4 events and a hike in Eugene and Springfield this weekend
Join one or more of Eugene's Earth Day celebrations and volunteer opportunities, and check out some exciting live shows with these weekend events. Also, don't forget to get outside with a hike along the McKenzie River to Tamolitch Blue Pool.
Earth Day at Beergarden
Celebrate Earth Day with activities at Beergarden this weekend. The celebration includes live music and other activities throughout the weekend. There will be live music performances each day and plenty of drink specials. There will be a propagation event on Saturday, and Beergarden will host its first adoption event on Sunday with Lucky Paws. One dollar from every drink will be donated to the rescue. For more information, go to beergardenme.com.
When: From 11:30 a.m. Friday through 9 p.m. on April 23
Where: Beergarden, 777 W 6th Avenue, Eugene
Earth Park Cleanup with SOLVE
Give back to the community this Earth Day by participating in a park cleanup. Nearby Nature is partnering with SOLVE for an annual cleanup of Alton Baker Park. To join, meet on the lawn by the yurt at Nearby Nature's site in Alton Baker Park. Disposable gloves and tools will be provided to pick up litter. Volunteers should register in advance by going to nearbynature.org. Bring a water bottle, snacks and dress for the weather with closed-toed shoes and clothes that can get dirty. All participants must be 10 years or older due to safety concerns of kids picking up trash.
When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on April 22
Where: Nearby Nature, 622 Day Island Road, Eugene
Some Stars of Native American Comedy
Join an award-winning line-up of four Native American Comedy Storytellers as they share their perspectives on identity politics, cultural stereotypes, dating, white guilt and rodeos. You'll hear from comedian, writer, director, producer and actor Jim Ruel, writer for Rutherford Falls Taietsarón:sere “Tai,” traditional trickster storyteller Gilbert Brown and quick-witted Sheila Chalakee. Tickets start at $28.50 and can be purchased online at hultcenter.org.
When: 8 p.m. on April 22
Where: The Hult Center for Performing Arts, 1 Eugene Center, Eugene
Lynnea Barry: I Can't Stop Loving You
Head to the Shedd Institute for a weekend full of 1950s and 60s classics. Lynnea Barry and company welcome Hannah Foshay, Bill Hulings and Dylan Stasack for a new selection of classic hits like "Do You Want To Dance" by Bobby Freeman, "Good Luck Charm" by Elvis Presley and many more rockin' 50s and 60s favorites. Non-discounted tickets start at $18 and can be purchased online at theshedd.org.
When: 7:30 p.m. on April 21 and April 22, and 4 p.m. on April 23
Where: The Shedd Institute, 868 High Street, Eugene
Tamolitch Blue Pool
While it is a bit farther out of town, the trek to Tamolitch Pool, or Blue Pool, is well worth the drive. Located near Blue River, a roughly 4-mile out-and-back trail leads you along the McKenzie River to a stunning crystal-clear blue pool. Hundreds of hikers and photographers flock to the site to take in its one-of-a-kind beauty year-round, according to the U.S. Forest Service website. During the rainier months, visitors can see the flow of the Tamolitch Falls, making for a truly magical site.
You can access Blue Pool through two different trails. One begins at Carmen Smith Reservoir and one begins at the McKenzie River Trailhead. I recommend starting at the McKenzie River Trailhead as it is a little shorter and less rocky than the other trail. To get to the trailhead, take Highway 126 east from the McKenzie River Ranger Station for 10 miles to Trail Bridge Reservoir. Take a left on FS Road 730. Cross the river and turn right on FS Road 2672-655. Continue for a half mile to the parking area. From there, head upstream. You'll follow the trail which winds alongside the McKenzie River through alder and evergreen trees. The hike to Blue Pool is relatively short and would be considered moderate. There may still be snow on the trail this time of year, so watch out for slippery spots and be prepared with sturdy footwear. Dogs are welcome, but they must remain on a leash.
Makenzie Elliott covers breaking news and public safety for The Register-Guard. Reach her at MElliott@gannett.com Find her on Twitter at @makenzielliott.
This article originally appeared on Register-Guard: 4 events and a hike to do in Eugene Springfield April 21-23
