West Linn: The Willamette Meteorite and Fields Bridge Park

We recently went to check out Fields Bridge Park in West Linn, stop 22 on Oregon's Mt. Hood Territory Heritage Trail.

No, you cannot see the Willamette Meteorite there; it resides in the American Museum of Natural History in New York.

However, you can visit sites associated with the meteorite's history, learning more with helpful signs at key locations.

You can even view a model of the meteorite, though it is not the size of the 15-ton original.

The walking trails criss-cross a little more than usual for parks, I believe so that all of the relevant points can be hit. The numbered map of the sites is repeated in a few locations. The "heritage trail" aspect is well-developed here.

Otherwise, it is a nice park, with a playing field, a large community garden space, and an interesting playground.

This includes basketball hoops with adjustable height, so with a little bit of customization, anyone can dunk.

And all the while, you can hear the river rushing by.

(I enjoyed that, but it is a reason to keep an eye on children. Dogs are allowed, but on leash.)

There are currently some renovations planned, including a canoe/kayak launch.

At this point I would say benches are not well-maintained. Even those with no missing boards were very mossy. However, more renovations may address that.

Accessability: The playground is not particularly accessible, which seems like a missed opportunity. Accessible bathrooms are available, and the paths are mostly level and well-connected, though there are a few rough spots where roots are growing underneath. That requires some attention.

COVID: Everything is outdoors, and maintaining distance was easy, though that might be less true if attending a game or using the picnic shelters. Use your best judgment.

https://westlinnoregon.gov/parksrec/fields-bridge-park

https://www.mthoodterritory.com/heritage-trail 

https://www.amnh.org/exhibitions/permanent/the-universe/planets/planetary-impacts/willamette-meteorite