Running in Oregon
Oregon is one of the best running states in America, with a deep running heritage rooted in the state's connection to Nike, the University of Oregon, and the legendary Steve Prefontaine. From Portland's Forest Park to the trails of the Cascades, the state delivers world-class running.
Climate
Western Oregon is mild and rainy with overcast skies much of the year
Terrain
Incredible diversity
Top Race
Portland Marathon
Climate and Weather
Western Oregon is mild and rainy with overcast skies much of the year. Eastern Oregon is dry and continental. Portland rarely gets extreme heat or cold. The Cascades receive heavy snow. Oregon runners learn to love running in light rain.
Terrain and Landscape
Incredible diversity. Portland has Forest Park (5,200 acres of forest trails), the Willamette Valley is flat, the Cascades offer alpine running, the coast has beach and cliff trails, and eastern Oregon has high desert terrain. Trail running options are world-class.
Top Running Routes
Forest Park Wildwood Trail
30 milesPortland
One of the largest urban forests in the country with over 80 miles of trails. The Wildwood Trail is the marquee route.
Pre's Trail
4 milesEugene
A wood-chip trail through Alton Baker Park, named after Steve Prefontaine. The spiritual home of American distance running.
Waterfront Loop
4.5 milesPortland
A flat loop along both banks of the Willamette River, crossing the Steel and Hawthorne Bridges.
Smith Rock State Park
4-10 milesTerrebonne
Dramatic desert canyon trails around iconic rock formations, popular with trail runners and climbers.
Columbia River Gorge Trails
VariesVarious
Waterfall-lined trails through one of the most scenic gorges in the world.
Popular Races
Portland Marathon
Portland
Eugene Marathon
Eugene
Gorge Waterfalls 50K/100K
Columbia River Gorge
Running Culture
Oregon has arguably the richest running culture in America. Eugene is "Track Town, USA," home to the University of Oregon and Hayward Field. Nike was founded in Oregon. Pre's Trail is a pilgrimage site for distance runners. Portland's running scene is massive with a trail running emphasis. The state produces more per-capita distance runners than nearly any other.
Safety Tips
Portland rain is frequent but usually light. Invest in a good waterproof layer.
Forest Park trails can be muddy and slippery in the rainy season (October through May).
Mountain trails may be snowbound into late June at higher elevations.
Watch for roots and rocks on Pacific Northwest forest trails. Trail shoes with grip are essential.
Make Running in Oregon a Game
Turn your Oregon runs into a real-world strategy game. Capture territory by running loops, compete with local runners on leaderboards, and explore every street through a Fog of War mechanic. Motera adds purpose and competition to every mile.
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MoteraFrequently Asked Questions
Why is Eugene called Track Town USA?
Eugene has been the center of American track and field for decades. It is home to the University of Oregon (where Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman coached), Hayward Field (the premier track venue in the US), and a community that passionately supports distance running at all levels.
Can you run in Portland year-round?
Yes. Portland's mild climate (rarely below freezing or above 90F) allows year-round running. Rain is frequent from October through May, but temperatures remain comfortable. Most Portland runners simply embrace the rain.
What is Pre's Trail?
Pre's Trail is a 4-mile wood-chip running path in Alton Baker Park in Eugene, named after legendary American distance runner Steve Prefontaine. It is one of the most iconic running routes in the country and a pilgrimage site for serious runners.
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