Overview
When tour guests asks us, "what one thing should I not miss in Portland," we pick the 5-mile (8-9 km) hike in Forest Park. No matter what the season, hiking in the park is entering another world right on the borders, and through the fabric, of the city.
We offer two daily departures, both with varied terrain and about 900 ft elevation gain. The classic hike is focused around a Northwest Portland experience, and ends at the International Rose Test Garden, the Forest Park Experience (9 a.m. to noon). We have limited 1:30 p.m. departures.
We occasionally offer an afternoon hike that starts at Goose Hollow, weaves through the neighborhoods and up into the park, the Goose Hollow to the Forest (2:30 to 6:30 p.m.). Both pass iconic spots; Japanese Garden, Pittock Mansion, and Witch's Castle; but take a different approach to the forest.
In Forest Park—within minutes leaving the street—you can forget, or wonder at the fact that you are still in a city.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Bottled water
Gratuities (always appreciated)
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
For the 9 a.m. and 1:30 departures, we meet outside Haven Coffee, on NW Thurman, a few blocks from the #15 bus stop (NW Vaughn and 27th). Have Coffee has newly opened in the spot so you may not find it on Google.
The 2:30 p.m. hike meets at a different point
End point
We end at the rose garden, near transit options to get back downtown
What to expect
-
Forest Park
2 hours
We'll make our way into Forest Park from the starting point, where we'll join the famous Wildwood Trail, a 43-mile long trail that has its origin over 110 years ago.
-
Wildwood Trail
2 hours
We'll continue traveling along the Wildwood Trail
-
Witch's Castle
5 min
We'll visit the former rest stop known as the "Witch's Castle," and tell stories about the witches that do live here now.
-
Pittock Mansion
5 min
At the Pittock Mansion, we'll visit the grounds and see the expansive view of the city and the mountains surrounding it. We'll have a chance to eat some snacks in some of the city's prettiest public gardens.
-
Washington Park
30 min
We'll cross Burnside and pass into Washington Park (in the afternoon, we'll reverse this and see Washington Park before Forest Park). Because of construction to a planned bridge over Burnside throughout summer and early fall 2019, our tour winds down through the NW Portland neighborhoods (with beautiful views of the city and mountains), and crosses Burnside at a light-metered crosswalk.
-
Portland Japanese Garden
30 min
THE JAPANESE GARDEN HAS BEEN CLOSED PERIODICALLY THROUGHOUT THE PANDEMIC; please check with us about open hours. The trail through Washington Park passes right by the Japanese Garden; morning tour guests have an option of ending the tour here for afternoon tea and a stroll through the garden (admission not included).
-
International Rose Test Garden
15 min
The Rose Garden will be the final stop of the morning tour, and the first stop of the afternoon tour; where we will most definitely stop and smell some of the 600 varieties of roses!
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (America/Los Angeles).
Additional Information
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Forest Park Urban Hiking Tour, Portland
Can I cancel Forest Park Urban Hiking Tour, Portland for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 3–4 hours.
Where does it start?
For the 9 a.m. and 1:30 departures, we meet outside Haven Coffee, on NW Thurman, a few blocks from the #15 bus stop (NW Vaughn and 27th).
What's included?
- Bottled water
What's not included?
- Gratuities (always appreciated)
Which places does it visit?
It visits Forest Park, Wildwood Trail, Witch's Castle, Pittock Mansion, Washington Park, Portland Japanese Garden, International Rose Test Garden.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
What fitness level is needed?
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by Around Portland Tours
