Welcome to North Portland

North Portland (affectionately referred to as NoPo), has been University of Portland’s home since our founding in 1901. 

Made up of a diverse mixture of residential, commercial, and industrial areas, North Portland is divided into five sections: Arbor Lodge, Kenton, Overlook, Portsmouth, St. Johns, and University Park. Learn more about these neighborhoods on the North Portland page and read UP's land acknowledgement.

We love living here and we know all our students will also love this wonderful part of Portland! Here are some of our favorite outdoor places to explore in North Portland.

photo of St. Johns Bridge

Columbia Park and Annex

Located near campus, Columbia Park and Annex is a perfect place to enjoy some sunshine. Just a 12 minute walk from UP, Columbia Park and Annex features picnic tables, paved walking paths, tennis and volleyball courts, and soccer, baseball, and softball fields.

Forest Park

Forest Park is one of the largest urban forests in the United States. It’s covered with both hiking and bicycle trails that range from challenging to a simple nature walk. There’s an easy entrance right off the St. Johns Bridge on Germantown Road to head out on an adventure!

Cathedral Park

Located underneath the beautiful St. Johns Bridge, Cathedral Park is a great place to enjoy the beauty of Portland. You can also head down to the small riverside dock and watch the boats go by.

Sauvie Island

Sauvie Island feels completely removed from the hustle of North Portland. The farms, beaches, lakes, and parks that make up Sauvie Island are just a 15 minute drive from campus. In the fall, you can visit a corn maze or go to the Pumpkin Patch, while summer brings fruit picking (strawberries, blueberries, peaches, apples, pears) and public beaches for swimming.