Hoyt Arboretum in Fall and Winter: A Seasonal Sanctuary of Nature, Exploration, and Creativity
As the leaves begin to fall and the days become cooler in Washington Park, Hoyt Arboretum transforms into a unique landscape that invites visitors to explore its vibrant displays of autumn foliage and the quiet beauty of winter. With a variety of activities tailored for all ages, Hoyt Arboretum offers both inspiration and discovery. Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape or hands-on learning experiences, there’s something for everyone. Here’s what awaits you this season!
1 – Free Trail Maps from the Visitor Center
Your adventure begins at the Hoyt Arboretum Visitor Center, where you can pick up a free trail map to navigate 12 miles of winding paths. This map is your key to discovering the Arboretum’s 190-acre expanse, featuring collections of diverse trees and plants from around the world. Start your journey on well-marked trails and uncover areas dedicated to unique species, from towering redwoods to flowering magnolias. The Visitor Center is also a great place to go for trail advice and picking up some great gifts for nature lovers!
2 – Weekend Crafting Activities: Nature-Inspired Fun for All Ages
Weekend crafting in the Arboretum is a hit for families, friends, and solo creators alike. Led by local artists and educators, these sessions encourage you to work with natural materials and create seasonal crafts that celebrate the beauty of the forest. Whether you’re making ornaments, flower art, or hand-built nature mugs, these hands-on activities are a delightful way to connect with Washington Park’s natural surroundings this time of year.
3 – Mushroom Walks: Foraging and Fungi Exploration
Autumn brings a flourishing of fungi across the Arboretum grounds. Join one of the Arboretum’s guided mushroom walks to discover the rich world of fungi, led by experts who share insights on local species, identification tips, and sustainable foraging practices. It’s a fantastic experience for budding mycologists and those simply curious about the hidden wonders of mushrooms.
4 – Forest Bathing: Embrace Mindfulness in Nature
In need of a peaceful escape? Try forest bathing, a practice originating from Japan (known as “shinrin-yoku”) that encourages mindful immersion in the sights, sounds, and scents of nature. These guided sessions in Hoyt Arboretum’s serene forest landscape help reduce stress, restore mental clarity, and deepen one’s connection to the natural world—a perfect way to unwind amid the holiday hustle.
5 – Pop-Up Nature: Fall Into Science
Throughout fall and winter, the Arboretum hosts Pop-Up Nature events that dive into fascinating seasonal science topics geared for kids of all ages. These events are free and cover everything from the biology of fall colors to the ecosystem changes that come with winter. They’re family-friendly and interactive, making them a perfect way for curious minds, young and old, to learn about nature’s seasonal rhythms.
Plan Your Trip with Hoyt Arboretum’s Calendar
Hoyt Arboretum offers incredibly unique opportunities to experience Portland’s fall and winter seasons. Whether you’re navigating trails with your free map, crafting with nature, or taking your kids to a science-focused pop-up, there are endless opportunities to deepen your appreciation of nature right here in Portland, Oregon. Bundle up, grab your map, and discover all that Hoyt Arboretum has to offer!
