Council Crest Park — Attraction in Portland

Kinda expected to see more. I mean, scenic vista-wise. Not expected: an enormous water tower and communications tower as unavoidable main attractions. The set up designed for establishing the park site’s significance was odd. One plaque described a view of Columbia and Willamette Rivers along with Mt. Hood — except none of these was visible due to obstructing vegetation. A second plaque described an amusement park there — except that was in 1909-1929. So, the significance according to these markers were things not to be seen. On the OTHER hand, right there, impossible to be missed (the proverbial white elephant on the hillside crest), were the two towers. And they were both neglected by the Plaque Masters.

Admittedly, the location is serene, nice for a leisurely stroll, and sparsely appointed with flowering garden sorts of features, like paths, benches facing random directions, a flowering plant here and there. Mostly grass, however.

Those TOWERS though! My, I wanted to learn more about them. Perhaps...

Highest point of Portland but to be honest the views aren't the best for sure. I was rather disappointed the first time I came up here, seeing nothing spectacular that I had eagerly anticipated. On a good day, you'll be able to see Mt Hood but that's it.

That said, I have ran up here through both Vista Ave and Marquam trail, they are very different terrains and have different sceneries but both are very fun. The view on Vista Bridge is actually much better.

Another thing to do is a 3.5 mile loop along the SW Fairmont Boulevard, a residential area that is super quiet with spectacular hillside houses. Around the intersection with SW Mitchell St, the view suddenly opens up and...

Clean, quiet, and scenic.

I am a young woman who visited by myself. I felt very safe at this park, even on the trails. Council Crest park is very peaceful, and there were some interesting birds. Lots of benches, as well as lawn space for picnics if you happen to visit while it’s dry outside.

When I visited (November) the Four T Trail (train system thingy) wasn’t running, but I will 100% go back in the summer so I can experience that. I’ve attached pictures of the sign explaining it. It looks really cool.

The only thing is I wish there were a water fountain, because I forgot to bring water. Overall I had a great time, and I...