Peter's Walking Tours and Continuing Education Courses.
Beaverton's Parks & Natural Areas
Saturday, June 13, 2026
Course number SC418g or SC518g 1 Credit $140
There can be additional materials and entrance fees. Check with the instructor for specific details for this class.
In this fun and informative class, we’ll explore both historic and natural sites in and around Beaverton, where we’ll discover unique architecture, gorgeous parks, natural wetlands, and an abundance of flora and fauna. We will begin with a visit to the Tualatin River Wildlife Refuge area, home to a variety of native Oregon waterfowl. Here, we’ll learn to identify native birds in their natural habitat. Next, we’ll visit the historic Jenkins Estate. Later, we’ll visit Tualatin Hills Nature Park, a 215 acre treasure in the heart of the city and then Commonwealth Lake. Throughout the day, classroom lesson field trip ideas will be discussed that can be easily implemented with students at a variety of grade levels.
Exploring Portland's Orange Line MAX: Art, Architecture, History & Transportation
Saturday, June 20, 2026
Course Number: SS417Q/SS517Q 1 Credit $140
There can be additional materials and entrance fees. Check with the instructor for specific details for this class.
In this exciting new class, we‘ll explore the entire 7.3 mile length of the new Orange Light Rail MAX line, as it extends from the city of Milwaukie to Portland State University in SW Portland.. Along the way, we’ll discover local neighborhoods from Milwaukie to PSU, where we will examine the area’s amazing new artwork, natural areas along the Willamette River, a diversity of architecture and a wealth of local history. In addition, we will explore the new Tilikum Crossing Bridge, the first bridge in the nation designed specifically for public transportation vehicles, pedestrians and bicycles. Most importantly, we’ll discuss ways to bring the study of art, nature, local history, culture, transportation and recreation to our students through meaningful classroom lessons and on field trips. Our adventures will provide ideas that will energize history, science, math, writing and art activities across the curriculum in K-12 classrooms.
Bicycling the Columbia River Greenspace: History, Art & Science
Tuesday, June 23, 2026
Course Number HI406B or HI506B 1 Credit $140
There can be additional materials and entrance fees. Check with the instructor for specific details for this class.
In this fun and informative class, we will ride bicycles to learn more about natural systems, local history, water usage and transportation options.We’ll begin with a tour of the I-205 bike trail, and then we’ll parallel the Columbia River, focusing on native plants, recreation and transportation opportunities. Eventually, we’ll study the Interstate Bridge, and we’ll make our way across it into Washington. Once in Vancouver, we’ll explore Esther Short Park, the Vancouver Renaissance Trail, Old Apple Tree Park, Marine Park, Wintler Park and the Water Resources Center. Along the way, we’ll discover intriguing artwork, beautiful green spaces and historic sites. Ideas for classroom lessons and field trips will be discussed.
Hidden Treasures of the Columbia River Gorge: Oneonta Gorge & Elowah Falls
Thursday, June 25, 2026
Course Number SS416t or SS516t 1 credit $140
There can be additional materials and entrance fees. Check with the instructor for specific details for this class.
In this fun and informative class, you'll learn about the geologic history of the Columbia Gorge, and the events that shaped our current landscape. On a leisurely paced, gently graded, 3.5 mile loop hike, we'll see Horsetail, Ponytail and Oneonta Falls, and we'll learn to identify dozens of trees, plants and colorful wildflowers. We will also discuss the human activity in the area, past and present, as we celebrate the wonders of the Columbia River Gorge. You'll leave this class with lots of ideas that will be helpful in teaching about the natural and human history of Oregon. Ideas that can be integrated into math, writing, art and science lessons will also be discussed.
Exploring West Linn and Lake Oswego
Saturday, June 27, 2026
Course Number SS412u or SS512u 1 Credit $140
There can be additional materials and entrance fees. Check with the instructor for specific details for this class.
Discover the best natural and historic sites in West Linn and Lake Oswego. Along the way, we’ll learn about Lake Oswego’s history as an iron producing town once known as the “Pittsburgh of the West.” A visit to the new Lake Oswego will reveal dozens of art pieces as we explore the “Gallery Without Walls.” We’ll also discover hidden parks along the Willamette River, where we’ll learn about native trees and plants, and recreational opportunities.
Hidden Clackamas County & Happy Valley: Natural & Human History
Monday, June 29, 2026
Course Number SS517F1 Credit $140
There can be additional materials and entrance fees. Check with the instructor for specific details for this class.
In this diversified new class, we‘ll explore two beautifully designed Metro parks and two Happy Valley city parks, where there are dozens of learning opportunities for students. In addition, we’ll look at local art and history.