Dunthorpe is almost a little secret community in Portland, Oregon. We end up visiting Dunthorpe quite often because of the historic homes and older chimneys that need repairs or cleanings. For those who haven’t see it, Dunthorpe is bordered by the Willamette River to the east and rolling hills to the west. It offers residents a unique blend of tranquility and convenience in Portland, making it a very popular place for those residents lucky enough to call it home.
Lewis & Clark College
One of the most prominent features of Dunthorpe is Lewis & Clark College, a prestigious liberal arts institution situated atop Palatine Hill. The college’s 137-acre campus offers a blend of academic excellence and natural beauty, with its lush grounds and stunning views of Mount Hood. Visitors can explore the campus, attend cultural events, or enjoy the college’s many walking trails. The presence of Lewis & Clark contributes significantly to the intellectual and cultural vibrancy of the Dunthorpe area.
Tryon Creek State Natural Area
Just a short distance from Dunthorpe lies Tryon Creek State Natural Area, a 658-acre oasis of second-growth forest. As Oregon’s only state park within a major metropolitan area, it offers a unique opportunity to experience nature without venturing far from the city. The park features:
- 8 miles of hiking trails
- 3.5 miles of horse trails
- A 3-mile paved bicycle path
- Numerous bridges and a wetland boardwalk
Tryon Creek is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, offering year-round hiking, birdwatching, and educational programs. The park’s Nature Center provides interpretive exhibits and guided hikes, making it an excellent resource for learning about local flora and fauna.
Elk Rock Gardens of the Bishop’s Close
One of Dunthorpe’s hidden gems is the Elk Rock Gardens of the Bishop’s Close. This 13-acre hillside estate overlooking the Willamette River was established in 1916 by Peter Kerr, a Scottish immigrant who became a prominent Portland businessman. The gardens feature:
- A diverse collection of magnolias
- Native and non-native trees and shrubs
- A manor house inspired by Scottish architecture
After Kerr’s death in 1957, the estate was gifted to the Episcopal Diocese of Oregon, with the condition that the gardens remain open to the public. Today, visitors can explore these meticulously maintained gardens Monday through Friday, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Sellwood Bridge
Connecting Dunthorpe to the Sellwood neighborhood of Portland, the Sellwood Bridge is an impressive feat of engineering and a vital transportation link. Completed in 2016, this steel deck arch bridge replaced an older structure that had served the community for over 90 years. The new bridge features:
- A total length of 1,976 feet
- Three main river spans totaling 1,275 feet
- Two 12-foot shared-use sidewalks
- Bike lanes that double as emergency shoulders
The Sellwood Bridge not only provides a crucial connection for commuters but also offers stunning views of the Willamette River and surrounding landscape.
Springwater Corridor
While not directly in Dunthorpe, the nearby Springwater Corridor is a significant recreational asset for the area. This 21-mile multi-use trail follows a former railway line from Boring through Gresham to Portland. The corridor offers:
- Paved, off-street trails ideal for cycling and walking
- Connections to numerous parks and natural areas
- Scenic views of Johnson Creek and surrounding landscapes
The Springwater Corridor is part of the larger 40-Mile Loop trail system, inspired by the 1903 Olmsted plan for a parkway and boulevard loop connecting Portland’s park sites.
Other Notable Attractions
In addition to these major points of interest, Dunthorpe and its surrounding areas offer several other attractions worth exploring:
- Riverview Cemetery: A historic cemetery with beautiful grounds and views of the Willamette River.
- Willamette Park: A riverside park offering boat ramps, picnic areas, and sports facilities.
- Oaks Amusement Park: One of the oldest continuously operating amusement parks in the United States, located just across the river in Sellwood.
For residents and visitors in Dunthorpe, these points of interest provide a wealth of recreational and cultural opportunities. Whether enjoying a hike through Tryon Creek State Natural Area, admiring the beauty of Elk Rock Gardens, or cycling along the Springwater Corridor, everyone can appreciate the unique blend of natural beauty and urban amenities that make Dunthorpe a special place to live and explore.
As you enjoy these local attractions, remember to ensure your home remains a cozy retreat. Regular fireplace and chimney maintenance in Dunthorpe home will allow you to fully appreciate the comfort of your Dunthorpe home after a day of exploring these wonderful local sites.