Wildwood, Alder, and Dogwood Trail Loop

The loop can be accessed from various points. A common starting point is near the Leif Erickson Drive Trailhead in Forest Park. Parking can be found along Leif Erikson Drive or nearby streets, but it's often limited, especially on busy days. Arriving earlier in the day is recommended to secure a spot.

Yes, dogs are welcome on this trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help maintain the park's natural beauty.

This trail is enjoyable year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers like yellow violets and trillium, while fall offers vibrant changing leaf colors. Winter can provide unique glimpses through leafless trees towards Portland and Mount Hood. Summer is also popular, offering a cool escape under the dense forest canopy.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to hike the Wildwood, Alder, and Dogwood Trail Loop or to enter Forest Park.

The trail features dirt single tracks that wind through ridges and ravines. While sections of the Wildwood Trail are relatively level, the loop includes ascents and descents, with some steeper sections. Footing can be rocky in areas, and muddy patches might be encountered, especially near creeks.

You'll be immersed in a dense, lush forest environment. Expect to see bigleaf maples, red alders, and Douglas firs, often adorned with moss and licorice ferns. The hillsides are rich with various ferns, contributing to the classic Forest Park charm. The trail also crosses small branches of Alder Creek.

Yes, this loop combines segments of several trails within Forest Park. You'll hike along sections of the Wildwood Trail, Dogwood Trail, Northwest Leif Erikson Drive, Alder Trail, and Keil Trail, among others. The junctions, such as the Wildwood & Alder Trail Junction, are generally well-marked.

Yes, beyond keeping dogs on leash, it's important to stay on marked trails to protect the natural environment. Bicycles are generally not permitted on the Wildwood, Alder, and Dogwood Trails themselves, though they are allowed on Leif Erikson Drive. Pack out everything you pack in, and respect wildlife.

While rated as 'moderate' due to its length and elevation changes, the trail is manageable for beginners with a reasonable level of fitness. The well-maintained paths and clear signage make it a good option for those looking for a satisfying forest hike without extreme difficulty.

The primary feature of this loop is its deep immersion in the forest. While there aren't many expansive viewpoints directly on the trail, during winter when deciduous trees lose their leaves, you might catch glimpses through the trees towards Portland and even Mount Hood in the distance. The trail itself is a landmark, being part of the extensive Wildwood Trail system within one of the largest urban forests in the U.S.

Given the moderate length and varied terrain, it's advisable to bring plenty of water, sturdy hiking shoes, and layers of clothing suitable for changing weather conditions. Snacks, a map (or the komoot app for navigation), and sun protection are also recommended.