17908 S.E. Addie St., Jennings Lodge
There’s a new park and trail right in the heart of the Jennings Lodge community – Boardman Wetlands Nature Park. An urban oasis, the new park provides a calm and serene escape for nature-viewing and recreation.
A 1,500-ft. boardwalk trail winds its way through the wetland, offering beautiful views of natural scenery and open skies. You’ll discover something new around every turn, as you stroll under wispy willows and use the overlooks to gaze down at the diversity of underwater plants and wildlife. Evidence of life can be spotted throughout the park, making it an ideal location for photography and bird-watching. Be on the lookout for the red-winged blackbird and northwest tree frog. In the spring, you might also catch a glimpse of baby ducklings scurrying about.
The park includes the District’s first nature play area, inspired by natural elements for more interactive play and greater connections to nature. An outdoor classroom plaza and hands-on education area with pond access provide opportunities to learn about the ecology of a wetland up-close. Learn more about the project here.
This project is the result of a partnership between NCPRD and Oak Lodge Water Services District. Additional financial support through grants came from Metro and Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.
Virtual Park Tour
Things to see and do
- Walk the trail loop and look for a variety of native plants and wildlife, including land and water birds, amphibians and fish.
- Explore the nature play area for open-ended creativity and imaginative play.
- Get a closer look at the ecology of a wetland with the hands-on education area.
- Download the NCPRD Natural Area and Wetland Scavenger Hunt before heading to the park to see what you can find.
Rules and Safety Guidelines
Due to narrow portions of the trail, NCPD has instituted a one-way trail loop to help promote social distancing. Please follow directional signage and stay at least 6 feet from others. Wear a mask when physical distance isn’t possible. Thoroughly wash your hands before visiting the park and using the playground, and carry hand sanitizer with you. See all park usage guidelines.
The trail, education plaza, playground, and wetland access overlook are all wheelchair accessible. Dogs and other pets are not allowed on the park property, in order to protect sensitive habitat and wildlife.
Visitors are welcomed and encouraged to ride bikes to the park, both to get exercise and to reduce our community’s carbon footprint. The Trolley Trail, which runs through Jennings Lodge, is about 1,200 feet from the park’s entrance off Southeast Addie Street, making it easily accessible. However, bikes are not permitted on the sidewalks and trails in the park to keep other visitors safe and to promote a wildlife-friendly environment. See all park rules here.
