Dorris Ranch Living History Farm Loop(edit)

Overview

This is a moderate loop trail in Dorris Ranch Historic District.

This trail goes by Dorris Ranch Trailhead and Dorris Ranch Living History Farm.

Dorris Ranch is the nation’s oldest commercial filbert (hazelnut) orchard still in continuous operation. It also functions as a center for special events, family reunions, weddings, tours and school programs.

There is no charge to visit – only a charge for education programs. The ranch is open 7 days a week from dawn until dusk.

Historical Village information:

Local teachers helped build these historical replicas with the aid of grants from the U.S. Department of Education.

MASTERSON PIONEER HOMESTEAD

Step back to 1852 and discover what life was like for a newly arrived pioneer family. William and Eliza Masterson settled their growing family in a simple, 12-foot-by-16-foot log cabin like this one. A nearby freight farm wagon depicts the mode of transportation.

BLACKSMITH SHOP

The shop illustrates how William Masterson may have fashioned his tools.

NATIVE AMERICAN PLANK HOUSE

This 20-foot-by-16-foot plank house is built of cedar planks, like the homes Native Americans built in this area before 1820.

TRAPPER’S CABIN

This replica of an 1830s fur trapper’s cabin helps illustrate this important era of Oregon history.

LEAN-TO

This Eagle Scout project is representative of simple shelters used by people throughout history.

Getting Started

Park in the main lot and follow the trail out towards the orchards. Along the way, you can see the historical village structures and landmarks. The path then winds along the river and circles back through the orchards. There are other trails that connect to the main trail. Be sure to look up as there are lots of birdwatching opportunities.

Taking Children

This is a great trail for children as it is flat and wide. It tends to get muddy in the rainy season.