By Brian Hoop
Trailhead improvements to Forest Park at Firelane 1 at the southern edge of Linnton reopened in 2024. The new parking lot, near the intersection of NW St Helens Road and NW Kittridge Avenue, was completed in part to relieve pressure on overused nearby trailheads, many which have limited auto parking facilities.
While the site improvements are impressive, be warned this section of the trail from the parking lot is quite steep, with grades up to 35% for short distances. Otherwise, there are now 30 parking spaces, bike racks, drop off zone for a bus, portapotty and trash receptacles.
Most critical were improvements to Firelane 1 to facilitate Portland Fire & Rescue access just in case when an inevitable wildfire takes place. The previously rutted and overgrown steep grade is now restored to an appropriate width and smooth gravel surface. Native plantings and stormwater treatment surround the parking lot.
New entrance to Firelane 1 trailhead.
Photo credit: Portland Parks & Recreation.
Parks and Recreation’s website indicates future phases will bring graded switchback trails up the steep slope as well as a Nature Center to “showcase the park’s special character and its timeless importance to Portland.” The center would include educational exhibits, amphitheater, classrooms, and public restrooms.
The $4.8 million improvements were funded by System Development Charges. This author doubts the future phases, budgeted at another $13.2 million, are likely to take place anytime soon as the City faces major budget gaps.
To learn more, check out Parks & Rec’s project page – tinyurl.com/4d4kh5h7