Chehalem Ridge Nature Park

Walker Macy developed a park master plan and design for this Metro Parks and Nature facility, transforming a former tree farm into an immersive nature experience with forests, meadows, wildlife, and expansive views of the Tualatin Valley and Oregon’s wine country. Walker Macy’s master plan included a long-term vision and implementation strategy to guide future public use of this 1,250-acre site, which will be an integral component in the system of parks, trails, and habitat corridors from the Cascades to the Coast Range. Because of the park’s wildlife focus, recreation is balanced with the restoration and protection of significant habitats. The park’s design also focused on the recreational needs of underserved community members and incorporating universal design elements. To that end, our team collaborated with Metro on public engagement efforts, ensuring that park elements would best serve a diverse constituency. Amenities include a welcome area with shelters, trailheads, trails, and overlooks for hikers, bikers, and equestrians. Walker Macy supported Metro’s significant community and rights holder engagement process, which significantly included Confederated Tribes of Grande Ronde, for whom Chehalem Ridge is an important site.