Forest Park/Pittock Mansion

This gigantic mansion built in 1914 overlooks Portland's Skyline. It was built for Henry Pittock - the man who "re-invented", published and edited The Oregonian. There's an awesome little hike through Forest Park that leads to Pittock Mansion.

Starting Point: Lower Macleay Park Trailhead
Distance: 5 miles round trip
Elevation: 900 ft.
Driving Distance From Portland: 5 mins

My grand scheme was to do this hike in the late afternoon, timing it to arrive at Pittock Mansion right at sunset.

The views were excellent! However, the hike BACK through Forest Park after dark was frightening! I do not recommend this. If you do choose to try - bring a headlamp and pepperspray! We sprinted through the dark city forest by the light of our iPhones with nothing but our fists to protect us. 

Don't fret - we made it out alive. But I'd think twice about doing it again.