of downtown, and the Hilton Garden Inn is close to OSU's campus. If you're traveling with your pet, consider Hotel Corvallis, a retro-inspired boutique hotel
Sunday
Get ready to spend the day exploring the outdoors by fueling right. Head to Bodhi Cafe and Bakery on 2nd Street for a wide range of breakfast options, from sandwiches to scrambles, as well as espresso drinks and fresh smoothies.
After breakfast, head out towards the McDonald Research Forest. For those looking for a shorter hike with minimal elevation gain, head to the Lewisburg Saddle Trailhead and walk the Old Growth and New Growth Trails, which clocks in at 1.5 miles. Experience two types of forests on the hike: one with towering, old trees, and the other with trees planted in neat rows. Walk back on a wide, gravel forest road under the shade of evergreens.
If you’re looking for a challenge, head to Chip Ross Park and hike Dan’s Trail to Dimple Hill. The trail is 7.5 miles, with a demanding 1,500 feet of elevation gain. The reward is worth the effort, though: the expansive view of the area at the top of Dimple Hill is the best in town.
After all that hiking, you’re sure to have worked up an appetite. Head back to town to grab a bite to eat. Sky High Brewing and Block 15 are both great options for grabbing a brew and a burger.
Featured photo by Reed Lane Photography. Keep up with Corvallis news, events and happenings by signing up for our email newsletter.
