Northwest Trail Runners

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About us

Come join us for a run out on the trails! We run every Saturday morning and Tuesday evening in Forest Park or other trails around Portland. We also schedule monthly adventure runs to scenic locations around the Pacific Northwest, celebratory holiday runs, and trail maintenance parties.

Tuesday, Saturday, and holiday runs are generally 5 - 7 miles long with a variety of paces and experience. Our adventure runs are more challenging in both length and elevation and are targeted towards more seasoned runners.

Northwest Trail Runners also focuses on building a collaborative trail running community, forming friendships and adventure ideas, introducing people to ultra and adventure running, and engaging our members to care for our wild places, open spaces, and public lands.

We look forward to growing and exploring the wild treasures of the Pacific Northwest with you!

FAQ's

What pace do people run?
We have many different paces of runners and sometimes people walk if they're recovering from injury. It will depend on the elevation and distance of the route, and who shows up that day. You can take it slow or, if you like a speed challenge, there's usually someone who will take you up on it!

Do you regroup during the run?
Yes, we usually regroup one or more times (depends on the route) to keep the group closer together. If you'll be walking or running a slower pace let the organizer of the day know at the start. We may not be able to wait for you at the regrouping if you're far behind but can discuss other options to keep you engaged with the group.

I'm nervous about meeting new people! Will I fit in?
We've all been there! We're a casual, welcoming group focused on building community. Many of us joined solo and have built friendships which have continued outside the scheduled runs. We usually have a good number of "regulars" and a few new people at each of our runs.

Where do you run?
The bulk of our runs are in Forest Park which contains 80 miles of trails to explore. We also venture out to other spots around Portland and do monthly adventure runs in the gorge, up or around PNW mountains, or at the coast.

What types of events do you have?
We have regularly scheduled Tuesday night (6:30pm) and Saturday morning (9:00am) runs, 5-7 miles in length, generally posted a week in advance. In addition, we schedule occasional adventure runs (see above) and special events. Examples of special events from the past: volunteer trail maintenance with Forest Park Conservancy, Wildwood End to End run, Pi day pie run, New Year's day relay, summer picnic...

Who organizes the runs?
We have a close knit team of organizers who take turns posting and leading our runs and providing various support to the group. We also have an amazing community of "regulars" who naturally pitch in in various ways during and outside of events. We are community run!

I have another question. What should I do?
Send a message to one of our organizers or post a message on one of our events. We'd love to hear from you!

Featured event

Semiquincentennial Celebration: Run to Make Ice Cream + BBQ

Sat, Jul 4 · 9:00 AM PDT

Boathouse, 444 S Boundary St, Portland, OR, US

Distance: 6.68 mile mixed run
Gain: 875 feet
Start: near the paid lot across the street from the Boathouse Apartments
After: Boathouse Apartments for BBQ and water activities

To celebrate the 4th of July we're running from the river up to OHSU and back down via Marquam trail while attempting to make ice cream, then having a BBQ afterparty at Alex's (thanks, Alex!). Basic burgers will be provided at the BBQ; please bring sides, items to grill if you have specific dietary needs, and beverages for yourself or to share.

Bring a running pack if you want to make ice cream while running. Standard ingredients and supplies will be provided. If you have special dietary needs you can bring your ingredients. Here's a video and there are many others online! https://photos.app.goo.gl/g1592GY4TvMP3WJ26

Bring your paddleboard / kayak / canoe / giant rubber ducky if you would like to paddle around in the Willamette after the run (Boathouse Apartments has a launch). Some of us will also be paddling from there to watch fireworks in the evening; reach out to an organizer if you are interested in joining. Note to paddlers:
Personal Flotation Device is required and Waterway Access Permit is needed for all non-motorized boats. Information and purchase options are here: https://www.oregon.gov/osmb/boater-info/Pages/AIS-FAQs.aspx

Significant others (up to 2) are welcome to join the after-run festivities which will begin around 10:30 AM.

The route: Follow the map
Route map: https://connect.garmin.com/app/course/479424663

There is free street parking along Corbett Ave and paid parking across the street from Boathouse apartments. See photos section for map.

Hope to see you there!!!

Hosted by:
Tam & Alex
Northwest Trail Runners