George W. Joseph State Natural Area

Page Index

• Upper Latourell Falls

"Access to George Joseph State Park is possible by using the trail from Latourell Falls and Guy Talbot State Park. A trail leads from the parking lot to the top of lower Latourell Falls. Beyond this point on the trail, you've entered the enchanted forest of George Joseph State Park where sword fern, moss and lichens are barely illuminated through the dense stands of timber. Continue on the trail to a rarely visited wonder which is upper Latourell Falls."

1946 State Parks Report: George W. Joseph State Park

The George W. Joseph State Park adjoins the south side of Talbot Park. It is made up of two separately deeded forty acre tracts, described as being in Section 32, Township 1 North of Range 5 East, W.M. in Multnomah County. Both tracts were gifts to the State of Oregon by Bertha L. Joseph and George W. Joseph, her son, by deeds dated September 11, 1934 and June 23, 1942. Title clearance to the later deed tract was by Sheriff's deed from Multnomah County, dated August 10, 1945.

These tracts are also located on Latourell Creek and have a beautiful double waterfall, located approximately three quarters of a mile up stream from the head of the Talbot Park falls, and easily reached by a good trail that ascends the east side of the stream.

While there are no improvements in this park area, other than the foot trail, in conjunction with Talbot Park and the Crown Point Loops, there is formed a single administrative unit, which in combination has all the natural attributes of a very attractive state park area, less than one hour of driving time from Portland's business center.

W. A. Langille

State Parks Historian

December 5, 1945

Recommendations:

This park should be kept in its wilderness state, it being a compliment to Talbot Park. Only the upkeep of the trails should be considered.

S. H. Boardman

State Parks Superintendent

March 25, 1946

Wikipedia: George W. Joseph State Natural Area

George W. Joseph State Natural Area is a natural area in the U.S. state of Oregon. It is located near the city of Troutdale between Latourell Falls and Guy W. Talbot State Park, and is accessible from both.

The land was donated by the estate of George W. Joseph,[2] a state senator and an influential nominee for Governor of Oregon in 1930.

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