Adventure In The Willamette Valley

It's for good reason that the Willamette Valley is known for its wineries. It's not everyone who can be named as the best wine area in the world by Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Beyond the endless rows of grapes and ever-flowing pinot noirs, there is a world of fun and adventure here to explore once you've had your fill of wine. 

If you really want to get your adrenaline pumping and get a good view of the valley, hit up Skydive Oregon out of Molalla. You'll be so awestruck by the views as you fall... in love with the fertile green valley on up to Mt. Hood. You may even forget that you just hurled yourself out of a perfectly good airplane and are now careening towards that beautiful valley floor at terminal velocity. In all seriousness it's a great experience and the experts at Skydive Oregon are world-renowned professionals that have been doing this for more than 25 years. I'm actually planning on doing one of these trips as part of our Facebook Live series, once I pluck up some courage. I just started sweating for some reason...

If you're looking to keep your feet on the ground, may we suggest the Molalla River Recreation Corridor? This beautiful area has a wealth of options such as gorgeous hiking trails that wind along the river. Paddlers can take to the river to tackle the rapids. Anglers can catch various species of fish in the river, while mountain bikers can test their mettle on trails of varying difficulty. There are even trails meant for horseback riding for the equestrians in the group. 

One of my personal favorite spots is Pat's Acres Racing Complex. Pat's Acres is one of the premiere racing facilities in the country, and professional drivers travel here to practice and compete. That doesn't mean a novice can't come and drive too, though; they even let me! Anyone 12 and up can rent a 9 hp cart that will speed you down the straightaway at up to 50 miles per hour. And let me tell you, going 50 in something that small and low to the ground feels like 100; it's a blast. They also have racing competitions throughout the year that are open to the public to watch. It's a great way to spend a day as a family enjoying some good old fashioned motorsports fun. 

Don't forget to bring your clubs when you visit, because if you're at all interested in golfing, you'll want to make a stop at Langdon Farms Golf Club. This beautiful facility offers a premium round at an affordable rate. Their restaurant is filled with people refueling after a round as well as people who came just for the food. And it's a wonderful venue for weddings and other special events. But the golf is seriously where this place is at. It's a gorgeous course that's truly a year-round facility in a climate where you might not expect to be able to do that. 

Come for the wine, stay for the adventures. The beautiful Willamette Valley awaits.