Marquam Nature Park
Located in the Northwest section of Portland, Marquam Nature Park is a great place to go for an outing. The park has many different trails to explore, and it makes for a perfect destination on a nice day. There are many things to do at the park, including hiking, bird watching, or simply sitting back enjoying nature.
Hiking Trails
Marquam Trail is one of the most popular trails in Marquam Nature Park. The trail winds through various terrains, making for an exciting hike. Several benches are located along the way, which provides perfect spots to rest and take in the scenery.
Flicker Trail is another excellent option in Marquam Nature Park. This trail is shorter than the Marquam Trail, but it’s still a great hike. The Flicker Trail takes hikers through a beautiful forested area, and there are several opportunities to see wildlife along the way.
Sunnyside Trail is an excellent choice for those looking for an easy hike. This trail is perfect for families, and it’s also wheelchair accessible. Sunnyside Trail travels through a meadow filled with wildflowers, making it a beautiful place to walk or run.
Towhee Trail is an excellent option for those who want to get a bit of a workout. This trail is steep in some areas, so be prepared for a challenge. Towhee Trail offers beautiful views of the park and the surrounding area.
If you’re looking for a challenging hike, three main trails wind through Marquam Nature Park – the Balch Creek Trail, Lower Macleay Trail, and Upper Macleay Trail.
The Balch Creek Trail is a loop trail with steep sections to climb at certain points. It provides excellent views of the city and also there are many things to see along this path including wildflowers in season and wildlife such as deer or coyotes.
Lower Macleay Trail begins at a lower elevation than many other trails. It’s an easy hike with some steep sections as well, and this path also takes you through forests and lush green areas. There are more birds to see along this route, including robins, woodpeckers, jays, and towhees.
Upper Macleay Trail begins at a higher elevation than many other trails. It’s an easy hike with some steep sections as well, and this path also takes you through forests and lush green areas. There are more birds to see along this route, including robins, woodpeckers, jays, and towhees.
The park has a variety of habitats, including forests and wetlands, which provide an ideal location for these types of avians to thrive – over 200 species have been spotted in the park since it was established. There are many different areas to sit back, relax, and enjoy nature at Marquam Nature Park, such as shady spots with plenty of trees or benches located at different points throughout the park.
So if you’re looking for a great place to go outdoors, Marquam Nature Park should definitely be on your list!
History of Marquam Nature Park
The Marquam Nature Park was initially created in the late 1800s as a public park. Henry Weinhard donated the land, and it became one of the first parks in Portland. The park served as a popular spot for locals to go for hikes and picnics in the early days.
Today, Marquam Nature Park has grown to be an excellent place for everyone in the family. The park offers more than 40 types of habitats, including forests and meadows. There is something here that will appeal to all who visit – from dogs playing off-leash together to families biking around the trails on warm days. It’s also home to one of Portland’s best playgrounds, perfect for kids of all ages.
If you’re looking for a great place to spend an afternoon or evening outside, be sure to visit Marquam Nature Park. You won’t be disappointed!
Things to Do in Marquam Nature Park
Bird Watching. Many different species of birds can be spotted in Marquam Nature Park, such as the great blue heron or Smith’s woodpecker. Over 200 species of birds have been spotted in the park since it was established.
Sitting Back and Enjoying Nature. There are many different areas to sit back, relax, and enjoy nature at Marquam Nature Park. If you’re looking for a shady spot, there is plenty throughout the trails with lots of trees that provide shade from the summer sun. You can also find benches located at different points throughout the park if you take a break. Several areas have been designated as quiet zones so that visitors can enjoy the sounds of nature without any distractions.
Hiking. There are three main trails in Marquam Nature Park – the Balch Creek Trail, Lower Macleay Trail, and Upper Macleay Trail.
Biking. The park has many biking trails that are perfect for all experience levels.
Picnicking. There are several areas in the park that are perfect for picnicking, including a large covered area with picnic tables and a playground nearby.
Playing on the playground. Marquam Nature Park has one of the best playgrounds in Portland, which is perfect for kids of all ages. There are plenty of things to do, including a large play structure with slides, swings, and climbing walls, as well as a smaller play area for toddlers.
Viewing wildlife. Marquam Nature Park is a great place to view wildlife, including deer, raccoons, and other small animals.
There is something for everyone at Marquam Nature Park, whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or simply want to relax and take in the beauty of nature. The park is a great place to go for an outing with friends or family, so be sure to check it out soon!
What to Bring in Marquam Nature Park
In visiting Marquam Nature Park, it is important to bring along the following items:
- Sunscreen and sunglasses -Rain gear (in case there are inclement weather conditions)
- Snacks to refuel after an outdoor adventure!
- A filled water bottle – there are numerous opportunities to refill bottles along the way
- Bug spray (especially during the summer months)
- A camera to capture all of the memories!
- A positive attitude and sense of adventure!
What to See in Marquam Nature Park
You will find lots of hills and paths here.
The park is very large, with many trails throughout the area. It’s a great place to get exercise, work on your fitness or take in some beautiful views at one of its look-out points. There are also picnic areas where you want to rest up and enjoy a bite to eat.
Look-out points throughout the park provide views like this one of Mt Hood!
Picnic areas are located throughout Marquam Nature Park for when you need to take a break and refuel your energy levels. You will also find plenty of trees that offer shade if it’s hot outside, benches along the trails, and a playground for the kids.
How to Get to Marquam Nature Park
Marquam Nature Park is located at 4825 SW Sam Jackson State Park Rd. Portland, OR 97239.
You can reach the park by taking Highway 26 to SW Sam Jackson State Park Road in Portland, or you can take Interstate 405 South and exit at Barbur Boulevard (Highway 99E), which will turn into Capitol Highway once the on-ramp is over. Take a left onto SW Sam Jackson State Park Rd., follow the signs to the park.
The Marquam Nature Park is open from sunrise to sunset every day of the year. There is no admission fee. There is also free parking at the park.
We recommend visiting Marquam Nature Park during morning hours to a more pleasant experience.
Marquam Nature Park is one of the best places to hike in Portland. Marquam Nature Park is worth checking out if you’re looking for a great place to spend an afternoon outdoors.
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