In April, we sent out a survey asking for Lane County residents to nominate their top picks in 12 different categories. We wanted to showcase local businesses, who have felt the effects of the coronavirus pandemic and who could use a little extra love right now. We asked survey takers to write in a first and second place pick, which we scored accordingly. As a result, we bring you Lane County’s Top Picks for Places to Be Active!
Please follow up with the individual businesses about changes in hours or services.
Along the Willamette River
Walking, running, biking, skateboarding—however you’re being active, it’s highly likely you’re doing it along the Willamette River. As a key, defining feature of Eugene, the river, and the Ruth Bascom Riverbank Path System that lets us enjoy it, is a central location for people to get out and move. Follow the trails from near Beltline in Eugene to Island Park in Springfield. Along the way, you’ll find overlooks, parks and playgrounds, wildlife viewing areas, the Owen Rose Garden, and other sights.
Spencer Butte
You don’t have to go far for a good hike in Eugene. A climb up Spencer Butte, part of the Ridgeline Trail System, will take you along a 1.7-mile, moderate-to-difficult trail that gives you summit views of Three Sisters, Fern Ridge Reservoir, as well as most of the Southern Willamette Valley.
Spencer Butte | Trailhead: 85385 Willamette St. | 541/682-4800 | eugene-or.gov
Mt. Pisgah
A volcanic butte, 1,530-foot-tall Mt. Pisgah boasts wetlands, prairies, and oak savannah habitats that are home to rare species of plants and animals. Featuring 17 miles of trails through Buford Park and Willamalane’s 3-mile Middle Fork Path, Mt. Pisgah is a natural wonderland that is thoroughly enjoyed by all who visit it. Managed by a group committed to conservatism, nearly 120 native species are grown at the Native Plant Nursery.
Mt. Pisgah | bufordpark.org
Where to be active honorable mentions
Alton Baker Park | 100 Day Island Rd. | 541/682-4800 | eugene-or.gov/altonbakerpark
Ridgeline Trail | South Eugene | eugene-or.gov/
Elevation | 348 Lincoln St. | 541/972-3592 | elevationgym.com
Pre’s Trail | Alton Baker Park and Willamette River | eugenecascadescoast.org
Skinner Butte playground | 248 Cheshire Ave. | 541/682-4800 | eugene-or.gov
Check out our other Top Picks:
