George W. Joseph State Natural Area, State natural area in Multnomah County, United States
George W. Joseph State Natural Area consists of two separate forest parcels located between Latourell Falls and Guy W. Talbot State Park in Oregon. These protected tracts connect via hiking trails to surrounding parks and form part of a larger woodland system.
The forest parcels were donated to Oregon in the early and mid-20th century through a series of land transfers. This protected the woodland from development and established it as a public preserve.
The forest here holds thick moss, lichens, and sword ferns that define the native woodlands of this region. Visitors encounter this distinctive vegetation while walking through the preserved landscape.
The site sits on a hiking route connecting multiple nearby parks with several entry points for visitors. Wear sturdy shoes as the forest floor is frequently damp and covered with moss.
A waterfall system with multiple cascades sits in the upper part of the creek valley only a short distance upstream. Few visitors realize these falls exist, making them a quiet discovery for those who explore further.
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