The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Oxbow Regional Park
4.1
(26)
310
hikers
12
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Oxbow Regional Park explore a 1,200-acre natural area situated along the Wild and Scenic Sandy River. The park's diverse landscapes include ancient forests with Douglas-firs and western red cedars, floodplains, and forested ridges carved by volcanic and glacial flows. The terrain offers a mix of gentle grades along river terraces and steeper paths ascending ridges between the river's bends. This natural setting provides a rich environment for family friendly hiking.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Oxbow Regional Park
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Oxbow Regional Park loop, a 6.7 miles (10.7 km) trail that takes 2 hours 55 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers varied scenery through the park.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Mountain View, Refuge River, and Gibbons Creek Wildlife Art Trail, an easy 4.1 miles (6.5 km) path. This trail features minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for families.
- Local hikers also love the Boundary, Meadow and Old Channel Loop, a 4.1 miles (6.5 km) trail leading through meadows and old channel areas, often completed in about 1 hour 40 minutes.
- Hiking in Oxbow Regional Park is defined by its ancient forests, the Wild and Scenic Sandy River, and varied topography including floodplains and forested ridges. The network offers options for different ability levels, with 10 easy and 2 moderate routes.
- The routes in Oxbow Regional Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.9 stars from over 20 reviews. More than 290 hikers have used komoot to explore Oxbow Regional Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
14
hikers
10.7km
02:55
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
10.3km
02:47
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
17
hikers
6.55km
01:40
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(15)
174
hikers
3.26km
01:09
180m
190m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.5
(4)
12
hikers
6.54km
01:39
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Past the town of Gresham, beyond the tree farms, a steep descending road takes you down to Oxbow Regional Park and the Sandy River. The campground here is peaceful. Note that even though it's close to town, there is no mobile phone reception in the park due to the topology.
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Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge spans 1,049 acres along the Columbia River. This refuge, part of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, features riparian corridors, wetlands, and Oregon white oak stands. There was a major restoration project that removed 2 miles of levees to reconnect 965 acres of floodplain to the river.
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There are a couple of overlook areas here near the Sandy River Confluence Bird Blind. These trails aren't as traveled as some of the others in the area, but this is one of the best bird watching areas in the entire state.
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The Old Channel Trail leads to a beached shore of the Sandy River. You can access the water from the beach, and you can see upriver towards Sundial Island.
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Past the town of Gresham, beyond the tree farms, a steep descending road takes you down to Oxbow Regional Park and the Sandy River. The campground here is peaceful. Note that even though it's close to town, there is no mobile phone reception in the park due to the topology.
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Latourell Falls drops from an overhanging basalt cliff, which makes the water fall down in a straight line. It is almost 250 feet tall.
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This is the upper of the two Latourell Falls. The trail crosses the creek just below the waterfalls, so you get a good view of the water cascading over basalt rocks.
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There is an uninterrupted view of the 246-foot (75-m) waterfall from the hilltop near the parking lot.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there in Oxbow Regional Park?
Oxbow Regional Park offers a good selection of trails suitable for families. Our guide features 12 hiking routes, with 10 of them rated as easy, making them ideal for outings with children.
Are there easy loop trails suitable for families in Oxbow Regional Park?
Yes, there are several easy loop options perfect for families. For a pleasant and accessible experience, consider the Mountain View, Refuge River, and Gibbons Creek Wildlife Art Trail, which is an easy 6.5 km loop. Another great choice is the Boundary, Meadow and Old Channel Loop, an easy 6.5 km route with minimal elevation gain.
What kind of natural features can we expect to see on family hikes in Oxbow Regional Park?
Oxbow Regional Park is rich in natural beauty. You'll find ancient forests with towering Douglas-firs, western hemlocks, and western red cedars, some over 700 years old. The park is situated along the Wild and Scenic Sandy River, offering clear green waters and sandy beaches. You might also discover smaller waterfalls and creeks woven into the landscape.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails in Oxbow Regional Park?
Yes, dogs are generally allowed in Oxbow Regional Park, but they must be kept on a leash. Always remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the park enjoyable for everyone.
Are there any stroller-friendly trails in Oxbow Regional Park?
While many trails are natural surfaces, some sections, particularly those closer to the Welcome Center like parts of the Floodplain Trail, might be more accessible for sturdy strollers. For the most comfortable experience, trails with minimal elevation gain and wider paths are recommended, such as the Mountain View, Refuge River, and Gibbons Creek Wildlife Art Trail.
What is the best time of year to visit Oxbow Regional Park with family?
Oxbow Regional Park is beautiful year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and wildflowers, while summer is perfect for river activities. Fall offers stunning foliage and opportunities to see salmon spawning in the Sandy River. Winter provides a quieter, serene experience in the old-growth forests. The best time depends on your family's preferred activities.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Oxbow Regional Park?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Oxbow Regional Park, with an average score of 3.9 out of 5 stars from 21 ratings. Hikers often praise the park's beautiful old-growth forests, the scenic Sandy River views, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable family outings.
Is there parking available at Oxbow Regional Park?
Yes, Oxbow Regional Park has designated parking areas for visitors. There is a daily parking fee required to enter the park. For the most current information on fees and parking, it's advisable to check the official Metro website: oregonmetro.gov.
Can I reach Oxbow Regional Park by public transport?
While Oxbow Regional Park offers a wilderness feel, it is primarily accessed by car. Public transport options directly to the park entrance are limited. Planning for private transportation is generally recommended for visiting the park.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting on the trails?
Absolutely! Oxbow Regional Park is a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for mink, beaver, raccoon, fox, deer, and Roosevelt elk. Birdwatchers can spot osprey, bald eagles, and approximately 150 other bird species. During spawning season, you can even see salmon and steelhead in the Sandy River.
Are there any trails that lead to river access or beaches?
Yes, several trails offer access to the Sandy River. The Floodplain Trail, located near the Welcome Center, leads down to the river. The Sandy River Trail is another popular option that leads to a beach, though it involves some stairs. These spots are great for enjoying the clear green waters.
Most popular routes in Oxbow Regional Park
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