Forest Park - Portland, OR
Forest Park: Dog-Friendly Hiking and Nature in Portland, Oregon
Forest Park, located just minutes from downtown Portland, Oregon, stands as one of the largest urban forest reserves in the country. With its extensive pet-friendly trails and miles of lush, mossy old-growth forests, this park is a paradise for hikers and dog owners alike. Its well-maintained trails offer a peaceful retreat from the city where you and your canine companion can enjoy year-round dog-friendly hiking. The park’s unique position so close to the city yet feeling so removed makes it a must-see destination for Portland locals and visitors seeking a green escape.
Dog owners will appreciate the park’s cooling temperatures, ample shade from tall trees, and a natural setting that allows dogs to explore (though leash laws apply throughout). While the park boasts beautiful, scenic routes and the chance for wildlife spotting, there’s no designated off-leash or fenced dog area, so pups must remain on a leash. Parking is available near trailheads, and the experience is enhanced by forest tranquility, clean air, and friendly visitors who also love the outdoors.
FAQ
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times in Forest Park.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Forest Park features miles of interconnected hiking and walking trails, including the famed Wildwood Trail.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, the park’s trails are heavily shaded by mature, tall trees, providing cooling temperatures even in summer.
- Is there parking? Yes, parking is available at many trailheads throughout Forest Park.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Yes, the park’s trails can be muddy after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? No, dogs must remain on leash in all areas of Forest Park.
Reviews
Last week I started my hike from the trailhead off of Skyline Boulevard. The trail is well maintained, peaceful and it feels clean and safe. Frankly, the health of the forest is spectacular. It is a wonderful place to find your center, fill your lungs with fresh air and appreciate the beauty that rages beneath our noses when we’re not noticing it.
The trail is steep in some places. It wasn’t crowded with people, but there was a runner and a dog walker. I was happy that I had brought my trekking poles to help with my stability on the ascents and descents.
Forest Park’s a stunning urban oasis, the largest in the US! The Wildwood Trail, marked by blue diamonds, weaves through lush old-growth forest, with well-kept paths branching out 🌲. Dog-friendly & perfect for year-round hikes, it’s a mossy escape from Portland. Muddy trails call for sturdy shoes 🥾. Clear signs guide you through long, scenic routes—pure nature bliss!
Forest park is really a special place in my opinion, throughout my life it’s been a bit of a getaway to me and it’s always almost felt like a place you would hear about in books. The most impressive thing about it is it’s location, nestled just outside one of the largest cities in oregon, you can go from portland to dozens of miles of forest trail in less than 20 minutes (if traffic permits it) and once you’re there it feels uniquely isolated for how close it is to the city. The park provides a plethora of outdoor activities such as bird watching, photography, hiking and identifying the wild variety of plants in the area. It’s kind of a must see for me whenever i have someone visiting out of state that’s at all into the outdoors and I’ve never had anyone be disappointed, even if they come from a place with more exotic plants or forestry it’s still a fairly unique experience
This place is absolutely beautiful! Highly recommend. It is a dog friendly trail. Trail was pretty muddy so make sure to wear good shoes to hike in.
Place:
*Many trails here so you feel secluded though it is a very popular hiking area.
*Not an exaggeration, this is an enchanting beautiful green forest.
*Local and touristic.
Pet:
*Dog friendly.
*Dogs must be in leash.
*Dogs will love this place!
Pros:
*Cooling temperature all year around.
*Easy to find parking (came at 6:30pm on a Sunday & 6pm on weekdays).
*Running/jogging friendly place.
Cons:
*No trash bins.
*Visible amount of poop bags.
*Some dead end trails.
Tips:
*Check out the classy, tasteful & unique line of houses around Forest Park.
*Know there are no bins; if you bring your dog you will have to carry the poop bag throughout the hike or take it with you.
*2 loop trails doable for couple hrs – see photo.