A trip to a nature park is the perfect way to spend any Oregon day, but when it includes an outdoor art installation by a world-renowned artist, it’s even better! Have you been to Orenco Nature Park to see what’s peeping out from behind the trees there?
Located on the banks of Rock Creek, this land was once inhabited by the largest nursery on the west coast.
Sashi S/Tripadvisor
Today, it’s owned by the city of Hillsboro and Metro, and it’s a wonderful outdoor space for Oregonians. Orenco Woods Nature Park includes a pretty play area, picnic shelter, and more.
Elaine Tronic/Google It’s located at 7100 Northeast Birch St., Hillsboro, OR 97124.
You’ll want to spend some time exploring the hiking trails here…
Carl Krutka/Google
…and watch for wildlife! You’ll see plenty of local residents in the creek and along its banks, including ducks, beavers, and great blue heron.
P Bernard/Google
In the forest, you’ll see song birds, deer, squirrels and many more woodland creatures.
P Bernard/Google
In fact, you never know what you might find nestled in the trees at Orenco Woods Nature Park. These huge, whimsical faces peek out at visitors and invite them to play.
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The stickwork sculptures were created by artist Patrick Dougherty. There are seven of these 18-foot-tall sculptures - each with its own personality. The art installation is called “Head Over Heels.”
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These creatures were originally inspired by Native American totems, and as the artist created them, they gradually took on other characteristics. Each has a look of surprise - almost as if it can’t believe the beauty of the Pacific Northwest!
Sashi S/Tripadvisor
One of the best things about these stickwork sculptures is that they encourage you to explore them firsthand. While you should never climb on them, you’re welcome to step inside them.
Curtis Hoffman/Google
Each one is made from locally-gathered natural materials woven together….
Lynn Appleby/Google
…and it took more than 1,000 hours by 150 volunteers to create these lovely giants.
Faun H/Google
Like all of Patrick Dougherty’s installations, “Head Over Heels” is only temporary. It’s only expected to last from two to four years, and it was installed in April, 2017, so you’ll want to pay it a visit soon!
Virgil Perry/Google Orenco Woods Nature Park is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Learn more about artist Patrick Dougherty on his website. Have you visited this outdoor art?
Sashi S/Tripadvisor
Elaine Tronic/Google
It’s located at 7100 Northeast Birch St., Hillsboro, OR 97124.
Carl Krutka/Google
P Bernard/Google
marktS5189DV/Tripadvisor
Curtis Hoffman/Google
Lynn Appleby/Google
Faun H/Google
Virgil Perry/Google
Orenco Woods Nature Park is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Looking for another fun outdoor activity? Take the kayak tour at this state park.
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