Intensity: medium to challenging
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| Photo by: Rich Chamberlin |
Minutes outside the uppity-ness of uptown, Lower McCleay Park's unassuming secret is that it is the front yard to a wood fairy’s wonderland. Moss covered trees entangle in all directions as intermittent sunlight and rain filters through the green and brown canopy above. Breathe in the smell of the fresh temperate forest mixed in with the occasional waft of marijuana coming from the bros up ahead. The first mile of the path runs along a creek often filled with kids and happy dogs no matter the season. The path is dirt, but well kept - just rocky enough to provide traction on Oregon’s mostly muddy days. Wildwood Trail soon turns away and up and so begins a steep incline that won’t end until you get to the top. Be prepared to walk at some point during this 5 mile round trip journey for two reasons: first, because your legs and lungs may start yelling at you in protest. Secondly, because it’s sunny and sunshine is the Northwest’s Bat Signal that lets everyone know to either head to the trails or the patio of a local restaurant. Yes, this trail gets crowded - go early if you can.
Wildwood definitely provides some choose your own adventure experiences, but your best bet will be to follow it all the way up to Pittock Mansion where you will see, arguably, the best view of downtown Portland, not to mention a historic Victorian-style mansion. Once you’ve had your fill of the scenery and are tired of judging the people who drove to the viewpoint, turn around and experience this amazing hike in the other direction. More info: Lower McCleay to Pittock Mansion, Forest Park Hike
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