New Parks and Trails in South Cooper Mountain: A Tribute to Community and Nature
THPRD is excited to unveil the names of its newest parks and trails in the South Cooper Mountain Area: Free Skies Park, Sequoia Plaza, Harmony Park, Chahelim Trail, Oregon Oak Trail, and Sandhill Crane Trail.
Sequoia Plaza, Harmony Park, Chahelim Trail, Sandhill Crane Trail, and Oregon Oak Trail were approved at the May 2024 Board meeting. Free Skies Park will be considered by the Board for approval per the site naming process. These names were chosen through inclusive engagement with community partners, reflecting the area's rich history, diverse identities, and unique ecology. Read on to learn more about the significance behind each name.
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Free Skies Park
Location: New neighborhood park at SW Trask St, Rainier St, and Silvertip St
This park is designed as a central gathering space with expansive views of the open sky, symbolizing freedom, change, and diverse perspectives. The name Free Skies is inspired by a 1906 obituary for Albert Bayless, an African American pioneer who, despite the challenges of his time, found freedom and dignity in Oregon. It honors the resilience and perseverance of African Americans throughout history.
Reference: Oregon Northwest Black Pioneers, Perseverance: A History of African Americans in Oregon’s Marion and Polk Counties (2011).
Sequoia Plaza
Location: Future plaza at SW Mountainside Way and Scholls Ferry Rd
This name highlights the majestic sequoia trees that were initially present at the site and will be a central feature of the plaza, preserving and showcasing their natural beauty.
Harmony Park
Location: Future park between SW Burrows Rd and Oystercatcher Ln at SW Bittern Terr
Harmony reflects the spirit of community coming together on shared ground. This name celebrates the diversity of neighborhoods within the district, encouraging connections through play, culture, and celebration. Rooted in the idea of fitting together, Harmony Park invites all to join in a common, unifying space.
Reference: Online Etymology Dictionary harmony.
Chahelim Trail
Location: From SW Scholls Ferry Rd and SW Strobel Rd to SW Barrows Rd
Named after the Atfalati word Chahelim, meaning "the Chehalem Mountains," this trail honors the rich cultural heritage of the area’s indigenous people. The Chehalem Mountains, known for their green rolling hills, are visible from the South Cooper Mountain area and remain a vital part of the landscape.
Reference: Oregon Geographic Names, Seventh Edition.
Oregon Oak Trail
Location: From SW Incline Rd to SW Horse Tale Rd
The Oregon White Oak, a rare and vital tree species native to the West Coast, is the inspiration behind this trail’s name. Once dominant in the Willamette Valley, Oregon Oaks are essential to local wildlife and represent one of the most endangered ecosystems in the U.S.
Sandhill Crane Trail
Location: From SW Scholls Ferry Rd to SW Barrows Rd
The Sandhill Crane, a majestic migratory bird known for its distinctive call and striking appearance, symbolizes peace, longevity, and joy. This trail’s name honors the cranes that can be seen soaring above the South Cooper Mountain area during their fall and winter migrations.
Reference: Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Greater Sandhill Crane.
These names not only reflect the natural beauty and history of the South Cooper Mountain area but also celebrate the diversity and strength of the communities who call it home. We welcome your feedback and thoughts—please feel free to share them with us at C.Nikirk@thprd.org. Stay tuned for updates and visit these parks to experience them firsthand!
To learn more about THPRD's partnerships to bring parks and trails to the South Cooper Mountain area, visit the South Cooper Mountain webpage.