Exciting Adventures in the Forest

Full-Day Excursion

From high-flying adventure to a leisurely bike ride along an abandoned railway, plan Tualatin Valley adventure that will keep even the most high-energy member of the group entertained, enlightened and enthralled.

Head west to the small city of Banks, rent a bike from Banks Bicycles (14175 NW Sellers Rd., Banks), and venture along the Banks-Vernonia State Trail, Oregon’s first rails-to-trails path, a 21-mile, multi-use trail open to hikers, cyclists and equestrians. Trek along trestle/bridge crossings and view the wildlife and gorgeous wildflowers. Cycle (or hike) the entire trail to Vernonia (42 miles round trip), travel to L.L. Stub Stewart State Park (18 miles round trip) or simply travel to the Manning Trailhead (6 miles round trip), then head back to Banks. (1.5–6+ hours)

After an invigorating ride, stop for lunch at Blue Jay’s Family Restaurant (47100 NW Sunset Hwy., Banks), a family-style restaurant serving classic American fare. Blue Jay’s opens at 10 a.m. during weekdays and 7 a.m. on the weekends. (1 hour)

Next stop is the thrilling Tree to Tree Adventure Park (2975 SW Nelson Rd., Gaston), featuring a zip-line park (with a 1,200-foot-long “super zip”), dual racing zips, tree-top bungee jump, six aerial ropes courses, and more. (2-3 hours)

Your group deserves a treat after a day of adventure. Head over to Waltz Brewing, a local craft beer producer, and relax in its fun and funky taproom, which also is a record shop. (1-1.5 hours)