Council Crest

For a quick workout and a great escape right in the heart of the city, the 1.7 mile hike to the summit of Council Crest is perfect. The only views you'll have on the way up are trophy homes nestled in the woods, so I haven't included any trail shots. The woods are pleasant with nice variety.

Side trails connect to the Terwilliger Trail and Wildwood Trail. From here you could hike too the Washington Park Zoo, the Vietnam Memorial and Hoyt Aboretum or (if you're in fantastic shape) all the way to Newberry Road near Sauvie Island.

Park in the Marquam Nature Park Shelter on Marquam Street and Jackson Park Roads. The hike begins in the Marquam Nature Preserve, then loops through some residential areas, but you'll be in the woods the entire way except for three quick road crossings.

Distance: 3.4 Miles

Elev. Gain: 700 feet

Where: SW PDX

Return to City Hikes

The parking lot at the shelter. There's a 2-hour limit.	This park has exceptionally well-marked trails. There's a large map at the shelter too. Turn right at the wooden sign shown here for the trail to Council Crest.

The trail crosses several roads. Climb until you reach the summit and see an open field on the left. Leave the woods, turn right on the grassy hill and climb a few dozen yards. You'll see the water tower.

Roses circle the summit.

There's an interesting statue of a woman holding a baby.

On the summer day I visited, she was wearing sunglasses.

If you're feeling lazy, you can also drive to the top.

Views to the southwest. You can see Lincoln Center in the exiciting Portland suburb of Tigard.



There are superb views of downtown Portland, Mt Hood and Mt. St. Helens, if it's not hazy like it was on this morning.