9 Smith and Bybee Lakes Natural Area

This route takes you on a tour through the Smith and Bybee Lakes Natural Area, where you can see a variety of mammals and birdlife. As one of the largest urban wetland natural areas in the United States, you will enjoy the solitude and scenery of this urban city hike.

Distance: 1.8-mile lollipop

Hiking time: About 1 to 2 hours

Elevation gain: None

Trail surface: Paved path

Best season: Year-round

Other trail users: None

Canine compatibility: Dogs not permitted

Fees and permits: No fees or permits required

Schedule: Open sunrise to sunset

Maps: USGS: Portland

Trail contact: Metro Regional Center, Natural Areas Program, 600 NE Grand Ave., Portland; (503) 797-1545; www.oregonmetro.gov

Finding the trailhead: From the intersection of I-5 north and I-84 in Portland, travel north for 5.0 miles and take exit 307 for Marine Drive/Delta Park. Travel 2.2 miles west on Marine Drive to the Smith and Bybee Lakes Natural Area entrance located on the left side of the road. Turn left and follow the entrance road for 0.2 mile to the trailhead parking area on the left. DeLorme: Oregon Atlas & Gazetteer: Page 66 C2. GPS: N45 36.998' / W122 43.088'

The Hike

At almost 2,000 acres, Smith and Bybee Lakes Natural Area is one of the largest protected urban wetlands in the United States. This hike takes you on the paved Interlakes Trail that winds through a thick forest canopy, past marshes, and through an open meadow. The highlights of this hike are two viewing platforms at the edge of Smith and Bybee Lakes where you can see abundant birdlife and mammals. You may see river otter, beaver, mink, nutria, Western painted turtles, osprey, bald eagles, Canada geese, great blue herons, great egrets, Cooper’s hawks, and red-tailed hawks. Be sure to bring your camera and binoculars. The trailhead also has a boat ramp if you want to explore the area in your canoe or kayak.

Miles and Directions

0.0Start by crossing the paved entrance road and then turning right onto the paved bike trail.

0.3 Turn left and start walking on the paved Interlakes Trail.

0.5Arrive at a three-way intersection. There is a viewpoint of the slough on your right. Continue straight (take the middle fork).

0.8Arrive at a viewpoint on the edge of Bybee Lake. Enjoy the views and then turnaround and head back on the same trail.

1.1Turn right and start the loop portion of the trail.

1.2Arrive at a viewing platform on the edge of Smith Lake. Enjoy the views and then continue to the right to finish the loop portion of the trail.

1.3At the trail junction turn right.

1.5 The Interlakes Trail ends. Turn right on the paved bike path.

1.8 Arrive back at the trailhead and parking area.