Troutdale
Sharon Nesbit Heritage Park
At the Edge of the Sandy River
An Oasis in Troutdale
Sharon Nesbit Heritage Park is a vibrant new riverside destination in Troutdale, where community connection, outdoor recreation, and regional trail access come together. Nestled along the Sandy River at the edge of downtown, the park offers a welcoming gateway for both locals and visitors—whether you’re taking a lunchtime stroll, gathering with family, or setting out on a longer ride through the region’s growing trail network.
Made possible in part by a $749,900 lottery-funded grant from Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD), the park reflects a shared investment in enhancing quality of life, supporting active transportation, and celebrating the natural beauty that defines this community.
From Portland to Troutdale — and Beyond
Cyclists are excited! The trail through the new park links Troutdale into a much bigger regional trail network. The park’s riverside path connects directly to the Ch’ak Ch’ak Trail—a scenic, car-free corridor that forms part of the region’s iconic 40‑Mile Loop encircling Portland. From here, a rider can follow a growing web of trails that already stretches across East County and, over time, is envisioned to connect communities all the way from Portland International Airport to downtown Troutdale and out toward the Columbia River Gorge.
Riverside Scenery and Serenity
Sharon Nesbit Heritage Park isn’t just a link in the trail system — it’s a destination all its own. Set along the Sandy River, the park invites visitors to slow down and take it all in, from sweeping river views to thoughtfully designed “nature parklets” that give kids room to explore and play. With picnic tables, scenic overlooks, and quiet spots to sit and unwind, it’s just as perfect for a family outing as it is for a midday break or a peaceful stroll. Whether you’re passing through or planning to stay awhile, the park offers a refreshing place to connect—with nature, with history, and with each other.
Visitor Center
Gateway to the Gorge
The Heart of troutdale
Troutdale proudly lives up to its reputation as the gateway to the Columbia River Gorge and there’s no better place to experience that identity than at the Gateway to the Gorge Visitor Center and neighboring Depot Rail Museum — both located right at the entrance to Sharon Nesbit Heritage Park.
Housed in a beautifully restored historic rail depot, the Center offers a warm welcome to visitors with exhibits that bring the region’s natural and cultural history to life. Highlights include a striking, larger-than-life historic painting of Multnomah Falls and a bright yellow caboose on the grounds that delights kids and train lovers alike. Together, these attractions create a memorable first stop — and a perfect complement to the park — inviting visitors to explore Troutdale’s past while setting out toward the scenic wonders of the Columbia River Gorge.
The Lottery-funded grant program is an opportunity for all of our cities across the state to acquire funding that we wouldn’t otherwise have access to. The lottery dollars are such a resource to our small communities.— Marlee Boxler, Troutdale Economic Development Coordinator
Your Lottery Play Helps Support Oregon Parks
Oregon Lottery funds help make projects like Sharon Nesbit Heritage Park possible. A $749,900 Oregon Parks & Recreation Department grant, funded by the Oregon Lottery, helped the City of Troutdale bring this riverside park and trail connection to life. Since 1998, Lottery support has played a vital role in protecting and enhancing both state and local parks across Oregon. Every ticket you purchase, every game you play, helps develop spaces that strengthen communities, support outdoor recreation, and keep Oregon’s special places available to us all.
See More of the Gorge
If you’re in Troutdale, you’re ready to explore the Gorge and more projects funded in part by your lottery play!
Vista House at Crown PointFeatured Projects
LOTTERY DOLLARS DOING GOOD THINGS IN YOUR COMMUNITY
Economic Growth
State Parks
Outdoor School
Natural Habitats
Public Schools
