Springwater Corridor Trail

For an urban adventure with your furry BFF, look no further than the Springwater Corridor Trail! Stretching 21 miles from downtown Portland to Boring, this former rail corridor offers a convenient way to travel while staying mostly separate from the public road, making it a pawpular route among walkers, runners, bikers, and canine travelers. 

You and your pup can access the Springwater Corridor via several trailheads, including Sellwood Riverfront Park in Portland and Linnemann Station in Gresham. The trail is scenic, running past buttes, wetlands, fields, pastures, and residential and industrial neighborhoods. It also crosses Johnson Creek multiple times, with at least 10 bridges on the route. And thanks to protected natural areas along the corridor, wildlife observation opportunities are aplenty. Some common species that live by the trail are the crow, robin, house finch, cedar waxwing, and belted kingfisher. Should you and Fido venture into the less developed areas, you may see black-tailed deer, deer mice, bats, common mergansers, and woodpeckers.

Keep in mind that the corridor is a frequently traveled, multi-use path, so make sure your furry hiking buddy is well-versed in proper petiquette. Expect to share the trail with walkers, joggers, bicycles, wheelchairs, and strollers. And if you head east of I-205, you may encounter horses as well. 

Whether you cover a mile or five, always keep your pupper on a leash and clean up after them. Bring doggie waste bags, lots of water, and snacks, especially if you plan to travel a long distance. As for human restrooms, you will find them in the parks and open spaces along the trail, including Portland's Tideman Johnson Natural Area and Powell Butte Nature Park and Gresham's Main City Park. Most of these spots also have picnic areas where you and your pooch can take a break.

Curious and active doggos will definitely have a barking good time on the Springwater Corridor Trail!