Our Story
The Farm
“We created Highland Farms with the intention of providing a space where loved ones can come together to reconnect with nature and each other.”
The Story of a Farm
From a California Ranch to Mt. Hood
Every farm has a story — that of Highland Farms begins on a ranch 600 miles south of Mount Hood, located halfway between the fertile fields of the Central Valley and the Pacific Ocean. The Church ranch in Salinas, California, cultivated a deep love and passion for farm life, the smells of the earth, and the cowboy lifestyle in Connor McWilliams. This passion coupled itself with an enterprising plan in young Connor's mind: hang a shingle as a general contractor until the moment that career can yield a farm and livestock of his own.
Work in the construction industry naturally led to experience in hospitality and design, and being a natural dreamer, Connor couldn't imagine owning a property without creating a hospitality experience to share with the world. This vision led to the creation of Highland Farms; an overgrown property uncovered from decades of nature's re-wilding at the base of Mt. Hood. Highland Farms needed someone with a dream to see its full potential:
The potential of its natural spring-fed pond, a sanctuary for rest, retreat, and rejuvenation for animals and humans alike.
The potential of its old-growth trees fringing the property, draped in moss and quiet.
The potential of its perfect location, tucked into the heart of Oregon's majestic trees and glacier lakes and sitting directly between Mt. Hood and Oregon's Rose City.
The potential of its field and forest, where guests of the farm can marvel at Scottish Highland cattle foraging amongst the trees, weathering the winter, and welcoming their calves in the front pastures.
The potential to be a place for man, a place for nature, a place for everything and everything in its place.
This is Highland Farms.
The Vision
“A place for man, a place for nature, a place for everything and everything in its place. This is Highland Farms.”
Cultivate & Connect
The Animals
Curate an event you won't forget by incorporating the loving animals of Highland Farms. Whether taking photos beside Scottish Highland Cows, enjoying the farm amenities, or having your leadership team unwind with the farm animals in nature, farm proprietor Connor McWilliams and his incredible team help guests get up close to the animals that call the farm home.
Our gentle Scottish Highland Cows are the stars, but they share the property with Icelandic Sheep, White Peacocks, guardian dogs, chickens, and Guinea Fowl. Whether you're here for a wedding, a farm tour, or a weekend stay — the animals are always there to brighten your day.
The Lay of the Land
Property Amenities
Lodging for 16
Two unique accommodations across the property
Full Time Hospitality Team
Our hospitality team believes in unreasonable hospitality
WiFi Access
Stay connected throughout the property
Event Parking
Ample parking for guests and vendors
Stay With Us
The Accommodations
Two unique spaces designed for comfort and connection.
William Wallace Lodge
Relax & Reminisce
Our cedar mill lodge is a warm and inviting retreat where scenic meals, fireside conversations, and lasting memories are made.
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Bonnie Lass Cottage
Retreat & Converse
A cozy retreat neighboring our barn pasture where the Scottish Highland Cows greet you in the morning and relax with you in the evenings.
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Explore & Engage
Experience Mt. Hood Territory
Brightwood, Oregon, sits in a forested valley midway between Mount Hood and the fertile Willamette Valley. Perched on a sloping foothill above the confluence of the Sandy and Salmon Rivers, Highland Farms shares the same views witnessed by the fur traders and trappers that established the infamous Oregon Trail.
Just 50 minutes from Portland and 20 minutes from Mt. Hood, Highland Farms is accessible yet feels worlds away from the city. Experience the Mount Hood Territory at your doorstep.
The Property
Five enchanted acres where nature and experience meet.
