Favorite Urban Flat Paths

Exploring the outdoors doesn’t have to mean tackling steep trails or rugged terrain. The urban areas of Mt. Hood Territory, located just outside of Portland, offer a variety of scenic, flat paths that are perfect for a leisurely stroll, a relaxing way to be in nature or an accessible way to experience the beauty of the area. Whether you’re looking for wetland wildlife, historic landmarks or riverfront views, these five urban paths provide an enjoyable way to soak in the scenery without the incline.

For a serene nature walk filled with wildlife and educational opportunities, Boardman Wetlands Nature Park in Milwaukie is a must-visit. This park features almost a half mile of boardwalks and paths that wind through a restored wetland. You'll forget that your just minutes from the city. The park’s boardwalks and viewing platforms provide an up-close look at native plants and birds, making it a great destination for birdwatching, photography and viewing wetland habitat. Interpretive signs along the trail highlight the importance of wetlands in preserving local ecosystems, adding an educational element to your visit. You can event take part in a scavenger hunt during your visit!

For those who love a mix of history and stunning views, the McLoughlin Promenade in Oregon City offers a pathway with a panoramic views of Willamette Falls, the Willamette River and historic downtown Oregon City. This scenic promenade follows the bluff above downtown Oregon City, providing benches and viewpoints where visitors can pause and take in the sights. The promenade was constructed in 1937 as a Works Progress Administration project and named after Dr. John McLoughlin, a key figure in Oregon’s early settlement. Whether you’re admiring the falls or soaking in the city’s rich history, this path is an easy and rewarding stroll. While there you can also visit the Oregon City Municipal Elevator, the only vertical street in North America.

Located along the Willamette River in West Linn, Field Bridge Park features a scenic, flat walking path that’s as fascinating as it is beautiful. One of the park’s most unique attractions is the 1/5-size bronze replica of the Willamette Meteorite, the largest meteorite ever found in North America. It was originally discovered near this site. As you walk the paved riverside path, you’ll enjoy stunning waterfront views, peaceful green spaces, and a connection to both natural history and local legend. Through a series of interpretive signs along the path find out about the Missoula Ice Age Floods that formed much of the Central Cascades and how the meteorite made it's way from the Idaho-Canadian boarder to West Linn.

Nestled in the heart of Happy Valley, Happy Valley Park offers a flat and scenic boardwalk that loops around a peaceful wetland and lush green spaces. This path is the perfect spot for bird watching and exploring an urban wetland. A paved pathway around the park offers a three-quarter of a mile path to enjoy the surrounding sites. The park itself feature ballfields, picnic shelters, a splash pad and a playground. This trail is a delightful way to experience nature in an urban environment.

Following the route of the historic Portland Traction Company streetcar line, the Trolley Trail connects the communities of Milwaukie and Gladstone. This six-mile long trail offers a smooth, flat path ideal for walking, biking and rolling. This multi-use trail connects several communities and parks, winding through neighborhoods and scenic natural areas. Along the way, visitors can enjoy public art, historic markers and lush greenery, making for an engaging and picturesque time. Nearby Milwaukie Bay Park offers great views of the Willamette River and access to the water.