Highlight • Structure
Hiking
4.5
(10)
Road cycling
5.0
(6)
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Tips
October 1, 2021
Hiking
December 18, 2023
Road cycling

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Nearby routes
Best routes near Washington Park Archery Range

4.8
(8)
89
hikers
7.36km
02:07
180m
190m
Embark on the MAX to MAC hike, a moderate 4.6-mile (7.4 km) route that offers a refreshing escape into nature right within Portland's Washington Park. You will gain 589 feet (180 metres) in elevation over an estimated 2 hours and 6 minutes, winding through thick, shaded forest on singletrack paths. Expect small switchbacks and rolling sections, with glimpses of Mount Hood through the trees on clear days, and pass by the beautiful Hoyt Arboretum.
This trail is generally accessible year-round, making it a great option for any season. Dogs are welcome on leash, so you can bring your furry companion along for the adventure. Parking is typically available in the Washington Park area, but be aware that it can get busy, especially on weekends. No specific permits or fees are required to enjoy this route.
The MAX to MAC route is notable for its unique urban-nature blend, connecting you to key city attractions while immersing you in a natural setting. You will get close to the International Rose Test Garden, experiencing a mix of dirt and paved sections as you explore. This trail provides a perfect opportunity to enjoy the outdoors without leaving the city limits, offering a diverse and engaging experience.

5.0
(1)
17
hikers
12.8km
03:40
250m
390m
Embark on a moderate 8.0-mile (12.8 km) hike connecting two of Portland's cherished green spaces. This route takes you through varied terrain, from the structured beauty of Hoyt Arboretum to the wilder, moss-draped woods of the Lower MacLeay Trail. You will gain 833 feet (254 metres) in elevation over approximately 3 hours and 39 minutes, experiencing diverse ecosystems. Along the way, you can admire towering coastal redwoods and bamboo at the arboretum, then transition to a dense forest alongside Balch Creek, eventually reaching the historic Stone House. Expect a mix of paved sections and natural dirt paths, including some steep climbs and exposed roots.
To plan your visit, parking is available at multiple points near both the Hoyt Arboretum and the Lower MacLeay Trailhead. Public transport also offers convenient access to the starting areas, making it easy to begin your adventure. While the trail connects two distinct areas, many hikers experience it as a continuous journey, often using the Wildwood Trail as a linking path. No permits or fees are typically required for this urban escape.
This trail is notable for its unique blend of cultivated botanical gardens and untamed urban wilderness, showcasing nearly 9,000 tree and plant specimens in the arboretum alone. As you move into the Lower MacLeay section, the environment shifts dramatically to a lush, verdant forest, providing a stark contrast and a sense of deeper immersion in nature. The route offers a fantastic opportunity to observe diverse flora and fauna within the city limits, making it a popular choice for local nature enthusiasts.

3.0
(1)
17
hikers
3.85km
01:07
120m
70m
Embark on the Maple, Overlook, Hawthorn and Walnut Loop, an easy hike through Portland's Hoyt Arboretum. This route spans 2.4 miles (3.9 km) and involves a gentle climb of 391 feet (119 metres), typically taking about 1 hour and 6 minutes to complete. As you walk, you will experience a living museum of diverse trees and plants, with sections of paved path, packed dirt, and gravel underfoot, occasionally encountering stairs and exposed roots.
To plan your visit, consider that the Overlook Trail section conveniently links the Hoyt Arboretum Visitor Center to other popular spots within Washington Park, making access straightforward. While the overall route is easy, some parts of the Maple Trail can be steep; hiking in a counter-clockwise direction can help you tackle these inclines more comfortably. This interconnected loop allows you to customize your experience within the arboretum based on your preferences.
This trail offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a vast collection of over 2,000 plant species, including striking Japanese maples that display vibrant colors, especially during the fall season. You can enjoy pleasant views of the surrounding trees and hillsides, particularly from the gentle slopes of the Overlook Trail. The arboretum's design allows you to explore a wide variety of flora, making it a notable destination for nature enthusiasts in the region.
Details
Informations
Elevation 200 m
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Tuesday 30 June
19°C
11°C
39 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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