Carruthers Memorial Park

If you live in Hammond and have a dog, you probably already know this place by heart. The off-leash enclosures are split for big and small dogs, which actually makes a difference when your 15-pound mutt is nervous around Labs. The walking paths are flat and smooth — genuinely easy on the knees — and the Columbia River views sneak up on you in the best way. Keep your eyes up and you’ve got a real shot at spotting bald eagles, especially in the quieter morning hours. Beach and trail access nearby makes it easy to tack on a longer outing if you’ve got the time.