Hike¶
Every year we have a conference hike that kicks off the unofficial beginning of the conference. It has become a fantastic tradition and is a wonderful way to gather the day before the conference begins.
This year, we’re offering two options to better accommodate interests:
a 5-mile uphill hike exploring Forest Park and Hoyt Arboretum
a shorter urban walk that explores the International Rose Test Garden and ends at Powell’s Books
Hike¶
We will be hiking in the amazing Forest Park, the largest urban forested park in the country. It is conveniently located in Northwest Portland, and has a beautiful walk along a creek.
The hike is around 5 miles long with 1,200 feet of elevation gain and is classified as a moderate hike. We’ll be going nice and slow so people can appreciate the views and forest.
It’s rained on us in the past, but we have faith it will be beautiful this year! We will hopefully see Mount Hood at the top :)
Hike Schedule¶
Date: Saturday, May 2, 2 PM
Arrival: Meet 15 minutes before the start time.
Lunch (optional): Join us at the Nob Hill food carts at 12:30pm for lunch. We’ll leave for the trailhead at 1:40pm.
Start: Lower Macleay Park. Meet at the pavilion at the park entrance.
End: Oregon Zoo around 5pm, where we will take the MAX back to town.
Urban Walk¶
The urban walk will begin with a tour of the International Rose Test Garden facilitated by the Portland Parks staff. From there, those who wish to continue exploring Portland will walk to Powell’s Books. Join us for the full walk or the rose garden tour only.
The walk from the Rose Garden to Powell’s is 1.5 miles long and has 400 feet of elevation gain. Please note that we’ll also be walking in the garden and through Powell’s books.
Urban Walk Schedule¶
Date: Saturday, May 2, 2:30 PM
Arrival: Meet 15 minutes before the start time.
Schedule:
2:30-3:15 PM: Rose Garden tour
3:15-4:00 PM: Walk to Powell’s
4:00-5:00 PM: Explore Powell’s
5:00 PM: Meet back up for those who want to take public transportation, rideshare, or walk back to the Rose Garden together.
Lunch (optional): You’re welcome to join us at Nob Hill food carts at 12:30pm for lunch. We’ll leave at 1:30pm and walk 1.4 miles to the Rose Garden.
Start: International Rose Test Garden, exact location TBD
End: Powell’s Books, where you’re welcome to browse on your own or walk around with another attendee.
What to Bring¶
The temperature will likely be in the upper 50s and 60s, with a chance of rain. There is no predicting Portland Spring weather! Please bring:
Comfortable shoes that you are willing to get a bit muddy.
Water! There is water available halfway through the hike.
Lightweight rain jacket - it likely will not be too cold, but it might drizzle on you.
High spirits!
Tickets¶
Participating in the hike or urban walk is free, but please register for your ticket so that we can confirm number of folks on the rose garden tour and contact you in advance for day-of weather and logistics information.
We hope you will join us for one of these pre-conference activities!
