Hike #7: Lower Macleay Park to Pittock Mansion

Despite being both physically and mentally exhausted from work, I made myself go on a short hike after work. I'm glad I did, because I now know how awesome evening hikes are - the trails are dark, cool, and far less crowded.

I took the streetcar out to Northwest and then walked to Lower Macleay Park to begin my journey.

I had previously completed the section between Lower Macleay Park and the Witches Castle, and this time, I continued straight onto the Wildwood Trail, up towards the Audubon Society.

I came across two slugs who appeared to either be quite fond of each other or wrestling. I'm not sure.

After reaching the upper portion of Macleay Park, I crossed Cornell Road to continue along the Wildwood Trail, turning left at the junction to take the Wildwood Trail to Pittock Mansion. This section of the Wildwood Trail has always been one of my favorites.

I eventually made it to Pittock Mansion, where I sat and enjoyed the view of the city for a bit.

I can see my apartment from here!

I then headed back out towards the parking lot to continue making my way along the Wildwood Trail until I reached Burnside. I had to walk along the side of Burnside for about 1/4 of a mile to get to the nearest bus stop, which was a little terrifying. In total, Google Maps says I hiked 3.4 miles... not bad for a quick, after work hike!

Have a great day!

Hike #1: Lower MacLeay Park to Wildwood and Wild Cherry Trails

I just recently switched to a new work schedule, so that I am now working Tuesday-Saturday, rather than Monday-Friday/Saturday. This was my first Monday off, and I decided spend the afternoon exploring Forest Park.

I started my journey at the Lower MacLeay Park, with which I am very familiar. I hiked to the "Witch's Castle," and while I have typically continued straight towards the Audubon Society on NW Cornell, I decided this time to veer right onto the Wildwood Trail.

Witch's Castle

I then stayed on the Wildwood Trail for quite a while, passing the junctions for Holman Lane, the Aspen Trail, and the Birch Trail. This section of the Wildwood Trail was entirely new to me, and wow... it was gorgeous.

So much green!

Additionally, while hiking, I saw 34 slugs and snails! For those who may not know, I heart slugs.

I eventually reached the junction of the Wildwood Trail and the Wild Cherry Trail. I took the Wild Cherry Trail to Leif Erikson Drive, which was a road originally constructed in the 1900s. Due to landslides, the road eventually closed and then became part of Forest Park.

I traveled down Leif Erikson for just a short distance until I came to a narrow trail that is marked on my Forest Park map but not on Google Maps. That trail took me past a large water tank before spitting me out onto NW Gordon St, which then connected me to NW Thurman St. From there, I was able to take Thurman all the way back to Lower MacLeay Park. Google Maps says I walked 4.7 miles, and with the rest of the walking I did today, I got over 18,000 steps!

A map of my hike.