Devon Berry is a nursing professional specializing in academic executive leadership. He has most recently served as executive associate dean at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) School of Nursing. Devon Berry currently resides with his family in Portland, Oregon.
Portland has over 200 parks with a lush green landscape that work for a variety of scenarios--walking your dog, watching the sunset, going for a run, or a little bit of each. What makes a park special is subjective to its visitors. These are the three best parks in Portland, Oregon, but it’s worth exploring more for yourself—to enjoy and attach your own memories to.
Forest Park
Walk far enough west on NW Thurman street and you’ll run into the 5,200 acre Forest Park—one of the nation’s largest urban forests. Thurman is one of 18 access points into the park, which has over 80 miles of trails and is home to more than 112 bird and 62 mammal species. It’s the perfect ground for a trail run, hike, or mountain bike excursion with friends.
Oregon Park
Not the biggest or the smallest, this humble neighborhood park spans two to three blocks in Northeast Portland. There’s a small handful of wood and steel play structures, park benches, and a basketball court, making Oregon Park ideal for a stroll, shooting hoops, or playing with your kids and dogs. It’s mostly shaded and never crowded—in other words, perfectly Portland.
Council Crest
Sitting at 1073 feet above sea level in SW Portland, Council Crest park is thought to be the highest elevation point within city limits, boasting unobstructed views of Mount Hood. You’ll find a small handful of hiking trails and an expansive, grassy lawn great for a picnic or reading a book.
