When I am exploring a neighborhood for the first time I always end up walking to the closest park. These green spaces often tell a story about the neighborhood. How crowded is the local park on a sunny day? Is there a playground? Are people out with pets?
One of my favorite parks in Portland is Mt. Tabor park. This park has a little something for everyone. And, let’s face it in the midst of a pandemic outdoor spaces are especially important right now. Take some time to get outside and indulge in a little fresh air, some exercise, some bird watching and some time in the trees.
Mt. Tabor, a volcanic cinder cone, was named after Israel’s Mt. Tabor. The city built two open reservoirs on Mt. Tabor in 1894. In 1903, landscaping of the park was started by architect John C. Olmsted and was continued through the early 1900s. The park was planned to feature naturalistic design, long staircases and curving walkways. Some of the paths are even surfaced with cinder from the cinder cone.
Mt. Tabor Park’s many features include:
- Stage (Outdoor)
- Dog Off-leash Area
- Paths (Paved)
- Paths (Unpaved)
- Basketball Court
- Tennis Court (Lighted)
- Volleyball Court
- Accessible Picnic Area
- Accessible Play Area
- Accessible Restroom
- Statue or Public Art
- Picnic Table
- Plaza
- Playground
- Horseshoe Pit
- Picnic Shelter
For More information about the trails, plants and trees at the park or to be a park volunteer. Visit Friends of Mt. Tabor Park.
Visit Portland Parks and Recreation Mt. Tabor page and the Friends of Mt. Tabor Park page to plan your next day at the park and get outside Portland!