What's happening in Eugene and Springfield this weekend? Here are 4 events and a hike to check out
Explore a quirky cat show, dazzling laser light performance or powerful history exhibit with these Eugene events. Also, get outside with a trip to Hayward Field or a hike around Howard Buford Recreation Area.
'Racing to Change' exhibit
Learn about Black experiences in Oregon and Lane County through Lane County History Museum's exhibit "Racing to Change." The exhibit was created by the Oregon Black Pioneers with additions from the Museum of Natural and Cultural History. It includes historic photos and videos, oral history and an interactive poetry wall. The yearlong exhibit is closes on April 1. Admission is free for the duration of the exhibit.
When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday through Saturday
Where: Lane County History Museum, 740 W 13th Ave.
Laser show: Taylor Swift
Calling all Swifties. Head to the Eugene Science Center for a Taylor Swift-themed laser light show. The 50-minute show brings Swift's biggest hits to life with laser lights. Advance general tickets are available online at eugenesciencecenter.org.
When: 7 p.m. Friday
Where: Eugene Science Center, 2300 Leo Harris Parkway
Oregon Preview track & field meet
Head to Hayward Field this weekend to kick off an exciting track and field season. The Oregon Preview begins with a few events on Friday, but tickets are available for a full day of events on Saturday. To purchase tickets, head to goducks.com.
When: Gates open at 10 a.m., the event starts at 11 a.m. Saturday
Where: Hayward Field, 1580 E. 15th Ave.
NW Regional Cat Show
Do you love all things cats? Head to the Lane County Events Center for the Northwest Regional Cat Show this weekend for plenty of fun and educational events. Visitors will get the chance to meet with representatives from local cat charities, consult with Cat Fanciers' Association exhibitors, watch competition cats being judged and shop at vendor booths for treats for you and your feline friends. Also, don't miss the cat costume contest at noon on both days. Admission for children ages 5 and under is free. Admission is $8 for seniors and children ages 6 to 12, and $10 for adults. The family rate for up to four people is $25.
When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
Where: Lane County Events Center, 796 W 13th Ave.
North Trail Head Loop
Take advantage of the warmer weather and added hours of sunlight this weekend with a hike through the Howard Buford Recreation Area. The 2,363-acre county park offers over 16 miles of hiking trails and is a popular spot for hikers, bird watchers and equestrians. One of its most popular features is Mount Pisgah, which offers stunning views of the Willamette Valley and the Cascades. While a hike to the summit of Mount Pisgah is fantastic, there are plenty of paths for hikers to choose from.
One of my favorite trails is the North Trail Head Loop. This loop is about 2 miles long and usually takes me about 45 minutes to an hour to complete. Begin by parking at the North Trailhead parking lot located on Frank Parrish Road. There is a $5 fee to park which you can purchase at the gray vending machine next to the Mount Pisgah Summit trailhead. I would swing by and grab that before parking at the North Trailhead. From there, you'll head to the trailhead across the street from the parking lot. You have a choice of going right on Trail 7 or left on Trail 3.
I prefer to head right and hike up Trail 7 first; however, Trail 3 is more shaded and might be a more gradual climb. If you're headed up the right side, follow Trail 7 until you meet up with Trail 3. You'll want to take a left and follow Trail 3 to the summit of Swing Hill. Once you reach the top, you'll be greeted with sweeping views of the park and a chance to try out the iconic swing at the top. I'd recommend packing a snack for a nice picnic with a view.
To get back, head down the opposite side. If you took Trail 7 to the top, head back down Trail 3. The path will drop you right back at the parking lot. The paths were a little muddy this time of year, so I'd recommend sturdy shoes. Dogs are welcome and only need to be leashed on trails 1 and 2 and while inside the arboretum.
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 and Springfield this weekend
