Polk County is home of the hard-to-find (but worth the effort) Valley of the Giants, where towering, hundreds-year-old Douglas fir give visitors a glimpse into what the landscape of Oregon must have looked like in its early settler days. Parks, preserves, and historic buildings help paint the picture of the history of the county, state and its people. Polk County has much to offer year-round for outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, cyclists, pinot lovers, and members of Rogue Nation, residents and visitors alike. Many young professionals live in Polk County.
One Polk County city, Independence, was the final destination of early wagon trains to Oregon. Other cities located in Polk County include Dallas, Monmouth, Falls City and portions of Salem and Willamina. Tucked between the Willamette River and the Oregon Coast Range, campsites and bed and breakfasts offer lodging opportunities for hikers and cyclists exploring trails that loop through vineyards, hills, fields — and even through towns. Traveling back roads in Polk County will reveal many attractions: covered bridges and pleasant parks, vineyards, wineries, and bed and breakfast lodgings that spot the surrounding hills. Many roads meander through beautiful, fertile valleys from the Willamette River to the timbered foothills of the Coast Range. There are many bars, coffee shops, and parks. From a solar eclipse to beer, Polk county offers unique adventures.
Roughly 30 vineyards spot the countryside, close enough together to make a day of touring and tasting, and far too many to see in just one afternoon. Home to world-class, destination trails for bicyclists, from a mountain bike vineyard loop to the Black Rock Mountain Bike area — and winding country roads in between, past farms, old barns, and fruit and vegetable stands. If touring the county by car, the dirt and rock roads that wind between fields can make it feel like you are miles away from a town or city rather than just minutes from Oregon’s capitol, Salem.
The county’s rich history in agriculture brings local food straight to your table at local restaurants and farmers markets. In Polk County, we still believe in making food from scratch with fresh ingredients. Whether you’re looking to stretch your legs, canoe or raft, or just lounge around and relax, you’ll find it here in Polk County.
