February 14, 2016
I have long explored the southern and middle reaches of Forest Park during my visits to Portland, but I had not (besides the previously posted little loop) spent time north of Germantown Road. Yesterday I partially rectified this, starting my ride in Linnton, looping as follows: Highway 30->Newton Rd.->Skyline Blvd.->Germantown Rd.->Leif Erikson->Saltzmann Rd.->Skyline Blvd.-> BPA Rd.->Highway 30.
As I was struggling to find purchase on the Newton Rd. climb, I encountered two runners having no such traction issues descending the trail. Based off of the terrain and the season, they had the right idea. I’m fairly sure that even with my current lack of fitness I could have run up Newton Rd (at least the first 1.6 mi. and 800’+) much faster than the ~24 minutes it took me to ride.
Apart from the steep and difficult beginning and end to this ride, this was a very enjoyable loop. The northern reaches of Forest Park/Linnton Park are much less traveled than the southern area (Pittock Mansion, Macleay Park, and Thurman St.), and features beautiful second-growth forest and some wonderful views. I recommend it in the summer, when traction issues associated with muck and slick rocks are a non-issue.
Steed: 56 cm Haanjo Comp with 700x40c Kenda Happy Mediums
Stats: 15.7 mi., 1:31:50 moving time, 2,373 ft. of elevation gain
©2016 B.N. Taber
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