Every parent eventually reaches the same realization sometime around late winter. The kids have been stuck inside too long. The rain has been relentless. And everyone in the house is about two Lego bricks away from losing their sanity. That’s usually the moment when someone says the magic words: “What if we go to Enchanted Forest?” Suddenly, the promise of fairy-tale castles, roller coasters in the woods, and kids running around outside for hours starts to sound like the best idea anyone has had all year.
Spring in Oregon means many things. Cherry blossoms start popping up around Portland, the rain occasionally takes a break, and one beloved family destination quietly reopens in the woods just south of Salem.
The Enchanted Forest officially opens its 2026 season on Saturday, March 21.
If you grew up in Oregon, there’s a good chance you visited as a kid. If your children haven’t experienced it yet, this might be the perfect year to introduce them.
Because there really isn’t anywhere else quite like it.
A Handmade Oregon Classic
Located just south of Salem near Interstate 5, Enchanted Forest is a 20-acre family-owned theme park that first opened in 1971.
Unlike large corporate amusement parks, Enchanted Forest was literally built by hand by its founder, Roger Tofte. Over the decades, the park has grown into a whimsical collection of fairy-tale scenes, small rides, and themed areas tucked into a forested hillside.
That handcrafted feel is part of the charm. It’s quirky, nostalgic, and distinctly Oregon.
2026 Opening Dates and Season Schedule
The park’s 2026 operating schedule has already been announced.
Opening Day:
March 21, 2026
Spring Break:
March 21 through March 29, open daily
Spring schedule:
Weekends only plus Memorial Day
Summer:
Open daily from June 13 through Labor Day
Fall:
Weekends in September
Last day of the season:
September 27, 2026
Full calendar:
https://www.enchantedforest.com/schedule
Ticket Prices
Admission and rides are separate at Enchanted Forest.
Admission (At the Gate)
• Ages 13 and older: $31 (Seniors 62+ $28)
• Children ages 3 to 12: $28
• Children 2 and under: Free
Admission tickets can be purchased online starting 14 days in advance. Buying admission tickets in advance will save you money (13 and older: $27.75; seniors: $24.75; 3 to 12: $24.75).
Purchase tickets:
https://www.enchantedforest.com/purchase
Ride Tickets
• $1 per ride ticket
• Most rides require 3 to 5 tickets
That means most rides cost $3 to $5 per person.
Official site:
https://www.enchantedforest.com
Things Families Love to Do
Even though the park isn’t massive, there is a lot to explore.
Storybook Lane
This is the park’s original attraction and a favorite for younger kids. Families walk through scenes from classic nursery rhymes and fairy tales, including the famous entrance through the witch’s mouth.
Ice Mountain Bobsled
One of the park’s most popular rides, this small roller coaster twists through a snowy mountain with drops and turns that are just thrilling enough for older kids.
Big Timber Log Ride
A classic log flume ride that ends with a 40-foot splashdown, which tends to be a big hit on warm days.
Challenge of Mondor
An interactive ride where guests battle fantasy creatures using laser targets while trying to score the most points.
Haunted House
Three levels of spooky scenes that older kids tend to love.
Western Town and Old Europe Village
These themed areas include small shops, shows, and plenty of hidden details that make wandering around part of the fun.
There are also classic rides like bumper cars, a carousel, ferris wheel, and a kid-friendly train.
Tips Before You Go
A few things that experienced visitors recommend:
• Bring snacks or a picnic. Outside food is allowed in the park.
• Wear comfortable shoes. The park sits on a hillside with plenty of walking.
• Plan ahead for ride tickets since rides are separate from admission.
Planning Your Visit
Enchanted Forest
8462 Enchanted Way SE
Turner, OR 97392
Official website:
https://www.enchantedforest.com
The park sits about 10 minutes south of Salem and roughly one hour from Portland, making it an easy day trip for many Oregon families.
The Bottom Line
The truth is, Enchanted Forest isn’t just for kids. Parents tend to enjoy it just as much, especially as they start recognizing things from their own childhood visits. Somewhere between walking through the witch’s mouth, riding the log ride, and trying to convince your kids that you absolutely did not scream on the Ice Mountain Bobsled ride, you’ll realize why this place has lasted for more than 50 years.
And if the kids happen to fall asleep in the car on the drive home, well, that might be the most magical part of the whole trip.
Tiffany Wilson is a 42-year-old stay-at-home mom from Tigard, Oregon, raising three kids—Sophie, Noah, and Riley. She’s a warm, hands-on parent who mixes daily routines with creative fun, whether it’s a backyard scavenger hunt or building a blanket fort in the living room.
