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Galen McBee Airport Park

© Wayne R. Brown

Located near McMinville, Oregon, this park provides a short hike and a pleasant break from everyday life. For anyone passing through, either on their way to the coast or just exploring the local wine country, it is a chance to get out of the car, stretch your legs and draw some clean air into your lungs before continuing down the road.

To reach the park, follow Interstate 5 south from Portland. Take the Hwy. 99 West exit at Tigard. Follow Hwy. 99 West through Newberg. A few miles later you will come to the Headquarters of Evergreen Aviation. Just past milepost 48 turn left on SE Armory Way (it's just past the F-15 fighter displayed in front of the Evergreen offices). Follow SE Armory way 1/4 mile to its end, and you've reached the park.

At the parking lot are a drinking fountain, a portable toilet and a new sign showing the layout of the trails. There are picnic tables located to the west, nestled among the trees. Don't bother looking for manicured lawns; you won't find any. The place has seen little modification from its natural state.

There are two loops through the park to choose from. The shorter of the two, according to the sign, runs a mere half mile. It passes among fir, oak and various other deciduous trees and crosses a creek. It is mostly level except where it descends to cross the waterway. The longer loop winds deeper into the furthest recesses of the park.

Both routes share the same beginning and end. The paths are well maintained and easy going for hikers of nearly any age. The two bridges are sturdy and have rails. At the far end of the park are a couple of surprises which children should enjoy; a small playground and a large, hollow, concrete mushroom with a low door and a small window. If you do bring children, plan on taking a break here and don't be surprised if they don't want to leave.

The only hazard I would recommend being wary of is poison oak. You're safe enough on the trails. Stay on them and you should be safe. Wander off of them and you're taking your chances. The only other consideration is seasonal. In the winter you should expect mud. One stretch of trail that runs along the western edge of the park is subject to standing water during rainy periods. And, of course, be wary of letting small children get too near the water when it's deep and flowing fast.

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