Pets allowed
Allowed
Elevation Gain
60.00 ft (18.29 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
2.60 mi (4.18 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The Cedar Trail hike is a short little adventure, but it is just long enough to offer a nice break from the urban surroundings and provide an introduction to the ecosystem in Tryon Creek State Park.  The hike remains relatively level for its entire length with the exception of a few modest grade changes, most of which feature well-maintained steps built into the trail.  Once on the trail, you’ll enjoy the dappled light on the moss and licorice ferns. Red alder and bigleaf maple trees ostensibly dominate the park’s landscape.

Like Forest Park, the forest vegetation is all second growth. The site was heavily logged during the latter half of the 19th century, in part by the Oregon Iron Company.  The company purchased the land in 1874 from the heirs of Socrates Hotchkiss Tryon Sr., the pioneer settler who filed the original land claim in 1850.  Logging continued into the early 20th century, and the Boone’s Ferry Wood and Tie Company established a sawmill along Tryon Creek near Obie’s bridge. The company primarily produced railroad ties, cordwood, and flagpoles from cedar and Douglas fir.  If you have the time, the Cedar Trail Loop provides a terrific overview of the park.  

 

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Easy access. Native flora.

Cons

Limited vistas. Little scenic diversity.

Trailhead Elevation

200.00 ft (60.96 m)

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Comments

04/09/2017
Great little hike so close to Portland! We timed our visit well with lots of blooming trillium, skunk cabbage, and salmonberry blossoms.

Note: the short segment of Cedar Trail between the West Horse Trail and Hemlock Trail (where the Cedar Trail crosses Park Creek) is currently closed due to a trail washout, but is easily bypassed by taking the West Horse Loop.
06/25/2016
Beautiful trail tucked away from the crowds and freeways. It provides a quiet refuge to soak in the sounds of the trees, birds and nature. The trail is very well maintained. There are multiple trails to explore as well as picnic tables and a visitor center with neat little museum. Great spot close to town but away from it all!
Have updates, photos, alerts, or just want to leave a comment?
Sign In and share them.