• Witch's Castle is located in Forest Park, one of America's largest city parks
• Originally built in 1936 as a public restroom, pavilion, and storage building
Have you ever heard of Witch's Castle in Portland? It's a mysterious old stone house hidden deep in Forest Park.
When I first visited, I wasn't sure what to expect. Let me tell you, this creepy, abandoned building is totally worth the hike!
What is Witch's Castle, and Where is it Located?
Witch's Castle (also known as the Stone House) is a two-story stone building tucked away in Portland, Oregon's famous Forest Park.
Forest Park is huge, with over 80 miles of trails. That's plenty of paths to hike, bike, or just enjoy nature. This old stone structure sits along one of these trails, surrounded by tall trees and mossy rocks.
The Story Behind Portland's Witch's Castle
You might wonder: What's the real story behind this spooky spot? It isn't actually a witch's home at all! Here's what really happened:
In 1929, architect Ernest F. Tucker designed this building for Portland's Bureau of Parks.
Workers built it between 1935 and 1936 as part of a government program called the Works Progress Administration.
Originally, it was meant to be:
- A public restroom
- A pavilion for park visitors
- A storage room for park supplies
Everything changed in 1962. A huge storm, called the Columbus Day Storm, hit Portland and damaged the building badly.
The city decided it wasn't worth fixing. They removed the roof, doors, and plumbing fixtures. Since then, the structure has sat abandoned and empty.
Starting in the 1980s, local high school kids began hanging out here. They gave it the spooky nickname "Witch's Castle." Maybe because it looks haunted and mysterious?
Today, it's a popular spot for hikers, explorers, and anyone who likes creepy, abandoned places.
How to Get to Witch's Castle in Forest Park
Ready to visit Portland's Witch's Castle yourself? You'll need to hike in to reach it, but don't worry, it's easy!
The shortest hike starts at the Wildwood Trailhead at Macleay Park parking lot. From there, follow the popular Wildwood Trail straight to the stone house.
The Wildwood Trail is special because it crosses the entire Forest Park.
Along this trail, you'll find other great attractions, like:
- The historic Pittock Mansion
- Portland's famous Japanese Garden
- The colorful Rose Gardens, which you can reach on the same hike as the Japanese Garden
Lodging in Portland Downtown
If you're planning a trip to explore the Witch's Castle and other Portland attractions, you'll need a good place to stay.
Witch's Castle (Stone House) in Portland Forest Park open:
Year-round, accessible daily via Forest Park trails during daylight hours; all hours are subject to change based on weather and park guidelines.
Phone: 503-823-7529 (Portland Parks & Recreation general inquiries)
portland.gov/parks/forest-park
Address (Trailhead for shortest hike):
Macleay Park Entrance (Wildwood Trailhead)
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