Visit US Parks

Banks-Vernonia State Trail

Banks-Vernonia State Trail Overview


The Banks-Vernonia State Trail is a 21-mile long trail located in the northwest region of Oregon, United States. The trail is situated in the Tualatin Valley, which is known for its scenic beauty and rich history. The trail was originally a railroad line that was built in the early 1900s to transport timber from the forests to the mills. Today, the trail is a popular destination for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders.

The Banks-Vernonia State Trail offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. The trail is open year-round and is accessible to people of all ages and abilities. Hikers can explore the lush forests and scenic vistas along the trail, while bikers can enjoy the smooth, paved surface that makes for a comfortable ride. Horseback riders can also enjoy the trail, which is wide enough to accommodate horses and their riders.

Along the trail, visitors can discover a variety of historical and cultural landmarks. The trail passes through several small towns, including Banks and Vernonia, which offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history. Visitors can learn about the area’s logging industry and the role it played in shaping the local economy. The trail also passes through several parks and natural areas, including L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, which offers camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

One of the highlights of the Banks-Vernonia State Trail is the stunning scenery. The trail winds through dense forests, past sparkling streams, and over picturesque bridges. Visitors can see a variety of wildlife along the trail, including deer, elk, and a variety of bird species. The trail also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a popular destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Overall, the Banks-Vernonia State Trail is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the outdoors. With its stunning scenery, rich history, and variety of activities, the trail offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely hike, a challenging bike ride, or a peaceful horseback ride, the Banks-Vernonia State Trail is the perfect destination.

Visitor’s Experience


Banks-Vernonia State Trail is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Oregon. The trail is a 21-mile long, multi-use path that winds through lush forests, over bridges, and past scenic vistas. Visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy the trail, making it a great destination for families, couples, friends, and solo travelers.

Families will love the Banks-Vernonia State Trail for its accessibility and variety of activities. The trail is stroller-friendly, making it easy for parents to bring their little ones along for a walk or bike ride. There are also plenty of picnic areas and restrooms along the way, making it easy to take a break and refuel. Kids will love exploring the forests and spotting wildlife, while parents can enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Couples looking for a romantic getaway will find plenty to love about the Banks-Vernonia State Trail. The trail is surrounded by beautiful scenery, making it the perfect backdrop for a romantic picnic or hike. Couples can also rent bikes and ride together, taking in the sights and sounds of the forest. The trail is relatively quiet, making it a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and spend some quality time together.

Friends looking for a fun day out will find plenty to do on the Banks-Vernonia State Trail. The trail is perfect for group bike rides or hikes, and there are plenty of places to stop and take photos along the way. Friends can also bring a picnic lunch and enjoy a leisurely afternoon in the forest. The trail is a great place to catch up with friends and enjoy the great outdoors.

Solo travelers will love the Banks-Vernonia State Trail for its peaceful surroundings and opportunities for solitude. The trail is relatively quiet, making it a great place to escape from the stresses of everyday life. Solo travelers can take a leisurely hike or bike ride, stopping to take in the scenery and enjoy the peace and quiet. The trail is also a great place to reflect and recharge.

The best times of year to visit the Banks-Vernonia State Trail are in the spring and fall. The weather is mild, and the forests are alive with color. Visitors can enjoy the changing leaves in the fall or the blooming wildflowers in the spring. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter can be cold and snowy, making it difficult to enjoy the trail.

Overall, the Banks-Vernonia State Trail is a great destination for visitors of all ages and abilities. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing, a romantic getaway, a fun day out with friends, or a peaceful solo adventure, the trail has something for everyone. With its beautiful scenery, accessibility, and variety of activities, it’s no wonder that the Banks-Vernonia State Trail is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Oregon.

Tell us, what do you think of this park?

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.