Ankeny Hill Nature Center Loop

Ankeny Hill Nature Center is an educational center with outdoor classroom, gardens, installations and trail within the Willamette Valley's Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge.

While the nature center and outdoor displays do keep certain hours for classes and public use, the 1 mile loop walking trail remains open from dawn to dusk daily. As the trail does not permit bicycles, pets or jogging, this trail is ideal for walkers and families with young ones looking for a friendly and accessible path to enjoy the outside and maybe view some of the displays and installations that sit along the route. 

Features along the path include an educational building that offers educational programming as well as staff and volunteers during popular hours, garden displays, an outdoor classroom perched on a deck over a pond, statues of species like rough-skinned newts, and several benches. The trail follows a wide gravel path with one gradual climb and descent. 

Those looking to explore the wildlife refuge in more depth can explore some of the other trails within the larger Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge.

Visitors can park in one of two parking areas, the trail is open from dawn to dusk while different classrooms and features keep separate hours.