Jon Goodwin

Portland

Photojournalist and Reporter at KGW-TV (Portland, OR)

Just a regular dude telling your extraordinary stories. Camera guy/MSJ for KGW in Portland, OR. #SeaUsRise #WarEagle #LetsGetOutThere

Articles

New TRACK Trail in Happy Valley Park turns hiking into a hands-on adventure for kids

3 weeks ago | kgw.com | Jon Goodwin

HAPPY VALLEY, Ore. — At Happy Valley Park, it’s all about playing, exploring — and now, discovering. The city just celebrated the grand opening of a new TRACK Trail — a kid-friendly, self-guided hiking path designed to make outdoor time fun and interactive. A ribbon cutting at the park marked the official debut, adding Happy Valley to a growing network of family-friendly trails across the country. “Happy Valley Park is designed for families to come recreate,” said Happy Valley Mayor Tom Ellis.
Fort Vancouver's BARK Ranger program lets canines and their companions connect with history — and get some exercise

1 month ago | kgw.com | Jon Goodwin

VANCOUVER, Wash. — At Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, it’s all about connecting people — and now pets — to history. “This little place in Vancouver gets more than a million visitors a year,” said supervisory park ranger Aaron Ochoa.
Cascades Pika Watch seeks volunteers to spot pikas in the Columbia River Gorge

1 month ago | kgw.com | Jon Goodwin

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. — In the Columbia River Gorge, between Angel’s Rest and Viento State Park, you might just hear a faint squeak echoing from the rocks. That sound? It could be a pika — a small, potato-shaped mammal closely related to rabbits, known for its high-pitched call and elusive nature. On a recent spring day at Horsetail Falls, biology professor Jo Varner — known affectionately as “Pika Jo” — scanned the talus slopes with binoculars. She wasn’t just hiking. She was on patrol.
One of the best camping spots in the US is tucked away in the Oregon Coast

1 month ago | kgw.com | Jon Goodwin

TILLAMOOK COUNTY, Ore. — With five miles of beachfront and a whole lot of charm, Cape Lookout State Park is turning heads — including those of travel experts. The coastal gem was just named one of the “60 Campsites with the Best Views Across the U.S.” by travel website Matador Network in collaboration with camping website The Dyrt. The list breaks the country into six regions with ten standout sites in each.
Trail in Columbia River Gorge offers views of blooming wildflowers

2 months ago | kgw.com | Jon Goodwin

MOSIER, Ore. — Head out on just about any trail in the Columbia River Gorge this spring and you’ll find people from all walks of life, each with their own reason for being there. “We came out today because the weather was perfect for this hike,” said Hood River resident Sherri Thomas. She and her husband, Rick, had just wrapped up their hike. They had a word of advice for anyone planning a visit: get there early. “Come early, because the parking is limited,” Rick said.
'In the setting of creation,' faith and adventure come together on the Clackamas River

2 months ago | kgw.com | Jon Goodwin

CLACKAMAS COUNTY, Ore. — It’s more than just a rafting trip — it’s a reset for the soul. “It’s calming. It’s refreshing,” said Dave Hanthorn of Youth Dynamics. “It kind of gets down into your soul.” Whether by land or by boat, the Mount Hood National Forest offers an unforgettable escape into Oregon’s wilderness. For Hanthorn, it’s also a mission field. “The river is my happy place, for sure,” he said.
'Loco Por La Aventura' builds community for Oregon Spanish speakers through hiking and more

2 months ago | kgw.com | Jon Goodwin

CORBETT, Ore. — "I felt alone for a long time, and I know how important it is to feel like you belong somewhere," said Melissa Pena, reflecting on how she has come to find community through a local nonprofit. Before you get in with a group, sometimes you've got to start outside. At the Angel’s Rest Trailhead in the Columbia River Gorge, hikers chat in Spanish.
West Linn nursery hosts native plant paradise, mini wildlife refuge

Mar 14, 2025 | kgw.com | Jon Goodwin

WEST LINN, Ore. — Nestled within the lush landscape of West Linn, Bosky Dell Natives stands as a testament to the passion and dedication of its founder, Lory Duralia. Starting the nursery 30 years ago as a small project, it has since blossomed into an expansive and impactful garden that serves as both a plant sanctuary and an educational resource. As April arrives, the nursery bursts into life. "We really come to life in April," Duralia said. It's the perfect time to plant.
Oregon first responders hone rescue skills with annual swift water training

Feb 7, 2025 | kgw.com | Jon Goodwin

SANDY, Ore. — This week at Dodge Park in Sandy, despite the frigid temperatures and cold waters of the Sandy River, a large group of first responders from across Oregon came together for an annual swift water rescue training. Hosted by Clackamas Fire District No. 1, the training brought together over 40 participants from 18 marine law enforcement agencies across the state.
Fort to Sea Trail: Retrace the steps of the Lewis & Clark Expedition's survival

Feb 6, 2025 | kgw.com | Jon Goodwin

CLATSOP COUNTY, Ore. — "Quitting wasn't an option. We quit. We die," said Tom Wilson, a former park ranger at Fort Clatsop at Lewis and Clark National Historical Park. Wilson studied the Lewis and Clark Expedition for years, even taking on the persona of William Clark for different projects. Wilson vividly describes the grueling conditions faced by Lewis and Clark during their trek, emphasizing the critical nature of teamwork and resilience in such extreme environments.