Mount Tabor Park
Explore an extinct volcano in Portland, offering panoramic city views, serene trails, and recreational fun.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Mount Tabor Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore an extinct volcano in Portland, offering panoramic city views, serene trails, and recreational fun.
"A tranquil escape within the city, offering stunning views and a unique volcanic landscape."
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of trails and stairs! Be prepared for a workout.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Upper lots can be busy. Consider parking on the south end for a gentler climb.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Summit
Gaze upon downtown Portland and beyond from this unique vantage point atop an ancient volcano.
The Big Slide
Rocky Ridge, Maryland (Note: This is a separate location from Portland's Mount Tabor Park)
Experience the thrill of Maryland's largest free wooden slide, a 40-foot marvel built in the 1950s.
Volcanic Cinder Cone
Park grounds
Explore the unique geology of an extinct volcano right within the city limits.
Tranquil Forest Trails
Throughout the park
Escape the city bustle on shaded trails, perfect for dog walks or a peaceful picnic.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Navigating the Volcano
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of trails and stairs! Be prepared for a workout.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Upper lots can be busy. Consider parking on the south end for a gentler climb.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Plenty of spots for a relaxed picnic, especially under pavilions.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
A great place for dog walks, especially to escape the heat.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of trails and stairs! Be prepared for a workout.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Upper lots can be busy. Consider parking on the south end for a gentler climb.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Plenty of spots for a relaxed picnic, especially under pavilions.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
A great place for dog walks, especially to escape the heat.
🚴♀️ Car-Free Wednesdays
Enjoy biking or skating on the roads when they're closed to vehicles.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Mount Tabor Park's stunning city views, tranquil forest trails, and unique volcanic setting. Many appreciate it as a peaceful escape within the city, perfect for dog walks and picnics. Some find the stairs challenging, but the overall experience is highly positive, with many planning return visits.
"On an extremely hot day, I sought shade in the forest and found this perfect spot to walk my dogs and cool off beneath the deep, leafy canopy. It’s a wonderful place to escape the heat. I was pleasantly surprised to find such a tranquil space right in the middle of the city. There happened to be a concert taking place, and it turned out to be an ideal spot for a relaxed picnic. Highly recommended."
Kai Dwd
"This was mine and my husband's first time at this park and we really enjoyed it! It was beautiful. LOTS of trails to enjoy. Those stairs are unforgiving as heck 🤣. It's definitely a busier park, but with how many trails there are, everyone is spaced out, and everyone we ran into was very nice. We will definitely be back to take a crack at the trails we didn't get to."
Melissa Woolery
"Mt Tabor is an exquisite park located on an ancient volcano! That's right, Google it! It provides a stellar view of not only downtown Portland (from sunrise to sunset) but also part of the Portland Metro. During the summer, Mt Tabor hosts Tabor Dance, which is a "rave-like" free event that puts on 3 local DJs; donations help support this event and let's them keep coming back. It houses 2 large water reservoirs, adding to beauty of the space! If you're new or visiting, make a trek up to Mt Tabor, you won't be disappointed!"
Brandon Meyers
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mount Tabor Park is accessible by car, public transport, and bike. Several bus lines stop near the park entrances. If driving, be aware that parking can be limited, especially on weekends. Some visitors recommend parking on the south end for a more gradual ascent.
Parking lots at the top can fill up quickly. Reddit users suggest the south end for a less steep walk up. Some parking is available near the dog park as well.
Yes, Mount Tabor Park is located in Southeast Portland, making it relatively easy to access from downtown via car or public transit. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Absolutely! Mount Tabor Park is bike-friendly, with roads that are even closed to cars on Wednesdays for recreational use. There are also trails suitable for cycling.
Currently, there are no dedicated shuttle services to Mount Tabor Park. Visitors typically drive, use public transportation, or bike to reach the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Mount Tabor Park is a public park and is completely free to enter and explore.
Mount Tabor Park is generally open from 7 AM to 8 PM daily, though specific hours can vary. It's always a good idea to check local listings for any seasonal changes or event-related closures.
No tickets are required for Mount Tabor Park. It's a public space open to everyone.
Yes, Mount Tabor Park hosts various events, including Tabor Dance (a free, rave-like event with DJs) and other community gatherings. Check local event listings for schedules.
Yes, the Big Slide at Mount Tabor Park in Rocky Ridge, Maryland, is completely free to use.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Mount Tabor Park offers a variety of activities, including hiking on numerous trails, enjoying panoramic city views, picnicking, playing on the playground, and utilizing the basketball and tennis courts. It's also a great spot for dog walking.
Yes, Mount Tabor Park boasts many trails suitable for various fitness levels. Some are steeper than others, offering a good workout with rewarding views.
The views from Mount Tabor Park are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of downtown Portland and the surrounding metro area. It's particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset.
Yes, Mount Tabor Park is family-friendly with a playground and open spaces for kids to run around. The Big Slide in Rocky Ridge, MD, is also a huge hit with children.
Absolutely! Mount Tabor Park has numerous picnic tables, many under pavilions, making it an ideal spot for picnics and barbecues.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic shots of Portland. The reservoirs also provide scenic backdrops. For a unique shot, capture the historic Big Slide in Rocky Ridge, MD.
Yes, sunset at Mount Tabor Park provides stunning light and colors over the city skyline, making it a prime location for photographers.
Landscape photography capturing the city views, nature photography of the forested areas, and candid shots of people enjoying the park are popular.
Generally, casual photography is allowed. However, for commercial photography or large-scale events, permits might be required. It's best to check with park authorities if you have specific plans.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photos. Midday can be harsh, but the shaded forest trails offer good opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+2Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many designated spots, and don't forget comfortable shoes for navigating the park's inclines. If visiting on a Wednesday, the car-free roads are perfect for kids to safely ride bikes or scooters.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
Bring water and wear sturdy footwear, as some paths can be steep. The shaded canopy offers a welcome respite on warmer days, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful nature walk. Don't miss the chance to discover the park's volcanic geology and enjoy the tranquility.
📸 Photographers
For a truly unique photographic subject, consider the Big Slide at Mount Tabor Park in Rocky Ridge, Maryland, a vintage wooden slide that offers a nostalgic and fun visual. Remember to check for any photography permit requirements if you plan a professional shoot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Volcanic Heart of Portland
Visitors can learn about the park's volcanic past through interpretive signs and by simply observing the landscape. The elevation gained from the volcano contributes to the panoramic views of downtown Portland and the surrounding areas, a major draw for many visitors. The presence of two large water reservoirs within the park also adds to its scenic beauty and historical significance.
Exploring Mount Tabor feels like stepping into a natural sanctuary, yet it's conveniently located within the urban environment. The blend of natural features, recreational facilities, and historical context makes it a multifaceted destination for all types of visitors.
The Iconic Big Slide Adventure
+1Visitors to the Maryland location can ride down on burlap sacks or even their own bottoms, though bringing a blanket or cardboard is recommended for a smoother ride. The slide is part of a playground, making it a fantastic destination for a day of active fun. The fact that this simple, decades-old structure remains such a popular attraction speaks to its enduring appeal and the joy it brings.
+2It's important to distinguish between the two 'Mount Tabor Parks' when planning your visit. The Portland park offers urban exploration and scenic vistas, while the Rocky Ridge park provides a specific, exhilarating playground experience. Both, however, offer memorable adventures for their visitors.
+1Recreational Opportunities
Wednesdays are particularly special as the park's roads are closed to vehicles, transforming them into a playground for skaters and bikers. This car-free environment allows for a safer and more enjoyable experience for wheeled activities. The park's forested areas also make it an ideal spot for dog walking, offering a refreshing escape for pets and their owners.
Beyond organized sports and active pursuits, the park is a beloved spot for picnics and barbecues, with ample seating and shaded areas. The combination of natural landscapes and recreational facilities makes Mount Tabor Park a versatile destination for both active individuals and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit