Council Crest Loop via Marquam Trail(edit)

Overview

This is a moderate loop trail through Marquam Nature Park to Council Crest in Council Crest Park. Marquam Nature Park, in SE Portland, is lesser known than Forest Park and smaller but offers nice forest trails and a good hiking experience without a long drive. The route has a number of junctions, so use Gaia and reference the Portland Parks map. The trail winds through a beautiful ferned forest. The hike up to Council Crest Park is moderately steep and offers great views on a clear day. It is one of the highest natural areas in Portland. The history of Council Crest is very interesting as this was the spot of an amusement park in the 1900's.

Getting Started

There are several options for parking, see Portland Parks map. There are small pull-outs for parking at the SW Terwilliger trailhead and a small lot at Marquam Shelter, but both only allow 2-hour parking. Public transportation stops nearby for both. If planning a longer hike, consider parking at Council Crest Park which has no time limit, ample parking, but is gated from 7 pm to 5 am in winter and 9 pm to 5 am in summer. There is also a pull out along Fairmount Blvd, which can accommodate a few vehicles and no time limit signs.

Taking Children

Good hike for children. Wide trail, options for turning around early. The hike up to Council Crest is steep. There are a few road crossings. Roads are not too busy but curvy with limited visibility.