North Plains, OR

North Plains, Oregon is a small city located in Washington County, in the northwestern part of the state. The area was originally inhabited by the Atfalati Band of the Kalapuya Native American tribe, who lived off the land for thousands of years before the arrival of European settlers.

The first European pioneers started to settle in the area in the mid-1800s. The town was originally known as Glencoe, named after the Glencoe neighborhood in Scotland. The Glencoe post office was established in 1872, but it was later changed to North Plains in 1884 to avoid confusion with another Glencoe in Oregon.

During its early years, North Plains served as an agricultural community with a thriving timber industry. The area was known for its fertile soil, which made it suitable for farming. The Oregon Electric Railway, which was completed in 1914, connected North Plains to Portland and helped boost its economy by facilitating the transportation of goods and people.

Like many small towns, North Plains faced challenges during the Great Depression. Nonetheless, it continued to grow and develop, and by the mid-20th century, it became a prosperous farming community known for its berry crops, especially strawberries. The annual North Plains Elephant Garlic Festival, established in 1999, is a testament to the area's agricultural heritage.

In recent years, North Plains has experienced some growth and development, attracting residents who seek a small-town atmosphere while being close to the amenities of Portland. Today, it is home to around 2,000 people and offers a mix of residential areas and farmlands. It still retains its rural charm and is known for its scenic landscapes, rolling hills, and proximity to outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing.

While North Plains has undergone changes throughout its history, it still remains true to its agricultural roots and continues to embrace its small-town character.

Roloff Farms

A popular tourist attraction known for its pumpkin patch, holiday lights display, and the filming location of the TV show "Little People, Big World".

Orchard View Lavender Farm

A scenic lavender farm where visitors can stroll through fields of lavender, pick their own flowers, and learn about the distillation process.

Pumpkin Ridge Zip Tour

A thrilling zip line adventure that offers stunning views of the surrounding forests and hills.

Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club

A world-class golf facility that has hosted numerous PGA Tour events, featuring two championship courses.

North Plains RV and Boat Storage

A convenient storage facility for RVs, boats, and other recreational vehicles.

North Plains Cinema

A small local movie theater where you can catch the latest films.

North Plains Public Library

A community library offering a wide range of books, resources, and activities for all ages.

Helvetia Winery & Vineyards

A nearby winery that offers wine tasting and tours of their picturesque vineyards.

Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve

A nature preserve and wildlife refuge with walking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and educational programs.

North Plains Gliderport

A unique facility where visitors can experience glider rides and learn about soaring techniques.

North Plains, Oregon, experiences a predominantly mild, temperate climate. The region falls under the classification of a Mediterranean climate, which is characterized by warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters.

Summers in North Plains tend to be warm and dry, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s°F (24-28°C). Occasionally, temperatures can reach the high 90s°F (around 35-37°C) during heatwaves. Limited rainfall and relatively low humidity are typical during this season, contributing to a relatively arid environment.

Winters in North Plains are cool and wet. Average temperatures range from the mid-40s to mid-50s°F (7-12°C). Rainfall is more frequent, with light to moderate showers occurring throughout the season. Snowfall is possible, but it is usually light and transient.

Spring and fall in North Plains offer a transition between the distinct summer and winter seasons. Spring temperatures generally range from the mid-50s to mid-60s°F (12-18°C) and bring more rain than the summer. Fall temperatures similarly range from the mid-50s to mid-60s°F (12-18°C), gradually transitioning into the cooler winter weather.

Overall, North Plains experiences relatively mild weather throughout the year, with comfortable temperatures during most seasons. However, the region's rainfall is fairly evenly distributed, resulting in a lush and verdant landscape.

North Plains, Oregon is a small town located in Washington County, just northwest of Portland. While it is primarily a suburban community, it is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and has a distinct rural feel. Here are some of the neighborhoods in and around North Plains:

Downtown North Plains

The heart of the town, downtown North Plains offers a charming and quaint atmosphere. Here you will find a variety of local businesses, shops, and restaurants, including the popular North Plains Public House and The Old Hitching Post.

Laurel Woods

Located on the southeastern edge of town, Laurel Woods is a residential neighborhood with spacious homes and tree-lined streets. It offers a peaceful setting while still being conveniently close to downtown North Plains.

Sunset Ridge

Situated on the western side of North Plains, Sunset Ridge is known for its scenic beauty and breathtaking views of rolling hills. This neighborhood is characterized by large, custom-built homes and rural landscapes.

Glencoe

Located to the south of North Plains, Glencoe is a more suburban neighborhood with a mix of residential areas and commercial developments. It is home to the 18-hole Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club and several parks, making it an attractive area for golf enthusiasts and outdoor lovers.

Pumpkin Ridge

Just west of North Plains lies the rural community of Pumpkin Ridge, known for its picturesque farmland and vineyards. Pumpkin Ridge is also famous for the Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club, which has hosted multiple championships and is considered one of the top courses in the region.

Dixie Mountain

Situated on the eastern edge of North Plains, Dixie Mountain is a neighborhood that offers a mix of rugged terrain and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It attracts nature lovers and hikers, thanks to its proximity to scenic trails and parks like the Rock Creek Trail and L.L. Stub Stewart State Park.

These neighborhoods, while distinct, are all part of the close-knit North Plains community, which values its rural charm, natural beauty, and friendly atmosphere.