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Swept Away Restoration & Carpet Cleaning
Joana Ruffo
PO Box 1134 Ashland, Oregon 97520
Water Damage Restoration in Portland, OR
Owning a home or business is one of the hallmarks of living the American Dream. While there are many fulfilling and positive aspects of owning property, one of the challenges that owners face is property damage. This type of damage can be caused by a range of disasters, both man-made and natural. Of all the types of property damage, water damage is among the most common.
Whether from broken pipes or heavy thunderstorms, it doesn't take a professor from Lewis Clark College in Portland to know that water damage can be incredibly harmful to your home. Water can spread quickly throughout your property, causing damage to furniture and porous materials as it moves. In the blink of an eye, you could be looking at substantial rotting, warping, and even mold growth. That's why water damage restoration in Portland, OR is so important - to mitigate the damage to your home and help prevent it from happening in the future.
Trying to overcome flooding and other water-related disasters on your own can seem like a lost cause. But with Disaster Response by your side, you don't have to lose hope. As a local water damage clean-up company, we provide comprehensive restoration services to properties of all sizes in Portland. From the first time we assess your water damage to the time we mitigate and restore, we're here for you.
Fire Damage for Joan Campbell
Mold Remediation for Accent Spas inc.
Sewer Backup for Joe Sells
Soot Removal for A
Dealing with property damage can be overwhelming. You're likely concerned about a few key things:
Navigating the insurance claim process
We guide you through every step, ensuring you understand the process and get the most out of your claim.
Scheduling for a quick and quality completion
We provide a clear timeline for restoration, prioritizing both speed and quality, so you can get back to normal as soon as possible.
You might also be thinking about:
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
Understanding the full scope of the damage and what needs to be done:We conduct a thorough assessment of the damage and provide a detailed plan of action, so you know exactly what to expect.
Knowing the costs upfront and avoiding unexpected expenses: We provide transparent pricing and a detailed estimate before any work begins, so there are no surprises along the way.
Preventing future issues, such as mold growth or structural problems: We don't just fix the visible damage—we address the root causes to prevent future issues, giving you peace of mind.
Protecting your belongings and valuables from further damage: We take extra care to safeguard your possessions during the restoration process, minimizing any further impact.
Minimizing disruption to your daily life or business operations: We work efficiently and flexibly to reduce the disruption to your routine, allowing you to continue with your life or business as smoothly as possible.
Finding a trustworthy team to handle your property with care: Our experienced and highly-trained professionals treat your property as if it were their own, ensuring the highest standard of care.
Ensuring the job is done right the first time: We pride ourselves on doing the job right the first time, using industry-leading techniques and thorough quality checks to ensure lasting results.
Receiving clear communication and updates throughout the restoration process: We keep you informed every step of the way, providing regular updates and clear communication, so you're never left in the dark.
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
At Disaster Response, It's All About You
Like Pittock Mansion in Portland, Disaster Response has been a pillar of the community for years. As a second-generation disaster response company, we know that our work is never about us. At its most basic, it's always about you—your situation, your needs, and your satisfaction. We engineer our processes to help you quickly recover from water floods and disasters. Our total focus is on you, our valued customer. And that, in a nutshell, is what makes Disaster Response one of the most trusted and highly-rated water restoration companies in Portland.
Instead of focusing on profit, bottom lines, and yearly projections, we make you our priority. That's why we're serious about providing expert-level disaster preparedness and response services when you need them the most. Could you imagine trying to decipher misleading fine print or dealing with a pushy salesperson when you're just trying to get your life back together? That's not the Disaster Response way, and it never will be.
We don't just clean up after water leaks, floods, or other disasters; we go above and beyond by providing a consultative approach that serves you for years to come. We assist you in dealing with insurance adjusters to ensure you get the coverage you deserve without unnecessary delays. We make it a point to meticulously review every detail of your claim and work hard to make sure adjusters understand the full extent of your losses. We can also provide guidance on how and when to engage a public adjuster to bypass inefficiencies in the insurance process. At the end of the day, we strive to provide peace of mind during your difficult time and work tirelessly to get your property back to its pre-loss condition.
The Disaster Response Difference
Professional Technicians, Technology, and Processes
In fact, we'll dispatch a team of water disaster technicians to you within three minutes. We'll also advise you on what can be done to minimize the water damage in your home or business. Our water damage restoration team will use cutting-edge technology and IICRC-approved methods to restore as much of your property as possible.
Insurance Advocacy
Disaster Response works one-on-one with you and your insurance provider to expedite the claims process and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.
Satisfaction Guaranteed
We're proud of our work and stand behind every project we complete. Our goal is to exceed expectations and provide peace of mind throughout every step of your water damage restoration process. If you're not satisfied for any reason, we'll listen to your concerns and work tirelessly to rectify any issues that need addressing.
Joana Ruffo
Swept Away Restoration & Carpet Cleaning
Disaster Response Introducing Swept Away Restoration & Carpet Cleaning: The Premier Choice for Emergency Clean-Up**
At Disaster 911, we're elevating the standard with ( Swept Away Restoration & Carpet Cleaning ), our trusted go-to contractor for emergency clean-up services. While others may settle for the status quo, ( Swept Away Restoration & Carpet Cleaning ) takes an innovative approach to restoration.
From water and fire damage to mold remediation, ( Swept Away Restoration & Carpet Cleaning ) doesn't just follow industry norms-they set new ones. Our rigorous vetting process ensures that ( Swept Away Restoration & Carpet Cleaning ) exceeds expectations, delivering cutting-edge solutions for your emergency needs.
When you choose Disaster 911 and ( Swept Away Restoration & Carpet Cleaning ), you're opting for a dynamic partnership that prioritizes effective, next-level recovery. Don't settle for the ordinary-when disaster strikes, choose the best in emergency response.
PO Box 1134 Ashland, Oregon 97520
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Your Guide to Water Damage Restoration in Portland, OR
Water damage restoration is a key step in remediating damage to your home, both structurally and aesthetically. Damage from water doesn't just affect the walls, floors, and ceilings in your home. It can also cause deeper issues that, when untreated, can weaken your foundation significantly and lead to long-term instability.
As if that weren't enough, water damage can present health hazards to your friends, family, and pets. Mold and bacteria can grow in damp areas after water incidents, causing allergies, respiratory problems, and even visits to The Forum at Town Center in Portland for examination. Ignoring water damage can also result in irreversible harm to your belongings, including furniture, electronics, and sentimental items, leading to financial loss and emotional distress. Professional water clean-up services can repair the damage to your property, help protect valuable assets, and re-establish your home or business as a safe, healthy environment for occupants.
What Makes Our Water Damage Company in Portland, OR, Different from Others?
One of the most common questions we get at Disaster Response is, "What separates you from other water damage clean-up companies in Portland?" The first and easiest answer to that question centers around our commitment to customer service. We hold our clients in high regard because, without them, there would be no Disaster Response. As such, we work tirelessly to provide them with quality work from friendly and helpful technicians, regardless of the size of their home or business.
But that's just the start. Our clients recommend friends and family to our business because we prioritize the following:
Cost
Investing in damage restoration for your home is a smart move that can help reduce long-term costs. The best part? Our services are covered by insurance companies, so there's less worry about paying out of pocket.
Technicians
Every member of our team has years of experience, specialized training, and certifications in handling water damage. We prioritize our customers' well-being and meticulously attend to every detail to prevent any potential mold-related issues in the future. From single-family homes to
Time
Water disasters happen quicker than you might think. One moment, you're enjoying family time at Washington Park in Portland. The next, you're pulling in your driveway to a flooded home. When you call our office, we'll get to work assessing the cause of your water damage and how extensive the water damage is in your home or business. From there, we'll dispatch a team of IICRC water damage restoration experts to your location.
Tools
Disaster Response has made significant investments in cutting-edge water damage equipment, including inspection tools that enable thorough water removal. Our technicians have undergone extensive training to operate these machines and know when and when not to use them.
Process
For over 40 years, we have been helping with water damage issues, refining our process along the way. We can quickly find hidden damages that others might miss and document everything for your insurance company.
Reliable Water Damage Restoration Network
We aren't afraid to ask for help if it means a safer, more enjoyable environment for your family or customers. In fact, we have access to a network of industry pros who are experts in a range of water damage services. To make your life a little easier, we also work with insurance professionals who assist with the claims process.
What Does Disaster Response Fix?
As an IICRC-certified water damage contractor in Portland, OR, our technicians can address several areas of your home or business that have been damaged by a water disaster.
- Floors: It's very important to take the necessary time and steps to effectively dry your floors to prevent any potential water damage and mold growth in the future.
- Walls: Depending on the amount of water that enters your business or home, the structural integrity of your property may be at stake. Our technicians will evaluate the situation, inspect your property, and replace materials damaged by water.
- Rugs: If your rugs get wet during flooding or from another water disaster, they may be salvageable. We'll work hard to save all the rugs in your property.
- Furniture: Your furniture is probably expensive and may hold a certain level of sentimental value. Instead of throwing it away or donating it to The Grotto in Portland, we can repair and restore it.
Disaster Response specializes in every kind of damage caused by rain, wind, or snowstorms. We handle water damage, mold, mildew, and more, and can be at your home or office within an hour of your call to assess the situation and put a water damage restoration plan into action.
What Tools Does Disaster Response Use for Water Damage Clean-Up?
We only use the best equipment! With our extensive experience in the Portland restoration industry, we've acquired state-of-the-art tools designed to tackle a wide range of challenges. This experience has also allowed our technicians to identify which type of equipment is best for a particular situation. Some of the most common water damage restoration tools we use include:
Infrared Cameras
Our infrared cameras give us the ability to see moisture in walls and ceilings that is not visible to the naked eye, almost like having "X-ray" vision. This capability allows us to detect and address trapped and hidden humidity, significantly reducing the risk of mold growth.
Moisture Meters
We use moisture meters to measure moisture levels in cellulose material. Before and after the drying process, we will conduct moisture readings in all areas of your property. If we detect moisture in an unaffected area of your building, we'll get to work quickly to dry it.
Air Movers
This equipment is designed to work in conjunction with our dehumidifiers. While our dehumidifiers extract moisture from the air and convert it to a liquid, our Air Mover helps to circulate this moisture in the air so that the dehumidifier can effectively remove it.
Ozone Generators
These advanced tools enable us to cleanse affected surfaces and the air in a more effective manner. Ozone Generators work by causing oxygen molecules to implode, making them a valuable deodorization tool.
Xtreme Xtractor
This tool is great for tackling tough moisture after water damage. It allows us to apply direct pressure to a surface, like a carpet, that has soaked up water. The pressure helps draw out the water, making it easier to remove.
Top 3 Types of Water Damage You Should Know About
Water damage can strike without warning and can wreak havoc on your property, leaving you feeling hopeless and overwhelmed. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a severe storm, or an overflowing appliance, your property needs immediate water damage clean-up in Portland, OR, to prevent further harm. Here are the top three types of water damage you should know about:
Clean Water Damage
This type of water damage happens from a "clean" source, such as rainwater or a broken pipe in your home. It's easier to clean up than others on this list but can still cause extensive property damage when ignored.
Gray Water Damage
Gray water damage stems from appliances such as toilets without feces, washing machines, and dishwashers. Gray water sometimes contains bacteria and contaminants that can make you or your family sick.
Black Water Damage
The name alone indicates the severity of this type of water damage. It's caused by backed-up sewer lines, river flooding, and standing water that supports bacteria growth. Black water presents serious health hazards and needs to be handled by professional water damage contractors.
If you suspect your home or business has been damaged by one or more of the types of water above, take the following steps:
- Be Safe: Turn off all electricity running through your property. Don't go near or touch any water you believe to be contaminated.
- Stop the Source of Water: If you're able, put a stop to the water at its source. That way, you can prevent more damage.
- Call Disaster Response: Contact our water damage company ASAP for water restoration services. Our team is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies.
Our Process for Water Damage Restoration in Portland, OR
Having a water damage restoration company by your side who knows how to remediate moisture is a key factor in getting your life back on track. At Disaster Response, we have refined our process over 40+ years of water damage clean-up experience. That way, we can provide customers with reliable, comprehensive service when they need it the most.
We utilize powerful pumps and vacuums to eliminate standing water from your property. Swift water removal is essential in minimizing damage and lowering the likelihood of mold growth. Our team is dedicated to ensuring efficient water extraction to prevent any additional complications.
After extracting water from your property, we dry and dehumidify the impacted areas. We use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to do so to eliminate moisture from walls, floors, and furniture. Proper drying helps prevent warping, swelling, and the growth of mold.
Whenever we deal with water damage, we have to address the potential contaminants and bacteria that can enter your home. We make sure to thoroughly clean and sanitize all affected areas to create a safe living environment. This involves cleaning carpets, upholstery, and personal belongings. Our technicians also use antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
The final step in the process is the restoration of your home to its pre-damage condition. This comprehensive restoration process may encompass a range of tasks, from minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpeting to major reconstruction efforts. Rest assured that Disaster Response is fully equipped to manage all aspects of water damage restoration, from start to finish.
- Maintenance: Have your business or home's roof, appliances, and plumbing inspected by professionals to spot early signs of wear and tear.
- Water Alarms: If there is a flood or leak in your home, a water alarm can alert you so that you can take action immediately.
- Drainage: Your home needs proper drainage systems in place at all times. To prevent water buildup, be sure to unclog your downspouts and gutters.
- Cracks and Gaps: Be sure to seal up any cracks and gaps in your property's foundation to limit water from getting inside.
The Water Damage Company in Portland, OR, You Can Trust
When you want a great steak, you don't go to a fast-food joint and expect a filet. You go to a Mucca Osteria in Portland. When you need quality disaster response services from licensed professionals, you don't go to a fly-by-night shop. You contact Disaster Response.
As a local water damage clean-up business, we believe that providing clients with effective service that they can rely on in times of stress is of utmost importance. While some of our competitors prioritize profits over people, you can rest easy knowing we care about you - and that's something you can always count on when you choose our water damage company.
Whether a pipe has burst in your commercial space and your showroom is flooding, or your home has standing water from a Portland rainstorm, we're here for you 24/7. Contact our office to learn more about the Disaster Response difference or to schedule an inspection for your property today.
Contact Your Emergency Disaster Response Now!
Latest News in Portland, OR
Public Parking in Portland
Portland.govhttps://www.portland.gov/transportation/parking/parking-guide
On this pageHow much does parking cost? Downtown District - Includes the Central Business District, South Waterfront and the Pearl District - $2.40 per hour 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.Event Meter District - Next to Providence Park currently in effect on Portland Timbers and Portland Thorns home game days - $5 per hour beginning 3 hours before game sta...
On this page
How much does parking cost?
Downtown District - Includes the Central Business District, South Waterfront and the Pearl District - $2.40 per hour 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.
Event Meter District - Next to Providence Park currently in effect on Portland Timbers and Portland Thorns home game days - $5 per hour beginning 3 hours before game start and ends 3 hours after game start (view event district map)
Lloyd District - Bounded by the Willamette River, N/NE Broadway, NE 16th and the I-84 freeway. The district includes the Oregon Convention Center, Lloyd Center, Rose Garden Arena, Memorial Coliseum and Lloyd Business District - $1.40 per hour 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, unless otherwise posted. When there are large events that activate the Lloyd Event District, meters may require payment until 10 p.m. and/or on Sundays –Click here for more information.
Marquam Hill District - Located on top of Portland’s Marquam Hill, home to Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), Shriners Hospital for Children, the Portland VA Medical Center and other healthcare organizations - $2.00 per hour 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Central Eastside District - Located on MLK Blvd. and Grand Ave. and the streets in between MLK and Grand from I-84 freeway to Clay Street - $1.60 per hour 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. Learn more about the Central Eastside.
Northwest District - Bounded by NW Vaughn (on the north), W. Burnside (on the south), NW Cornell and Westover Roads (on the west) and I-405 (on the east) - $2.00 per hour 9 a.m. – 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday unless otherwise posted. Event pricing is in effect for south of Irving St for Timbers and Thorns home games, $6 per hour beginning 3 hours before game start and ends 3 hours after game start.Learn more about Northwest Portland.
Fees
In addition to the hourly parking rate, users pay the following fees per transaction:
For Fee schedule details, please see the Parking Fee Schedule approved by Council, Exhibit A Parking Fees, Rates and Charges document https://efiles.portlandoregon.g…
When is parking free?
In all districts parking is free at meters (except at city parks) on the following ten (10) calendar holidays, as specified on each meter: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Parking pay stations are programmed not to accept payment on holidays and will display a message on the screen letting you know that it's a holiday. The City of Portland has free parking on calendar City Holidays (actual date) rather than the Federal Observed Holiday.
Where can you park?
If you're coming Downtown (or near Downtown) you'll find yourself in one of the five meter districts. There are over 20,000 on-street parking stalls, along with five SmartPark garages available to the public. Parking on-street is regulated, so you need to check the signs where you park to make sure you are following the parking rules for that space. You need to pay to park almost everywhere, with some exceptions in the Central Eastside. There are also several privately owned parking lots and garages that are not affiliated with the City.
Where can you NOT park?
This is not an exhaustive list. Always check the signs where you park!
How do you pay for parking?
The most convenient way to pay for parking is through Parking Kitty, the City-owned mobile pay app. Park, pay, be on your way.
Download Parking Kitty (Android)Download Parking Kitty (iOS)Use Parking Kitty Web Version
Check out our Parking Kitty video below, it's pawsitively awesome.
Parking Kitty FAQsParking Kitty Zone Map
Parking Kitty is available at the following locations. Click below to learn more.
Portland State UniversityWashington ParkOregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)City of Vancouver, Washington
Portland updated all of it's parking pay stations to be pay-by-plate, meaning no more paper receipt to return to your vehicle. Instructions are on each pay station, as well as in the video below.
Pay by Plate FAQsReport a broken pay stationReceipt Lookup
How long can you park?
In the meter districts you will see signs like this. The number on the sign is the time limit, which tells you how long you can park. The reason we have timed parking areas is to help our local businesses by turning over parking spaces to accommodate more customers. PBOT will be assessing time limits and adjusting them to support central city businesses. Meanwhile we will allow renewing time at parking meters so Portlanders can extend their stay in the central city.
Outside of the meter district or in parts of the Central Eastside you will see signs like this. The number on the sign is the time limit, which tells you how long you can park there before you must move your car to another blockface. Unless otherwise specified, the posted time limit is in effect from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday. You do not have to pay for parking in these areas.
If you find yourself in one of the Area Parking Permit Zones you will see signs like this. Signs are slightly different in each zone, but each one will give the timestay limit (usually in the top corner) and the hours of enforcement. Unless you have a residential, visitor, or business permit for that zone you must move your car out of the zone by the end of the posted timestay.
How do truck loading zones work?
Why does Portland have truck loading zones? These zones are for commercial vehicles with signage to use for loading and unloading purposes only. Commercial vehicles are limited to 30 minutes. Each location is designed to meet the needs of the surrounding businesses.
What if you are a customer wanting to park here? Each location is signed with the enforcement hours for the truck loading zone. If you park during these hours you may receive a citation and have your vehicle towed. Outside of the posted hours, the stall will revert to match the rest of the block (unless there is other signage posted). If you are in a meter district, you need to pay for parking, and you can only stay up to the posted time limit (see section above).
Where can people with disability placards park?
There are several disability parking stalls throughout the City, both in meter districts and other areas. These stalls are signed, and only vehicle with valid Disability Placards can park there. Please note that some stalls are signed for Wheelchair Users Only. You must have a valid Disability Wheelchair User Placard to park here.
The rules of how long you can park and how much you must pay vary by location and disability parking stall type.
If you have a Disability Parking Placard - you can park at a 2 Hour meter, pay for 2 hours, and stay for 3 hours. At any meter that's more than 2 hours, you can only stay for the length that you pay for. Outside of the meter districts, you can park for up to 24 hours before you need to move your car.
If you have a Disability Wheelchair User Parking Placard - you can park at any metered location without having to pay and can stay for up to 24 hours. Outside of the meter districts, you can park for up to 24 hours before you need to move your car.
Click here to learn more about disability parking in Portland.
Where can you park motorcycles and scooters?
Portland has several dedicated on-street and SmartPark motorcycle/scooter parking locations. Please see the map below for more information.
Make sure you do not get a parking citation by doing one of the following:
If a customer receives a parking citation, proof of payment can be validated by contacting pay station customer service at 503-278-5410 within 3 business days. Upon validation, the parking citation for non-payment of the meter will be cancelled immediately.
Other Parking Questions
How cities like Portland and Chicago are breathing new life into their urban rivers
Jim Axelrodhttps://www.cbsnews.com/news/urban-rivers-portland-chicago/
For decades, the Willamette River that runs through Portland, Oregon, was a look-but-don't-touch situation."When we first moved here, there was no way in hell you'd get in the water," resident Matthew Mangus said.The river was contaminated by raw sewage and had been closed for swimming since 1924, but now things are very different. Willie Levenson, founder of the Human Access Project, helped turn the Willamette into a vibrant recreational space that officially became swimmable again in 2012."Step number on...
For decades, the Willamette River that runs through Portland, Oregon, was a look-but-don't-touch situation.
"When we first moved here, there was no way in hell you'd get in the water," resident Matthew Mangus said.
The river was contaminated by raw sewage and had been closed for swimming since 1924, but now things are very different. Willie Levenson, founder of the Human Access Project, helped turn the Willamette into a vibrant recreational space that officially became swimmable again in 2012.
"Step number one — find a way to clean up the river. Step number two — there's the cultural change around getting people to see there's value in this river," Levenson said.
A $1.4 billion pipe project that kept sewage from spilling into the river took care of the first step. Then came step two — an annual inner tube parade called "The Big Float" brought thousands to the water, making the river party central.
"I talk to people who tell me, 'I feel differently about our city now.' They feel more connected to the city," Levenson said.
That's exactly what Nick Wesley is hoping to achieve in Chicago. His non-profit, Urban Rivers, is leading the charge to transform the Chicago River. He believes that within 10 years, it'll be a lot more commonplace to see people swimming in the river.
"I think a lot of people see their waterways as a lot of unrealized potential," Wesley said.
While the idea of an urban river renaissance is providing hope for cities like Chicago and Portland, there's still plenty of work to be done. Of the 3.5 million miles of rivers in the U.S., 50% are too polluted for fishing, boating or swimming, according to American Rivers, a group focused on protecting and restoring rivers.
Efforts to revitalize the rivers began with the 1972 Clean Water Act and now include river renaissance projects in Los Angeles, Boston, Atlanta and New York among other cities, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
There's still more that can be done, including a cultural shift in how people perceive urban rivers.
"The most powerful thing is a community of people on a river that love that river," said American Rivers spokesperson Amy Souers Kober.
Chicago had hoped to host its first swim in the Chicago River last month. When organizers hit roadblocks getting the proper permits fast enough, they moved it to Lake Michigan. But organizers and Levenson, who flew in from Portland, are determined to swim in the river next year.
"Once the Chicago River becomes a part of culture, Chicago has a hidden level of joy that it's going to discover," Levenson said.
It's high praise from a man who's already helped his own city discover theirs.
Jim Axelrod is the chief correspondent and executive editor for CBS News' "Eye on America" franchise, part of the "CBS Evening News with Norah O'Donnell." He also reports for "CBS Mornings," "CBS News Sunday Morning," and CBS News 24/7.
Where to Check Out Fall Colors in Portland and Beyond
Portland Monthlyhttps://www.pdxmonthly.com/travel-and-outdoors/where-to-see-fall-foliage-in-portland-oregon
See changing autumnal leaves at Lone Fir Cemetery, Portland Japanese Garden, and across Oregon. By Portland Monthly Staff October 3, 2024 Coat? Check. Beanie? Check. Pumpkin patches and ...
See changing autumnal leaves at Lone Fir Cemetery, Portland Japanese Garden, and across Oregon.
By Portland Monthly Staff October 3, 2024
Coat? Check. Beanie? Check. Pumpkin patches and haunted houses and horror movies on the big screen? Check, check, and check. It’s officially fall, which means, with our sincerest apologies to Bob Dylan: The leaves, they are a-changin’.
Portland and the surrounding area boast incredible autumnal beauty, from the city’s oldest cemetery to the spectacular Japanese Garden to Silver Falls State Park. Here are some of our favorite places to get an annual dose of dying leaves.
In Portland
Buckman
Portland’s oldest cemetery brims with beautiful trees (sugar maples, big-leaf maples, beech, chestnut) as well as carpets of leaves, mossy graves, and plenty of paths for wandering. Circumambulate the whole cemetery in 20 minutes, or spend an hour or two strolling all the paths, the historic rose garden, and the military statues. Perfect for getting your fall color fix while also prepping for spooky season.
Cathedral Park
A beach (with a new swim dock), a bridge, and bountiful views—Cathedral Park offers it all. One of the local Lewis and Clark landing sites, the park now plays host to a bevy of concerts, festivals, and community events. It’s also not unusual to see recent grads, newly engaged couples, and heart-hungry Instagram influencers posing beneath the magnificent arches of the St. Johns Bridge. Pro tip: Walk across the bridge and hit up the Ridge Trail Trailhead on NW Bridge Avenue for a picturesque view of the bridge and park below, all framed within a red-orange canopy of leaves.
Riverdale
Maples, magnolias, oaks, and any number of other deciduous trees are dropping leaves fast and furious. Some trees, like most ash, lose foliage early. Others, such as hornbeams, chestnut, oak, and styrax, drop later. Check in at the booth, make a little donation, and stroll the paths and lawns until you catch a view of the mighty Willamette far below. Expect to spend at least an hour wandering—easily three if you walk up the madrone trails to look down over the river.
Arlington Heights
Cradled in the hills of Washington Park, the Portland Japanese Garden is beautiful in every season, but autumn is perhaps the most dramatic. Japanese maples, Enkianthus, and other Asian trees and shrubs wear fiery colors, set off against the subtle shades of the native conifer and big-leaf maple woodland setting. The tranquil atmosphere invites deep breaths and a slow pace, and expansive views to the east showcase the trees changing color across the city.
Northwest Portland
Pick any trail inside Forest Park and you’ll be rewarded with the subtle colors and glorious variations of our native deciduous trees: various yellows from the big-leaf maple; yellows, reds, and purples from the vine maple, salmonberry, thimbleberry, and devil’s cane; and a beautiful tapestry of understory plants turning gold and orange. Take a half-hour or spend all day here—it’s up to you.
East Columbia
Amid Northeast Portland’s industrial expanse, the Columbia Children’s Arboretum is a quiet haven for tree lovers, surrounded by willows, birches, Douglas firs, red osier dogwoods, black cottonwoods, and maples. It occupies a piece of land once slated for a high school in the long-gone Columbia School District, and was mostly planted by middle school students in the late 1960s. The Columbia Children’s Arboretum Loop Hike is quick, easy, and beautiful, leading to a tall row of maples and American gums that offer great displays this time of year. Bring a book and some snacks and park yourself at the picnic area.
Arlington Heights/Sylvan Highlands
Hoyt Arboretum ranges over 187 ridge-top acres and some 12 miles of trails. Witness autumn transformation of birches, maples, oaks, magnolias, witch hazels, and more. While it could take years to explore the grounds fully, there’s plenty to see in a one- or two-hour walk.
Outside Portland
Southwest Washington
Just off I-5, the Northern Clark County Scenic Drive takes you onto twisty two-lane roads through rural Washington. The 70-mile loop skirts past farmland, waterfalls, and historic sites, and during fall offers kaleidoscopic color. Don’t miss the water-powered, impossibly scenic Cedar Creek Grist Mill, which was built in 1876 and on the last Saturday of October holds a massive apple cider pressing (we’re talking 10,000 pounds of fruit).
Columbia River Gorge
Popular, difficult, and rewarding, the 7.5-mile Hamilton Mountain Loop in Beacon Rock State Park on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge boasts three gorgeous waterfalls and, during fall, rows of yellow maples bordered by towering green Douglas firs. From the summit, take in sweeping views of Table Mountain, Bonneville Dam, and Mount Adams.
Silverton
Falling water plus falling fiery leaves add up to a wonderful autumn outing, which you’ll find at Silver Falls State Park, about 20 miles southeast of Salem. Take the Trail of 10 Falls or explore the park’s 35 miles of trails for all the fall foliage your heart can handle. It goes without saying: Bring your camera.
Eugene
This 209-acre nature preserve in Eugene boasts impressive ecological diversity, with habitats including oak savanna, riparian forest, and prairie. Take in the vibrant turning of the Oregon ash, Oregon white oak, cottonwoods, big-leaf maples, and more. The arboretum’s annual mushroom festival goes down Sunday, October 27, and brings guided nature walks, educational talks, cooking demos, live music, and vendors galore.
Ashland
The deciduous and ornamental trees at this Southern Oregon park deliver autumnal splendor. At the center of the park sits a Japanese garden, which dates to 1916 and reopened in 2022 after a redesign. Small but serene, find Japanese maples, a bamboo forest, and a sand and stone zen garden.
South of Burns
If you’re open to hauling across the state, the high desert Steens Mountain in southeastern Oregon is one of the best places for spectacular fall displays. Keep in mind, however, that harsh winds often knock down the golden aspen leaves. For tips on timing, call the Bureau of Land Management district office.
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