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You can get a beautiful view of Mount Hood from here! It's such an iconic spot, perfect for a picnic or simply relaxing. I'm determined to bike here next time! In general, it's just a really nice place to enjoy the scenery and unwind. Definitely a hidden gem to add to the list!
A local friend recommended driving up to this park for great sunset views. She was not wrong, and our timing turned out to be good. You first have to commit to driving several miles up into the hills at the edge of the city (it seemed like the edge; I freely admit my local knowledge of Portland is relatively limited). As the name implies, this park is literally on the crest of a major hill, with commanding views in several directions (it would be all directions, but there are also a lot of trees around the perimeter. You can clearly see Mount St. Helens and Mt. Hood. We arrived around 8:20 p.m. or so in the summer. There is a large grassy area around the summit which was filled with picnickers. A short loop road surrounds the grass, and also is where you must park. This leads to a lot of parallel parking and the associated excitement with that. I nearly hit some cyclist who opted not to break speed or yield at all as I was maneuvering (I never saw him until he zipped by). I do some cycling to, but I'd have let the large car get out of the way, had it been me. There is a sporadic stream of cars circling the summit for spaces, so I think we lucked out, frankly. Still, it was worth the 15-minute drive and the parking to check this out, especially at dusk.
My first recollection of a 'Council Crest' was a city bus that goes from Broadway to Council Crest, and the radio tower, I'm assuming is where it leads to. I've not been here before, and I always wondered what it was like to come up here for a picnic and a hike. And we did! We're still in the pandemic phase, so 6 foot social distancing is a must! On a clear day, you can see Mt. Hood, from the observation area! Mt. Rainier Mt. St. Helens straight & Mt. Adams . You could even see Mount Jefferson in the Cascade Range, if it weren't for those trees! My husband said, his grandpa Ben W, helped erect the radio tower, who was a KOIN radio DJ for about 30 years. His DJ was: Johnnie Walker. In 1907, an amusement park was opened and it featured a merry-go-round, miniature railway, Ferris Wheel and other entertainments. In 1898, a small group of churchgoers took an all day horse and buggy ride up the hill from downtown Portland. (Four of Alan's Great Grandparents lived in Portland at that time.) The churchgoers thought that Indian must have held their tribal councils at that location, so they named the area Council Crest. The park connects to hiking trails. We didn't use them, but there are picnic tables there. Council Crest is the highest, hardest hike I've been on! Park your cars on the street, luckily we found one under a large tree, so during the month of July/August, that's the way to go!
Have you ever been here? Because you should. Or you should go back. It's such a lovely park with breathtaking views. And it's right here in River City! (By which I mean Portland. That's a reference. To a musical.) Photos don't do it justice but I'll give it a go. Seriously, a Portland treasure. And a great place to take out of town visitors. If we ever can do that again.
Great views. Perfect for picnics and people watching! Nice anytime of day, but sunset is particularly pleasant.
Considered "the highest point of Portland" with the best view, it didn't disappoint! (Unless you're coming on a rainy day, then welp). You drive up the windy roads up the hill (same one to get to OHSU) and there's plenty of parking along the curb for cars, plenty of grass for your dog to run around. You can choose to hike around or up to the top, but the drive up is pretty easy and clear too (just plug it into your GPS). There's not a ton of trees on the grass areas, but there's plenty of places to set a blanket down for a picnic if you want. Peep the pics for the views! The only big con here is that there isn't a bathroom (there's a porty potty but I think it was locked when my friends and I went).
Best place to bring your dog! Cako loved running through the open field and running through the pine trees. She managed to make a new friend each time since she wants other dogs to chase her! Depending on the time of day you go, it seems quite pleasant. Except for the agressive dog owner that tailgated us one day. Luckily we were staying in the neighborhood so we brought her here everyday to run around. Park hours are great! Rules are pretty straight forward. We'll definitely be back if our travels bring us this way again! Cako Approves!
Wow. The views here are breathtaking. It's an absolutely stunning park in every way. The property is maintained pristinely. There is plenty of shade or plenty of sunshine, whichever you prefer (obviously you wouldn't come on a rainy Portland day,) and it's great for a family picnic, bringing your dog or a romantic little picnic. We saw all of that on our visit. I have to say the best views of Portland are definitely here. I haven't been anywhere that it competes yet. I cannot wait to come back as it was perfect!
Hands down one of the most scenic spots in Portland, and located in SW Hills. On clear days it has great views of Mt. Hood, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Adams, Mt. Rainier and Mt. Jefferson. It's great for adventures with your canine pals, while exploring the trailheads;?such as, Shelter Loop Trail and the Marquam Trail. Or if you're short on time, it's great for catching sunrises and sunsets. I enjoy the park all year round, but my favorite time is when all the trees are in bloom. I will say that summer evenings require protection from mosquitoes, so come prepared. If you're driving up to the park, the park has specific hours for that purpose: Park hours for cars: 8:00am daily; the park is closed to cars at 9:00pm from April 1-October 31. From November 1-March 31 the park is closed to cars at 7:00pm. Gate may remain closed during inclement weather. If you're on foot, the park hours are from 5am to midnight. Enjoy!! Note: my pictures are from different visits, and during different seasons.
A beautiful park with incredible views! This is a great park for a quick hike, watching the sunset, or picnicking with friends. There are quite a few benches and picnic tables around, and they are spaced nicely so you don't feel like you're in anyone's way. The trails are well-maintained but still rugged enough to feel like you're in the woods. There are a few paved trails that are nice as well. The park is dog-friendly. For the most part dogs are expected to be leashed. But they do have an off-leash area that you can take advantage of for playing fetch! Note: the off-leash area is not fenced, so make sure your pup will stay close by if you use it. There is no parking lot, but curbside parking is plentiful. This has quickly become one of my favorite parks in the city!
ONE OF MY FAV PLACES IN PORTLAND i wouldn't suggest walking here since its SO HIGH UP.. but as long as you can find a car you'll get here to enjoy the beautiful view!!! (although there are a lot of trees so you don't quite get a panoramic view) i wish we had more time to walk through the trials in the pristine forest, but i don't know where people park their cars if they walk these trails since there's no real parking lot up here... we just parked on that one street that loops around this park, which was okay for the short term
Great View of the City, 15 minutes from downtown... If you have time come check this place out... Start early in the morning and you can walk through their trails.. The hike isn't bad but its fresh air up there is great and its very peaceful. This place is definitely worth the stop.. The view is amazing on a clear day.
4 months ago
Love this park! It has a wonderful and huge off leash area for dogs, but don't like that it's unfenced. There are spectacular views though no matter which direction you look. The summit is a neat place to hangout and there are a number of connecting trails around the park. Pack a picnic and spend some time here just enjoying the views. It's lovely! read more
1 year ago
Walk up from Goose Hollow or from Hillsdale, you'll pass beautiful houses and gardens and "summit" to an incredible view of the mountains. Or drive, parking wasn't bad. read more
You can get a beautiful view of Mount Hood from here! It's such an iconic spot, perfect for a picnic or simply relaxing. I'm determined to bike here next time! In general, it's just a really nice place to enjoy the scenery and unwind. Definitely a hidden gem to add to the list! read more
A local friend recommended driving up to this park for great sunset views. She was not wrong, and our timing turned out to be good. You first have to commit to driving several miles up into the hills at the edge of the city (it seemed like the edge; I freely admit my local knowledge of Portland is relatively limited). As the name implies, this park is literally on the crest of a major hill, with commanding views in several directions (it would be all directions, but there are also a lot of trees around the perimeter. You can clearly see Mount St. Helens and Mt. Hood. We arrived around 8:20 p.m. or so in the summer. There is a large grassy area around the summit which was filled with picnickers. A short loop road surrounds the grass, and also is where you must park. This leads to a lot of parallel parking and the associated excitement with that. I nearly hit some cyclist who opted not to break speed or yield at all as I was maneuvering (I never saw him until he zipped by). I do some cycling to, but I'd have let the large car get out of the way, had it been me. There is a sporadic stream of cars circling the summit for spaces, so I think we lucked out, frankly. Still, it was worth the 15-minute drive and the parking to check this out, especially at dusk. read more
My first recollection of a 'Council Crest' was a city bus that goes from Broadway to Council Crest, and the radio tower, I'm assuming is where it leads to. I've not been here before, and I always wondered what it was like to come up here for a picnic and a hike. And we did! We're still in the pandemic phase, so 6 foot social distancing is a must! On a clear day, you can see Mt. Hood, from the observation area! Mt. Rainier Mt. St. Helens straight & Mt. Adams . You could even see Mount Jefferson in the Cascade Range, if it weren't for those trees! My husband said, his grandpa Ben W, helped erect the radio tower, who was a KOIN radio DJ for about 30 years. His DJ was: Johnnie Walker. In 1907, an amusement park was opened and it featured a merry-go-round, miniature railway, Ferris Wheel and other entertainments. In 1898, a small group of churchgoers took an all day horse and buggy ride up the hill from downtown Portland. (Four of Alan's Great Grandparents lived in Portland at that time.) The churchgoers thought that Indian must have held their tribal councils at that location, so they named the area Council Crest. The park connects to hiking trails. We didn't use them, but there are picnic tables there. Council Crest is the highest, hardest hike I've been on! Park your cars on the street, luckily we found one under a large tree, so during the month of July/August, that's the way to go! read more
Have you ever been here? Because you should. Or you should go back. It's such a lovely park with breathtaking views. And it's right here in River City! (By which I mean Portland. That's a reference. To a musical.) Photos don't do it justice but I'll give it a go. Seriously, a Portland treasure. And a great place to take out of town visitors. If we ever can do that again. read more
4 years ago
3 years ago
Great views. Perfect for picnics and people watching! Nice anytime of day, but sunset is particularly pleasant. read more
Considered "the highest point of Portland" with the best view, it didn't disappoint! (Unless you're coming on a rainy day, then welp). You drive up the windy roads up the hill (same one to get to OHSU) and there's plenty of parking along the curb for cars, plenty of grass for your dog to run around. You can choose to hike around or up to the top, but the drive up is pretty easy and clear too (just plug it into your GPS). There's not a ton of trees on the grass areas, but there's plenty of places to set a blanket down for a picnic if you want. Peep the pics for the views! The only big con here is that there isn't a bathroom (there's a porty potty but I think it was locked when my friends and I went). read more
Best place to bring your dog! Cako loved running through the open field and running through the pine trees. She managed to make a new friend each time since she wants other dogs to chase her! Depending on the time of day you go, it seems quite pleasant. Except for the agressive dog owner that tailgated us one day. Luckily we were staying in the neighborhood so we brought her here everyday to run around. Park hours are great! Rules are pretty straight forward. We'll definitely be back if our travels bring us this way again! Cako Approves! read more
3 years ago
7 years ago
Wow. The views here are breathtaking. It's an absolutely stunning park in every way. The property is maintained pristinely. There is plenty of shade or plenty of sunshine, whichever you prefer (obviously you wouldn't come on a rainy Portland day,) and it's great for a family picnic, bringing your dog or a romantic little picnic. We saw all of that on our visit. I have to say the best views of Portland are definitely here. I haven't been anywhere that it competes yet. I cannot wait to come back as it was perfect! read more
7 years ago
Hands down one of the most scenic spots in Portland, and located in SW Hills. On clear days it has great views of Mt. Hood, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Adams, Mt. Rainier and Mt. Jefferson. It's great for adventures with your canine pals, while exploring the trailheads;?such as, Shelter Loop Trail and the Marquam Trail. Or if you're short on time, it's great for catching sunrises and sunsets. I enjoy the park all year round, but my favorite time is when all the trees are in bloom. I will say that summer evenings require protection from mosquitoes, so come prepared. If you're driving up to the park, the park has specific hours for that purpose: Park hours for cars: 8:00am daily; the park is closed to cars at 9:00pm from April 1-October 31. From November 1-March 31 the park is closed to cars at 7:00pm. Gate may remain closed during inclement weather. If you're on foot, the park hours are from 5am to midnight. Enjoy!! Note: my pictures are from different visits, and during different seasons. read more
7 years ago
A beautiful park with incredible views! This is a great park for a quick hike, watching the sunset, or picnicking with friends. There are quite a few benches and picnic tables around, and they are spaced nicely so you don't feel like you're in anyone's way. The trails are well-maintained but still rugged enough to feel like you're in the woods. There are a few paved trails that are nice as well. The park is dog-friendly. For the most part dogs are expected to be leashed. But they do have an off-leash area that you can take advantage of for playing fetch! Note: the off-leash area is not fenced, so make sure your pup will stay close by if you use it. There is no parking lot, but curbside parking is plentiful. This has quickly become one of my favorite parks in the city! read more
ONE OF MY FAV PLACES IN PORTLAND i wouldn't suggest walking here since its SO HIGH UP.. but as long as you can find a car you'll get here to enjoy the beautiful view!!! (although there are a lot of trees so you don't quite get a panoramic view) i wish we had more time to walk through the trials in the pristine forest, but i don't know where people park their cars if they walk these trails since there's no real parking lot up here... we just parked on that one street that loops around this park, which was okay for the short term read more
Great View of the City, 15 minutes from downtown... If you have time come check this place out... Start early in the morning and you can walk through their trails.. The hike isn't bad but its fresh air up there is great and its very peaceful. This place is definitely worth the stop.. The view is amazing on a clear day. read more
7 years ago
This is an awesome spot for walking dogs and cyclists love it. There's also a really quirky acoustic trick when you reach the center of the circle. read more
7 years ago
10 years ago
Council Crest Park is the highest point in the city, and as long as the clouds are not too low, it feels as if you can see forever around the peak. The park has paved and unpaved paths, a dog off-leash area, picnic tables, public art, a vista point, and a wedding site that can be reserved. It is open year round and rumor has it that there used to be an amusement park here. This bit of green space really feels as if you are not in the city limits, but you really are. It is amazing, and I just love this park and the views. read more
I was expecting a better view from Council Crest but it was nothing special. Driving up was pretty easy. Parking was curb side along the park. There is a silo and phone tower on top. There were a few dogs. Looks like a fun place if I had my pups with me. But for me as a sight, it was not worth the visit. read more
13 years ago
This place is gorgeous. According to the parks website, this is the highest point in Portland. It boasts an absolutely beautiful view of the surrounding mountains. I came across this place the first time while doing the 4T trail through Portland when I was new to the city. Recently I was inspired to make any early drive out to check out the view during a sunrise. I would definitely recommend it. It was suuuuuper cold out (I guess we are in the middle of Fall), but the view with the colorful sky over the mountains made it worth it. If you're coming out for the view, make sure it is on a clear day, or you won't see much. There is also an off-leash area for dogs. The park opens at 5 AM, but the gates don't open until 8 AM. Even though the gates are closed, the signs near the entrance state that you can park in the neighborhood streets after 5 AM, so you just have to walk a little farther. read more
13 years ago
7 years ago
Council Crest Park is the highest point in Portland and just 20 minutes from downtown. It's definitely worth a stop, especially on a clear day. There is a gate at the front entrance and unfortunately sometimes it's locked even during park hours. However there is plenty of parking on the street and I have never been ticketed. The park has many trails both paved and dirt but there are no bikes allowed. It's a great place to get some exercise while enjoying the 360 degree scenery. Dogs are allowed as well so it makes a great place to let them get out and run. On a really clear day you can see all the mountains in the cascade range including: Mt. Hood, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Adams, Mt. Jefferson, and Mt. Rainier. There is a giant compass in the center of the park which locates the direction of each mountain and its statistical information. Council Crest would be a fantastic place to have a summer picnic or to watch the sunset with that special someone. read more
Incredible views!!!! This place is amazing during the summer, with crazy awesome sunsets. Sometimes the trees will block the view, but in fall winter, the views are pretty open. This should be on every portlanders top places to catch views of the city!!!! read more
11 years ago
It was a nice sunny winter day free of rain. My friends and I decided to take their dog to Council Crest Park. It's very dog friendly and they have a leased and unleaded area for your four legged friend. You can drive up to the park or you can hike up. My friends weren't in the mood for a hike so we drove up (I will definitely be back to hike up, it seemed like it would be challenging but fun). There is limited parking up there so try not to come during peak hours. The park has a beautiful view looking over Portland. It's a nice place to just relax and walk around. They have plaques all around taking about the park and random history tidbits about the different views. Take a stroll, snap some pictures, and enjoy your day! read more
Council Crest Park is a beautiful park overlooking the city of Portland. It's a great place to just sit and take in the scenery, especially of Mt. Hood. Parking can be pretty limited, so carpool for groups. Would be great if there were some comfort stations too, especially if you plan on hiking in the area, but that's minor. Definitely a great place to visit any time of year for the spectacular views! read more
14 years ago
Amazing view of Portland. It's a bit hard to find the park, so be sure you know where you're going, or go with someone who knows the area. It's pretty dark here, if we were the only people there, it would have been pretty spooky.. I wish I came during day time though, so I could see all the mountains. The view at night is pretty and romantic =D read more
8 years ago
This park is beautiful! My friends and I was looking for a viewpoint that we haven't been to before and was a great to place to take picture and definitely this is the place! I also did not know that it was also a hike to get to the top! It's a pretty big park where you are able to see the view of Mount Hood and St. Helen. There are pretty good spots to just sit down and embrace the environment. My friends and I took a lot of pictures and enjoyed the view of the mountains. I would definitely go back! And recommend anyone visiting or even anyone who loves views to just go there! read more
14 years ago
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More info about Council Crest Park
Ask the Community - Council Crest Park
Is this a good place to have a BBQ?
Probably not. There isn't a grill ( or none that I could see), but it'd be great for a picnic. Just bring some large blankets to sit on. There are some park benches here and there too. More like a scenic Viewpoint.
Please let us know when theres snow?
When Portland gets snow, Council Crest will get it first as one of higher points in the area. Check weather reports
Can you see the city lights at night?
Yes, but you see more nature than the city because of the trees and what not :)
