Not only does Portland, Ore., frequently appear at the top of lists of the greenest U.S. cities, it’s also one of the dog friendliest.
If you enjoy hiking with your pooch, you’re in luck – there are plenty of dog friendly trails in and near Portland. Here are four easy trails in the Metro area where your leashed dog is welcome. Find more on Pet Friendly Portland.
1. Eastbank Esplanade – SE Water Avenue at Hawthorne Boulevard (map)
This 3.2-mile trail follows the Willamette River and crosses two bridges, offering amazing views of the Portland skyline. It’s best for dogs used to loud urban noises – and who don’t mind walking on steel grating. “It was definitely noisy and disconcerting to our dog, a suburban pup who is not used to the sounds of the city!” wrote Yelp! reviewer Anne L. “He did not like the steel grating that comprises much of the floating sections of the esplanade.”
2. Hoyt Arboretum – 4000 SW Fairview Blvd. (map), 503-865-8733
You and your pooch can stroll among more than 1,000 species of trees from around the world in this arboretum located in Washington Park. The main looping trail is 4.7 miles long, and there are plenty of other trails leading to every corner of the 187-acre property. “Hoyt Arboretum is a great place to go jogging or take the dog for a long walk,” wrote Maggie DeVerter on Google+. “There are signs on many of the different flora species so that visitors can learn about or identify them in the future.”
3. Springwater Corridor – One of many entrances is SE Spokane Street at SE Oaks Park Way (map)
The Springwater Corridor has a paved, scenic trail that is more than 20 miles long, and accommodates hikers, bicyclists and runners. It meanders through wetlands, buttes and pastures, and into industrial areas and residential neighborhoods as well. Be sure to keep your dog on a leash, as you may encounter wildlife, including raccoons, deer and coyotes.
4. Tryon Creek State Natural Area – 11321 SW Terwilliger Blvd. (map), 503-636-4398
Located smack dab in the middle of southwest Portland, this park has a 2.7-mile trail that will take you through a lush forest. The Portland Hikers Field Guide advises, “[Y]ou may want to strongly consider bringing shoes that you don’t mind getting muddy, and possibly a clean change for the car.” You should probably bring some towels for your dog, too.
PHOTO: lindyi