Forest Park, Portland

Forest Park

Forest Park in Portland is known as the largest urban-forested park in the country and is very popular among the locals. Its inviting 5,000 acres are great for exploring trails and for enjoying hiking, biking, running, walking, horseback riding, wildlife bird watching, and more. The best part is you can do all that and still have dinner in downtown Portland.

In Forest Park, Portland’s favorite nature getaway, you are welcome to enjoy over 70 miles of trails and 4,900 acres of untouched old-growth forest. It is hard to believe you are within the city limits of Portland when you are experiencing such an escape from urban life and are surrounded by nature’s beauty.

You will find very few buildings in the park, but one popular place to take a rest is the Stone House that resides along the Wildwood Trail.

Hiking, Running, & Walking

Forest Park in Portland is where you’ll find the city’s most extensive system of trails, fire lanes, and roads perfect for hiking, running, and walking. 

This natural environment is a true escape from the urban bustle. Hike along the Wildwood Trail, which traverses the whole 5,000-acre park.

Biking

Since mountain biking has risen in popularity over the last 20 years, Forest Park in Portland has designated over 28 miles of scenic routes to bicycles. There are around 12 roads that bikers can enjoy, while the rest remain to be used by pedestrians only. 

Horseback Riding  

Among the many trails for hiking and biking, there also exist designated trails for horseback riding.

Wildlife and Vegetation

Aside from Portlanders and Portland visitors, over 112 species of birds and 62 mammals frequent Forest Park in Portland. Among these are the black-tailed deer, bobcat, coyote, Roosevelt elk, great horned owl, hairy woodpecker, and northern flying squirrel.

The forest sustains predominantly three species of trees: Douglas-fir, western hemlock, and western red cedar and smaller amounts of grand fir, black cottonwood, red alder, bigleaf maple, madrone, and western yew.  

The All Trails Challenge

The Annual All Trails Challenge is a seven-month-long trail-a-thon in which “challengers” raise funds for the preservation and protection of Forest Park. Challengers walk the park’s 80 miles solo or as part of a team.

The top prize for the best fundraiser and winner of the event receives a weeklong stay at La Fumade, a five-bedroom farmhouse in the South of France.

Location, Hours, and Lodging

Forest Park in Portland is open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. 7 days a week. The information center is located at 1505 NW 23rd Ave in Portland and admission to the park is free.

Hotels in the area include La Quinta Inn & Suites, Hotel Deluxe, Palms Motel, and Hotel Vintage Plaza.

Check out another 5 great things to do in Portland.