Hopkins Demonstration Forest Offers Trails And Tower Views In Oregon City

Tucked just outside Oregon City, and less than 25 miles from Portland, Hopkins Demonstration Forest offers a peaceful escape into nature with miles of scenic hiking trails, hands-on learning opportunities and breathtaking views from its historic fire lookout tower. This 140-acre working forest is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore Oregon’s great outdoors. If you're seeking family-friendly hikes, nature walks near Portland or a deeper understanding of how sustainable forestry practices work, Hopkins provides an unforgettable experience for visitors year-round.

Hopkins boasts over three miles of well-maintained trails that meander through a mix of tree species and varying age forests. A few of the notable trails include:

• Ponds Trail: Featuring a short network of loops with a lot to see, the Ponds Trail connects to the Molalla Log House, original fire pond and wetland restoration pathway. 
• Uneven-Age Trail: This trail takes hikers around the southern perimeter of the Uneven-Age Management Demonstration, where multiple age-classes of mixed-conifer trees are grown together.
• Douglas-fir Trail: Passing through a stand of Douglas-fir planted in 1977, this trail is part of the Thinning and Pruning Demonstration area which illustrates sustainable forest management practices.

A highlight of Hopkins Demonstration Forest is the 65-foot Clatskanie Mountain Fire Lookout Tower. Originally constructed in 1954 and relocated to Hopkins, the tower has been meticulously restored to meet historic standards. Visitors can climb the tower for panoramic views of the surrounding forest and learn about its history in fire detection and forest management.

Another must visit building in the forest is the Molalla House, which is estimated at over 200 years old and constructed sometime around 1800. The historic structure is believed to be the oldest log house in Oregon.

Hopkins Demonstration Forest is open seven days a week, with hours varying seasonally. Dogs are welcome on leashes and visitors are encouraged to pack out what they pack in to preserve the forest's natural beauty. 

OSU Extension Service offers free, 90 minute guided tours as part of monthly Community Forestry Days which are the second Saturday of each month. Restroom facilities are available at the entrance and the forest is accessible via a short drive from Oregon City. 

Whether you're seeking a peaceful hike, an educational experience or a glimpse into Oregon's forestry history, Hopkins Demonstration Forest offers a rich and rewarding visit for all ages.