Highland Farms: A Retreat at the Base of Mt. Hood
Tucked away in the Brightwood–Mt. Hood area just outside of Portland, Highland Farms is the kind of place that feels discovered rather than built. Surrounded by towering evergreens, moss-draped trees, and mountain air, this farm retreat blends intentional design with the quiet beauty of Oregon’s natural landscape.
From the moment you arrive, it’s clear that Highland Farms was created with purpose. What was once an overgrown property shaped by decades of rewilding has been carefully restored into a space where nature, hospitality, and human connection coexist seamlessly.
A Farm with a Story Rooted in Passion
Every farm has a beginning, and Highland Farms starts long before its roots took hold near Mt. Hood. The vision began hundreds of miles south at a working ranch in Salinas, California, where owner Connor McWilliams developed a deep appreciation for farm life, the smell of the earth, and the rhythm of caring for land and animals.
Reach out to Connor here: Contact Highland Farms
What Makes Highland Farms So Special
Highland Farms offers a rare combination of comfort, charm, and untouched beauty:
Scottish Highland cattle grazing through forest and field, adding a storybook feel to the landscape
A spring-fed pond, designed as a place for rest and reflection
Old-growth trees framing the property, quiet and moss-covered
Cottages, tent sites, and wooded trails that invite exploration
A spa experience, complete with a sauna, hot tub, and cold plunge
Its location is equally special — nestled between Mt. Hood and Portland, making it easily accessible while still feeling wonderfully secluded.
A Beautiful Setting for Engagements, Weddings, and Family Sessions
With its forest paths, and natural textures, Highland Farms is an incredible backdrop for engagement sessions, intimate weddings, and family photography. The light filtering through the trees, the Highland Cows, and the peaceful atmosphere create images that feel timeless and deeply personal.
For couples drawn to nature-forward weddings or engagement sessions that feel relaxed and meaningful, Highland Farms offers endless possibilities.
If you’re considering hosting your wedding or session here, you can connect directly with the farm through their official contact page to learn more about availability and options.
Capturing Your Story at Highland Farms
If you’re dreaming of photographs that reflect the beauty and emotion of your time at Highland Farms, I would love to help bring that vision to life. At Kate Holt Photography, we focus on storytelling — capturing the quiet in-between moments, the laughter, and the connection that makes your experience unique.
Whether you’re planning an engagement session, wedding day, or a family gathering at Highland Farms, this setting deserves to be documented with intention and care.
Feel free to reach out to us to start planning your photography experience at Highland Farms — a place truly made for people, nature, and everything in its place.
