The best running trails around Portland

Portland offers a vast network of running trails, with nearly 400 routes available. These range from easy, flat paths to challenging, long-distance trails with significant elevation gain, catering to all fitness levels.

You'll find a diverse range of terrain, from the extensive urban forests of Forest Park with its varied surfaces, to the flat, paved paths along the Willamette River waterfront. Other options include urban parks atop extinct volcanic cinder cones like Mount Tabor, and trails through woodlands and meadows at Powell Butte Nature Park.

Yes, Portland has several easy running routes, with over 20 specifically categorized as easy. The Willamette River waterfront, including Tom McCall Waterfront Park and the Eastbank Esplanade, offers mostly flat, car-free paths ideal for shorter, easier runs. Many city parks also provide gentle loops.

Many routes offer stunning views. For panoramic vistas of Portland and Mount Hood, consider the Lower Macleay and Wildwood Trail to Pittock Mansion. Mount Tabor Park also provides sweeping city views, while Powell Butte Nature Park offers views of the city and surrounding mountains. Along the Willamette River, you can enjoy city sights and cross several of Portland's iconic bridges.

Many of Portland's parks and trails are dog-friendly, though leash laws and specific regulations may vary. Forest Park, including routes like Leif Erikson Drive, is generally welcoming to dogs on leash. Always check local signage for the most current rules before heading out with your canine companion.

The running routes in Portland are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the city's unique blend of urban green spaces, expansive natural areas, and accessible trails, highlighting the variety from challenging forest runs to scenic riverfront loops.

For family-friendly runs, consider routes within Washington Park, which encompasses attractions like the International Rose Test Garden and the Hoyt Arboretum with its 12 miles of trails. The flat paths along the Willamette River waterfront are also excellent for families, offering easy access and engaging city views.

Yes, many of Portland's popular running areas are accessible via public transport. Washington Park is just minutes from downtown and well-served. The Willamette River waterfront is easily reached, and some trailheads in Forest Park also have public transport options nearby. It's always best to check specific route access before your run.

Absolutely. Many routes in Portland are designed as loops, offering a complete experience without retracing your steps. The Loop Trail at Powell Butte Nature Park is a great example, leading through woodlands and meadows. A popular urban loop can also be made along the Willamette River by crossing several bridges.

Beyond the trails themselves, you can encounter several interesting features. The Lower Macleay Trailhead is a popular starting point for Forest Park adventures. You might also spot the Sellwood Bridge or the Clackamas River. For urban sights, the Pioneer Courthouse Square is a notable landmark.

While not directly within the city's main running parks, the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, about 30 miles east of Portland, is renowned for its numerous waterfalls, including the iconic Multnomah Falls. This area offers breathtaking natural backdrops for more adventurous runs and is easily accessible from Portland.

Portland's mild year-round climate makes it suitable for jogging throughout the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summers are generally warm and dry, while winters are mild but can be wet, so be prepared for rain if running during the cooler months.