In these hectic times, when our days seem shorter, and urban sprawl continues to encroach upon our free spaces, we begin to seek greener pastures. Some cities like Portland, Ore., have maintained relatively quiet existence until recently, when people suddenly began to seek an escape from their concrete jungles. The Pacific Northwest has experienced, for better or worse, a recent surge in transplants to the region. With this influx, Portland has watched its traffic become more congested, its crime rate increase, and its real estate prices creep upward. Nevertheless, Portland's quality of life remains high, and its spectacular scenery continues to make Portland -- dubbed the "City of Roses" -- a popular choice among relocators and tele-commuters

Portland has a rich history. The Lewis and Clark expedition passed through the city between 1804 and 1806. During the 1840s and 1850s, a group of travelers on the Oregon Trail -- mostly farmers from the Midwestern "breadbasket" and merchants from New England -- founded the city and established a series of agrarian communities within its borders.

Geography: something for everyone

Portland is one of the West Coast's largest ports despite its location approximately 70 miles away from the Pacific Ocean, where the Columbia River meets the Willamette River. Although shutterbugs who stay within city limits won't be disappointed, day trips are worth your while; a mere 30 minutes away, you'll find such gems as the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, comprised of a canyon that was formed by water from the Cascade Mountain Range. Regardless of the time of year, recreational activities abound in the greater Portland area. In addition to fishing and hiking, skiing and beaches are available within about an hour's drive of the city. Portland's defining point, of course, is Mount Hood, which boasts plenty of skiing and hiking trails. Located west of Portland are miles of stunning vineyards and orchards, home to world-renowned pinot noir and Chardonnay wines. Among other noteworthy and nearby destinations is the Coldwater Ridge Visitor's Center, located at Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument National Volcanic Monument. This region truly has something to offer every taste.

Neighborhoods

Portland is divided into eastern and western sections by the Willamette River. Downtown Portland lies along the river's western banks. The western portion of the city also contains some of the city's prime real estate. Along the steep slopes of the West Hills, you'll find the Portland Zoo, a variety of parks, and some of the city's pricier homes. Head west of West Hills, and you'll reach the "burbs" -- the neighborhoods of Beaverton, Tigard, and Hillsboro, all of which are experiencing a growth in high-tech companies. And located south of downtown Portland is the Lake Oswego community, considered among the city's most exclusive neighborhoods.

As you head into East Portland going north, you'll soon reach the Lloyd District, which contains world's first shopping center, Lloyd Center. Head south, and you'll reach the neighborhoods of southeast Portland, home to students and artists, as well as the city's burgeoning activist population.

Heading toward Mt. Hood are the suburbs of Gresham and Troutdale. Clackamas and Milwaukie are to the south. In addition, Vancouver, Washington, a suburb experiencing significant growth, is located just on the other side of the Columbia River.

Lifestyle

One of Portland's biggest selling points is its extensive network of parks -- more than 200, to be exact -- including Washington Park, which serves as home to the Rose Test Gardens; and the 4,600 square-foot Forest Park, the city's biggest park and the largest city park in the United States, which includes 50 miles of trails. On the other end of the spectrum, Portland has an infamously tiny park, as well: Mills End Park, which measures a mere 24 inches. Don't try to have a picnic here. The city celebrates its abundance of roses each year with the annual Portland Rose Festival (check out details at Rose Festival). The combination of this park system and the city's lush greenery create not only plenty of opportunities for recreation, but also a mix of natural beauty and urbanism with which no other U.S. can compare.

Although longtime Portland residents might be feeling nostalgic for thedays of lighter traffic and tourism, the city still maintains a harmonious balance between development and natural preserves. The grass truly is greener on the other side in Portland.

Published: July 30, 1998

Use of this article without permission is a violation of federal copyright laws.