walking

Join Metro naturalist Dan Daly at Oxbow Regional Park to learn how to make fire without matches by carving your own bow drill friction fire kit to take home with you. Learn about fire safety, construction and fuel selection. Participants use knives; the safe conduct of young children is the responsibility of their guardians.

Family Nature Explorers brings kids and adults together for open-ended nature exploration in Metro natural areas. Families meet other families with the same interests in nature and the outdoors. Kids meet other kids who love to touch, smell and study all things natural. Led by Metro naturalists and volunteers, each adventure explores a special theme – but trip leaders seize the moment when nature presents any unexpected learning opportunity. Bring a sack lunch. Children 4 and older are welcome with a parent, grandparent or guardian. $11 per family per program. Register for each program separately; come to one or come to all. Register online or call 503-797-1650 option 2.

Take a relaxing walk at Smith and Bybee Wetlands on a long summer evening. Dusk is one of the best times to view wildlife, especially during summer. It’s about the only time mammals such as beaver, muskrat, otter, raccoon, deer and bats can be seen. A Metro naturalist teaches basic techniques of wildlife watching and identification. Bring binoculars or borrow a pair onsite. Suitable for ages 10 and older; participants must be able to be quiet, sneaky and patient. Meet in the parking area on North Marine Drive. Registration and payment of $6 per adult or $11 per family required in advance. Register online or call 503-797-1650 option 2.

<p>This lively show immerses the audience in the musical heritage of the American pioneers along the Oregon Trail. Instruments and household items such as the musical saw, jew’s-harp, spoons, banjo, ukulele and washtub bass are included as part of this informative, fun-filled presentation.</p><p>Meet around the campfire for stories and old-fashioned entertainment when you camp at Oxbow Regional Park. Enjoy live music on Friday nights and nature presentations and storytellers on Saturday nights. Campfire shows are open only to overnight campers; day use ends at legal sunset when park gates are locked. Programs are in the outdoor amphitheater at the campground. Free. For more information, call 503-797-1650 option 2. <a href="http://www.oregonmetro/oxbow">www.oregonmetro/oxbow</a></p>

Visit the under-appreciated but spectacular highlands of the Olallie Scenic Area. This area underwent sheet glaciation rather than valley glaciation, resulting in flatter terrain and so many lakes that many have never been named.

Highlights include wide-ranging views with the glaciers of Mount Jefferson only 9 miles distant, glacial striationsin bedrock, wildflowers, and mixed woodlands with  meadows, lakes and cliffs.

The moderate hike of 5.6 miles has a 900 ft. elevation gain on a gentle up and down route. High Point of 5320 ft.

Bring plenty of water, a camera, bug spray, and a lunch. Be aware that temperatures in the upperwatershed are cooler than down below, and wear appropriate footwear.RSVP to attend by emailing Becki at Rebecca@clackamasriver.org or calling 503-303-4372.

Join a REI Outdoor School Instructor for a guided hike to one of Portland's natural gems: Tryon Creek State Natural Area.  We'll discuss the natural and cultural history of the park, and keep our eyes out for wildflowers and/or wildlife sightings. We'll also touch on the 10 essentials of backcountry travel and introduce you to the 7 Leave no Trace principles.