North Johnson Creek Trail

A beloved walking route by neighborhood locals, Beaverton's North Johnson Creek Trail is perhaps an unexpected hiking destination for others in the Portland metro area, but it serves as an excellent retreat for anyone seeking some fresh air, a dose of nature, and some exercise without having to leave the city. The paved 8-foot wide trail starts at the intersection of NW Barnes Road and 118th Avenue (across from the Market of Choice) and meanders along the fringe of Johnson Creek for 1.7 miles uphill cutting through second-growth forest, quintessential Beaverton wetlands, and several residential neighborhoods. A perfect trail for families, the hike provides opportunities to see a well-preserved temperate Pacific Northwest forest ecosystem dominated by marshy wetlands and stands of Douglas fir, western redcedar and bigleaf maples. Johnson Creek is protected by Clean Water Services and the Tualatin Hills Parks and Recreation District and serves as a home for a myriad of species including rough-skinned newts, American toads, wood ducks, mallards, great egrets, and the occasional great blue heron. Route Directions Below is a step-by-step set of directions as the North Johnson Creek Trail weaves in and out of residential neighborhoods on a designated paved trail and on sidewalks. The trailhead is located just east of the intersection of NW Barnes and 118th Avenue. From the trailhead, head east (up stream). After 0.3 miles on trail turn left onto NW 114th Avenue and head into a residential area. After 0.2 miles on the road turn right onto NW Leahy. After a few hundred yards on the sidewalk turn right onto NW Cedar Hills Boulevard. After 0.3 miles on the sidewalk cross over NW Cedar Hills Boulevard and continue onto the trail. After 0.3 miles on trail turn left onto SW Valeria View Drive. After a hundred yards on the sidewalk turn right (up hill) onto SW Taylor Street. After a few hundred yards on the sidewalk, turn left and head back onto the trail leading into Merrit Orchard Park. After 0.2 miles on the trail turn around at the footbridge over Johnson Creek.