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Hidden Wild Hazelnut Thickets Of Oregon

Published:

by Shauna Lewallen

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Have you ever wondered where you can find the hidden wild hazelnut thickets of Oregon? These secret spots offer a unique experience for nature lovers and food enthusiasts alike. Nestled in the lush forests, these thickets provide a chance to see hazelnuts in their natural habitat. Imagine walking through dense greenery, the air filled with the earthy scent of the forest, and stumbling upon a grove of hazelnut trees. Whether you're looking to forage for your own nuts or simply enjoy the serene beauty, these hidden gems are worth the trek. Ready to uncover the magic of Oregon's wild hazelnut thickets? Let's get started!

Discovering Oregon's Hidden Wild Hazelnut Thickets

Oregon, known for its lush forests and scenic landscapes, hides a secret: wild hazelnut thickets. These hidden gems offer a unique experience for nature lovers and adventurers. Let's explore some of the best spots to find these elusive thickets.

1. Tillamook State Forest

Tillamook State Forest, a sprawling expanse of greenery, is a prime location for wild hazelnut thickets. The forest's diverse ecosystem provides the perfect habitat for these nut-bearing shrubs.

  1. Wilson River Trail: This trail winds through dense forests and along the Wilson River, offering a chance to spot wild hazelnuts.
  2. Jones Creek Campground: Near this campground, you can find several patches of wild hazelnut bushes.
  3. Gales Creek Trail: A lesser-known trail that leads you through serene woods where wild hazelnuts grow abundantly.

2. Siuslaw National Forest

Siuslaw National Forest, with its coastal beauty and rich biodiversity, is another excellent place to find wild hazelnut thickets. The forest's varied terrain supports a wide range of plant life.

  1. Cape Perpetua Scenic Area: This area offers stunning views and hidden wild hazelnut thickets along its trails.
  2. Cummins Creek Wilderness: A remote spot where wild hazelnuts thrive amidst the untouched wilderness.
  3. Marys Peak: The highest point in the Oregon Coast Range, Marys Peak has trails that lead through hazelnut-rich areas.

3. Umpqua National Forest

Umpqua National Forest, known for its waterfalls and hot springs, also harbors wild hazelnut thickets. The forest's diverse habitats make it a haven for these plants.

  1. North Umpqua Trail: This long trail offers multiple sections where wild hazelnuts can be found.
  2. Toketee Falls: Near this picturesque waterfall, wild hazelnut bushes are scattered throughout the area.
  3. Watson Falls: Another waterfall spot with nearby trails leading to wild hazelnut thickets.

4. Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest

Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, with its rugged landscapes and rich flora, is a fantastic place to seek out wild hazelnut thickets. The forest's varied environments provide ideal conditions for these plants.

  1. Illinois River Trail: This trail offers breathtaking views and passes through areas where wild hazelnuts grow.
  2. Red Buttes Wilderness: A remote and beautiful area with numerous wild hazelnut thickets.
  3. Siskiyou Wilderness: This wilderness area is home to many wild hazelnut bushes, especially along its less-traveled paths.

5. Mount Hood National Forest

Mount Hood National Forest, dominated by the iconic Mount Hood, is another great location for wild hazelnut thickets. The forest's diverse landscapes support a variety of plant species, including wild hazelnuts.

  1. Zigzag Mountain Trail: This trail offers stunning views and passes through areas rich in wild hazelnuts.
  2. Salmon River Trail: A scenic trail that winds along the Salmon River, with wild hazelnut bushes dotting the path.
  3. Ramona Falls: Near this beautiful waterfall, wild hazelnut thickets can be found along the trails.

6. Deschutes National Forest

Deschutes National Forest, known for its volcanic landscapes and pristine lakes, also hides wild hazelnut thickets. The forest's unique environment supports a variety of plant life.

  1. Green Lakes Trail: This popular trail offers stunning views and passes through areas where wild hazelnuts grow.
  2. Tumalo Falls: Near this impressive waterfall, wild hazelnut bushes can be found along the trails.
  3. Sparks Lake: A serene spot with trails that lead through wild hazelnut-rich areas.

Discovering Oregon's Hidden Wild Hazelnut Thickets

Oregon's wild hazelnut thickets offer a unique adventure for nature lovers. These hidden gems provide a peaceful escape from busy city life. Exploring these areas, you can find diverse wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and a sense of tranquility. Whether you're hiking, bird-watching, or just enjoying the scenery, these thickets have something special to offer.

Remember to respect nature and leave no trace behind. Bring a camera to capture the beauty, but leave the thickets as you found them. This way, others can enjoy these hidden treasures too. So, next time you're in Oregon, take a detour and explore these wild hazelnut thickets. You won't regret it.