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I’ve run Leif Erikson trail in rain, snow and sun. What makes Leif Erikson stand out from other trails is its accessibility, width and length, reliable terrain and forest beauty.
Leif Erikson trail is located in Forest Park. According to the Forest Park Conservancy website, Forest Park is one of the largest urban forests in the US. Forest Park spans 5,200 acres with over 80 miles of trails. Also known as “America’s Premier Urban Forest,” Forest Park is an urban jewel.
Leif Erikson trail is roughly 11 miles long and free to use for the general public. Leif Erikson has gradual uphill, unlike neighboring Wildwood trail. Wildwood trail is skinnier with an abundance of switchbacks, which can be challenging and unrelaxing.
On sunny days, dappled light filtering through the forest will accompany you on Leif Erikson trail. If the sky is clear, you can catch glimpses of the St. Johns bridge as you go. When it’s pouring rain, you can enjoy the solace of the less crowded trail under the shelter of the tree canopy.
Leif Erikson trail is populated by packs of cross country runners, families with kids, couples with dogs, and cyclists. According to the City of Portland, dogs must be leashed in Forest Park.
Some Wednesday evenings, The Portland Trail Series takes place at the Thurman Street entrance to the Leif Erikson trail. The Trail Series begins and ends on Leif Erikson. It’s a fun, inclusive set of four to six mile races. I recommend it for anyone who loves to run, regardless of pace.
Leif Erikson trail has good signage including mile markers every quarter mile. As someone with an incredibly poor sense of direction, I’ve only gotten lost on it once. As you travel on Leif Erikson, you’ll notice smaller trails to the left and right. If you’re interested in a challenge or change of scenery, I recommend checking them out. Leif Erikson is like the highway of Forest Park- there are over ten trails that cross it and let you climb up and down the many ridges.
Leif Erikson has something for everyone- you can run, walk, bike and enjoy the trail with pets! I love to run, and my favorite thing about Leif Erikson is that it’s wide enough to run with a group of friends.
