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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.
The parking lot at the shelter. There's a 2-hour limit. Nothing like a
little pressure!
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.
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The trail crosses several roads. |
Council Crest. When you leave the woods, turn right on the grassy hill
and climb a few yards. You'll see the water tower.
Every water tower should have such nice landscaping.
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.
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