The Maple Trail loop lies in the heart of Portland’s Forest Park, at 5,100 wooded acres, it’s the largest forested natural area within city limits in the United States. It’s packed with tons of natural variety as it winds through the park’s most heavily forested canyons. You’ll be amazed at how scenic this run is for being so close to the city.

The trail alternates between sunshine and shaded forest. All along the way you’ll be surrounded by maple trees and wildflowers as you glide along paved paths, dash along sharp uphill switchbacks, and scamper across picturesque streams. What more could a runner ask for?

Head up past the gate along a closed portion of Saltzman Rd for half a mile to the signed junction with the Maple Trail. Turn right on the Maple Trail, left on Leif Erikson Dr, and then left on Maple to return to Saltzman.

Photo: Ben Amstutz