Oregon’s Mt. Hood Territory
Beyond the Tulips: Northern Willamette Valley Adventures
With spring in full swing, the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival dazzles visitors with rows of vibrant blooms. But the excitement doesn’t end there. Just outside the festival grounds, you’ll find unique experiences and charming small towns that promise a memorable escape.
Ferries and Farm Friends
In Canby, the “Cowlebrities” at TMK Creamery steal the spotlight. Stop by to taste fresh cheese or sample Cowcohol, a vodka crafted from leftover whey. From there, hop aboard the historic Canby Ferry for a scenic ride across the Willamette River. Animal lovers will adore Triskelee Farm, home to goats, pigs, ostriches and alpacas, while Fir Point Farms tempts visitors with sweet treats and tree-climbing pygmy goats.
Oregon’s Wine Country
Wine enthusiasts can sip their way through Wooden Shoe Vineyards, known for varietals like albarino and Marechal Foch, or visit Hanson Vineyards to taste family-grown reds and whites. Nearby, St. Josef’s Winery blends history with live music, while Whiskey Hill Winery offers intimate tastings with the winemaker.
Wonderful Wildflowers
If wildflowers are your thing, wander through West Linn’s Camassia Nature Preserve to spot electric-hued purple and blue blooms, or head to Graham Oaks Nature Park in Wilsonville for meadow checkermallow and bleeding hearts.
Alpacas, Ales and Historic Escapes
Don’t miss Molalla’s Alpacas at Marquam Hill Ranch. Then wind down at Molalla River Brewing with a pint and mini-golf. For a cozy overnight, the Whiskey Hill Store — housed in a 1926 Craftsman — invites you to stay in local history.
