Wildwood and Leif Erikson Loop

Parking is available at various trailheads around Forest Park. A common starting point for this loop is near the Firelane 1 Trailhead or the Leif Erickson Drive Trailhead. Arriving early, especially on weekends, is recommended as spots can fill up quickly.

Yes, Forest Park is accessible by public transport. Several bus lines serve the perimeter of the park, allowing you to reach various trailheads. Check the TriMet website for the most current routes and schedules to plan your trip.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails in Forest Park, including the Wildwood and Leif Erikson Loop. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all users. Please remember to pack out any waste.

The Wildwood and Leif Erikson Loop can be enjoyed year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and wildflowers, while autumn offers beautiful fall foliage. Summer is popular, but the dense tree cover provides good shade. Winter hikes are also possible, though trails can be muddy and foggy, adding to the remote feel.

The loop offers varied terrain. The Wildwood Trail section winds through a lush, deep forest with rolling hills, often feeling remote and featuring traditional forest paths. In contrast, Leif Erikson Drive is a wider, smoother, and often paved surface, which was once a closed road. It generally has a more consistent, slight incline over its length, though it can get muddy.

The Wildwood Trail offers a more traditional hiking experience with winding paths, rolling hills, and a dense, immersive forest environment. It's great for feeling truly 'away from it all'. Leif Erikson Drive, being a former road, is wider and smoother, making it easier for walking, running, or even biking. It provides a more consistent grade and is marked with white concrete mile markers, making navigation straightforward.

While the primary draw is the immersive forest experience, you'll encounter several key junctions like the Wildwood & Alder Trail Junction and the Wildwood Trail and Firelane 1 Trail Junction. Depending on the section and weather, some parts of the Wildwood Trail or Leif Erikson Drive might offer glimpses of Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, or Mount Hood through the trees.

Yes, this loop is part of the extensive Forest Park trail system and utilizes sections of several other paths. The route primarily follows the Wildwood Trail and Northwest Leif Erikson Drive, but also incorporates parts of the Alder Trail and Wild Cherry Trail, allowing for many variations and extensions.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to hike in Forest Park, including the Wildwood and Leif Erikson Loop. It is free and open to the public, making it an accessible natural escape within Portland.

For this moderate hike, it's advisable to bring plenty of water, snacks, and wear comfortable hiking shoes. Dress in layers, as the weather in Portland can change. A map or GPS device is helpful, though the trails are generally well-marked. Don't forget your camera to capture the lush forest scenery!

While there are no facilities directly at most trailheads within Forest Park, you'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops in the surrounding Portland neighborhoods, particularly in Northwest Portland, just a short drive or walk from the park's entrances. It's a good idea to grab provisions before heading to the trail.