Gabriel Park And Off-Leash Area

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Sw 45 Ave And Vermont Portland, Oregon

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Gabriel Park And Off-Leash Area in Portland, Oregon - Main Image

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Gabriel Park & Off-Leash Area: Your Guide to Portland’s Dog Park
Located in Southwest Portland, Gabriel Park offers a designated off-leash area where dogs can exercise, play, and socialize in a safe, natural environment. Here's everything dog owners need to know before visiting.
Location & Access
• Address: SW 45th Ave and Vermont, Portland, OR 97213
• Distance: Approximately 4.25 miles from downtown Portland
Park Details
• Operator: Portland Parks & Recreation
• Type: Off-leash dog park
• Size: Spacious, open layout for off-leash recreation
• Surface: Natural terrain with grass and dirt for varied play
Rules & Regulations
• Leash Policy: Dogs must be leashed outside the designated off-leash area
• Vaccinations: Dogs should be current on vaccinations; proof encouraged
• Clean-Up: Owners must clean up after pets; waste bags are provided
• Dog Behavior: Only well-socialized, non-aggressive dogs are permitted
• Children: Children must be supervised while in the park
Nearby Attractions
• Forest Park: One of the largest urban forest reserves in the U.S., offering miles of trails
• Mill Ends Park: Officially recognized as the world’s smallest park
• Arleta Triangle: A small, local pocket park
• Green Loop: A developing citywide linear park project
• Community Gardens: Scattered throughout Portland, offering local green space
Helpful Tips
• Bring your own water and bowl for your dog
• Early mornings and late afternoons are typically less crowded
• Keep dogs under voice control at all times in the off-leash area

About

Gabriel Park & Off-Leash Area: Your Portland Dog’s Paradise

Nestled in Southwest Portland, Gabriel Park & Off-Leash Area is a popular destination for dog owners seeking a relaxed, open space for their pets to explore and socialize. Offering a natural setting that encourages free play, this park is a standout among Portland’s many green spaces.

Conveniently located at SW 45th Ave and Vermont, Portland, OR 97213, and just 4.25 miles from downtown, Gabriel Park is easily accessible for urban dwellers looking for a quick getaway without leaving the city.

Operated by Portland Parks & Recreation, the park is part of a robust network of over 279 parks and natural areas citywide. What sets Gabriel Park apart is its thoughtfully designed off-leash area, where dogs can run freely across varied, natural terrain without the confines of traditional fencing.

The space emphasizes open interaction, offering plenty of room for dogs to roam, socialize, and burn off energy in a setting that feels more like a woodland trail than a typical urban dog park. It’s an ideal place for dogs that thrive in natural surroundings and for owners who enjoy a more organic outdoor experience.

Nearby, visitors can explore other Portland landmarks like Forest Park, one of the largest urban forest reserves in the country, or swing by Mill Ends Park, the world’s smallest park, showcasing Portland’s playful spirit and commitment to green space—no matter the size.

This commitment is rooted in the historic 1903 Olmsted Portland park plan, which envisioned a connected city rich in open, accessible natural areas. Today, that vision continues to shape spaces like Gabriel Park and other innovative uses of land, including HydroParks—converted utility spaces reimagined as public recreation areas.

More than just a park, Gabriel Park’s off-leash area functions as a true community hub. It’s a place where dogs thrive, neighbors meet, and friendships are built—both on two legs and four.

Whether you’re a local pet parent or just visiting Portland, Gabriel Park is a must-visit stop on your list of dog-friendly destinations. Come see why it’s a favorite for pups and people alike.

History

History of Gabriel Park & Off-Leash Area – Portland, OR

Gabriel Park & Off-Leash Area in Portland, Oregon, plays an important role in the city's broader commitment to accessible outdoor recreation—for both people and their pets. Operated by Portland Parks & Recreation, this space reflects the city’s long-standing vision for public green spaces.

The park is part of a legacy shaped by the 1903 Olmsted Portland park plan, a foundational blueprint that envisioned a connected system of parks, natural areas, and public amenities throughout the city. That vision continues to guide Portland’s approach to urban planning and recreation today.

Though the specific origins of Gabriel Park’s off-leash area aren't precisely documented, its presence within Portland’s 279+ parks and natural areas represents the city’s evolving commitment to inclusive, multi-use outdoor environments.

The creation of spaces like Gabriel Park underscores a civic philosophy centered around livability, health, and community connection. It also addresses the growing need for designated areas where dogs can safely run, play, and socialize off-leash—while their owners enjoy the benefits of shared outdoor space.

Today, Gabriel Park’s continued maintenance by Portland Parks & Recreation is a reflection of the city’s dedication to preserving and enhancing its public lands. For Portland residents, it’s more than a dog park—it’s a living part of a historical and ongoing effort to build a greener, more connected city.

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