The best walks and hikes around Santa Clara

The Delta Ponds Loop offers an easy hike through a beautifully restored wetland ecosystem in Eugene. You will follow well-maintained gravel paths and cross scenic bridges, passing by numerous ponds and channels, including the prominent Delta Pond, often adorned with aquatic plants like lotus flowers. This gentle route covers 1.8 miles (2.8 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 31 feet (10 metres), making it a perfect choice for a leisurely outdoor experience. Expect to complete the hike in about 43 minutes, enjoying tranquil scenery throughout.

The Delta Ponds Loop is generally accessible and largely barrier-free, making it suitable for jogging strollers and wheelchairs in most sections. However, be aware that some segments of the trail may become temporarily inaccessible during high water events. This can happen due to its connection to the Willamette River, influenced by heavy rains and dam operations. It is wise to check local conditions before you go if there has been significant rainfall.

As you hike, keep an eye out for abundant wildlife, as the 150-acre wetland is home to over 100 recorded bird species, including Great Blue Herons and eagles. You might also spot Northwestern pond turtles basking near the water. This unique environment provides a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with nature right within the city.

Explore the Golden Gardens Ponds Loop, an easy hiking route that offers a pleasant outdoor experience focused on the park's tranquil ponds. This accessible path covers 1.0 miles (1.6 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 14 feet (4 metres), making it perfect for a quick outing. You can expect to complete this loop in about 23 minutes, enjoying views of water, native trees, and grasses along the way.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the park provides well-maintained paths, including soft-surface, paved, and hard-packed gravel options. Parking is generally available, ensuring easy access to the trailhead. This family-friendly route is ideal for a casual stroll or a light run, offering a relaxing escape without requiring extensive preparation.

The ponds themselves have an interesting history, originally serving as gravel pits before being transformed into a natural area for recreation. This improvement has created an enhanced wildlife habitat, giving you opportunities to spot various birds and other creatures around the water. The trail highlights this successful ecological transformation, providing a unique natural setting within the urban landscape.

Pre's Trail offers a moderate hiking experience over 4.3 miles (7.0 km), with a gentle elevation gain of just 45 feet (14 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 2 hours and 7 minutes. The path is known for its soft wood chip surface, which makes for a comfortable walk through varied landscapes of woods and tall grasses. As you hike, you will follow a canoe canal, providing views of the Willamette River and nearby duck ponds where you might see local birds and deer. Look out for the Bridge at Canoe Canal, a clear landmark along the way.

You will find Pre's Trail easily accessible within Alton Baker Park, making it convenient for a quick escape into nature. Various parking lots are available, offering direct access to the trailhead. The route is well-maintained, and guide signs with maps help make navigation straightforward. You do not need any permits to enjoy this popular trail.

This trail stands out for its unique soft wood chip surface, which is a favorite among both hikers and runners. Beyond the natural beauty, you will also encounter the distinctive Talking stone "Hal-Ba," adding a touch of local character to your journey. The flat terrain and comfortable surface ensure an enjoyable experience for all skill levels.

Embark on an easy 1.8-mile (3.0 km) hike around Skinner Butte Park, a route that offers a refreshing outdoor experience right in Eugene. You will gain 188 feet (57 metres) in elevation, which takes about 49 minutes to complete at a steady pace. From the summit, you can enjoy wide-ranging views of the Willamette River, downtown Eugene, and the distant Spencer Butte, making it a rewarding short outing.

When planning your visit, be aware that the paved road leading to the summit parking lot is currently closed to vehicles until October 1, 2025, due to wildfire concerns. However, you can still access the trail on foot or by bike. While the path is generally easy, some sections may have moderate inclines and slightly uneven terrain, so wearing comfortable shoes is a good idea for this urban park adventure.

Skinner Butte Park holds a significant place in Eugene's history as one of its oldest parks. It is also home to the well-known "Big O" emblem, a local landmark. For the most picturesque experience, consider timing your hike to coincide with either sunrise or sunset, when the light enhances the panoramic vistas across the valley.