The best running trails around Forest Park

Forest Park offers a vast network of over 80 miles (130 km) of trails, fire lanes, and roads. While this guide highlights 5 specific routes, the park's extensive system provides countless options for runners of all levels.

Yes, Forest Park has options suitable for beginners. The park's diverse terrain includes gentle rolls and less challenging paths. For example, there are 2 easy routes featured in this guide, perfect for a relaxed run. The 11-mile (18 km) Leif Erikson Drive, a broad dirt/gravel road, is also a popular choice for its less technical surface.

For those seeking a challenge, Forest Park's topography includes significant inclines and descents, particularly along the Tualatin Mountains terrain. The iconic 30-mile (48 km) Wildwood Trail offers a continuous, winding route with a mix of challenging climbs and gentle descents, making it ideal for experienced trail runners. This guide also features 3 moderate routes and 1 difficult route for those looking to push their limits.

Forest Park is generally dog-friendly, but it's important to keep your dog on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other park users. Always check specific trail regulations before heading out, as rules can vary.

Yes, many sections of Forest Park's trail system are suitable for families. The park's accessible urban trails and park loops, especially those with gentler inclines, provide a pleasant environment for families to jog together. Shorter, easier loops are often ideal for younger runners or those with strollers.

Forest Park is characterized by its lush, second-growth forest, featuring towering Douglas-fir, western red cedar, and western hemlock trees. You'll encounter numerous seasonal and perennial streams, such as Balch Creek, creating picturesque ravines and small wooden bridges. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including over 112 bird species and 62 mammal species, offering an immersive natural experience.

Absolutely! The Wildwood Trail connects to several notable attractions. From Pittock Mansion, runners can enjoy panoramic views of Portland and several volcanic peaks. The trail also links to the Bird Alliance of Oregon's nature sanctuary and Washington Park, which itself offers further attractions like the Oregon Zoo and Hoyt Arboretum.

Forest Park offers year-round opportunities for outdoor activity. It provides a shaded retreat during the summer months, making it ideal for hot weather. In other seasons, the park showcases a different kind of beauty, though some areas can become muddy during wet periods. Always check local conditions before your run.

Forest Park is highly accessible, with over 40 access points from Northwest Portland. Many trailheads allow for the creation of various loop options. While specific public transport routes vary, several city bus lines serve areas near park entrances. Parking is available at various access points, though it can be limited during peak times, so planning ahead is recommended.

The running routes in Forest Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Runners often praise the immersive natural environment, the extensive and well-maintained trail system, and the opportunity to escape city life within such a vast urban forest.

Yes, Forest Park's extensive network of trails, fire lanes, and interconnecting side trails makes it easy to create numerous circular running routes. Many access points allow you to combine different paths to form loops of varying distances and difficulties, providing endless options for exploration.

While Forest Park itself is a natural preserve, its proximity to Northwest Portland means you can find cafes, restaurants, and other amenities in the surrounding neighborhoods. Many access points are just a short walk or drive from urban areas where you can refuel after your run.