The park was officially established in 1948 following decades of advocacy to protect the land from urban development.
It is a core component of the North Reach of the Willamette River Watershed.
The Wildwood Trail, which runs through the park, is marked with blue blazes and mile markers every quarter-mile.
The park contains the remains of historical sites, including remnants of the 1905 Lewis and Clark Centennial Exposition.
It acts as a primary wildlife corridor allowing species to move between the Coast Range and the urban core.
Forest Park is one of the largest urban forests in the United States, spanning more than 5,200 acres along the eastern slope of the Tualatin Mountains. It features over 80 miles of interconnected trails, including a significant segment of the 30-mile Wildwood Trail. The park serves as a protected habitat for diverse wildlife, including black-tailed deer, pileated woodpeckers, and coyote. The terrain is defined by dense second-growth Douglas fir, western hemlock, and western red cedar forest. It functions as a critical component of the regional greenspace system, providing a natural buffer between Portland's urban environment and the Willamette River valley. Elevations within the park range from near sea level at the riverfront to over 1,000 feet at the ridgeline.
The viewpoint near the Lower Macleay Trail or the stone structures along the Wildwood Trail.
Carry a physical map or ensure offline trail navigation as cell service is inconsistent in deep ravines.
Check the official Portland Parks and Recreation alerts for temporary trail closures due to seasonal maintenance or storm damage.
Bring extra water as there are no potable water sources located along the interior trail network.
Do not leave valuables inside vehicles at trailheads, as they are common targets for theft.
Trails may close temporarily during extreme weather events or high fire danger periods; check regional park status before arrival.
Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive flora and prevent erosion; leashed pets are required.
