Lower Macleay Park Portland
Discover the enchanting Witches' Castle and lush trails of Lower Macleay Park, a magical urban oasis in Portland's Forest Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Lower Macleay Park Portland
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the enchanting Witches' Castle and lush trails of Lower Macleay Park, a magical urban oasis in Portland's Forest Park.
"A fantastic photo op with a trail that did not disappoint!"
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be slippery, especially when wet. Hiking boots are recommended.
📸 Perfect photo ops
The Witches' Castle and tunnel offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Witches' Castle
Mid-trail
Explore the historic stone structure, a popular photo spot with intriguing architecture and a touch of mystery.
Balch Creek Trail
Along the creek
A relaxing and scenic walk alongside Balch Creek, offering lush greenery and a peaceful escape within the city.
Stone Staircase
Near the Witches' Castle
Admire the impressive stonework of the grand staircase, a testament to historical craftsmanship.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds to the Witches' Castle
Trail Conditions & Footwear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be slippery, especially when wet. Hiking boots are recommended.
📸 Perfect photo ops
The Witches' Castle and tunnel offer fantastic photo opportunities.
⬆️ Hike to Pittock Mansion
For a longer adventure, extend your hike to Pittock Mansion for city views.
🚗 Parking can be tricky
The small parking lot fills up quickly; consider arriving early or on a weekday.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be slippery, especially when wet. Hiking boots are recommended.
📸 Perfect photo ops
The Witches' Castle and tunnel offer fantastic photo opportunities.
⬆️ Hike to Pittock Mansion
For a longer adventure, extend your hike to Pittock Mansion for city views.
🚗 Parking can be tricky
The small parking lot fills up quickly; consider arriving early or on a weekday.
🌳 Explore Forest Park
Lower Macleay is a gateway to the vast Forest Park, offering many interconnected trails.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Lower Macleay Park for its accessible natural beauty and the iconic Witches' Castle, offering a peaceful escape within the city. While some note construction disruptions and slippery trails, the overall experience is highly positive, with many appreciating the opportunity to connect with nature and explore the historic stone structure.
"I just happened to be driving by the parking lot and turned in quickly (but safely!😇😉), and got out my car to admire the lush area with the really neat looking tunnel. 📷Loved the pictures I took of it, FANTASTIC photo op here📸. In many different areas. I noticed the trail, and was too intrigued and happy to just get in my car and leave without checking out at least some of the trail. The trail did not disappoint. Was a slight steep at the beginning but was doable. The walk down felt like I was jogging down because of how steep it was and the shoes I was wearing were anything but hiking boots 😀🤣
I'll let my photos say the rest. ❤️"
Jill B
"Excellent hike to check out the Witches's Castle, and old building that was built in the 30's by the Conservation Core. It's a shame about the graffiti that is on what is left of the stone building as the workmanship of the stone walls is just wonderful. The hike walking along the stream was very nice and relaxing. Will have to take this all the way to the Pittock Mansion some day when we have a bit more time. A nice getaway from the noise of the city while being basically in the city. Having said that there is a lot on construction going on at the head of the trail and the small parking lot and about a block leading to the parking lot is blocked off for parking."
Mike Lee
"It may not be the best park experience, but I love it. This was my first encounter with forest park, I still think it is special. Leif Errickson Dr covers many ridges and draws, this area covers one deep draw. It starts at a low elevation, progresses upward along a creek going ever higher & deeper. Then it leaves the creek behind and starts the switch backs. Many other trails connect, there is the Audubon Society society at the end, & the structure part way through with the long stair path bracketed by great stone work. A great introduction to Forest Park, starting near many bus lines & other means of egress. Ok the work being done is distracting, they even closed an entrance stair... This too shall pass. 🙂"
Michael Freeman (Mike)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Lower Macleay Park using public transit. Several bus lines stop near the park entrances, making it accessible for those without a rental car. From the Upper Macleay Parking Lot, it's a short hike, or a slightly longer one from the Lower Macleay Parking Lot.
The Lower Macleay Parking Lot is the most convenient, but it's small and fills up fast. There's also an Upper Macleay Parking Lot near the Portland Audubon Society.
Yes, Lower Macleay Park is located in NW Portland and is a well-known starting point for hikes into Forest Park. The address is Lower Macleay Trail, Portland, OR 97210.
Absolutely! Lower Macleay Park is a popular trailhead that connects to numerous other trails within the expansive Forest Park, allowing for longer and more varied hikes.
The Witches' Castle is located along the Lower Macleay Trail. It's a moderate hike from the parking lot, and the trail is generally well-maintained.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Lower Macleay Park is a public park and does not require an entrance ticket. Access is free for all visitors.
As a public park, Lower Macleay Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. However, it's always a good idea to check local park advisories for any temporary closures or restrictions.
There is no admission fee to see or explore the Witches' Castle, as it is part of the public park.
No permits are typically required for casual hiking in Lower Macleay Park. However, if you plan on organizing a large event or commercial activity, you may need to obtain a permit from the city.
While the park is generally open from dawn to dusk, it's advisable to avoid visiting after dark for safety reasons and due to potential park closing times.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The difficulty varies. The trail to the Witches' Castle is considered moderate and relatively easy, though it can be slippery. Hiking further to Pittock Mansion or other parts of Forest Park can be more challenging with significant elevation gain.
Restroom facilities may be limited within the park itself. It's recommended to use facilities before you arrive or be prepared for a more rustic experience.
Yes, dogs are generally allowed in Lower Macleay Park, but they must be kept on a leash.
You might spot banana slugs, various birds, and other small forest creatures. The park's lush environment supports a diverse range of local wildlife.
While often referred to as the 'haunted castle,' it's actually a historic structure built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The name likely comes from its mysterious appearance.
📸 📸 Photography
The Witches' Castle is a prime photo location, offering unique architectural shots.
Absolutely! The lush greenery, creek, and forest setting make it ideal for nature photography, especially during different seasons.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, creating a magical atmosphere.
Drone usage in city parks can be restricted. It's best to check Portland Parks & Recreation regulations regarding drone operation before flying.
The slippery conditions and uneven terrain can be a challenge for photographers, so secure footing and careful handling of equipment are important.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring snacks and water, and ensure children wear appropriate footwear as the trails can be uneven and slippery. 🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Day-Trippers
+1 Be mindful of trail conditions, especially if hiking alone, and let someone know your plans. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The creek-side path and the tunnel also present unique photographic opportunities. Be prepared for potentially slippery conditions and uneven terrain, so prioritize camera stability and safety. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Witches' Castle
Despite its whimsical nickname, the stone building served as a restroom and ranger station. Over time, it fell into disrepair and was vandalized, contributing to its mysterious and somewhat eerie reputation. Many visitors are drawn to the castle for its photogenic qualities and the sense of history it evokes.
Navigating the Trails and Connecting to Other Parks
The primary trail, the Lower Macleay Trail, follows the picturesque Balch Creek, offering a relatively gentle introduction to the park's natural beauty. As you ascend, the trail can become steeper, with switchbacks leading further into the forest. From Lower Macleay, hikers can connect to a multitude of other trails, allowing for customizable routes and varying levels of difficulty. A popular extension is the hike up to the historic Pittock Mansion, offering panoramic views of Portland and the surrounding mountains.
+1 Other connections lead towards the Audubon Society or even further into the extensive Forest Park trail system, providing options for both short strolls and challenging all-day treks. Best Practices for Visiting
Consider the time of year for your visit. Summer mornings offer a chance to beat the heat, while fall brings vibrant foliage.
+1 Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the park's natural beauty for future visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit