Molalla's Many Mini Adventures

From miniature trains to mini golf and adorable baby animals, the small town of Molalla in the Willamette Valley countryside is packed with attractions that promise a tiny-but-mighty getaway.

Article At A Glance

• Unique family friendly mini activities in Molalla
• Pacific Northwest Live Steamers: A nonprofit attraction offering free, 10-minute rides on miniature steam-powered trains at the Molalla Train Park every Sunday from May to October.
• Mini Golf and Brews: An 18-hole miniature golf course located at Molalla River Brewing Company, which also features a wide selection of craft beverages and food carts.
• Marquam Hill Ranch: A farm offering tours to see and interact with alpacas, including "crias" (baby alpacas), and a farm store selling products made from alpaca fleece.

All aboard for a truly compact experience! The Molalla Train Park at Shady Dell is home to the Pacific Northwest Live Steamers, a volunteer-run nonprofit that operates miniature steam-powered trains on 4,500 feet of track.

What you'll find: Seven fun-sized locomotives (some steam-powered, some gas and some electric) that pull multiple cars, taking you on a scenic 10-minute ride through the park. You'll pass by waterfalls and ponds, feeling like a giant in a Lilliputian world.

Why it's a must-do: Admission and train rides are completely free, making it an incredible value for families. The park runs every Sunday from May through October, so you can make it a seasonal tradition. Donations are welcome and help keep the trains running!

Ready for a round of mini golf with a local craft beer in hand? Molalla River Brewing Company is not just a taproom; it's a hub for fun with a full 18-hole miniature golf course right on site.

What you'll find: An artfully decorated course that's perfect for a friendly competition. The brewery offers over 30 beers on tap, ciders and even non-alcoholic options, so everyone can enjoy a refreshing drink while they play. They also have a great selection of rotating food carts for pre-or post-game nourishment.

Why it's a must-do: This is the perfect spot to unwind for people of all ages.

Molalla is surrounded by picturesque farms just outside of Portland, and many offer a chance to get up close and personal with some of the cutest critters around, including Alpacas at Marquam Hill Ranch. Time your trip in the summer and fall and you'll get to meet the farm's small, fluffy and undeniably precious baby alpacas, called "crias." 

What you'll find: Alpacas at Marquam Hill Ranch offers educational tours by reservation only, where you can get up close with these gentle, curious creatures. The ranch also has a farm store where you can find products made from their soft, luxurious fleece.

Why it's a must-do: This peaceful, hands-on experience is perfect for animal lovers of all ages. You'll get to learn about alpaca ownership and their livestock lifestyle while enjoying the serene, picturesque setting. 

Molalla proves that big adventures can come in small packages. Plan your Oregon trip and discover all the pint-sized fun and oversized charm that make this a truly special destination.