Cedar Mill, OR
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums and Historic Sites
- Sports and Sporting Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare Facilities and Services
Cedar Mill is an unincorporated suburb in Oregon's Washington County, established in 1874 and named for a historic sawmill. It features community parks, a 32-foot waterfall, access to urban trails, and the headquarters of Columbia Sportswear.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: Cedar Mill, Oregon. As an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP), it does not have a formal municipal government of its own .
- Administrative Role: Cedar Mill is not a capital city. It is an unincorporated community located within Washington County .
- Country and Region: The community is situated in the United States, specifically in Washington County, Oregon. It is part of the Portland metropolitan area. The region is renowned for its lush forests, outdoor recreation, craft beverage scene, and as a hub for athletic and outdoor apparel companies .
Historical Names and Nicknames
The name Cedar Mill is deeply rooted in the area's history and is its only significant name.
- Origin of the Name: The name was established in 1874 with the opening of a U.S. post office. It was chosen by John Quincy Adams Young, the first postmaster, after the sawmill that was the only business operating in the area at the time. The mill, in operation from around 1855 to 1891, cut Western Redcedars, which were once the dominant tree in the vicinity .
Date of Foundation and Age
- Year of Establishment: The name "Cedar Mill" became official in 1874 with the opening of its post office. However, the area was first settled by non-Native Americans as early as 1847, and the sawmill that gave the community its name was established in 1855 . This makes the community over 150 years old from the time of its first settlement.
- Founders: The first white settler in the area was Samuel Walters in 1847. The sawmill was established by John Halsey Jones and his father, Justus Jones. John Quincy Adams Young, who later bought the mill, became the first postmaster and is the namesake of the historic Young House .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: The precise coordinates are 45°32′08″N 122°48′02″W (or 45.5355, -122.8006) .
- Location Context: Cedar Mill is a suburban community located about 7 miles (11 km) west of downtown Portland in the Tualatin Valley. It is situated north of U.S. Route 26 and west of the Willamette Stone .
- Elevation: The elevation in the community varies. The elevation at its coordinates is approximately 522 feet (159 meters) above sea level . However, the Cedar Mill Park trailhead is at about 395 feet, and other sources list an average of 78 meters (256 feet), reflecting the area's hilly terrain .
- Geographic Type: Cedar Mill is a suburban residential area built on a landscape of low hills and valleys, part of the Tualatin Hills, carved by creeks like Cedar Mill Creek and Johnson Creek .
City Type and Economic Specialization
- Primary Type: Cedar Mill is primarily a residential suburb and a community hub for the Portland metropolitan area .
- Economic Specialization: Its economy is largely based on local services, education, and retail. It is most notably home to the world headquarters of Columbia Sportswear Company, a major global player in the outdoor apparel and footwear industry . Many residents also commute to jobs in nearby Beaverton (home to Nike's world headquarters) and Portland.
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 census, the population of the Cedar Mill CDP was 17,259 .
- Population Class: Cedar Mill is a small-to-medium sized suburban community and census-designated place.
- Demographic Features: It is known as one of Oregon's wealthier suburbs with a high median home value (around $850,000). It is characterized by highly-rated schools and a strong sense of community, often attracting families .
City's "Calling Card" (In Brief)
Cedar Mill is a sought-after Portland suburb that masterfully blends a rich pioneer history with modern suburban life. Visitors and residents are drawn to its tranquil network of nature parks and trails, the historic John Quincy Adams Young House, and the surprising sight of a 32-foot waterfall, all while being just minutes from the amenities of a major city .
Geography
Water Features (Rivers, Creeks, Waterfalls)
- Cedar Mill Creek: This is the primary waterway flowing through the area, beginning in the Forest Heights neighborhood and eventually joining Beaverton Creek. It is central to the community's history and green spaces .
- Cedar Mill Falls: The community's only waterfall, located on Cedar Mill Creek near the historic Young House. It is a 32-foot (9.8 m) high cascade over a basaltic rock formation. The falls were formerly used to provide power for the original sawmill. The Sue Conger Memorial Boardwalk provides accessible viewing of the falls .
- Johnson Creek / North Johnson Creek: This creek and its North fork flow through the area, passing through natural areas like Merritt Woods and contributing to the wetland ecosystem. Beaver dams can be observed along its course .
- Hartung Lake: This is the only lake in the immediate area, located in the Hartung Farms neighborhood .
National and Natural Parks
While Cedar Mill itself does not contain a designated national park, it features numerous local natural areas and parks, and is adjacent to a massive urban forest.
- Forest Park: Directly adjacent to Cedar Mill is Forest Park, the largest urban forest in the United States. It offers over 80 miles of trails for hiking and running, providing immense outdoor recreation opportunities on Portland's doorstep .
- Tualatin Hills Nature Park: Located nearby, this park features miles of trails through wetlands and forests, with interpretive displays about the local ecosystem .
- Merritt Woods Natural Area: A 2-acre woods and wetland area within Cedar Mill, offering wildlife viewing opportunities .
- George Foege Park: A local park with paved trails, a large pedestrian bridge, and play areas, connecting to the larger trail system .
- Cedar Mill Park: A 5-acre community hub with sports fields, tennis courts, a playground, and a trailhead connecting to the area's trail network .
Unique Landscapes
The area sits on a geologically interesting foundation.
- Columbia River Basalt: The underlying bedrock is composed of basalt from lava flows that occurred 14-16 million years ago. This basalt is visible at Cedar Mill Falls .
- Boring Lava Field: The area east of Cedar Mill, near the Highway 26 tunnel, is part of the Boring Lava Field, which includes small, relatively young volcanoes (around 244,000 years old). Lava tubes formed by these eruptions exist in the area; one was discovered and filled during the construction of St. Vincent's Hospital .
- Missoula Flood Deposits: The silty soil in the lower-lying parts of the Tualatin Valley (below 350 ft) was deposited by a series of cataclysmic floods from the end of the last ice age, known as the Missoula Floods .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Cedar Mill has a Mediterranean climate (Köppen Csb) , characterized by warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. It is generally classified as a temperate oceanic climate, typical of the Willamette Valley .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Summer (June-August): This is the best time to visit for outdoor activities. The weather is warm and sunny, with long daylight hours. It is the ideal season for hiking the many trails and enjoying the parks and farmers market .
- Fall (September-November): Early fall remains pleasant and is a great time for hiking. The Cedar Mill Cider Festival takes place in the fall. Later in the season, the rains return, and the landscape becomes lush and green .
- Winter (December-February): This is the coldest and wettest season. While snow is possible, especially in early February, precipitation mostly falls as rain. Trails can be muddy and impassable at times, but the waterfalls are often at their fullest. The area has very cold periods, but also sunny, mild spells .
- Spring (March-May): Conditions are variable with a mix of sun and showers. The weather gradually warms up, and the area bursts into bloom. It can be a good time to visit before the summer crowds, but be prepared for rain .
Average Temperatures (Based on Seasonal Forecasts)
Long-range forecasts provide general seasonal trends:
- Winter (Dec-Feb): Temperatures are variable, with periods of very cold weather and others that are mild and rainy. Average temperatures in December are around 49°F (9°C), and in January around 45°F (7°C) .
- Spring (Mar-May): Average temperatures in March are around 48°F (9°C). April and May can be cooler than normal .
- Summer (Jun-Aug): Summer is expected to be cooler than normal in the north, with the hottest periods in mid-to-late July and early-to-late August .
- Fall (Sep-Nov): September and October are typically cooler than usual .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Precipitation: The majority of rainfall occurs from November through March. February averages 5.5 inches (140 mm) of precipitation, while March averages 2 inches (51 mm). Precipitation and snowfall are generally below average in the winter, but with rainy periods . The heavy winter rains can make trails muddy .
Landmarks
The John Quincy Adams Young House
- Full Name: John Quincy Adams Young House.
- Year and Architect: The house was built in 1869. The original architect is not documented, but it was the home of John Quincy Adams Young, a key figure in the community's history .
- Historical Significance: This historic residence is one of the oldest buildings in the area. John Q. A. Young was the owner of the Young–Everson sawmill and became Cedar Mill's first postmaster in 1874, operating the post office and a small store from the ground floor of this house. The house is a tangible link to the pioneer era and the community's naming .
- Location: It is located on NW Cornell Road, near the site of the original mill pond . The house and its surrounding grounds are now owned by the Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District and are known as John Quincy Adams Young House Park, where events like the Cider Festival are held .
Cedar Mill Falls and Sue Conger Memorial Boardwalk
- Full Name: Cedar Mill Falls and Sue Conger Memorial Boardwalk.
- Description: This is the area's only waterfall, a 32-foot cascade over basalt cliffs that once powered the historic sawmill. It is not an overwhelmingly powerful falls, but a picturesque and serene spot hidden within a residential area, especially scenic with fall colors .
- Accessibility: The Sue Conger Memorial Boardwalk, opened in June 2013, provides an accessible, multi-use path that allows visitors of all abilities to safely view the falls and the creek .
- Location: It is located along the Cedar Mill Creek Greenway, near the intersection of NW Cornell Road and the historic Young House .
The Cedar Mill Wetlands and Greenway Trails
- Description: This is not a single monument but a network of natural areas that serve as a collective landmark for the community. The Cedar Mill Creek Greenway is approximately 19 acres and features a fully accessible, multi-use paved trail that connects to other paths . The North Johnson Creek Trail winds through wooded areas and past beaver ponds, offering opportunities to see wildlife like great blue herons . These trails and greenways are the "face" of Cedar Mill's commitment to preserving its natural heritage and provide its residents with a unique outdoor experience.
Transport
Major Airports
Cedar Mill is served by one major international airport.
- Portland International Airport (PDX): The primary airport for the region.
- IATA Code: PDX .
- Location: Approximately 17 miles (27 km) from Cedar Mill .
- Access: Public transportation via TriMet's MAX Red Line to the Sunset Transit Center, then connecting bus lines 48 or 62. By car, take Highway 26 west from Portland .
Public Transportation System
Cedar Mill is part of the TriMet public transportation network, which serves the Portland metropolitan area.
- TriMet Buses: The community is primarily served by bus routes that connect to the regional MAX light rail system. Key routes for accessing Cedar Mill from Portland and Beaverton include TriMet bus lines 48 and 62 .
- MAX Light Rail: The MAX Red Line connects PDX to the Beaverton Sunset Transit Center, which acts as a major hub for buses heading into Cedar Mill .
Major Highways and Roads
- U.S. Route 26 (Highway 26): This is the primary highway providing access to Cedar Mill from Portland and the Oregon Coast. It runs just south of the community, with exits leading to local roads like Cornell Road and Barnes Road .
- Cornell Road: A major east-west arterial road that runs directly through the heart of Cedar Mill, passing by many of its historic and community sites, such as the Young House, the library, and Leedy Grange .
- Murray Road, Barnes Road, Saltzman Road: These are other key local roads that define and provide access to different neighborhoods within Cedar Mill .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
While Cedar Mill is a charming, unincorporated community in the Portland metropolitan area and doesn't have a centuries-old culinary identity of its own, its food scene is vibrant and deeply connected to the broader region's love for fresh, local, and artisanal products. The best way to experience the local flavor is through its community events and the celebrated Cedar Mill Farmers Market.
The Cedar Mill Farmers Market: A Hub of Local Flavors
The heart of Cedar Mill's culinary scene is its weekly Farmers Market. Operating since 1999, it's a place where the community gathers to buy directly from the people who grow and craft their food . Here you can find the essence of what locals love to eat:
- Fresh, Local Produce: The market features over ten traditional farmers and growers, some of whom use organic practices. You'll find a wonderful variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables that define the Pacific Northwest diet .
- Artisanal Dairy and Eggs: A local dairy vendor sells cheese, milk, and pudding, alongside vendors offering farm-fresh eggs. This reflects the region's appreciation for high-quality, small-farm dairy products .
- Specialty and Craft Foods: The market is a showcase for local culinary entrepreneurs. You can find locally-roasted fair-trade organic coffee, on-site fresh-roasted nuts, fresh-popped kettle corn, locally made pepper jellies and jams, and fresh salsa .
Fresh-Pressed Cider: A Seasonal Tradition
For a taste of a true local tradition, the annual Cedar Mill Cider Festival is a must-visit. The festival's centerpiece is fresh-pressed apple cider, hand-processed on antique cider presses .
- The Experience: The cider is made right in front of you, with local scouts often helping to press over 1,000 pounds of apples donated by a nearby farm. This hands-on method connects the community to its agricultural roots .
- What to Eat: Beyond the free cider samples available for purchase, the festival features local food vendors. Past events have included Slick's Big Time BBQ, offering pulled pork and beef brisket sandwiches, and concession-style desserts like apple crunch and brownie sundaes from Benefit Brownies .
- Historic Setting: The festival takes place at the historic John Quincy Adams Young House, adding a layer of local heritage to the culinary experience .
Unique Local Products
The region is known for several specific types of products that you'll find at the farmers market and local farms:
- Hazelnuts: Oregon is a top producer of hazelnuts (filberts), and you'll find them fresh, roasted, and used in various local confections.
- Berries: The Pacific Northwest is famous for its berries, including marionberries, boysenberries, and huckleberries, which appear in jams, pies, and desserts.
- Craft Beverages: While not produced directly in Cedar Mill, the wider Portland area is a global hub for craft beer and coffee. The presence of locally-roasted coffee at the market is a testament to this culture .
Museums and Historic Sites
Cedar Mill itself is a primarily residential area, but it is home to a significant historic site that serves as a local museum and community gathering place. For larger, world-class museums, the nearby city of Portland is easily accessible.
Historic Sites and Local Heritage
John Quincy Adams Young House
This historic house is the centerpiece of Cedar Mill's heritage. Located at 12050 N.W. Cornell Road, it's the site of the annual Cedar Mill Cider Festival and a tangible link to the area's pioneer past .
- What it is: The John Quincy Adams Young House is a historic home associated with one of Cedar Mill's pioneer families. It is preserved and maintained by the Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District (THPRD).
- Visitor Experience: While not a traditional museum with daily public hours, the house is opened to the community for special events like the Cider Festival. During these events, a "history tent" is set up sharing information about the JQA Young House and the pioneer families of Cedar Mill . Proceeds from these events often go toward the house's restoration fund, allowing visitors to contribute to its preservation.
Museums Nearby in Portland
For a more extensive museum experience, the city of Portland, just a short drive away, offers a wealth of options. Since Cedar Mill does not have its own art or history museums, these nearby institutions serve the community.
Portland Art Museum
This is the primary art museum for the region.
- Collection: It holds a comprehensive collection of art from around the world, including American, European, and Asian art, as well as a significant collection of Northwest and Native American art.
- Notable Works: The museum's collection includes works by major artists such as Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Auguste Rodin, alongside contemporary artists.
Oregon Historical Society Museum
Located in downtown Portland, this museum is dedicated to the history of the state of Oregon.
- Exhibits: Its permanent and rotating exhibits cover the region's history from its Indigenous peoples through exploration, pioneer settlement, and modern times. It houses a vast research library and archives.
- Key Artifacts: The museum's collection is extensive and includes objects from the Oregon Trail, providing a deep dive into the pioneer history that also shaped communities like Cedar Mill.
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)
A highly interactive science museum located on the east bank of the Willamette River in Portland.
- Exhibits: OMSI features dozens of hands-on exhibits covering physics, chemistry, biology, and technology.
- Unique Features: It includes a large-screen theater, a planetarium, and a real U.S. Navy submarine, the USS Blueback, which is moored outside and open for tours.
Sports and Sporting Legends
Cedar Mill does not have any major professional sports stadiums or teams of its own. However, as part of the Portland metropolitan area, its residents are passionate fans of the city's professional and collegiate sports teams, all located within a short drive.
Major Sports Teams in Nearby Portland
For residents of Cedar Mill, the following teams are the local heroes.
Portland Trail Blazers (NBA)
- Sport: Basketball
- League: National Basketball Association (NBA)
- Home Arena: Moda Center in the Rose Quarter, Portland
- About the Team: The Trail Blazers are the lone major professional sports team in Oregon. They have a dedicated fan base and won their only NBA championship in 1977. The team has been home to legends like Bill Walton, Clyde Drexler, and more recent stars like Damian Lillard.
Portland Timbers (MLS)
- Sport: Soccer
- League: Major League Soccer (MLS)
- Home Stadium: Providence Park, Portland
- About the Team: The Timbers are one of the best-supported teams in MLS, known for their raucous atmosphere and the "Timbers Army" supporters' group. They won the MLS Cup in 2015. The team's identity is deeply woven into the fabric of the city.
Portland Thorns FC (NWSL)
- Sport: Soccer
- League: National Women's Soccer League (NWSL)
- Home Stadium: Providence Park, Portland
- About the Team: The Thorns are one of the most successful franchises in women's professional soccer history. They have won multiple NWSL Championships and have been home to some of the world's best players, including Christine Sinclair, Tobin Heath, and Alex Morgan.
Portland Winterhawks (WHL)
- Sport: Ice Hockey
- League: Western Hockey League (WHL)
- Home Arena: Veterans Memorial Coliseum, Portland
- About the Team: The Winterhawks are a major junior ice hockey team that has developed numerous future NHL players. They have won multiple league titles and are a staple of Portland's sports scene.
Sporting Events
Residents of Cedar Mill have easy access to all the home games of these Portland-based teams. The city also hosts major collegiate sports events and, occasionally, world-class tournaments in sports like track and field (at the historic Hayward Field in nearby Eugene).
Sporting Goods and Apparel
The Portland metro area is a global capital for the sportswear industry, and this influence is felt in Cedar Mill.
Nike World Headquarters
While not in Cedar Mill, the global headquarters of Nike, Inc. is located in the nearby city of Beaverton, just a few miles away. This massive campus is a landmark in the sporting world, though it is not a public tourist attraction.
Adidas North American Headquarters
Similarly, the German sportswear giant Adidas has its North American headquarters in Portland. The presence of these two industry giants cements the region's status as a center for sports innovation and culture.
Universities and Educational Institutions
Cedar Mill is ideally situated near a wide array of higher education options. While there are no universities within its immediate boundaries, it is within a short commute of some of Oregon's most prestigious and well-regarded colleges and universities .
Higher Education Institutions Nearby
There are 26 colleges within a 50-mile radius of Cedar Mill, offering a vast range of choices for students . The closest colleges are in Portland, just a few miles away.
Portland Community College (PCC)
- Distance: The closest community college is Portland Community College, located just 7.5 miles from Cedar Mill .
- Type: Public, two-year community college.
- Overview: PCC is the largest post-secondary institution in Oregon, with multiple campuses throughout the Portland area. It offers a wide range of associate degrees, career training programs, and transfer pathways to four-year universities. It has an open admission policy, making higher education accessible to a broad population .
Reed College
- Distance: Approximately 8 miles from Cedar Mill.
- Type: Private, four-year liberal arts college.
- Overview: Reed is one of the most prestigious and academically rigorous liberal arts colleges in the United States. It is known for its unique compulsory first-year humanities program, a senior thesis requirement for all students, and a high rate of graduates who go on to earn PhDs. It is ranked #77 in the nation by CollegeSimply .
University of Portland
- Distance: Approximately 10 miles from Cedar Mill.
- Type: Private, four-year Catholic university.
- Overview: The University of Portland is known for its strong programs in nursing, engineering, business, and education. It has a beautiful campus overlooking the Willamette River and a strong sense of community.
Oregon College of Art and Craft
- Distance: The nearest college overall is the Oregon College of Art and Craft in Portland, at a distance of just 2.6 miles from Cedar Mill .
Portland State University (PSU)
- Distance: Located in downtown Portland, about 10 miles from Cedar Mill.
- Type: Public, four-year research university.
- Overview: PSU is the largest university in Oregon, enrolling over 21,000 students . It is known for its urban campus, strong commitment to sustainability, and extensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including notable schools of business, urban studies, and social work.
Other Notable Institutions within 30 Miles
The area surrounding Cedar Mill is rich with other higher education options :
- George Fox University (Private, 4-year): A Christian university located about 18 miles away in Newberg.
- Mt Hood Community College (Public, 2-year): Located about 20 miles away in Gresham.
- Linfield University (Private, 4-year): Located about 30 miles away in McMinnville, this university is particularly well-regarded for its wine studies program, situated in the heart of Oregon's wine country.
- Chemeketa Community College (Public, 2-year): Located about 39 miles away in Salem.
- Willamette University (Private, 4-year): Located about 43 miles away in Salem, this is the oldest university in the Western United States.
Healthcare Facilities and Services
Cedar Mill is well-served by the extensive healthcare networks of the Portland metropolitan area. While it has local clinics for primary care, major hospitals and specialized medical centers are located in the neighboring cities of Portland, Beaverton, and Hillsboro.
Local Medical Clinics in Cedar Mill
For routine and primary care, residents have convenient options right in the community.
Providence Medical Group - Cedar Mills
- Location: 12400 NW Cornell Rd Ste 100, Portland, OR 97229 .
- About the Practice: This is a primary care clinic that is part of the larger Providence Health & Services network. It is a "Medical Home Clinic," emphasizing comprehensive, coordinated, and patient-centered care. The clinic accepts new patients and offers family and internal medicine services . Despite the Portland address, this clinic is geographically located in the Cedar Mill area.
Major Hospitals and Medical Centers Nearby
For more specialized care, emergency services, and hospital stays, Cedar Mill residents have access to several world-class medical centers within a short drive.
Providence St. Vincent Medical Center
- Location: 9205 SW Barnes Rd, Portland, OR 97225. Located in Portland's West Hills, just a few miles southeast of Cedar Mill.
- Overview: This is one of the largest and most respected hospitals in Oregon. It is a full-service, acute-care hospital and a teaching hospital. It is particularly renowned for its:
- Providence Heart Institute: A leading center for cardiac care.
- Providence Brain Institute: Offering comprehensive neurological and neurosurgical services.
- Women's and Children's Services: Including a high-level neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
- Cancer Center: Providing advanced oncology treatments.
Tuality Community Hospital
- Location: 335 SE 8th Ave, Hillsboro, OR 97123. Located about 10-12 miles west of Cedar Mill in Hillsboro.
- Overview: Part of the Tuality Healthcare network, which is an affiliate of the OHSU (Oregon Health & Science University) system. It provides a full range of medical services to the western part of the Portland metro area, including emergency care, surgical services, and a family birth center.
Kaiser Permanente Westside Medical Center
- Location: 2875 NW Stucki Ave, Hillsboro, OR 97124.
- Overview: This is a major medical center for Kaiser Permanente members, serving the western suburbs. It includes a full-service hospital, emergency department, and numerous specialty clinics.
Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) Hospital
- Location: 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd, Portland, OR 97239. Located on Marquam Hill in Portland, approximately 12-15 miles from Cedar Mill.
- Overview: OHSU is Oregon's only academic health center, combining research, education, and patient care. It is home to the state's top-tier medical school and is renowned for its cutting-edge research and highly specialized care. It is particularly known for its expertise in:
- Advanced Neurosciences
- Transplant Services
- Cancer Care (as part of the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute)
- Doernbecher Children's Hospital, a world-class children's hospital located on the OHSU campus.
Nearby Colleges and Affordability
For residents seeking higher education, a range of options are available. For those concerned about affordability, Lower Columbia College in Longview offers the lowest tuition in the area at $3,866 per year .