I have lived in Portland my whole life and have never wandered around the Hoyt Arboretum before. It was AWESOME. We went at the beginning of October with two littles in tow (in front carriers) and it was great! The trails were easy enough that it wasn't too horrible carrying around my 11 month old in the front pack. It was gorgeous weather and the people were very friendly. The trails, while well marked made it hard to find out where we were because it was hard to keep up with them on the map but we found our way back. I will definitely visit again.
What a wonderful place to visit! I thoroughly enjoyed strolling through several trails surrounding the Hoyt visitor center. The trails are amazingly quiet and beautiful. Other reviewers have commented that this part of the park likely looks very different in the summer, I think this is probably true, but even in the winter it was stunning. I visited on a weekday, so parking on the road was easy to find and free (the lots are fee to park). I also went into the visitor center, which is small but offers souvenirs, snacks, drinks, and most helpfully, a guide. The guide showed me a short, pretty hike and gave me a map. She pointed out a nearby spot to see Mt. St. Helens and Mt. Rainier. The day was clear so I was able to see them both, which was awesome. In addition to the clearly marked trails, all of the trees in this area are marked. This is well worth the visit, and I am excited to go back next time I am in Portland.
clearly this someplace you'd prefer to visit during the more seasonable weather but it is still a lovely place to visit during the winter solstice. I love how Oregon and Washington are green no matter what time of year it is an its a joy to see blooms midwinter.
A lovely place to enjoy the quiet. Wonderful trails/paths, plants are identified and grouped by family so you can really learn a lot as you wander. A hidden gem so close to the city. Check out the volunteer opportunities and kid camps in the summer.
A number of trails- my favorite is the Magnolia trail where different varieties of magnolias were in bloom. Unlike the NE, magnolias bloom here for weeks instead of days. There was also an interesting winter garden and loads of cherry blossoms. Because of Portland's climate deciduous and coniferous trees can all be found. Also great birdwatching so bring binoculars. Great for dogs, we saw many dogs kept obediently on leash as they were walked or jogged through the trails.
We just simply past the time and not much enjoyed it. Perhaps the Forest Park is very close to the place thus we were more attracted to visit Forest Park thus we did not really explore the place.
I visit the arboretum whenever I'm in the neighborhood. It's that cool a place. Portlanders and tourists come here in droves, especially (but not only) on sunny days. Hoyt houses a world-class collection of native and non-native species, many with labels bearing common and scientific names and other info. On one side of Fairview Blvd., you'll find the visitor center (nice souvenirs, cold drinks, donation box), the deciduous collection, a view of Mt. Saint Helens, and paths to the zoo, etc. On the other side of the main road is the conifer collection. Go here for deep shade and a feel for many of the evergreens the Northwest is famous for. Take a map for a self-guided tour, or just wander around the several miles of trails. Take an hour or most of a day.
It is another opportunity in Portland to walk among trees. The paths give you the impression you are in deep woods. There are excellent tall trees. It was a pleasure to walk.
Washington Park is worth a visit. Especially the Rose Gardens. If you feel like a pleasant little side hike while you are there visit the Arboretum. Otherwise I would skip this.
I love the Arboretum. It has several trails to hike and there are some beautiful views of Portland! It is a good place to run or just relax in the serenity of the woods so close to the city. Trails will lead you up to Pittock Mansion which is also an awesome place but that is another review.