When Nature Calls, We Answer
When nature calls, it’s not always about the bathroom. Sometimes, it’s the call of the trail through towering trees, connecting us to something wonderfully unplugged.
But let’s be real—sometimes, it is about the bathroom.
Just an hour from the Portland Metro area, the Wilson River Trail trail offers a near backcountry hiking experience. From sweeping mountain views to lush creek crossings.
Volunteers with Trailkeepers of Oregon, supported by the State Forests Trust of Oregon (SFTO), are completing a new 6-mile section that will bring the full trail to 32 miles.
In the course of planning, Oregon Department of Forestry received public comments revealing a consistent request: a vault toilet at the Drift Creek Trailhead, the future terminus of the new segment.
SFTO is answering that request by launching When Nature Calls —a campaign to help finish the trail and install a much-needed restroom. This simple addition makes a big difference for visitors and helps protect the forest.
We’re rallying outdoor lovers to support this practical and meaningful project. With your help, we can make this trail a place people want to be—and a place they can go. Literally.
Hidden Beauty: Natural Rock Arch
Tucked into the Santiam State Forest near Lyons, Oregon, the Natural Rock Arch Trail offers a short but steep hike to one of the area’s most striking geological features—a 50-foot tall, 40-foot wide natural arch. This dramatic formation was revealed after the 1951 Sardine Creek Fire cleared the hillside, and the area was later impacted by the 2020 Beachie Creek Fire.
The 0.7-mileout-and-back trail begins just behind the trailhead sign, climbing through switchbacks. After crossing a scree slope, hikers descend a series of steep switchbacks—some aided by stone steps that replace the wood ones destroyed in the 2020 fire—before a short
traverse leads to the rock face. From there, adventurous hikers can scramble through the arch, explore a small cave at its base, and even climb up to sit atop the arch for sweeping views.
Though the hike is relatively short, it is quite steep and requires caution, especially for those with pets or small children. The trail offers both a physical challenge and a glimpse into the forest’s fire-shaped history.
Show Us Your #OregonForestFun!
The State Forests Trust of Oregon is launching a photo contest to celebrate how people explore, learn, and connect in Oregon’s state forests! Whether you're tacking the trails on foot or on wheels, foraging or fishing, or enjoying a quiet moment in the trees, we want to see it.
Post your best shot on Instagram using #OregonForestFun and tell us which state forest you're in. Finalists will be featured on our page—winners chosen by your votes!
The contest runs August 1 to September 1. Stay tuned for details and prizes!
Let’s see how you forest!
