Portland Urban Hiking Adventure
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore lush Forest Park trails
- Discover the mysterious Witches Castle
- Enjoy panoramic city views from Pittock Mansion
- Learn about Portland's rich history
- Experience diverse local flora and fauna
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour through Forest Park
- Visit to the Witches Castle
- Pittock Mansion exploration
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
We'll make our way into Forest Park from the starting point, one of the lowest-elevation points in the park, where we'll join the famous Wildwood Trail, a 43-mile long trail that has its origin over 110 years ago.
We'll make our way from Lower Macleay Trail and continue traveling along the Wildwood Trail. We will be on this trail for approximately 3 miles (5 km), for about 900 feet of elevation gain (300 meters)
We'll visit the former rest stop known as the "Witch's Castle," and tell stories about the witches that do live here now.
Pass by: 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.
We'll cross Burnside and pass into Washington Park (occasionally in the afternoon, we'll reverse this and see Washington Park before Forest Park). We typically wind down through the NW Portland neighborhoods, with beautiful views of the city and mountains, and cross Burnside at a light-metered crosswalk. If the weather is not friendly or the roses are not in bloom, we will often end in the NW neighborhood of Nob Hill/NW 23rd Avenue, with guest agreement.
Pass by: The Japanese Garden is closed on Tuesdays and can often be closed sporadically; 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).
THE ROSE GARDEN IS ONLY IN BLOOM FROM LATE MAY THROUGH OCTOBER. 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!
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour operates rain or shine; cancellations are rare.
- Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Pets are not permitted on the tour.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during the hike.
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly for the conditions.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Service Animals Allowed
- Easy Public Transport
Traveler reviews
Great escape for a conference attendee
I had such a wonderful time and got everything out of it that I wanted! The storytelling and history paired with the hiking route really made for a wonderful experience. I was in town for a conference and this was a great way to change up the week and experience some of the beauty of Portland!
A tough one for beginners but so worth it!
Sarah was absolutely lovely. The hike was a bit more steep than anticipated but it felt great to accomplish! Would definitely recommend as a must do!
Disappointing nontour of the Rose Garden
The tour guide was very friendly and knowledgeable although she arrived 5 minutes late. Although the title of the tour featured the International Rose Garden, the tour only involved ending up at that location and only after a moderately difficult 4 hour hike of more than 5 miles with a 1000 foot elevation gain through the park before even arriving at the Rose Garden. There was nothing in the TripAdvisor description to suggest either the difficulty or the minimal involvement of the Rose Garden. The tour was poorly described.
Forest
Defiently worth seeing. The views were amazing and definitely took some great photos as well. Had an amazing tour guide as well.
Awesome tour!
Excellent- amazing tour. The tour guide was a lovely lady! Prepare to walk - comfortable shoes and clothing.