Firelane 5 Road – Wildwood Trail loop from Forest Park

If you're looking for a challenging trail jogging experience in Portland, the Firelane 5 Road – Wildwood Trail loop from Forest Park delivers. This difficult 9.1-mile (14.7 km) route packs in 1211 feet (369 metres) of elevation gain, taking around 1 hour and 44 minutes to complete. It's an ideal choice for experienced trail runners seeking a varied workout within the city's largest urban forest.

What to expect on Firelane 5 Road – Wildwood Trail loop from Forest Park

This loop offers a dynamic journey through the dense forest canopy of Forest Park. You'll encounter a mix of terrain, from the sometimes rutted and mucky Firelane 5, which includes gravel sections and singletrack with quick turns among trees and roots, to the generally smoother single-track path of the Wildwood Trail. The Wildwood Trail winds and rolls along the hillside, occasionally featuring wooden steps and varying from hard-packed to less even surfaces. While you'll be immersed in a tranquil setting of large-leaf maples, Douglas firs, and western red cedars, with a forest floor lush with moss and ferns, keep an eye out for potential glimpses of downtown Portland and distant peaks like Mt. Hood on clear days from elevated sections. Be prepared for significant elevation gain, as connecting routes can feature steep inclines, making this a demanding run.

Planning your visit

Forest Park is a vast urban forest, and while specific parking details for this trailhead aren't provided, it's generally accessible. Given the varied terrain and potential for mucky spots on Firelane 5, especially after rain, consider wearing appropriate trail shoes. This loop is part of a versatile network, allowing for many customizable runs, so you can always explore other options if you want to extend or shorten your route.

Trail details

• Distance: 9.1 miles (14.7 km)
• Elevation gain: 1211 feet (369 metres)
• Difficulty: difficult
• Estimated time: 1 hours and 44 minutes