We are embarking on one of the most beautiful urban hiking trails in the US.
Mary Smith will lead us along a favorite and well-known route, and we will enjoy fresh air, tranquility, and a dark green redwood forest. Within the city of Portland, Oregon, USA, lies the longest natural-surface trail in an urban park – the Wildwood Trail, an impressive 48 km in length.
It's far: 9,647 km as the crow flies from Sofia and there's a 10-hour time difference. But what are distances to us? Lace up your hiking boots!
And who is the author? Let that remain a secret. And those who guess – let them keep silent… I will only add that it is a person dear to my heart.
Wildwood Trail, the longest forest trail in Portland
Portland residents have the rare opportunity to hike without leaving the city. In fact, the city boasts one of the longest unpaved trails in the US – the Wildwood Trail, which stretches for an incredible 30 miles within the city limits.
The path winds through the forest, and one can easily get lost without a map. Fortunately, the signposts and markings are impeccable.
A little history.
In 1846, the Oregon Treaty was signed, and the territory became part of the United States.
In 1859, Oregon was officially admitted as the 33rd state.
And what happens to the local Native American tribes?
Those who were not driven out or massacred were placed in reservations. Nevertheless, they left their mark on the region – many of the rivers, mountains, and forests still bear their names today.
The Wildwood Trail passes through three of Portland's most iconic green spaces:
Forest Park
Washington Park
Hoyt Arboretum
Due to its exceptional natural endowments, the route has been declared a National Recreation Trail.
Amidst medieval forests, mosses, and legends
My favorite hike on the Wildwood Trail is about 10 kilometers and takes approximately two and a half hours.
The route begins at Lower Macleay Park. The small Balch Creek river winds alongside the trail, and the trees are covered in moss, ferns, and ivy.
One of the most interesting stops is the Stone House, also known as the Witch's Castle.
Photo 3 – The Stone House (Witches' Castle)
Built in 1929 as a recreational and picnic spot, the building was gradually abandoned after years of vandalism. Today, it is among the most photographed places on the route and is shrouded in local legends.
Friday Mansion and the view of Portland
After about a half-hour steep climb, you reach Pittock Mansion.
The elevation difference from the Stone House to the Manor is approximately 195 meters.
On a clear day, you can see the following from here:
Cascade Range;
• The snow-capped peaks of Oregon;
• Columbia and Willamette Rivers.
The estate was built in 1914 by Henry Pittock—publisher of The Oregonian newspaper and one of Portland's most influential residents in the late 19th century.
After a storm in 1962, the property was acquired by the municipality and converted into a public park, which today is among the locals' favorite places for a stroll.
Among the giant sequoias and the Japanese Garden
After the panoramic viewpoint, the route continues towards the Hoyt Arboretum and its impressive grove of giant sequoias.
Photo 5 – Redwoods in Hoyt Arboretum
It's hard to imagine that after a few centuries these trees can reach a height of over 90 meters.
My walk usually ends at the Portland Japanese Garden, located in Washington Park.
Created in the 1960s, it is considered one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan.
Nearby is also the famous International Rose Test Garden – one of Portland's emblems.
The sight of countless roses invariably reminds every Bulgarian of the Rose Valley and the aroma of Bulgarian rose oil.
See more about the author Mary Smith here.
Two more photos on the way
