There’s a little gem in Eugene, and it’s calling your name. If you’re ready for some fresh air, sunshine, and lush gardens, you’ll want to head to Hendricks Park. The city’s oldest park is chock-full of natural beauty, and its network of trails are just begging to be explored. Let’s take a look!
Welcome to Hendricks Park! Established in 1906, this quiet oasis is just a few blocks from the University of Oregon.
Rick Obst/Tripadvisor
You might be familiar with this park’s Rhododendron Garden, which is renowned for its beauty. Planted in 1951, the garden is bursting with the vibrant colors of thousands of rhododendrons and other ornamental plants.
Rick Obst/Tripadvisor
The optimal time to see the rhododendrons in bloom is April and May, and even into June. But this beautiful garden encompasses just a fraction of the park’s 80 acres…
Rick Obst/Tripadvisor
…the other 65 acres consist of gravel and paved trails that meander through a beautiful forest. While the Rhododendron Park area can be quite crowded at times, some of the hiking trails tend to be a bit more peaceful.
Crina M/Tripadvisor
Choose from several short trails inside the park, or extend your journey even farther when you hop on the Ridgeline Trail, which connects to the south end of the park, and winds for 12 miles around the city.
Robert Binkz/Alltrails
The trails inside Hendricks Park are mostly gravel, and they’re perfect for a casual stroll. The Old Road Trail is paved, but it’s fairly steep, so be prepared for a bit of a workout.
Janet Bennett/Google
Watch for benches tucked away in several spots along the trails. Don’t hesitate to take a little break to catch your breath or just enjoy the scenery.
Steve Dwight/Alltrails
The other thing to watch for during your hike? Wildlife! Catch a glimpse of deer browsing alongside the trail, and squirrels and birds overhead in the trees.
Ted Taylor/Google
As you make your way through the forest, you’ll see mostly Douglas firs - some of which are more than 200 years old. The forest here is mostly undeveloped, so even though you’re right inside the city, you’ll feel as though you’re far from civilization.
herman zuniga/Google
You can visit Hendricks Park every day of the week. It’s open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Rick Obst/Tripadvisor Dogs on leash are allowed on the trails and picnic area, but not in the Rhododendron Garden.
Rick Obst/Tripadvisor
Crina M/Tripadvisor
Robert Binkz/Alltrails
Janet Bennett/Google
Steve Dwight/Alltrails
Ted Taylor/Google
herman zuniga/Google
Dogs on leash are allowed on the trails and picnic area, but not in the Rhododendron Garden.
Learn more about this pretty park, and get access to its brochures and maps on its website. Have you explored the trails at Hendricks Park? We’d love to hear about your trip to this pretty place!
While you’re in Eugene, you might want to cool off at this outdoor water playground, and grab a bite to eat at this charming cafe.
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Address: Eugene, OR, USA
