Portland has an almost unfair abundance of natural beauty – perfect parks, leafy trees, and vibrantly flowering shrubs lining pretty residential streets. The Willamette River meanders through town, and Mt. Hood graces the horizon.
On a national scale, Portland is a pioneer in environmentally conscious public policy and progressive urban planning. With approximately 30% of the city covered in tree canopy, the area literally feels like a breath of fresh air. The metro area boasts 37,000 acres of green space, which residents enjoy year-round, regardless of the weather.
The Best Parks in Portland
1. Lan Su Chinese Garden
Begin your journey into Portland’s best parks right in the heart of Old Town, home to the tranquil Lan Su Chinese Garden, a serene oasis featuring reflecting ponds, winding paths, and a traditional teahouse. This garden is a remarkable collaborative effort between Portland and its sister city Suzhou in China’s Jiangsu province. Here, you can savor fair-trade organic tea and engage in unique traditional tea-making methods while learning about feng shui, tai chi, or Chinese brush painting.
2. Forest Park
To enjoy urban nature at its finest, take a stroll in Forest Park, the country’s largest urban park boasting over 70 miles of wooded trails for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. This park is adorned with lush moss, flowering shrubs, ferns, and towering trees, providing a breathtaking escape just moments from the city.
The park’s vibrant ecosystem attracts various bird and mammal species, delighting nature enthusiasts. Birdwatchers will find pleasure in the Portland Audubon Society, where a bookstore, wildlife rehabilitation center, and access to trails await. A visit to Pittock Mansion, built in 1914, offers more than just historical insights; the spectacular city views are simply unforgettable.
3. Tom McCall Waterfront Park
Tom McCall Waterfront Park, which stretches along the west bank of the Willamette River, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Completed in 1978 after replacing an old freeway, this park features 1.5 miles of paved walkways and grassy spaces, inviting joggers, in-line skaters, and cyclists. During summer, the park buzzes with large outdoor events, making it an engaging spot for everyone.
4. Washington Park
Washington Park encompasses several key attractions within its 410 acres of meticulously maintained greenery. The International Rose Test Garden, showcasing over 700 varieties, stands as the centerpiece of Portland’s flower blooms. Nearby, the Japanese Garden offers another serene retreat. Families can enjoy visits to the Oregon Zoo and the Portland Children’s Museum, while nature lovers can explore the Hoyt Arboretum, which features over 1,000 species and 12 miles of scenic trails.
5. Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
The sprawling 5-acre Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden near Reed College boasts over 2,000 rhododendrons, azaleas, and other vibrant plants. With a picturesque lagoon frequented by baby ducks in spring, this garden blooms from late March to May, creating a stunning floral spectacle.
6. Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge, a sprawling 140-acre wetland located in Sellwood, features a hiking trail that connects with the nearby Springwater Corridor paved bike path. This area is an ideal spot for birdwatching, with various species such as river otters, herons, and eagles visible throughout the sanctuary.
7. Tryon Creek State Natural Area
For families searching for a friendly hiking option, Tryon Creek State Natural Area offers an enchanting 670-acre forest rife with trails, a nature center, and opportunities to view wildlife along the stream. As spring arrives, witness stunning displays of trillium, a wild marsh lily, dotting the landscape.
8. Mt. Tabor
Conveniently accessible from the city center, Mt. Tabor is a dormant volcano adorned with trails that cater to varying fitness levels. Visitors can enjoy picnicking while basking in the sunset views overlooking Hawthorne Boulevard, along with a playground and seasonal events such as the Portland Adult Soapbox Derby.
9. Sauvie Island
A 20-minute drive from downtown Portland brings you to Sauvie Island, an idyllic agricultural haven. Its serene country roads invite cyclists, while the 12,000-acre Sauvie Island Wildlife Area provides sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including migratory birds and resident mammals. Enjoy seasonal berry picking or visit Walton Beach for a tranquil day by the water.
10. Columbia River Gorge
The majestic Columbia River Gorge, which separates Oregon and Washington, is only about 40 minutes east of Portland. This stunning area features breathtaking waterfalls and imposing mountain vistas, showcasing a range of trails that offer varying degrees of difficulty, ideal for both seasoned hikers and casual explorers.
This article originally highlighted Portland’s best parks as of August 2016 and has been revised for current relevance.
