Explore two of Portland’s unique evening walk spots for dogs, Mt. Tabor and Washington Park’s Wildwood Trail, where Toby enjoyed the scenic views, fresh scents, and tranquil environments far beyond the usual neighborhood strolls.
Mt. Tabor Park
Mt. Tabor is a captivating extinct volcanic cinder cone that offers an array of trails and paths suitable for hikers and their furry companions. Rising approximately 636 feet above the surrounding neighborhoods, this urban park provides panoramic views of the city and the Cascade Range.
The park features a network of trails that weave through lush greenery, past historic reservoirs, and up to the summit. The trails are well-maintained, with interpretive signs providing insights into the park’s geology, history, and ecology. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a pleasant evening stroll, Mt. Tabor has something for everyone. The park buzzes with energy as people exercise, jog, bike, and enjoy the evening ambiance.
We parked on SE Lincoln Street and began our exploration, making our way up to the top. Along the way, we discovered an off-leash dog park area. While it’s mostly dirt and trees with a lot of slope, making it less ideal for flat running, it was still a nice place for Toby to explore off-leash.
Toby absolutely loved the evening walks at Mt. Tabor. The park’s varied terrain, open spaces, and serene environment made it a delightful departure from the usual neighborhood walks. The fresh scents and new sights seemed to invigorate him, adding an extra spring to his step. The summit’s view during sunset was a highlight, with Toby enjoying the cool breeze and the expansive vistas.
Washington Park
Washington Park is one of Portland’s premier green spaces, offering a mix of cultural institutions and natural beauty. It includes lots of places for families, like the Oregon Zoo, Hoyt Arboretum, and Portland Japanese Garden. Our exploration focused on the Wildwood Trail, specifically the segment leading to the Redwood Observation Deck.
The Wildwood Trail is a 30-mile long path that meanders through the park, but our evening walk was only a couple of miles, centered on the serene stretch leading to the majestic redwoods. The trail is well-marked and shaded, providing a refreshing escape from the day’s heat. The Redwood Observation Deck offers a tranquil spot to marvel at these towering giants, a rare sight in this part of Oregon.
Toby found the Wildwood Trail especially enchanting. The dappled evening light filtering through the forest canopy, coupled with the earthy aroma of the redwoods, created a sensory delight for him. Unlike the routine neighborhood strolls, this trail offered new scents, sounds, and textures that Toby eagerly explored. The gentle rustling of the leaves and the occasional chirp of birds made for a peaceful and enjoyable experience, both for him and for us. The Redwood Observation Deck was the perfect place to pause, take in the surroundings, and enjoy a quiet moment together.
Exploring Mt. Tabor and the Wildwood Trail at Washington Park has added a wonderful variety to our evening walks. These excursions have not only been beneficial for Toby’s physical health but have also enriched his sensory experiences, making our walks more enjoyable and memorable. If you’re looking for a change from the everyday neighborhood route, these spots in Portland are highly recommended for a refreshing evening adventure with your furry friend.