Mount Tabor is one of the few urban volcanoes in the continental United States, with its last eruption occurring approximately 300,000 years ago.
The park was designed by the Olmsted Brothers, the same landscape architecture firm that designed New York's Central Park.
The reservoir system was built between 1894 and 1911 to provide clean gravity-fed water to the city.
The stairs are frequently used by local residents for high-intensity interval training, often referred to as 'Tabor stairs' workouts.
The park serves as a migration stopover for diverse bird species, including pileated woodpeckers and barred owls.
Mount Tabor is a dormant volcanic cinder cone located within the Portland city limits, known for its extensive network of trails and stairs. The staircases provide significant elevation gain, connecting the lower residential areas to the summit reservoirs and park summit. These stairs serve as a primary physical training ground for local athletes and residents. The park sits at an elevation of 636 feet, offering panoramic views of the Portland skyline and Mount Hood. It features three historic open-air water reservoirs managed by the Portland Water Bureau. The site is part of a 196-acre park system established in the early 20th century.
The summit viewing area overlooking the reservoir with the city skyline in the background.
Bring a water bottle, as the stairs provide a strenuous cardiovascular workout.
Visit during a weekday morning to avoid peak weekend crowds and parking congestion.
Wear shoes with good traction as some concrete steps can be uneven or slick when damp.
Do not attempt to walk the stairs if you have knee or joint issues, as the elevation change is significant.
Stay on marked trails to prevent erosion; keep dogs on leash in designated areas.
