Leif Erikson Drive from Thurman

Leif Erikson Drive is Forest Park's broad, steady route for walking, running, and biking from the Thurman gate. This page helps visitors understand access, permitted uses, distance markers, and how to build shorter out-and-backs or connector loops.

  • Distance11.2 one-way Thurman to Germantown; use shorter out-and-b...
  • ElevationGentle overall grade; PP&R south profile reports aver...
  • DifficultyEasy to Moderate depending on distance
  • Time45 minutes to 4+ hours depending on turnaround
  • Routeout-and-back / connector spine

At a glance

Distance
11.2 one-way Thurman to Germantown; use shorter out-and-backs for most visitors
Elevation gain
Gentle overall grade; PP&R south profile reports average 3.5% and short maximum grade of 7.8% in the first assessed section
Difficulty
Easy to Moderate depending on distance
Est. time
45 minutes to 4+ hours depending on turnaround
Route type
out-and-back / connector spine
Allowed uses
Pedestrian, cycling, and equestrian use on Leif Erikson Drive; dogs on leash; motorized mobility devices for people with disabilities. No e-bikes or other motorized transport beyond accessibility devices.

Trailhead, access, and parking

Start at the Leif Erikson / Thurman gate just past 4015 NW Thurman Street. TriMet bus 26 stops downhill at NW Thurman and Gordon; PP&R notes the walk from the bus stop is about 1,400 feet uphill.

Parking at the Thurman gate is very limited, with roughly 9 unmarked spaces near the last residence plus nearby street parking. No designated ADA parking at the trailhead per PP&R profile.

Route overview

Begin at the Thurman gate and follow the wide gravel road north into Forest Park. White bollards mark distance from the gate, making Leif Erikson one of the easiest Forest Park routes for setting a turnaround point. For a short outing, walk or ride to the first mile marker and return. For a longer route, use Wild Cherry, Dogwood, Alder, Maple, Saltzman, or other connectors to build a loop with Wildwood where allowed uses match your activity.