Looking for a different date or program theme?
The Nature Education team would like to work with your group to accomodate your request.
Work with a naturalist to co-create a program that fits the needs of your group.
Custom trips
How to schedule a summer field trip
- Reservations for summer field trips are accepted beginning March 1. Reservations for fall field trips are accepted beginning Aug. 6; spring field trips Jan. 14.
- Open field trip dates
- To register, email [email protected] or call 503-220-2782
- Program fee: fewer than 35 participants, $50; 36-60 participants, $100
- If the fee is a hardship, you may request a program fee waiver.
- Metro can offer financial assistance for transportation to schools and organizations that qualify.
Oxbow Regional Park
With the Sandy River winding its way through the gorge and ancient forests crawling up the ridgeline, Oxbow Regional Park offers visitors unparalleled opportunities to learn about fish, wildlife and plants.
Summer: June through August
Two or four hours
On the two-hour trip, groups will walk among the centuries-old trees of Oxbow's ancient forest, learning about the wildlife and ecology of an old-growth forest. For the four-hour trip, groups will hike the forest trails and explore the banks of the Sandy River. At the river they will learn to identify wildlife by their tracks and signs, and search for aquatic insects.
Smith and Bybee Wetlands Natural Area
An urban wetland just outside north Portland’s neighborhoods, Smith and Bybee is an active restoration site that’s home to fish, turtles, amphibians and birds.
Summer: June through August
Two hours
During the field trip, groups will explore the trails while learning about the various plants and animal life that live in the wetland ecosystem.
Scouters Mountain Nature Park
Rising over the southeast corner of Portland, Scouters Mountain offers stunning views and trails filled with discoveries awaiting your group.
Summer: June through August
Two hours
Exploring this extinct lava dome, the forest comes alive with mushrooms, vibrant green moss and lichen, and various animal residents. While hiking the mountain’s trails, groups will discover why mammals, amphibians, birds and insects make this forest their home.