Portland, Oregon, is a city that offers easy access to nature, even if you don’t have a car. When I was in the city, I was limited to public transit and even then, it’s possible to reach a variety of scenic hikes in and around the city. Here’s a guide to some of the best hikes near Portland that you can reach by public transportation.
Forest Park – Wildwood Trail
Forest Park is one of the largest urban forests in the U.S., offering more than 80 miles of trails. The Wildwood Trail, which stretches over 30 miles, is the park’s crown jewel and offers various entry points from different parts of Portland. It’s perfect for hikers who want a longer trek or a short, scenic walk surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife. The Lower Macleay Trailhead is an excellent starting point for a moderate 5-mile round trip to Pittock Mansion, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the city. Along the way, you will pass over creeks and the Witch’s Castle. Sadly, the Witch’s Castle has fallen victim to graffiti artists after COVID, but the old ruins are steeped in legends of murder.
Transit: Take the bus (Line 15) to NW Thurman & 28th, then walk to the Lower Macleay Trailhead.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: Up to 30 miles (choose your own length)
Mt. Tabor Park
Located within the city itself, Mt. Tabor is an extinct volcano offering several hiking trails and stunning views of downtown Portland and Mount Hood. The park is a popular spot for locals and provides various routes that wind through forested areas, open meadows, and around the park’s historic reservoirs. The summit offers a fantastic vantage point, and it’s an ideal hike if you’re looking for something convenient and relatively easy.
Transit: Take the bus (Line 15) to SE 60th & Salmon, then walk up to the park’s entrance.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Distance: 3 miles of trails
Washington Park – Hoyt Arboretum to Pittock Mansion
Washington Park is another gem within Portland that’s easily accessible by public transit. From the Hoyt Arboretum, you can hike through dense forests, including sections of the Wildwood Trail, all the way up to Pittock Mansion. But the best parts of the park, in my opinion, are the International Rose Test Garden and the Japanese Garden. The rose garden is free to wander around and offers hundreds of different types of roses, with blooms until October.
Transit: Take the MAX Light Rail (Red or Blue Line) to the Washington Park station and walk to the Hoyt Arboretum trailhead. Alternatively, you can take the bus (Line 63) into the Park and the entrance of the Rose Garden.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: 4-5 miles round trip from Hoyt to Pittock or 2-3 miles round trip around the Japanese Garden & International Rose Test Garden
Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
For a combination of wildlife viewing and an easy stroll, the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge is a fantastic choice. Located along the Willamette River in Southeast Portland, this wetland park is home to various bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatchers. The trails here are flat and accessible, ideal for a more casual hike with plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Transit: Take the MAX Orange Line to the SE Tacoma/Johnson Creek station, then walk to the refuge.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2-3 miles of trails
You don’t need a car to experience some of the best hikes in and around Portland. With the city’s reliable public transportation system, you can easily access a variety of trails offering beautiful views, forested paths, and peaceful nature escapes. Whether you’re looking for a short walk or a longer adventure, these easy to moderate hikes in Portland give you a taste of state’s beauty.
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