Leif Erikson Trail Guided Nature Walk
Guided Nature Walk: Leif Erikson Trail – For Autistic Adults and Young Adults 15+
Join us for a Guided Nature Walk: Leif Erikson Trail, a welcoming outdoor experience for autistic adults and young adults ages 15 and up.
We will meet at St. Johns Community Center before departing together by shuttle at 12:20 PM. The group will arrive at the Leif Erikson Drive Trailhead at Germantown Road at approximately 12:40 PM. From there, we will enjoy a one-hour guided walk along Leif Erikson Drive (Old Road) Trail, a scenic, wide, multi-use route through Forest Park with a gentle grade and relatively flat terrain.
Leif Erikson Trail (also called Leif Erikson Drive) stretches for about 11 miles through Forest Park, from the Thurman Trailhead in the south to the Germantown Trailhead in the north. It is popular for walking, running, cycling, and dog walking, and the northern Germantown Road trailhead offers access to connector routes such as the Germantown and Cannon trails. Our walk will focus on a short, accessible segment near the Germantown entrance.
We will return to the shuttle at 1:45 PM and arrive back at St. Johns Community Center at approximately 2:05 PM. Participants are encouraged to move at a comfortable pace, take breaks as needed, and engage in the way that feels best for them.
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.
Schedule - Time Line
Meeting Location: St. Johns Community Center
Date: August 8, 2026
Meet at St. Johns Community Center before departure.
Shuttle departs at 12:20 PM.
Arrive at the Leif Erikson Drive Trailhead at Germantown Road at approximately 12:40 PM.
Enjoy a one-hour walk along the Leif Erikson Drive (Old Road) Trail, a wide, relatively flat route with a gentle grade.
Return to the shuttle at 1:45 PM.
Arrive back at St. Johns Community Center at approximately 2:05 PM.
Meeting/Parking Information
The Express Shuttle stop is located at the intersection of N Central Street and N Burlington Avenue, west of the St. Johns Community Center. Find the Express Shuttle logo and timetable on a sign near the stop.
Address for St. Johns Community Center: 8427 N Central Street
Portland, OR 97203
Express Shuttle riders may access community center restrooms and other facilities while the center is open. Check the hours of the St Johns Community Center.
Trail Information
Here is a link to trail and additional information about the area, Trail Profile: Leif Erikson Drive (North) at Germantown Road | Portland.gov
Important Information
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).