Eugene is the seat of Lane County and the 2nd biggest city in Oregon State. It is situated at the confluence of the Willamette and McKenzie rivers, at the south end of the Willamette Valley, about 50 miles or 80 km east of the Oregon Coast.
The city of Eugene, Oregon has a reputation of being one of the most livable cities in the United States. Located close to both the Cascades Mountains and Oregon coast, its community offers the best elements of big city culture and small town charm. The arts scene is very distinct within the city of Eugene. The city of Eugene provides a thriving diversity with its abundance of culture, attractions and sports as well as its natural beauty. The northwest coffeehouses and eclectic boutiques provide something to suit each taste. There is an extensive network of trails and paths throughout the city making it amongst the most bike friendly communities in the United States.
Located in the city of Eugene is the University of Oregon. The city of Eugene supports recreational activities such as jogging, kayaking, biking and rafting. There is a broad concentration on the arts in the community and with its activist political leanings; lots of inhabitants with "alternative" lifestyles choose to live here. The slogan of the city is "A Great City for the Arts and Outdoors." The city of Eugene is also known as "The Emerald City" and as "Track Town, USA". The Nike Corporation started in Eugene.
There have been numerous community development projects which have served as models for cities around the nation. This is largely in part for the very informed and active citizenry within Eugene. The city maintains the legacy which was initiated back during the 1970s when the city was full of co-operative and community projects. Now, alternative schools are many and small natural foods stores are common in the majority of neighborhoods.
Located at the University of Oregon is the excellent Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art, which has just seen the expansion of its facilities to more than double its previous size. The new galleries highlight Korean, Japanese, European, American and Chinese art exhibits. As well, the University Of Oregon Museum Of Natural History provides visitors exhibits on anthropology and natural history.
The city of Eugene offers an extensive outdoor park system for the public to enjoy. Amongst the biggest developed parks in the city of Eugene is the Alton Baker Park. One of the most gorgeous parks in the region is the Hendricks Park. Other parks consist of Spencers Butte, Fern Ridge Reservoir, and Owen Memorial Rose Garden. With more than twenty eight miles of off-street paths, Eugene has a high population of people who truly like biking. There are 4 bicycle bridges that cross the Willamette River and 78 miles of on-street bicycle lanes.
Kentucky Falls is located 45 miles west of the city and is a location where hiking could be enjoyed. There are 3 waterfalls at the park to be enjoyed and viewed. For those who choose winter recreational activities, the Hoodoo Ski Area and Willamette Pass Ski Area are superb family places.