SheSue Experience

Where else but Oregon would you find a grove of trees representing all state trees. About 19 miles south of Portland, turn off at the Baldock rest area. To the right of the restrooms near the picnic tables, you will find a well-tended path that leads you through the grove.

53 trees were planted in 1967 at the whim of then-state attorney general Robert Y. Thornton. He waned to so something in honor of the National Association of Attorneys General which was being held that year in Portland. The State Highway Department planted 53 trees including the official tree of each state plus Guam, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

Over time, some of the trees are no longer the official state tree. Some never were. Each tree has a sign with it’s name and a number, but the numbers do not seem to be in any sort of order. (another government project?!?) But the walk is pleasant and provides shade for a warm day.

I will definitely be going back in spring or summer when the trees have leaves on them. It should be quite a sight. Elm, magnolia, pagoda, cottonwood all together. And where else will you find a fir tree right next to a palm tree?