A mansion and a restroom

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May 1, 2012. Pittock Mansion, along the Wildwood Trail

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May 1, 2012. Stone House, along the Wildwood Trail

Portland’s Forest Park is more than 5,000 acres of just that: forest. There are few structures within the park. So when I came upon these two historic landmarks on this morning’s run on the Wildwood Trail, I stopped at each for a brief visit.

Pittock Mansion, built in 1909, sits just off the trail near milepost 3.5 along the 30-mile Wildwood Trail. Though I was in a great spot, on a beautiful morning, I found myself looking out across the Willamette Valley, wondering how life was on the distant dark hills of Mount Tabor, Powell Butte and Mount Talbert.

A mile-and-a-half later, an old stone building rests quietly a few feet from the trail along Balch Creek. The 1930s WPA restroom project sits roofless and covered with moss and ferns. It is very slowly being consumed by the forest that surrounds it.

for more from this series focused on running click here

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May 1, 2012. Pittock Mansion, along the Wildwood Trail

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May 1, 2012. Stone House, along the Wildwood Trail

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May 1, 2012. View from Pittock Mansion, along the Wildwood Trail

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May 1, 2012. Stone House, along the Wildwood Trail

all content © 2012 Tim LaBarge

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