What we’re about
Come join us for a run out on the trails! We get together every Saturday morning and Tuesday evening in Forest Park or other trails around Portland. We also schedule occasional adventure runs in scenic locations around the Pacific Northwest, celebratory holiday runs, and trail maintenance parties.
Tuesday, Saturday, and holiday runs are generally 5 - 7 miles long with a variety of paces and experience. Our adventure runs are more challenging in both length and elevation and are targeted towards more seasoned runners.
Northwest Trail Runners also focuses on building a vibrant trail running community, forming friendships and adventure ideas, introducing people to ultra and adventure running, and engaging our members to care for our wild places, open spaces, and public lands.
We look forward to growing and exploring the wild treasures of the Pacific Northwest with you!
FAQ's
What pace do people run?
We have many different paces of runners and sometimes people walk if they are recovering from injury. It will depend on the elevation and distance of the route, and who shows up that day. You can take it slow or, if you like a speed challenge, there is usually someone who will take you up on it!
Do you regroup during the run?
Yes, we usually regroup one or more times (depends on the route) to keep the group closer together. If you will be walking or running a slower pace let the organizer of the day know. We may not be able to wait for you at the regrouping if you are far behind but can discuss other options to keep you engaged.
I'm nervous about meeting new people! Will I fit in?
We have all been there! We are a casual, welcoming group focused on building community. Many of us joined solo and have built friendships which have continued outside the scheduled runs. We usually have a good number of "regulars" and a few new people at each of our runs.
Where do you run?
The bulk of our runs are in Forest Park which contains 80 miles of trails to play in. We also venture out to other spots around Portland and do an occasional adventure run in the gorge, up or around mountains, or at the coast.
What types of events do you have?
We have regularly scheduled Tuesday night (6:30pm) and Saturday morning (9:00am) runs, 5-7 miles in length, generally posted a week in advance. In addition, we schedule occasional adventure runs (see above) and special events. Examples of special events from the past: volunteer trail maintenance with Forest Park Conservancy, Wildwood End to End run, Pi day pie run, New Year's day relay, summer picnic...
Who organizes the runs?
We have a close knit team of organizers who take turns posting and leading our runs and providing various support to the group. We also have an amazing community of "regulars" who naturally pitch in in various ways during and outside of events. We are community run!
I have another question. What should I do?
Send a message to one of our organizers or post a message on one of our events. We'd love to hear from you!
Upcoming events (3)
See all- Springville Loop (Trail run in Forest Park)Springville Rd Trailhead into Forest Park, Portland, OR
Distance: 5.31 mile trail run
Gain: 664 feet
Start: Springville Trailhead off Skyline
After: Insomnia Coffee in Cedar MillLet's go for a run at the Springville Trailhead!
From the trailhead:
• Down Springville
• Left on Wildwood head north
• Right on Waterline down east
• Right on Leif Erikson head south
• Right on Ridge head up west
• Keep right to stay on Wildwood going north
• Left on Hardesty head up
• Right on Firelane 7
• Back to starting pointhttps://www.strava.com/routes/18189265
Afterwards we'll meetup for some coffee and good company at Insomnia in Cedar Mill.
Insomnia Coffee
12535 NW Cornell Road
Portland, OR 97229See you on the trails!
Hosted by: MACCAM
Northwest Trail Runners - Lower Macleay - Holman Loop Plus Great Notion Brewing2999 NW Upshur St, Portland, OR
Distance: 5.15 mile trail run
Gain: 956 feet
Start: Lower Macleay Park After: Great Notion Brewing NWThis route is a lollipop from Lower Macleay to Wildwood, with optional Holman hill repeats, and Birch trail. You will get muddy!
Meet at Lower Macleay Park under the pavilion (2999 NW Upshur).
Route description:
- Run up Lower Macleay Trail, 0.9 mi
- Sharp right at the Stone House and up Wildwood Trail, 0.4 mi
- Left up Holman Lane to the gate before NW 53rd, 0.8 mi
- We’ll regroup at the gate at the top of Holman Lane.
- At NW 53rd go right. We'll be running along side the road for about 100 yards.
- Right at the meadow to Birch Trail.
- Down Birch Trail, 0.2 mi
- Right on Wildwood Trail, 1.9 mi
- Sharp left at the Stone House and back down Lower Macleay to the pavilion, 0.9 mi
Link to the route: https://www.strava.com/routes/17404313
Afterwards
Great Notion Brewing NW
2444 NW 28th Ave, Portland, OR 97210See you on the trails,
Your host: Emily
Northwest Trail Runners