Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Forest Park Nature Preserve spans over 5,100 acres of protected temperate rainforest located within the city limits of Portland, Oregon. This expansive urban forest features rugged hills, dense Douglas fir and Western red cedar stands, and numerous creeks that support a diverse ecosystem, including a variety of birds, mammals, amphibians, and native plants. Established in 1948 to protect the natural environment and provide recreational opportunities for residents, the park is one of the largest urban forest reserves in the U.S. Forest Park’s trail system offers more than 80 miles of paths ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs, attracting hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers alike. Notable landmarks include Lower Macleay Trail and the iconic Wildwood Trail which crosses the park, as well as the historic Stone House ruins, a popular destination for visitors seeking a taste of the area's history. In addition to outdoor recreation, the park plays a key role in local conservation efforts by preserving native species and maintaining clean watershed areas crucial to Portland’s water quality. The park’s proximity to the city and its vast, relatively untouched environment make it an important green space for education, exercise, and wildlife observation, drawing over a million visitors annually.
