What are the nearest attractions to Forest Park?

Attractions near Forest Park: Alphabet District Pittock Mansion Washington Park

What else should I know about attractions in Portland?

As well as visiting the Forest Park, check out these trip ideas to make the most of your visit: 5 Best Weekend Getaways from New York City How to Spend 3 Days in Portland How to Spend 2 Days in Portland

Forest Park - History, Location & Key Facts 2022

Forest Park

Free admission

Forest Park’s name is no exaggeration: this verdant space, which spans more than 5,200 acres (2,100 hectares, is one of the largest urban forested areas in the country. Located along the Willamette River on the northwestern edge of Portland, the park is known for its tranquil scenery, wealth of wildlife, and many hiking trails.

Learn more

Portland, Oregon

The basics

Formally established in 1948, Forest Park has been cherished by Portlanders and visitors as a tranquil urban oasis for generations. Home to over 80 miles (130 kilometers) of walking trails, the municipal park is also host to a thriving ecosystem of second-growth forest, hundreds of bird species, and numerous mammals, from bobcats to flying squirrels. It offers up a lovely dose of Pacific Northwest scenery—and best of all, it’s completely accessible from Downtown.

Guided hiking tours offer a thorough introduction to the park (and many of its highlight attractions), while general city sightseeing tours provide a more casual introduction to the area. For another perspective, take to the skies on a helicopter tour.

Things to know before you go

Find your way using the Forest Park PDX smartphone app, which includes trail maps and other helpful information.
Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
There are several cycling trails in the park, and off-road biking is prohibited.
The Audubon Society of Portland Sanctuary flanks the park and offers an introduction to the area’s avian life.

How to get there

As Forest Park stretches for a length of roughly 7 miles (11 kilometers), there are numerous entry points to access the park; if you’re coming from Downtown, one of the most popular places to begin your excursion is at the Lower Macleay Park trailhead. If you’re using public transportation, take the 16 or 63 bus lines.

Trip ideas

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How to Spend 1 Day in Portland

With a compact central area and quick access to the surrounding Pacific Northwest landscape, Portland is an ideal city to explore in just one day. From historical architecture to a hip culinary scene to nearby waterfalls, there are a variety of ways to make the most of your limited time.

How to Spend 2 Days in Portland

Two days in Portland gives you enough time to see multiple sides of the city, from its food culture to its interesting neighborhoods, lush natural beauty, and active lifestyle. Here are a few ways to create an itinerary that suits your interests.

Wine Tasting in the Willamette Valley

With more than 200 wineries and a location less than an hour’s drive from downtown Portland, the Willamette Valley is a prime wine tasting destination in Oregon. Here’s everything you need to know about sampling the region’s best wines on a tour.

When to get there

Forest Park is open every day of the year, from early morning until late evening. If you’re a first-time visitor, begin your hike in the morning to take advantage of the daylight and comfortable temperatures. That also gives you the freedom to stay for a longer hike than you’d initially planned.

The Wildwood Trail

Part of Portland’s 40-Mile Loop of walking trails, the Wildwood Trail is the longest in the park, and one of the most popular places to begin exploring. It stretches for upwards of 30 miles (50 kilometers) along the park’s entire length, and also links to Pittock Mansion—one of the city’s most popular heritage buildings.