Oregon childhood meant trees before nearly anything else. Hoyt Arboretum is where we go to get lost on purpose: trails folding over the hills of Washington Park, walks that start with a loose plan and end somewhere new.
Find it, and the rest of the city we keep returning to, on sabi's Portland list.
Where it is (Washington Park)
Hoyt sits in Washington Park, a short drive or MAX ride west of downtown. Start at the Visitor Center on SW Fairview Boulevard for a free trail map and a suggestion for the season.
Trails worth wandering
The arboretum holds trees from around the world, gathered along miles of trail. Pick a path, follow it, and let the next junction choose for you. Unhurried walking is the whole idea.
The Redwood Deck
The Redwood Deck looks out into a stand of tall redwoods. It is a good place to stop, sit, and let the walk settle.
Hoyt to Pittock Mansion
A longer walk links Hoyt to Pittock Mansion through the forest, with city views at the top. Check the arboretum's site for current trail conditions before you set out.
Pairing with the Japanese Garden
The Portland Japanese Garden is also in Washington Park. A morning at Hoyt and an afternoon at the garden make a full, quiet day.
The details
- Visitor Center: 4000 SW Fairview Blvd, Portland, OR 97221
- Grounds open daily 5 am to 10 pm, free admission; Visitor Center daily 10 am to 4 pm
- hoytarboretum.org, 503-865-8733
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