McDonald-Dunn Research Forest

McDonald-Dunn Research Forest is located just north of Corvallis and is operated by Oregon State University College of Forestry. The forest is available for day-use recreation, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding on designated roads and trails.

Because of its proximity to campus, this Forest is extensively used for university instruction and research. The forest consists of approximately 11,250 acres of predominantly forested land on the western edge of the Willamette Valley in Oregon, and on the eastern foothills of the Coast Range.

It occupies a ridge system that projects eastward into the Willamette Valley. In general, the streams and ridges extend northwest and southeast from the main ridge. The Forest is somewhat isolated topographically from the rest of the Oregon Coast Range, residing in the rain shadow created by it.  

For a first time visitor, we recommend the following trails:

Woodland Trail is an easy 0.4 mile hiking loop that begins and ends just inside the Peavy Arboretum entrance. Discover the ecology of the forest community through interpretive signs. Hiking time is 1/2 hour. Open to hikers only.


Forest Discovery Trail includes a tree that was once used to cure malaria, a riparian zone, and trees used to build temples in China. The 1.4 mile loop hiking trail begins and ends in Peavy Arboretum. Brochures can be printed online here. and at the 500 road kiosk. Hiking time is 1 hour. Open to hikers only. 

Section 36 Loop Trail begins and ends at the Forestry Club Cabin, and climbs 580 feet. This 3.3 mile trail takes hikers through old forest and research plots, peaceful Cronemiller lake, and beautiful views of the surrounding area. Hiking time is 2.5 hours. Open to hikers only.