Lower Macleay Trail

The primary access point is the Lower Macleay Trailhead, located at the end of NW 29th Avenue in Portland. Parking is typically available along the street, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Arriving earlier in the day is recommended.

Yes, dogs are welcome on the trail. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times, as per Forest Park regulations, to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.

The trail is beautiful year-round. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers like trillium and yellow violets, while summer offers a cool, shaded escape from the heat. Fall showcases rich autumn colors, and even winter provides a serene, moss-covered landscape. The dense tree canopy offers good protection from rain, making it enjoyable in most weather conditions.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to hike the Lower Macleay Trail or any other trails within Forest Park. It is free and open to the public.

The initial 0.2 miles of the trail are paved and accessible. Beyond that, it transitions to a dirt path that generally follows Balch Creek with a gradual incline and rolling hills. While mostly gentle, some sections have a slight incline, averaging around 5%. For those extending their hike, steeper sections can be encountered.

You'll follow Balch Creek, known for its native cutthroat trout. About 0.8 miles in, you'll reach the historic Stone House, often called 'Witch's Castle.' The trail also passes by a 241-foot Douglas fir, recognized as the Tallest Urban Tree in the Nation.

Yes, the trail connects directly to the famous Wildwood Trail, an extensive 80-mile system that traverses Forest Park. This allows for longer hikes and connections to other trails like Holman Lane and Old Cornell, offering various loop options and extensions.

Yes, the first 0.2 miles of the Lower Macleay Trail are paved and specifically designed to be handicap accessible, ending at a viewing area overlooking Balch Creek. Beyond this point, the trail becomes unpaved.

You'll be immersed in a dense, temperate rainforest with towering trees like Douglas firs, Western red cedars, and big-leaf maples. The undergrowth is rich with ferns and moss-covered logs. Balch Creek is home to native cutthroat trout, and you might spot various bird species and small mammals typical of a Pacific Northwest forest.

Absolutely. The Lower Macleay Trail is generally considered easy to moderate, especially the initial sections. Its gentle grade and shaded environment make it very suitable for beginners, families, and casual hikers looking for a pleasant walk in nature.

Yes, the trail connects to the Wildwood Trail, allowing for significant extensions. You can hike further into Forest Park or even connect to routes leading up to Pittock Mansion, which adds considerable elevation gain and distance for a more challenging experience.