🏃 Route Info
Most major cities have parks. Portland has a forest. Forest Park stretches for over 5,000 acres along the Tualatin Mountains northwest of downtown — making it one of the largest urban wilderness areas in the United States. For trail runners, it's paradise: 80+ miles of trails, soft forest floor, towering Douglas firs, and almost no cars in sight.
The Best Trails for Running
Wildwood Trail (Main Artery)
The backbone of Forest Park is the Wildwood Trail — a 30.2-mile point-to-point trail that runs the length of the park. You don't need to run all 30 miles in one go (though some do). Wildwood is easily accessed at multiple trailheads, making it perfect for out-and-backs of any distance. The surface is a mix of soft dirt and rooty singletrack, with rolling elevation throughout.
A popular entry point is the Hoyt Arboretum Trailhead near the Visitor Center at 4000 SW Fairview Blvd. From here you can run north into the heart of the park.
Leif Erikson Drive
For runners who want more mileage with less technical terrain, Leif Erikson Drive is a wide, unpaved road that runs 11.2 miles one-way through the park. It's a steady, gentle grade with consistent footing — great for tempo runs or longer easy days. No motorized vehicles allowed.
Balch Creek Loop
A beautiful shorter option: the Balch Creek area near Lower Macleay Park combines the Wildwood Trail with the Balch Creek canyon trail for a 3–5 mile loop through old-growth trees and along a rushing creek. One of the most scenic short runs in the city.
Practical Notes
- Free to access. No entry fee, no permit required. Multiple free trailheads.
- Year-round running. Portland's mild climate means Forest Park is runnable 12 months a year. Expect mud November–March — trail shoes with grip are essential.
- Navigation. Download the trail map or use AllTrails — some of the connector trails aren't well-signed. It's easy to get turned around.
- Dog friendly on most trails, on-leash.
- Wildlife. Deer are common. Coyotes occasionally spotted. Keep an eye out.
Gear for Forest Park
- Waterproof trail shoes — essential in wet season
- Running hydration vest — for runs over an hour
- Trail gaiters — keeps mud and debris out of your shoes
Getting There
The most popular trailhead is Lower Macleay Park at NW Upshur St & NW 30th Ave, Portland. Free street parking. TriMet buses stop nearby. Other access points include Hoyt Arboretum and the NW 53rd Ave trailhead.
The Verdict
Forest Park is a genuine gem — the kind of trail system that makes you proud to live in a city, or worth a detour if you're visiting. The variety of terrain, the accessibility, and the sheer amount of trail mileage make it one of the best urban running destinations in the country.