Wildwood, Northwest Leif Erikson Drive and Hardesty Trail Loop is a 7 mile lightly trafficked loop trail located near Portland, Oregon that offers the chance to see wildlife and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking and trail running. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
This is currently a one-way trail due to COVID-19, so follow the sign’s directions and hike this loop opposite than what is shown on the AllTrails map. This might also be an easier direction due to how steep the section of the Hardesty Trail is. Trailhead had plenty of free parking on a Wednesday afternoon. The trail itself is in good condition besides a few trees down on Waterline and Wildwood Trail.
Good quality trails, though crowded, even early in the morning. Least amount of trash of any trail we've hiked this summer. Parking is very limited at the trailhead, the good news is people are coming and going constantly so spots seem to open up every few minutes.
Started at Skyline Blvd. Walked down to the Springville Road TH. We were nearly run down on the road coming in by a wild driver who was in a big hurry for a stroll in the forest with the wife and kids. There is really no reason to go fast on this road. We went a little farther than the path outlined in this map, to Cannon Trail, cut it a little short and returned at Hardesty Trail. Went on a Saturday afternoon. Lots of people out. Dogs off leash, kids and families going the wrong way on the "one way" paths in effect for social distancing. Still, a nice walk in the forest. Saw a couple hairy woodpecker and a great big banana slug. I'd like to try it again on a rainy weekday.
I always prefer getting my uphill out-of-the-way at the beginning of a hike. I tried parking at the lowest elevation spot on this loop but there was no parking available unfortunately. So I did this as recommended starting up top. I won’t do it again....The last quarter-mile of this hike is a killer and is a cruel way to end what is actually 7 1/2 miles of hiking. The good news is a lot of this route is one way trails for Covid safety. That was nice. There wasn’t really a good rest spot anywhere to regroup and have a snack on this route. I chose the little concrete structure at about mile 3 to stop and snack. This route is great to feel secluded and alone in the forest! We are so lucky to live here and have this gem so close by! It is going to be 100 degrees here today so I went early. It’s very shaded the whole way. Not much in the way of viewpoints on this hike but a really good way to get over 7 miles in, though! Enjoy!
Great trail. We went on a Tuesday afternoon and passed about 10-12 people the entire 7 miles. The light/shadows coming through the trees were stunning! Nice hardpacked dirt and rocks. Exposed roots along the trail and definitely steep at entrance and exit. If you want to feel lost in a forest, this is your trail.