Outdoor Recreation Awaits You in Vancouver, Washington

Walk along the Columbia River on the
Columbia River Waterfront Renaissance Trail
and enjoy the boats and barges

Vancouver, Washington, just across the Columbia River from Portland, Oregon has outdoor recreation opportunities galore. Cool blue lakes and miles of hiking and biking trails invite adventure seekers to explore the wonder of the great outdoors in Vancouver USA.

Wood Duck at Ridgefield Wildlife Refuge

Just 10 minutes from downtown, visitors can enjoy a stunning view of Mount St. Helens while canoeing, kayaking, or stand-up-paddle boarding at Vancouver Lake.  The 234-acre park also features hiking trails and a 2.5-mile sandy shoreline for beach volleyball and picnicking. Dragon boat races and rowing teams compete on the lake throughout the year.

Visitors can explore the wildlife and over 5,000 acres of wetlands at the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. Encounter deer, nesting eagles and a variety of migrating birds. This local gem is a popular spot to bird watch. While hiking, visitors can see sandhill cranes, tundra swans and great blue herons. Guided, naturalist-led hikes are also offered at the refuge.

Other urban outdoor adventures in Vancouver USA that offer beautiful scenery to bike, hike and paddle are:

Lacamas Lake and Lacamas Heritage Trail

Columbia River Waterfront Renaissance Trail

Burnt Bridge Creek Trail

Salmon Creek Greenway Trail

Frenchman's Bar Park

Now is the time to get out and about in Vancouver USA. The cherry blossoms are blooming and the weather is mild.