photography – The Western Howl

Hit up these fantastic photoshoot locations near Monmouth

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

Whoever is reading this, this is a sign to go out and have a photoshoot. Spring has brought wonderful weather and beautiful blossoms, making now the perfect time to spend some time outdoors — and have photographic evidence of it. Whether looking for a last minute senior photo spot, or some inspiration for a fun weekend activity with friends, these spring photoshoot spots are sure to please.

Head downtown for some charming photos amid historic buildings. Any nearby city will do — even Monmouth’s Main Street has charismatic brick facades that make for the perfect photo setting.

Public art and murals can make for colorful backdrops that pop. Stay close by and check out some art and sculptures all around campus, such as “Growth” near the Richard Woodcock Education Center or “Oregon Rivers” in front of Rice Auditorium. Corvallis boasts a number of beautiful murals and even has a scavenger hunt for an added activity.

Cherry blossom season is nearly over, but even fallen cherry blossom petals can make for artsy photos. Take a roadtrip to the Tom McCall Waterfront Park in Portland, or make the shorter trip to Salem’s Capitol building to photograph in a lovely pastel pink grove.

Monmouth and its surrounding towns and cities have much to offer when it comes to parks — the nearest park could be just a few blocks away. Parks with a waterfront view include Sarah Helmick State Park in Monmouth, Riverview Park in Independence, Minto-Brown Island Park in Salem and Dallas City Park in Dallas. Chip Ross Park in Corvallis is an ideal spot for golden hour and sunset photos. Bush’s Pasture Park in Salem offers a manicured outdoor setting, including a picturesque gazebo amid a rose garden. Deepwood Museum & Gardens in Salem also provides an immersive experience into nature with a variety of plant life that can serve as a unique photo background.

Wildlife areas also offer elegant photo locations out in nature. Such areas include the Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge in Dallas, the E. E. Wilson Wildlife Area in Monmouth and the Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge south of Salem.

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

Dozens of waterfalls within driving distance of Western

Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

Creeks and rivers grow to roaring currents in the wake of winter rain and snow, fueling waterfalls to their full power. Brave the cold and get out to see these waterfalls less than an hour and a half drive from Western.

Silver Falls State Park (56 minutes away): Home to eighteen waterfalls and the 7.2-mile Trail of Ten Falls hike, Silver Falls State Park is a nature lover’s dream. Pay a $5 day-use fee to spend hours immersed in the lush forest surrounding Silver Creek. Not up for a hike? Some falls — including North, South and Winter Falls — are a short walk from parking lots.

Scotts Mills Falls (59 minutes away): While only possessing a 10-foot drop, Scotts Mills Falls is very accessible in the small park of Scotts Mills. Visit during the summer and go for a swim in Butte Creek.

Shellburg, Ayers and Stout Creeks (1 hour 2 minutes – 1 hour 15 minutes away): Accessed via gravel roads and obscure trails in the Santiam Canyon area are six waterfalls: Shellburg, Lower Shellburg, Ayers Creek, Upper Ayers Creek, Horseshoe and Stout Creek Falls. As of Jan. 26, this area is closed due to damage from Sept. 2020 wildfires.

Alsea and Green Peak Falls (1 hour 11 minutes away): Right off the parking lot of Alsea Falls Recreation Site is the 30-foot Alsea Falls. Take a 2.5-mile roundtrip hike to see the even more impressive 45-foot Green Peak Falls with a $3 day-use fee.

Niagara and Pheasant Creek Falls (1 hour 12 minutes away): Oregon boasts its very own Niagara Falls in the Siuslaw National Forest. These two waterfalls, each with over 100-foot drops, are both within a two-mile hike. Pack a lunch and enjoy the roar of the falls from a nearby picnic table.

McDowell Creek Falls County Park (1 hour 15 minutes away): A self-proclaimed hidden gem, McDowell Creek Falls County Park harbors two major waterfalls — Majestic and Royal Terrace Falls — as well as three minor falls. Be prepared for stairs, but the viewing platforms offer beautiful photo opportunities.

For even more waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest, check out waterfallsnorthwest.com and get exploring.

Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

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