Water Bureau programs for the community

Bull Run tours

View full size image of Concrete dam with lake behind it and surrounded by forest with fall colors on the trees

Bull Run Watershed tours offer the unique chance to see firsthand how Portland's drinking water travels from forest to faucet. The majority of the day is in the Bull Run but starts with a short visit to the city's groundwater source, the Columbia South Shore Well Field.

Cycle the Well Field

View full size image of A group of people in bike helmets and Portland Water Bureau vests listen to two people present about Portland's water system

Cycle the Well Field is a FREE adult bicycle tour of Portland’s groundwater drinking water source. Children 12 and older who are comfortable on their bicycles and accompanied by an adult are welcome. 

This event is held annually. This year's event took place on Saturday, May 31st, 2025.

If you have any questions about this event please email waterbureaueducation@portlandoregon.gov.

Powell Butte visitor center

View full size image of Outside of Powell Butte visitor center with flowers in blossom and view of Washington

Powell Butte is more than a beautiful nature park. It's also home to two 50-million-gallon underground drinking water reservoirs. The Powell Butte reservoirs are the hub of our water distribution system.

Learn more about Powell Butte's history and its role in our water system with the self-guided exhibits at the Powell Butte visitor center. The visitor center is open Wednesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Note: The visitor center can close unexpectedly due to weather and staff availability.

If you have questions about the visitor center or the Water Bureau's educational programming, please email WaterBureauEducation@portlandoregon.gov.

For more information on Powell Butte Nature Park's trails and amenities, visit the Powell Butte Nature Park page.