The Back Cove Trail is a 3.5 mile loop ideal for walking, running, biking and dog walking that provides beautiful views of the Cove, harbor, and downtown. The paths are 12+ feet wide and compacted stone dust and paved surfaces that generally have low slopes and crossslopes. On the approaches to Tukey’s Bridge, the slopes increase to over 12%. On the section of trail that parallels 295 on the Back Cove Park side, crossslopes reach over 5%. The trail connects to both the Eastern Promenade and the Bayside Trail allowing for a continued trail experience. The Back Cove Trail connects Payson Park and Back Cove Park which have sports fields, fitness equipment and playgrounds.
There are several benches and three seasonal water fountains (for people and pets) along the trail, and there are distance markers along its route in both miles and kilometers. Portable toilets are available in the parking areas at Back Cove Park and Payson Park.
Read about MTF Accessibility Ambassador Enock Glidden's visit to this trail using his wheelchair at MTF Stories.
Trail conditions can change without warning. Trail last assessed: 7/18/2026.
The Back Cove Trail is a public park owned and managed by the City of Portland.
Visit Portland Trails online for more information and a printable map or contact:
Portland TrailsFrom I-295 take Exit 6B US-302/ME-100/Forest Ave. Turn right on Forest Avenue. Take your next right on Baxter Boulevard and your next right to Preble Street. There is a large public parking area on the Back Cove. Mileage markers start at Preble Street Extension parking lot, although trail can be joined anywhere along Baxter Boulevard. Parking is available in the lot off Preble Street Extension and on the north side of Baxter Boulevard at Payson Park. METRO Bus Route 8.
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