Summer Fun in Oregon

Mark and I, I must admit are the adventurous sort. We car camp at places with few amenities (mainly no flush toilet or showers), hike, take the long way, travel most of the summer, and love to find out of the way places. With summer coming up and people asking where some good places to spend some time off the beaten path that may be hidden, I thought I would list a few.

Bike Path/Eugene Oregon: The extensive pathway along the Mckenzie River in Eugene, Oregon wind through parks, near community gardens, and at the base of Skinner's Butte, with an amazing viewpoint of the city, if you choose to hike it. You can pack a picnic lunch and eat at one of the continuous green spaces with mature shade giving trees, at one of the expansive and child awing play structures, or within earshot of the river's bubbling course. Or you can choose to eat at Mcmenamins-North Bank or Valley River Inn, both with tables outside within view of the river and right along the bike path. Biking here with the family makes a great family outing. Bring Frisbees, soccer balls, etc. for a side activity. Parks also are inhabited by many ducks that are fun to observe as well as other wildlife. To get there, drive to Valley River Center, parking in the back (near Macy's) and follow the bike paths East. If you want to eat at a restaurant stay on the North Side of the river. If not, the South side is a bit more picturesque and is easier on the senses (less traffic noise). Note: If you are into biking with the fam., there is another path South of Eugene near Cottage Grove that is part of "Tracks to Trails". Running through small communities and open country, this trail is ideal especially if you start at the East end (higher elevation and ride "downhill" coasting most of the way, which makes it a breeze for kids to go long distances,) and end at the West end of the trail. Two cars would be needed, one at each end. Another Tracks to Trails bike path runs between Vernonia and Banks, West of Portland near the coast range mountains.

Lone Pine Farms: Fresh produce (mostly-some from Mex. and Chile), entertaining playground for the kiddos (complete with merry-go-round), Goats that run on an above building ramp that has food bins and a hoist that allows you to feed them, a gold fish pond, local ice cream, and other animals present in the corrals and fields for observing. Perfect for a picnic lunch. LPF is located on River Road, which runs from Junction City to Eugene. For more information call 541.688.4389.

Pfeiffer winery: One of Oregon's oldest vineyards, this winery boasts ponds that trickle into each other providing soothing sounds while you enjoy the ample picnicking space. Although the tasting room doesn't allow children, two families could take turns tasting while kids catch bullfrogs and enjoy a pre-packed snack. Southwest of Monroe off Territorial Rd. In Monroe turn right off of Hwy 99 onto Territorial. Drive about 4 miles and look for signs on the right that will eventually lead you to Pfeiffer. For further details call (541) 998-2828.

Chatoe Rogue: A lovely tasting room with Rogue Beers on tap. Their menu is a little weak, but you can bring your own food (get salami and cheese from Natalia and Cristoforo's in Corvallis). You can only eat the food you've brought outside so make sure the weather is cooperative before heading here. Outside the picnic table and completely flat lawn invite children and adults to play soccer, boccie ball, croquet, and any other number of fun outdoor activities. The farmhouse located on the property can be rented by room or the entire house. If you rent the entire house you can have friends camp on the lawn, making this an ideal place for weddings. Another perk of this particular tasting room is that since it is located on the Willamette River, you can float here from Corvallis and arrange a pick up after you've enjoyed some libation. To get here, take 99w North from Corvallis and follow the signs. This destination is officially located in Independence. Call for more details (503) 838-9813.

Wings of Wonder: This butterfly house and garden is wonderful on a rainy summer day (which we know occurs in Oregon more than absolutely necessary). The butterflies (some larger than my toddler's head) are breathtaking. You may find yourself slipping into childlike behavior as a butterfly alights upon your shoulder and the whole world seems insignificant as you closely examine spots, lines, and metallic shimmers. Wings pulse up and down even when not in flight, children squeal, and we forget about time, dinner, errands, meaningless responsibilities. To find this peek into a rain forest follow 99W North from Corvallis and follow the signs. This destination is located in Buena Vista (and while you're there ride the ferry across the river and back-the kids love this-check the schedule. Hours vary. Call (503) 588-7979 for current closures). Call for more information (503) 838-0976 on WoW.