How to Hike Forest Park Summit Trail Portland

Forest Park in Portland, Oregon, is one of the largest urban forests in the United States, spanning over 5,200 acres of protected wilderness just minutes from downtown. Among its more than 80 miles of trails, the Summit Trail stands out as a challenging yet deeply rewarding hike for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude, panoramic views, and a true immersion in the Pacific Northwest’s temperate rainforest ecosystem. Unlike many popular urban trails that can feel crowded or commercialized, the Summit Trail offers a raw, unfiltered experience of nature — with towering Douglas firs, moss-laden understories, and the distant roar of the Willamette River below.

Yet despite its natural beauty and accessibility, the Summit Trail remains underutilized by casual hikers due to its steep elevation gain, uneven terrain, and lack of clear signage in certain sections. This guide is designed to transform confusion into confidence. Whether you’re a seasoned trail runner, a weekend hiker looking to level up, or a local resident eager to explore a hidden gem, this comprehensive tutorial will walk you through every step of preparing for, navigating, and enjoying the Forest Park Summit Trail — safely, sustainably, and successfully.

By the end of this guide, you’ll understand not only how to complete the trail, but why it matters — to your physical well-being, your connection to the natural world, and the broader effort to preserve urban wilderness in an increasingly developed landscape.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Trail Basics

The Forest Park Summit Trail is a loop that begins and ends at the Wildwood Trailhead near the intersection of NW Skyline Boulevard and NW Thompson Street. The full loop is approximately 4.7 miles with an elevation gain of roughly 1,300 feet. While not the longest trail in Forest Park, it is among the most strenuous due to its consistent steepness and rocky, root-littered surface.

The trail is marked primarily by blue blazes on trees and occasional wooden trail signs. It ascends from the western edge of the park, climbs steadily through dense forest, reaches the high point near the summit ridge (elevation 1,060 feet), and then descends via the adjacent Ridge Trail to reconnect with the Wildwood Trail. The loop can be hiked clockwise or counterclockwise, but the recommended direction is clockwise to manage the steepest ascent early, when energy levels are highest.

Most hikers complete the loop in 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on fitness level and stops for photos or rest. The trail is open year-round, but conditions vary dramatically by season. Winter brings mud and slick roots; spring offers wildflowers and flowing streams; summer provides dry, dusty paths and cooler canopy shade; fall delivers golden foliage and crisp air.

Step 2: Plan Your Timing

Timing is critical to maximizing your experience and minimizing risks. Avoid hiking during peak midday heat in summer (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.), as the trail has limited shade in the upper sections and dehydration is a common issue. Early morning (6–8 a.m.) is ideal for cooler temperatures, fewer people, and better wildlife sightings.

In winter and early spring, check the weather forecast closely. Rain can turn the trail into a slippery mudslide. Trails in Forest Park are not plowed or salted, so ice and standing water are hazards. If snow is forecasted, even lightly, reconsider the hike unless you have microspikes and experience on icy terrain.

Weekends are busier, especially during spring and fall. For solitude, aim for weekdays. Early mornings on Tuesdays and Wednesdays typically offer the quietest conditions.

Step 3: Choose the Right Gear

Proper gear is non-negotiable on the Summit Trail. Unlike paved city paths, this trail demands trail-specific equipment:

• Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with aggressive tread are essential. Trail runners with good grip may suffice for experienced hikers in dry conditions, but they offer less ankle support on rocky descents.
• Moisture-wicking clothing: Avoid cotton. Opt for synthetic or merino wool layers. Even on cool days, you’ll sweat during the climb. Pack a lightweight rain shell — weather changes rapidly in the forest.
• Backpack: A small daypack (10–20L) to carry water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a phone. Avoid overpacking; the trail is demanding enough without extra weight.
• Navigation tools: While the trail is marked, cell service is unreliable. Download offline maps using Gaia GPS or AllTrails before you leave. A physical map of Forest Park (available at trailheads) is a wise backup.
• Other essentials: Trekking poles (highly recommended for descent), sunscreen, insect repellent, and a whistle for emergencies.

Step 4: Access the Trailhead

The primary trailhead is located at the Wildwood Trailhead Parking Lot, accessible via NW Skyline Boulevard. GPS coordinates: 45.5378° N, 122.7113° W. There are approximately 20 parking spots, but they fill quickly on weekends. If the lot is full, park along NW Skyline Boulevard (where permitted) and walk 0.3 miles back to the trailhead. Never block driveways or fire lanes.

Public transit options include the TriMet bus line 72 (Skyline) to the “NW Skyline & NW Thompson” stop, which is a 5-minute walk to the trailhead. Buses run every 20–30 minutes during peak hours.

Before you begin, take a moment to read the informational kiosk at the trailhead. It includes trail maps, safety reminders, and rules for preserving the ecosystem.

Step 5: Begin the Ascent

The trail begins with a gentle incline along the Wildwood Trail (blue blazes). After 0.2 miles, you’ll reach a fork. Take the right path marked for Summit Trail — this is where the real climb begins. The next 1.2 miles are steep and relentless, with elevation gains of up to 300 feet per mile. Expect roots, exposed rocks, and switchbacks. Maintain a steady pace. Breathe deeply. Use your arms for balance if needed.

Watch for trail markers. The blue blazes are usually painted on tree trunks at eye level. In dense foliage or after rain, they can be obscured. If you’re unsure, pause and reorient. Never guess — backtracking is safer than going off-trail.

At approximately 1.5 miles, you’ll pass a junction with the Lower Macleay Trail. Stay on the blue-blazed Summit Trail. This section is particularly muddy in spring. Step carefully on the packed earth or use the designated wooden boardwalks.

Step 6: Reach the Summit Ridge

At the 2.2-mile mark, the trail levels slightly as you enter the summit ridge. This is the high point of the hike. Here, you’ll find a few open areas with partial views of downtown Portland, Mount Hood, and the Cascade Range on clear days. This is a perfect spot to rest, hydrate, and take in the view. The air is noticeably cooler and the forest canopy opens slightly, allowing shafts of sunlight to filter through.

Do not venture off-trail to seek better views. The forest floor here is fragile, and erosion from foot traffic has damaged sensitive plant communities in the past. Respect the boundary.

Step 7: Descend via the Ridge Trail

From the summit, continue along the blue blazes until you reach the junction with the Ridge Trail (marked with red blazes). Turn left onto the Ridge Trail for your descent. This section is less steep than the ascent but features loose gravel, slick roots, and occasional drop-offs. Trekking poles are invaluable here.

The Ridge Trail winds through old-growth forest with massive western red cedars and hemlocks. Look for moss-covered boulders, ferns, and the occasional black-tailed deer. If you hear a woodpecker or see a pileated woodpecker’s large, red-crested silhouette, consider it a lucky sign.

At 3.8 miles, you’ll reconnect with the Wildwood Trail. Turn right and follow it back to the trailhead. The final 0.9 miles are mostly flat or gently downhill, offering a chance to stretch your legs and reflect on the journey.

Step 8: Complete the Loop and Leave No Trace

Once you return to the parking lot, take a moment to check your gear and ensure nothing is left behind. Even small items like food wrappers, toilet paper, or bottle caps can harm wildlife and pollute waterways.

Use the trash and recycling bins at the trailhead. If they’re full, carry your waste out with you. Pack out everything you pack in — this is the cardinal rule of wilderness ethics.

Before leaving, consider logging your hike on AllTrails or a personal journal. Your experience contributes to community knowledge and helps others prepare.

Best Practices

Practice Leave No Trace Principles

The Forest Park Summit Trail exists because of decades of conservation efforts. To ensure it remains pristine for future generations, adhere strictly to the seven Leave No Trace principles:

• Plan ahead and prepare: Know the trail, weather, and regulations.
• Travel and camp on durable surfaces: Stay on marked trails. Avoid trampling vegetation.
• Dispose of waste properly: Pack out all trash, including biodegradable items like fruit peels.
• Leave what you find: Don’t pick flowers, move rocks, or carve into trees.
• Minimize campfire impact: Fires are prohibited on this trail.
• Respect wildlife: Observe from a distance. Never feed animals.
• Be considerate of others: Yield to uphill hikers. Keep noise levels low. Use headphones for music.

Hydration and Nutrition

Even on short hikes, dehydration can lead to cramps, dizziness, and heat exhaustion. Carry at least 2 liters of water per person. For longer hikes or hot days, consider an electrolyte mix. Avoid sugary sports drinks — they can cause stomach upset on steep climbs.

Snacks should be high in complex carbs and protein. Trail mix, energy bars, dried fruit, and peanut butter sandwiches are ideal. Avoid heavy, greasy foods that can slow you down.

Trail Etiquette

Forest Park is shared by hikers, runners, dog walkers, and mountain bikers. Respect the hierarchy: hikers yield to horses (rare here), runners yield to hikers, and all users yield to uphill traffic.

If you’re hiking with a dog, keep it on a leash at all times. Off-leash dogs are not permitted in Forest Park and can disrupt wildlife or provoke aggressive behavior in other animals. Pick up after your pet — feces carry parasites harmful to native species.

Use headphones if listening to music or podcasts. Natural sounds — birdsong, wind in the canopy, distant water — are part of the experience. Don’t diminish them.

Weather Preparedness

Portland’s weather is famously unpredictable. Even on a sunny morning, fog or rain can roll in by midday. Always carry a lightweight, waterproof jacket. Temperatures can drop 10–15°F at the summit compared to the trailhead.

Check the National Weather Service forecast for Portland’s West Hills before you go. Avoid hiking during thunderstorms — the trail’s exposed ridges are lightning risks.

Physical Preparation

The Summit Trail is not a beginner hike. If you’re new to hiking, build endurance first. Start with shorter Forest Park trails like the Wildwood Trail to Council Crest or the Lower Macleay Trail. Gradually increase elevation gain and distance over several weeks.

Strengthen your legs and core with stair climbing, squats, lunges, and balance exercises. Practice hiking with a loaded backpack on local hills to simulate trail conditions.

Tools and Resources

Recommended Apps

• AllTrails: The most comprehensive trail app for Forest Park. Offers user reviews, photos, elevation profiles, and offline map downloads. The Summit Trail has over 1,200 reviews with real-time condition updates.
• Gaia GPS: Ideal for advanced users. Provides topographic maps, satellite imagery, and route planning tools. Use it to mark waypoints or share your location with a friend.
• Trailforks: Excellent for mountain bikers using the same trail system. Includes trail difficulty ratings and user-submitted alerts about closures or hazards.

Official Resources

• Portland Parks & Recreation: The official authority for Forest Park. Visit www.portland.gov/parks/forest-park for trail closures, maintenance schedules, and safety advisories.
• Friends of Forest Park: A nonprofit dedicated to trail maintenance and conservation. Volunteer opportunities are available, and their website offers free downloadable maps and educational guides.
• USGS Topographic Maps: Free downloadable 7.5-minute quadrangle maps of the Forest Park area. These show contour lines, elevation, and water features in detail.

Books and Guides

• “Hiking Portland: 50 of the Best Hikes in the City and Beyond” by John Blaustein – A detailed guide with trail descriptions, difficulty ratings, and historical context.
• “The Oregon Hiking Guide” by Tom Kloster – Includes a full chapter on Forest Park’s trail system and ecological significance.
• “Wilderness Ethics: Preserving the Natural World” by David Orr – A philosophical yet practical guide to responsible outdoor recreation.

Trail Maintenance and Volunteer Opportunities

Forest Park trails are maintained by volunteers through Friends of Forest Park. If you’re passionate about preserving the trail, consider joining a work party. Tasks include clearing fallen trees, building water bars, and installing signage. No experience is needed — tools and training are provided. Visit www.friendsofforestpark.org to sign up.

Emergency Preparedness

Cell service is spotty in the upper sections. Always inform someone of your planned route and return time. Carry a fully charged phone and consider a portable power bank.

In case of injury or emergency:

• Use your phone’s SOS feature if you have signal.
• Blow a whistle in sets of three — the universal distress signal.
• Stay put. Rescuers are more likely to find you if you remain stationary.
• Carry a basic first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers (for ticks), and pain relievers.

Real Examples

Example 1: Sarah, 34, First-Time Hiker

Sarah had never hiked more than a mile before deciding to tackle the Summit Trail. She spent three weeks preparing: walking stairs for 30 minutes daily, buying trail shoes, and downloading AllTrails. On her hike, she started at 7 a.m. on a Tuesday. She took 12 breaks, drank water every 20 minutes, and used trekking poles for the descent. She completed the loop in 3 hours and 15 minutes. “I thought I’d be exhausted,” she said. “But the forest gave me energy. I felt more alive than I had in months.” She now volunteers with Friends of Forest Park every other month.

Example 2: Marcus, 58, Retired Engineer

Marcus hikes the Summit Trail every Saturday. He’s completed it over 180 times. He keeps a journal, noting weather, wildlife sightings, and trail conditions. “I’ve seen a black bear, a coyote, and a great horned owl nesting in the same tree for three seasons,” he says. “You don’t see that on a treadmill.” Marcus emphasizes the mental benefits: “It’s my therapy. The trail doesn’t care about your job, your bills, or your regrets. It just asks you to show up.”

Example 3: The Family Hike That Went Wrong

A family of four attempted the trail on a rainy Sunday in March. They wore sneakers, brought no water, and didn’t check the forecast. Halfway up, the mother slipped on a wet root and twisted her ankle. They had no phone signal. Their 8-year-old started crying. A passing hiker found them and called for help. Emergency responders arrived in 45 minutes. “We learned the hard way,” the father later wrote on AllTrails. “Never underestimate a trail. Preparation isn’t optional — it’s survival.”

Example 4: The Birdwatcher’s Discovery

A local birdwatcher recorded a rare sighting of the Hermit Thrush — a shy, forest-dwelling bird — near the summit ridge in late September. His detailed log, shared on a regional birding forum, led to increased awareness of the trail’s ecological value. Within a year, Portland Parks & Recreation installed a small interpretive sign about native bird species along the trail. “The trail isn’t just a path,” he said. “It’s a living archive.”

FAQs

Is the Forest Park Summit Trail suitable for beginners?

The trail is not recommended for absolute beginners due to its steep, uneven terrain and elevation gain. However, if you’re moderately fit and have hiked on trails with some incline before, you can complete it with proper preparation. Start with shorter Forest Park trails to build stamina.

Are dogs allowed on the Summit Trail?

Yes, but dogs must be on a leash at all times. Off-leash dogs are prohibited in Forest Park to protect wildlife and maintain trail safety.

How long does it take to hike the Summit Trail?

Most hikers complete the 4.7-mile loop in 2.5 to 3.5 hours. Faster hikers may do it in 2 hours; slower hikers or those stopping for photos may take up to 4 hours.

Is the trail open in winter?

Yes, the trail is open year-round. However, winter conditions can make it hazardous. Expect mud, ice, and slick roots. Microspikes and waterproof boots are strongly advised. Avoid hiking after heavy rain or snowfall if you’re inexperienced.

Are there restrooms at the trailhead?

Yes, portable restrooms are available at the Wildwood Trailhead parking lot. There are no restrooms along the trail.

Can I bike the Summit Trail?

No. The Summit Trail is designated for foot traffic only. Mountain bikes are permitted on other trails in Forest Park, such as the Wildwood Trail and the Ridge Trail, but not on the Summit Trail itself.

What should I do if I get lost?

Stop immediately. Do not keep walking. Use your GPS app to reorient. If you’re unsure, backtrack to the last trail marker you remember. If you’re still disoriented, stay put, use your whistle, and wait for help. Most hikers who get lost are found within a few hours.

Is there cell service on the trail?

Cell service is unreliable. You may get a signal at the trailhead and near the summit ridge, but not consistently in between. Download offline maps and carry a physical map as backup.

Can I hike the trail alone?

Yes, many hikers prefer solo hikes for the peace and introspection. However, always inform someone of your plans and expected return time. Carry a whistle and a charged phone.

Why is the trail called “Summit Trail” if it doesn’t reach the highest point in Forest Park?

The trail reaches the highest continuous ridge in the central section of Forest Park, offering the most elevated viewpoint accessible by foot from the Wildwood Trailhead. While other points in the park are higher (like the peak near Council Crest), they are not reachable via this specific trail route. The name reflects its prominence within the trail network, not its absolute elevation.

Conclusion

The Forest Park Summit Trail is more than a physical challenge — it’s a portal into the heart of Portland’s wild soul. It demands respect, preparation, and mindfulness, but rewards you with quiet majesty, unparalleled views, and a profound sense of connection to the land. In a world increasingly dominated by screens and schedules, this trail offers something rare: silence, movement, and the steady rhythm of nature.

By following this guide, you’re not just learning how to hike a trail — you’re learning how to engage with wilderness responsibly, sustainably, and joyfully. Every step you take on the Summit Trail is a vote for the preservation of urban forests, for the protection of biodiversity, and for the right of future generations to experience the same awe you felt at the ridge.

So lace up your boots, pack your water, and step onto the trail. The forest is waiting — not to be conquered, but to be honored.