photos by The Clackamas Print
As temperatures in Oregon rise, it’s the perfect time of year to explore the trails and views around the state. Hike to a beautiful scenic waterfall, or take a trail to a monument
or landmark. The Clackamas Print reviewed five Oregon hikes to try help you find an adventure. Or at least a break from school, studying and Snapchat.
FOREST PARK
This hike comes with a bonus, as it begins
and ends at Portland’ s famous Pittock
Mansion. Walk around the grounds and
enjoy the panoramic city and mountain
views for free. There’s an admission fee
to enter the mansion.
Find Pittock Trailhead in the corner
of the parking lot, where the grounds
back up to Forest Park. W ith more
than 80 miles of trails at your feet, the
hiking possibilities are limitless. But the
trailhead sign offers two possibilities of
worthwhile hiking routes.
Tuck your sunglasses away as you step
foot on this w ell-beaten, shaded path
with only sprinkles o f sunlight sifted
4 Clacton» Rrt JUNE L 2Ä thedactanasprältom
through the tall evergreens. This peaceful
hike begins with a descent through the
forest, where you’ll notice old stumps and
sprouting hem locks. W hile somewhat
uneventful, this short hike is perfect for
almost everyone, including trail runners
and families as long as you don’t mind
the hike back uphill.
The second hike begins with the same
descent into the forest, but veers left on
Wildwood Trail. Water trickling over the
trail hints at What’s ahead. After crossing
over Cornell Road, (a sm all reminder
that you’re still in the city), suddenly
the calming sound of rushing water will
hasten your step. Soon you’ll hit Balch
Creek, sm all w aterfalls and wooden
bridges. Continue along the creek to the
Stone House, a WPA-era restroom, now
covered in graffiti. The trail goes on for
78 more miles, but for this hike, it’s time
to turn around. The second half of the
hike takes you back the way you came,
and includes some fairly steep climbs.
Just remember, your mansion awaits you.
Good for beginners, with additional
creepy-cool vibes, the W itches Castle
hike in Forest Park is great for after-work
jogs, family walks or fun photo shoots. Pet
friendly with many restaurants nearby
on Northwest 23rd Avenue, this hike is
perfect for a quick breath of fresh air.
Located about 35 minutes away from
campus, a quick Google search will take
you directly to a parking lot and entrance
and a porta potty if needed. Friday at 5
p.m. with a friend and an adorable puppy,
we ventured out to the graffiti covered
castle; there was plenty of greenery and
even a small stream. Along the short jaunt
to the “ haunted” castle, the pathway was
rocky and slippery when wet, definitely
prepare beforehand and wear non-slick
shoes; there is also a sm all bridge to
cross. During this Northwest Portland
hike you’ll be sure to see runners, couples,
dog-w alkers, and in our instance an
engagement shoot.
— KRISTEN WOHLERS AND ALEXIS WAGAR