4T Loop Hike

Overview

Portland's 4T Trail involves a four-leg loop that takes advantage of public transportation to connect trails in the forested hills of Southwest Portland with the South Waterfront and downtown. Thus, it is T for Trails (Marquam Trail and trails in Marquam Nature Park), Tram (the Portland Aerial Tram), Train (MAX light rail, Blue or Red Line), and Trolley (Portland Street Car). The hiking section of the route is 4.4 miles if you begin at the Marquam Nature Park Shelter Trailhead, the most practical place to start if you are driving since there is no fee to park there. Other places to begin are at the Galleria stop for the MAX light rail line (10th and Morrison), near the Multnomah County Central Library, or the Lower Terminal for the Portland Aerial Tram. Another place to park, although with a fee, is at the Oregon Zoo or the Wildwood Trailhead near the zoo. The hiking begins with an 0.9 mile jaunt up the Connor Trail and through the OHSU campus to connect with the Portland Aerial Tram; the longer hiking section connects the MAX station at the Oregon Zoo with the Marquam Nature Park Shelter Trailhead. The loop is usually done anticlockwise as riding the Portland Aerial Tram downhill is free, while coming up from the South Waterfront costs $4.90. Since the tram serves OHSU employees, you'll have a less crowded experience between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. on weekdays. Also, if cost is an issue, it's good to do the trolley and train sections back to back to stay within the 2 1/2 hour limit of a Trimet ticket. Without breaks, this whole loop will take you about 3 - 4 hours. The Marquam Nature Park Shelter displays interpretive panels outlining the human and natural history of Marquam Gulch. Take time here also to admire the stunning Marquam Mosaic, installed in the small amphitheater behind the shelter, and created by Portland artist Lynn Takata in 2013. Red maples from the eastern United States shade the area around the shelter; these trees form a blazing grove in the fall. Walk to your left from the shelter, passin

Trail Stats

Photos

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