Forest Park Nature Walk - Pittock Mansion to Hoyt Arboretum
$0 raised
Forest Park Nature Walk - Pittock Mansion to Hoyt Arboretum
Saturday, July 11, 2026
12:00 to 2:30 PM
Join the Autism Society of Oregon and Portland Parks & Recreation for a scenic walk through Forest Park, one of Portland’s most treasured natural spaces. This event offers an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, connect with others, and explore the beauty of the Pacific Northwest in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Our walk begins at Pittock Mansion and follows forested trails to Hoyt Arboretum. Along the way, participants will experience wooded pathways, scenic viewpoints, and the peaceful surroundings that make Forest Park such a special place. The route is primarily downhill with a few moderate uphill sections and includes a pedestrian bridge crossing. Natural trail surfaces may be uneven in some areas.
Whether you’re looking to spend time in nature, meet new people, or simply enjoy a guided walk with the autism community, we hope you’ll join us for this memorable experience.
Free shuttle transportation is available through our partnership with Portland Parks & Recreation. Additional information about parking, shuttle service, trail details, and the event schedule can be found below.
Our Guide - Oregon Naturalist - Natalie
Each guided Nature Walk is limited to 25 participants.
Advance registration is required but registration/participation is FREE.
Our walk leader will be Natalie, an Oregon Naturalist who will guide the group throughout the walk and share information about the surrounding environment, plants, wildlife, and trails along the way. Natalie helps create a welcoming and supportive experience while checking in with the group throughout the hike to help maintain a comfortable and inclusive environment for participants.
Event Schedule
11:45 AM–12:15 PM
Participants arrive and park near Hoyt Arboretum or at the Washington Park MAX Station area.
12:15 PM
Board the Portland Parks & Recreation shuttle at the Washington Park/Zoo MAX Station.
12:25 PM
Arrive at Pittock Mansion and begin the guided walk.
12:30 PM–2:00 PM
Walk from Pittock Mansion to Hoyt Arboretum through Forest Park, enjoying scenic views, wooded trails, and opportunities to connect with fellow participants.
2:00 PM
Walk concludes at Hoyt Arboretum.
2:00 PM–2:30 PM
Participants return to their vehicles or continue approximately 1½ blocks to the Washington Park MAX Station parking structure if parked there.
2:30 PM
Event concludes
Free Shuttle Information:
Participants are encouraged to park in the Washington Park parking structure if they plan to drive to the event. The parking structure is approximately 1½ blocks from the Washington Park/Zoo MAX Station.
If you are driving, please park in the structure and walk to the Washington Park/Zoo MAX Station, where participants will gather near the green kiosk for shuttle pickup.
If you are arriving by MAX, simply exit at the Washington Park/Zoo MAX Station and proceed to the green kiosk to meet the group.
The shuttle will depart promptly at 12:15 PM and transport participants to Pittock Mansion, where the walk will begin.
The walk is one-way and ends near Hoyt Arboretum in the Washington Park area. At the conclusion of the walk, participants can return to the parking structure by walking approximately 1½ blocks or return directly to the MAX Station if arriving by transit.
Shuttle
Trail Information
Additional trail maps, route details, and accessibly information can be found on the Forest Park website
Here is an article that gives more detailed information, LINK
Parking Information
Please do not park at Pittock Mansion unless you have arranged transportation back to your vehicle, as the walk does not return to Pittock Mansion.
Participants who plan to drive are encouraged to park in the Washington Park parking structure, located approximately 1½ blocks from the Washington Park/Zoo MAX Station.
The walk is one-way, beginning at Pittock Mansion and ending near Hoyt Arboretum in the Washington Park area. Parking at the Washington Park parking structure allows participants to return to their vehicles at the conclusion of the walk without needing additional transportation.
Parking fees may apply. Please check current parking rates and payment options before arriving.
Important Information
Caregivers and supporters are welcome but must also register in advance so we can count them towards the limit.
For all Nature Walks, all participants under the age of 18 must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times throughout the walk. Childcare is NOT being provided for these events.
NO DOGS PLEASE, due to the size of the group. Services dogs who are task trained are welcome.
The trails are wide but unpaved.
Participation is at your own risk.
Please remember to:
Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for walking on varied terrains.
Bring water, snacks and any necessary medications.
Bring headphones or fidgets if needed. ASO may ALSO have these available.
For additional questions, please contact Lori Ball at LoriB@AutismSocietyOregon.org or call 503-636-1676 during business hours (9 am - 6 pm).
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