St. Johns is a North Portland neighborhood, located 30 minutes from downtown Portland, Oregon. This neighborhood has many interesting local businesses, mostly located on the south side where bars, restaurants, music venues, and art shops are prevalent around North Lombard Street.
Dog owners will find local veterinary clinics including St. Johns Veterinary Clinic and Companion Pet Clinic, as well as local pet supply shops: Natural Pets St John’s and The Bone Pet Supply LLC. Local eateries that allow dogs to join their owners in outdoor seating areas include Signal Station Pizza, St Johns Coffee Roasters, and Burgerville.
During winter months, dog walkers should be prepared for chilly wet weather with warm, waterproof gear. You will also want to avoid icy conditions when they occur. Rainy weather occurs in warmer months as well and will require frequent use of rain gear to stay dry. Summers tend to be warm and sunny and make ideal conditions for taking your dog on long excursions.
Residential areas are lined with attractive homes of varying architecture on beautifully landscaped properties. Large trees and lush vegetation makes the area green and park-like. The terrain is relatively flat compared to some other Portland neighborhoods and you and your pup should not have any difficulty traveling on foot in the area. Separate sidewalks line residential roads and provide safe walkways for people and pets who do not have to share roadways with local traffic.
Commercial activity on the southern section of the community brings heavier traffic and pet owners should be cautious in these areas when crossing intersections.
Pier Park is located on the northern tip of St Johns and is within walking distance for most residents. This park has sports fields and facilities, a disc golf course, picnic areas, play structures, a pool, restrooms, and a skatepark. Paved and unpaved walking paths in this 87-acre park wind through the heavily wooded areas. These hiking trails are great places for a walk with your dog as they provide shelter from rainy weather and shade on hot sunny days.
To the north, the Smith and Bybee Wetlands natural area is one of the largest urban freshwater wetlands in the US, with 2,000 acres of greenway. Facilities in the park include a sheltered pavilion, public artworks, restrooms, and launch sites for non-motorized watercraft. There are hiking trails in the park where you can walk with your furry friend. There is a paved path that leads from the parking area to wildlife viewing platforms and is appropriate for people and pets of all ability levels.