Get started freePortland: America's Best City for Trail Running
Portland has 280+ miles of trails within city limits — more than any US city. Forest Park alone has 80+ miles of trails. Add mild year-round temperatures (40-80°F) and a passionate running community, and you have the perfect trail running destination.
Top 8 Portland Trail Running Routes
| Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wildwood Trail | 30.2 mi (full) | 2,400 ft | Moderate | Portland's crown jewel, run any section |
| Leif Erikson Drive | 11.2 mi | 800 ft | Easy | Wide gravel, perfect for beginners |
| Powell Butte | 6-9 mi (loops) | 600 ft | Easy-Moderate | Open meadows, Mt. Hood views |
| Council Crest-Marquam | 4 mi loop | 700 ft | Moderate | City views, forest immersion |
| Macleay Park-Pittock | 5 mi out-back | 900 ft | Moderate | Witch's Castle ruins, mansion views |
| Springwater Corridor | 21 mi (one-way) | Flat | Easy | Paved, flat, great for long runs |
| Tualatin Hills Nature Park | 3-5 mi loops | 200 ft | Easy | Wetlands, boardwalks, wildlife |
| Silver Falls (day trip) | 7.2 mi loop | 800 ft | Moderate | 10 waterfalls — the best trail in Oregon |
Essential Trail Running Gear
| Gear | Budget Pick | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Trail shoes | Brooks Cascadia / Salomon Speedcross | $110-140 |
| Hydration vest | Salomon ADV Skin 5 | $100-130 |
| Rain jacket (Portland essential!) | Patagonia Houdini / OR Helium | $80-120 |
| Headlamp (winter runs) | Petzl Actik Core | $50-70 |
Portland tip: join Portland Trail Runners or the Portland Running Company group runs — free weekly runs on Forest Park trails, all levels welcome.
