Marquam Nature Park
A steep, forested urban escape with over 5 miles of trails, offering a peaceful retreat and rewarding views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light filters through trees
Marquam Nature Park
Best Time
Golden hour light filters through trees
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A steep, forested urban escape with over 5 miles of trails, offering a peaceful retreat and rewarding views.
"You would never think this is so close to the city. Absolutely loved it."
Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be steep, muddy, and have exposed roots. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Grab a trail map
The trail system can be confusing; a map at the SW Sam Jackson entrance is helpful. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ascent to Council Crest
Connects to Council Crest Park
Hike up to the city's highest point for panoramic views of mountains and the urban landscape.
Forest Immersion
Throughout the park
Wander through 193 acres of dense forest, enjoying the fresh, tree-filtered air and serene atmosphere.
Steep Workout Trails
Various trails
Challenge yourself on the park's steep, narrow trails, offering a great cardiovascular workout.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Steep Trails & City Escape
Parking & Trail Navigation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be steep, muddy, and have exposed roots. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Grab a trail map
The trail system can be confusing; a map at the SW Sam Jackson entrance is helpful. :world_map:
Parking is limited
Arrive early or on a weekday to secure a spot, especially on weekends. :car:
Dog-friendly fun
A great spot for pups, but trails are narrow, so keep them close. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be steep, muddy, and have exposed roots. Good grip is essential! :athletic_shoe:
Grab a trail map
The trail system can be confusing; a map at the SW Sam Jackson entrance is helpful. :world_map:
Parking is limited
Arrive early or on a weekday to secure a spot, especially on weekends. :car:
Dog-friendly fun
A great spot for pups, but trails are narrow, so keep them close. :dog:
Embrace the quiet
Perfect for a peaceful escape and to reconnect with nature. :leaf:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Marquam Nature Park's surprising serenity and challenging steep trails, offering a true escape within the city. While parking can be scarce and trails narrow, the peaceful forest atmosphere and rewarding views from Council Crest make it a beloved local gem for a vigorous hike and a nature break.
"You would never think this is so close to the city. Absolutely loved it. The trails are great, and you get a little incline. Great scenery, the sheer beauty of this park. I sat down in a couple of the areas. It was extremely peaceful. Plenty of parking, and some people had dogs with them. Check it out."
Michael DeGori
"So many trail options, and you decide the length of your adventure. In the city, but covered with beautiful trees. Quite shady. About a 40 minute hike UP to Coucil Crest. The trail is mostly clear, but there are some roots to manage. There was a trail map to grab at the start of the trail on SW Sam Jackson just past Twilliger. This is a part of the 4T's."
Faye Comer
"A great hike for you and your pup!! Definitely very steep & narrow! Most of the time the trail is a one person at a time. I went on a hike today and encountered the friendliest people there! And such lovely dogs(none which were aggressive.) As we are in a time of a pandemic it was nice to see most people complying with the mandatory mask regulation! And if they didn’t have it on as soon as they saw us they would put it on(which is just fine if you ask me!) it’s definitely a good hike to do even if it’s slightly raining but if it was raining a lot previously I don’t recommend going as it could be quite dangerous with the amount of mud and how steep this hike truly is. I think the only cons of this hike was that it is a little bit confusing to get to the trails and parking is very scarce"
Lesley Cervantes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Marquam Nature Park is accessible by car, with the main entrance often cited as being on SW Sam Jackson Street. Parking is available but can be scarce, especially during peak times. Public transportation options might require a walk from the nearest stop.
Yes, there is parking available, but it's often described as scarce and the lot level isn't always ideal, though usually manageable for smaller cars. Arriving early is recommended.
While direct public transport to the park's core might be limited, you can likely reach the general vicinity via bus and then walk to the park entrance. Check local transit schedules for routes near SW Sam Jackson Street.
The trailhead is often found off SW Sam Jackson Street. It's advisable to grab a trail map at the start to help navigate the park's network of paths.
Marquam Nature Park is primarily known for its hiking trails. While some may be suitable for mountain biking, it's best to check local regulations or stick to walking to avoid trail damage and ensure safety on the narrow paths.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Marquam Nature Park is a public park and does not require an entrance fee or tickets. It's free to explore its trails and natural beauty.
As an undeveloped natural area, Marquam Nature Park generally does not have strict opening or closing hours like a typical park. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
There is no admission fee to enter Marquam Nature Park. It's a free public space for recreation and enjoying nature.
There's no need to reserve a spot as it's a public park. However, due to limited parking, arriving early is recommended, especially on busy days.
The main restrictions would be standard park rules, such as leash laws for dogs and respecting the natural environment. During the pandemic, mask-wearing was observed by visitors.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Many visitors enjoy the steep trails that lead up to Council Crest Park for rewarding views. The Basalt to Marquam to Shadyside loop is also a popular choice for a varied hike.
Absolutely! Marquam Nature Park is highly recommended for its steep, challenging trails that provide an excellent urban workout.
Unfortunately, there are no local restrooms within Marquam Nature Park itself. Visitors should plan accordingly and use facilities before or after their visit.
Yes, Marquam Nature Park is dog-friendly. Many visitors enjoy hiking with their pups, though the narrow trails mean keeping dogs close.
Expect dense, forested scenic views with plenty of trees that create a shady and peaceful atmosphere, making you feel far from the city.
📸 📸 Photography
The trails leading to Council Crest offer stunning panoramic views, especially during golden hour. The dense forest itself provides beautiful, dappled light for nature photography.
Yes, the views from higher points like Council Crest can be spectacular at sunset, with the city lights beginning to twinkle below.
The park is ideal for landscape photography, nature shots, and capturing the serene forest environment. The steep trails also offer opportunities for action shots if you're hiking with others.
The primary viewpoint is at Council Crest Park, which is accessible via trails from Marquam Nature Park. This spot offers expansive views of the surrounding mountains and city.
Late afternoon, especially leading up to sunset, offers beautiful golden hour light filtering through the trees. Early mornings can also be peaceful and offer soft light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are no restrooms within the park, it's a great place for a picnic if you pack it in and out. The connection to Council Crest Park offers a rewarding destination with expansive views that kids might find exciting. Consider shorter, less steep loops if your children are younger or less experienced hikers.
🏃♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
Combine the hike with a run or power walk to Council Crest for an even more demanding session. The natural terrain, with its roots and inclines, also engages stabilizing muscles, offering a more comprehensive fitness experience than a flat, paved path.
🐶 Dog Owners
Keep in mind that the trails are narrow, so it's important to keep your dog on a leash and close to you, especially when encountering other hikers or dogs. The steepness can be a good workout for both of you, and the forest provides plenty of interesting smells for your dog to explore.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Marquam Nature Park Trail System
Navigating the park can be a bit tricky due to the numerous trail junctions. It's highly recommended to grab a trail map at the main entrance on SW Sam Jackson Street to help you plan your route and avoid getting lost. The paths are often narrow, sometimes only wide enough for one person at a time, which adds to the intimate feel of the hike but requires awareness of others.
Be prepared for varying trail conditions. While generally well-maintained, some sections can become quite muddy after rain, making them slippery and potentially hazardous on the steeper parts. The presence of exposed roots is also common, so sturdy footwear is a must for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Connecting to Council Crest Park
Upon reaching Council Crest, visitors are treated to breathtaking panoramic views. On clear days, you can see prominent landmarks such as Mt. Hood, Mt. St. Helens, and the cityscape of Portland spread out below. This makes the challenging hike well worth the effort for the stunning vistas.
Council Crest Park also features an off-leash dog park, making it a popular destination for dog owners who have hiked up from Marquam Nature Park. It's a great place to relax, enjoy the scenery, and let your canine companions play after their climb.
An Urban Oasis of Serenity
This natural sanctuary is an ideal spot for those looking to escape the daily grind and find a moment of quiet reflection. Whether you're sitting on a bench to take it all in or simply walking at a slower pace, the park encourages mindfulness and a break from societal pressures. It's a place where you can truly forget you are near the city.
The park's undeveloped nature contributes to its serene atmosphere. It feels wild and untouched, providing a genuine nature experience without having to travel far. This makes Marquam Nature Park a valuable local gem for residents and a delightful discovery for visitors seeking a peaceful natural retreat.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit