Portland is noted for parks and open spaces. Covering about 1900 hectares (about 4800 acres), Forest Park is one of the largest natural areas within the boundaries of a U.S. city. Washington Park, on the hills overlooking downtown, is the location for the Metro Washington Park Zoo (notable for success in breeding Asian elephants), World Forestry Center, Hoyt Arboretum, Japanese Garden, and nationally known International Rose Test Gardens. Portland tore out a four-lane highway in its downtown to create a riverfront park, now heavily frequented by pedestrians and the site of many community events.
On clear days Portland residents enjoy the city's views of Mount Hood. Located less than 80 km (less than 50 mi) away, Mount Hood provides a location for hiking and winter sports. Portland is also within a 90-minute drive of the spectacular Oregon coast to the west. Equally close to the east are the hiking trails of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and the trails and ski slopes of Mount Hood National Forest. The Portland Trail Blazers of the National Basketball Association play in the Rose Garden arena, which opened in 1995. In 2000 the Portland Fire, an expansion Women's National Basketball Association team, began play in the Rose Garden as well.
