Summer Birding at Company Lake

Company Lake is a gem of a birding spot in east Troutdale. Its 70-ish acres pair mature riparian woods with glimpses of water, offering broad potential in bird species. Originally part of a slough near an industrial area with metal contaminants, the cleanup is a success story of habitat restoration.

In summer there are breeding Purple Martins and Wood Ducks, three kinds of flycatcher, a healthy woodpecker contingent with all five locally common species, Rufous Hummingbirds, and views of the Columbia River which may offer early migrating shorebirds.

Walking distance: Up to 2 miles.
Elevation changes: There are two slopes to a level walkway along a dike and then level paths in the woods.
Trail: Mostly wide hard packed dirt and/or gravel.
Pacing: Slow.
Rest stops: No benches on trail but we will often stop.
Sun exposure: Walk will be half in the shade and half in the sun.
Amenities (bathrooms and parking): No toilets. There are two small parking areas, which will be tight for our group so let’s be sardine-ish.

NOTE: Be ready for mosquitoes! In the dry days of August we may not find many (or rather, the reverse), but best to be prepared-