Volcano Vista - Portland, OR
Volcano Vista Dog Park at Hoyt Arboretum
If you’re searching for a scenic dog park in Portland, Oregon, Volcano Vista at Hoyt Arboretum is a truly beautiful spot perfect for dog lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Located within Washington Park, this destination features a grassy field ideal for relaxing, picnicking, or simply throwing a blanket down while your pup enjoys the open space.
The area is well-known for its stunning volcanic views—especially of Mt. St. Helens—and offers direct access to pet-friendly trails and nature walks. While the panoramic vistas are sometimes partially obstructed by lush trees, you’ll still find it a wonderful location for dog-friendly hiking and unwinding with friends, family, and your dog. Whether you want a casual stroll or just a quiet spot to chill and read while your dog roams nearby, Volcano Vista delivers a peaceful retreat minutes from the city center.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What kind of views can I expect at Volcano Vista? The park offers good views—especially of Mt. St. Helens and the surrounding volcanic peaks, weather permitting.
- Is this a good park for walking with my dog? Yes, there are trail connections throughout Hoyt Arboretum for dog-friendly hiking.
- Is there shade available? Yes, there is ample tree cover providing shade throughout much of the area.
- Are picnics allowed? Yes, this location is ideal for family picnics and laid-back afternoons with your dog.
Reviews
Is so beautiful ❤️
Is so beautiful ❤️
Is so beautiful ❤️
As others note, Mt St Helens can often be seen from this viewpoint, weather permitting. Occasionally more distant can be seen – Rainier perhaps? Mt Hood cannot be seen from here, although Hood can occasionally be seen from nearby on the ridge when most of the leaves are gone, if you try hard.
Many people are surprised that the mountain views are good but not great from the top of the Hoyt Arboretum. Too many trees in the way!
A better view of Mt Hood is from the Lewis and Clark Memorial Column at the BOTTOM of Washington Park. The Pittock Mansion has much better volcano views overall.
As others note, Mt St Helens can often be seen from this viewpoint, weather permitting. Occasionally more distant can be seen – Rainier perhaps? Mt Hood cannot be seen from here, although Hood can occasionally be seen from nearby on the ridge when most of the leaves are gone, if you try hard.
Many people are surprised that the mountain views are good but not great from the top of the Hoyt Arboretum. Too many trees in the way!
A better view of Mt Hood is from the Lewis and Clark Memorial Column at the BOTTOM of Washington Park. The Pittock Mansion has much better volcano views overall.
As others note, Mt St Helens can often be seen from this viewpoint, weather permitting. Occasionally more distant can be seen – Rainier perhaps? Mt Hood cannot be seen from here, although Hood can occasionally be seen from nearby on the ridge when most of the leaves are gone, if you try hard.
Many people are surprised that the mountain views are good but not great from the top of the Hoyt Arboretum. Too many trees in the way!
A better view of Mt Hood is from the Lewis and Clark Memorial Column at the BOTTOM of Washington Park. The Pittock Mansion has much better volcano views overall.
There is a placard at the top showing the direction of the four peaks. Only Mt. St. Helens can be seen from here though. Unless I missed something, lol.
But cool view nonetheless. The grass area is a decent size. But it is nice walking on trails all around here. The Arboretum itself is awesome.
There is a placard at the top showing the direction of the four peaks. Only Mt. St. Helens can be seen from here though. Unless I missed something, lol.
But cool view nonetheless. The grass area is a decent size. But it is nice walking on trails all around here. The Arboretum itself is awesome.
There is a placard at the top showing the direction of the four peaks. Only Mt. St. Helens can be seen from here though. Unless I missed something, lol.
But cool view nonetheless. The grass area is a decent size. But it is nice walking on trails all around here. The Arboretum itself is awesome.
The Volcanic Vista in Hoyt Arboretum which resides in Washington Park is by far one of the most beautiful views you are going to find in Portland, Oregon. If you’re looking for a place to get some photos or throw a beach blanket down on the ground and just have a nice family picnic or let the dogs roam and just enjoy the weather with you. This has it all in spades. Whether you live here or are just visiting, this is definitely a place to stop if you want to take in a little nature and a little less city.