Portland Waterfront and Southwest Hills

This route offers a diverse experience, combining easy, flat, paved sections along the Portland Waterfront with significantly more challenging, hilly, and unpaved terrain in the Southwest Hills. The overall difficulty is rated as difficult due to the substantial elevation changes and varied surfaces in the hills, which include numerous stairs and natural paths.

Along the waterfront, you'll see the Willamette River, downtown skyline, and iconic bridges like Hawthorne. Highlights include the Vera Katz Statue, Vera Katz Esplanade, and Salmon Street Springs. In the Southwest Hills, expect lush forests and panoramic city views. Don't miss Elk Point Viewpoint and the Totem Pole and View of Mount Hood, which on clear days can offer vistas of several Cascade Range mountains.

Yes, many trails in Portland, including sections of the Waterfront and Southwest Hills, are dog-friendly. However, leash laws are strictly enforced, especially in parks and along the busy waterfront. Always be prepared to clean up after your pet.

Spring and fall are generally ideal. In spring, the waterfront trails boast beautiful cherry blossoms. Fall offers pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage in the Southwest Hills. While accessible year-round, be mindful of potential heat in summer and wet, muddy conditions in winter, especially on the unpaved hill sections.

No, you do not need any specific permits or pay entrance fees to access the public trails along the Portland Waterfront or in the Southwest Hills parks like Marquam Nature Park or Council Crest Park. These are generally free and open to the public.

For the waterfront, parking garages are available downtown, or you can use public transit like MAX light rail or streetcar, which have stops near the waterfront. For the Southwest Hills, limited street parking might be available near park entrances like Marquam Nature Park or Council Crest. Public transport options, such as TriMet buses, can also get you close to various trailheads in the hills. Check portland.gov for detailed parking information.

Yes, the route incorporates significant sections of other established trails. You will spend about 32% of your time on the Terwilliger Trail and another 32% on the Willamette Greenway Trail. Approximately 25% of the route also follows the Springwater Trail.

Absolutely. The entire Portland Waterfront section of this route is generally flat, paved, and considered easy. It's perfect for leisurely strolls, offering scenic views of the river and city skyline. You can choose to do just the waterfront portion for a less strenuous experience.

Along the waterfront, you'll primarily see urban parkland, river views, and possibly waterfowl near the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge Lake. In the Southwest Hills, you'll be immersed in lush, wooded environments with mature trees and diverse ecosystems. While wildlife sightings can vary, you might spot various bird species, squirrels, and other small mammals typical of urban forests.

Yes, especially along the Portland Waterfront and in the downtown areas adjacent to the Southwest Hills. You'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and public restrooms. The urban nature of this route means amenities are generally accessible, particularly in the more populated sections.

To fully appreciate the contrast, consider starting your hike early in the Southwest Hills to tackle the challenging climbs and enjoy the morning views from spots like Council Crest. Then, descend to the waterfront for a more relaxed finish, enjoying the city's vibrancy and river views as you cool down. This approach allows you to experience both the wilderness and urban charm effectively.