Sauvie Island Nature Walk

Posted June 4th, 2008 in Milagros News

We planned on picking strawberries at Kruger’s this past weekend but the season has not yet begun but we decided to still spend the afternoon on Sauvie Island.

Sauvie Island boasts more than 12,000 acres of land, so a variety of outdoor activities may be enjoyed. Much of the island that is not preserved for wildlife consists of family farms, many of which open their doors to the public for produce and special activities. Basically there is no shortage of family-friendly activities on the island and its proximity to Portland – 20 to 30 minutes – ensures limited “are we there yet?” moments in the car.

We love to paddle on Sturgeon Lake, which is located on the northern end of the island. Right now the water is high so there is no need to worry about tides but when the water lowers later in the summer, try to avoid low tide since you can find yourself stranded in the mud flats near shore. But we didn’t have a kayak with us….so we went for a hike!

We hit the Oak Island Nature Trail. This is a 2.5-mile loop trail around the Oak Island peninsula. The trail is actually a mowed path through the tall grass. Most of the trail stays in view of one of the lakes. You can wander cross-country through the tall grass fields to a quiet spot on Sturgeon Lake or Steelman Lake – make sure you remember how to get back onto the main path.

We saw countless herons as well as bald eagles and many other winged wonders. Many of the flowers – such as primrose – are in full bloom. The oak trees often nice shady stops on a sunny. On a clear day you can enjoy views of Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams, and Mt. St. Helens across Sturgeon Lake.

Getting there: From Portland, take route 30 toward St. Helens. Take the Sauvie Island Bridge onto the island and go North on Sauvie Island Rd. Kruger’s will be 1 1/2 miles ahead on the right. Continue North on Sauvie Island Road and take a right onto Reeder Road. Follow Reeder Road and, after a mile or so, take the left fork onto Oak Island Road.

The road will eventually become gravel follow it to the junction at Webster Pond. To access the Natural Hike continue straight at the junction to the end of the road. To access Sturgeon Lake, take a right at the junction and go around Webster Pond – the road will dead end at the canoe launch for Sturgeon Lake.

Don’t be afraid to consult a map!