PDX Sites | Scenic Runs Around Portland
Thank you to Interstate Pest Management for sponsoring this post. As always all opinions are my own.
Running the same neighborhood loops over and over can start to be a little boring so it’s always nice to mix things up with a new route. Add in some scenic views and you’ve just made your run go from a workout to an adventure. So whether you are from Portland or are just stopping through for a visit these runs are fantastic ways to get some of the best of what Portland has to offer from city to nature. Honestly if you’re not a runner no worries these runs are also great for walkers, hikers, and bikers.
Waterfront Loop (2.5 miles): This is probably one of the most well known running loops and for good reason. You get views of both the East and West sides of the city while running along the Willamette River. A good spot to start this loop is at the Salmon Street Fountain on Portland’s West side. From there head North through Tom McCall Waterfront Park until you reach the Steel Bridge which you will then cross as you make your way to the East side. Once across the bridge head south along the Eastbank Esplanade until you reach the Hawthorne Bridge which you will cross and make your way back to your starting point. Fell like adding on a few extra miles? Keep running past the Hawthorne Bridge to Portland’s newest Bridge, Tillikum Crossing. Head across and then immediately loop back and head back to the Hawthorne Bridge to cross and return to your starting point
Lower Macleay Park to Pittock Mansion (5 miles out and back): This run is for my trail runners. Starting at Lower Macleay Park you’ll run until you meet Wildwood Trail and from there you will follow the signs to Pittock Mansion. Once at Pittock Mansion head over to the mansion and take in the city views from the top. Once at the top to complete your run you’ll head right back down the way you came. Tip: This run is great any day but for optimal views seek out a bright clear day.
Powell Butte (10 miles of trails): There are many spots to jump on to the Powell Butte trails but a great spot to start is the Visitor Center where there is a good amount of parking and restrooms. From the visitor center you will head up to the summit where you will find open meadows and a great running path. Make a stop at the mountain finder where on clear days you can see Mount Tabor, Kelly Butte, Mount Saint Helens, Mount Adams and Mount Hood to name a few. There are a total of around 10 miles of trails winding through Powell Butte so you can really make this run any distance that you like. Tip: These trails are used by hikers and bikers as well so stay alert!
Interstate Pest Management is a local, family-owned pest control company serving the greater Portland and Vancouver
