The Gorge Isn’t The Only Place For Gorgeous Views: Portland's Urban Wilderness Hikes
Portland might be famous for the Columbia River Gorge's spectacular hikes, but you don't need to venture far from the city center to find breathtaking natural beauty. Right here in Portland, we've got miles of amazing trails and walking paths that let you escape into nature without leaving the city.
Need a moment of R&R but don’t have a lot of time or desire to drive far? Portland's trails have you covered. The city's backdrop of wooded hills and ancient volcanoes means you can find everything from quick forest walks to challenging summit hikes, all within city limits. Read on to discover your next urban adventure.
Forest Park: Our Backyard Wilderness
At over 5,200 acres, Forest Park is one of the largest urban forests in America. This unique Portland feature offers more than 80 miles of trails, making it a an incredible asset for hikers of all skill levels. The Wildwood Trail, spanning 30 miles, serves as the park's backbone and offers countless opportunities for adventure.
Must-Try Forest Park Routes:
Lower Macleay to Pittock Mansion (5 miles round trip): Start in the heart of Northwest Portland and climb through lush forest to one of PDX's most iconic viewpoints
Ridge Trail Loop (3.5 miles): Perfect for after-work adventures with stunning afternoon light filtering through the trees
Newton Road to Skyline (4 miles): Less crowded than other trails, offering peaceful forest immersion
Mount Tabor: A Volcano in the City
Where else can you hike an extinct volcano within city limits? Mount Tabor Park offers paved and unpaved trails with sweeping views of downtown Portland. The summit loop is particularly spectacular at sunset, when the city lights begin to twinkle below. Park in the nearby neighborhood and hike up to one of their summer concert series in the amphitheater or check out Tabor Dance, a free weekly dance party.
Powell Butte Nature Park
This 612-acre park in Southeast Portland features meadowlands, forests, and trails with panoramic views of Mount Hood, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Adams on clear days. The Mountain View Trail is particularly rewarding for photographers and bird-watchers.
Tryon Creek State Natural Area
Just 15 minutes from downtown, this 658-acre forest offers 8 miles of hiking trails through second-growth forest. The park's well-maintained paths are perfect for year-round hiking, with wooden bridges crossing seasonal streams creating picturesque moments for rest and recharge.
Urban Walking Adventures
Don't overlook Portland's neighborhood greenways and urban paths:
The Eastbank Esplanade: A 1.5-mile floating walkway offering unique perspectives of the city
The 4T Trail: Combining trails, tram, trolley, and train for a uniquely Portland adventure
Marquam Nature Park: Hidden trails connecting to Council Crest, Portland's highest point
Tips for Urban Hiking in PDX
Many trails are accessible via public transportation - check TriMet for the best routes
Download Portland Parks & Recreation's official trail maps before heading out
Layer up - Portland weather can change quickly, even in summer
Consider joining guided group hikes through Portland Parks & Recreation for social outdoor activities
Having access to these outdoor activities is one of our favorite things about living in the city. This is just the beginning of what Portland has to offer for outdoor adventures. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a quick escape, these urban trails and parks offer the chance to explore without the hassle of a long drive. We're so fortunate to have these accessible outdoor spaces, proving that you don't need to leave the city to find yourself in nature. Happy trails!