If you live in Portland, you know that Portlanders love to be outside. When the temperature hits the high 60s (sometimes lower), we peel off our layers, open the doors and head to Portland’s parks. In Portland proper, we have more than 10,000 acres of green space to play including public parks and natural areas. Some of our parks have trails, others have swimming pools, and a few have community centers onsite. You’ll also find events throughout the year including concerts and movies in the park, organized run/walks, and a soapbox derby. We couldn’t possibly name them all here but Portland Parks and Recreation can. Here’s a short list of our favorites, and ones you should check out if you’re new to Portland.
Cathedral Park
Believed to be one of Lewis & Clark’s landing sites, Cathedral Park sits beneath the St. Johns in North Portland. This is a gorgeous and quiet park where you can drop your kayak into the Willamette River. Amenities: Boat Dock & ramp, dog off-leash area, picnic tables and a stage where you can attend year-round events including a Jazz festival.
Forest Park
One of Portland’s favorite natural areas, Forest Park boasts the 30-mile Wildwood Trail where you can hike, walk and commune with nature. While there hike to find the Stone House. This structure was built in the mid-1930s by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) as a public restroom. Amenities: Biking, hiking, running, walking, and equestrian trails, tours, and a vista point view of Portland.
Kelley Point Park
Kelley Point Park is located at what feels like the edge of Portland. Makes sense as the park is quite literally on a tip of land. This park is a great spot to take your dog to swim but human swimming is prohibited here as the water conditions are unpredictable. You can enjoy a little break here and watch barges and other large ships pass by. Amenities: Picnic tables, riverfront views, paved paths.
Mt. Tabor Park
We love Mt. Tabor Park. This park located on a volcanic cinder cone is like the most popular park on Portland’s east side. It has a bit of everything from paved paths to rugged trails and stunning city views. If you’re looking for an easy hike but don’t have much time and live nearby, head here. Don’t miss the cinder cone at the summit. You’ll wonder if you’ve found it when you do! Park closes to cars on Wednesdays so hikers, bikers, and walkers have free reign. Amenities: Picnic tables, off-leash dog areas, trails, paved paths, play structure at the summit.
Tryon Creek Natural Area
Tryon Creek Natural Area is located on the Southwest side of Portland. It is a great place to get off the grid and commune with nature. This 650-acre-plus natural day-use area has 8 miles of hiking trails, 3.5 miles of horse trails and a 3-mile paved bicycle trail. It is a naturalist’s paradise where you can bird and wildlife watch. Dogs are to be kept on leash here. Amenities: Tours and other programs throughout the year including day camps.
Washington Park
Portland’s Washington Park is a great starting point when visiting Portland. This city park located on the Northwest side of Portland has it all including the Oregon Zoo, the International Rose Test Garden, and a Japanese garden. You’ll also enjoy iconic views of Portland and Mt. Hood and can hike walk through Hoyt Arboretum. There’s a shuttle that can get you around the park. Other amenities include picnic tables and trails.