GPS Coordinates: 45.4332226, -123.2351989
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REGIONS > WESTERN OREGON
The headwaters for the Tualatin River arise on the eastern side of the Coast Range Mountains in northwestern Oregon. From there, the river winds its way east, through the Tillamook State Forest and into the Tualatin River Valley. It ends when it drains into the larger Willamette River about 10 miles (16 km) south of Portland. The valley was an important resource to the native peoples of Oregon. Its natural wetlands and rich soil provided an abundance of native plants, birds, mammals and fish which allowed these hunter-gatherer societies to thrive. When Euro-Americans began to settle Oregon starting in 1840, the valley and river gave rise to widespread agriculture which, in turn, allowed for the growth of Portland and the surrounding towns. Although farms are still widespread in the area, much of the valley has been converted into municipal areas which include Hillosboro, Tigard, Tualatin, Aloha and Beaverton. |