Amble along trails leading through forests of native plants and trees, all teeming with wildlife. In the heart of the Willamette Valley, McDonald Forest is home to birds, deer and the occasional bobcat. Nature enthusiasts can explore hiking and biking trails, happen upon deer grazing or catch the hoot of an owl echoing through the forest.

Aspiring botanists can explore Marys Peak, the highest point on the Oregon Coastal Range Mountains and home to multiple native species of moss, trees, plants and fungi. On a clear day, hikers can see both the Pacific Ocean and the Cascade Mountain Range. Multiple trails allow hikers to choose their difficulty level and campgrounds are available for overnight stays.

Bird lovers will appreciate the care that the William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge has taken to provide a winter habitat for migrating Dusky Canada geese. Made up of 5,325 acres of protected land, visitors can watch these nomadic geese in winter months, and explore other native species that call the refuge home year-round.

After spending the day connecting with Corvallis’ natural environs, enjoy a meal made with fresh, local organic ingredients at Fireworks Restaurant. The Grilled Fish of the Day or Mediterranean Mezza Plate will quench your inner explorer before retiring for the evening. Visitors can stay at The Harrison House Bed and Breakfast, a restored historic home offering gracious hospitality and located in the heart of the city, or the Hanson Country Inn, a bed and breakfast on five acres of gardens and meadows, located just a few miles from town.

Corvallis Tourism
553 NW Harrison Blvd.
Corvallis, OR
800.334.8118
541.757.1544
www.visitcorvallis.com

McDonald Forest
541.737.4452
www.cof.orst.edu

Marys Peak
541.750.7000
www.fs.fed.us

William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge
26208 Finley Refuge Rd, Corvallis, OR
541.757.7236
willamettevalleyrefuges@fws.gov

Fireworks Restaurant and Bar
1115 SE 3rd St., Corvallis, OR
541.754.6958
www.fireworksvenue.com

Harrison House Bed & Breakfast
2310 NW Harrison Blvd., Corvallis OR
541.752.6248
800.233.6248
www.corvallis-lodging.com

Hanson Country Inn
795 SW Hanson St., Corvallis, OR
541.752.2919
www.hcinn.com

<< Return to the main Naturalist page