day hiking trips from portland

Hiking near Portland, OR: A Complete Guide for First Timers

A big part of the reason that we’ve fallen head over heels with Portland is the fact that there is so much incredible natural beauty within about 90 minutes of our front door. Towering snow capped peaks? Mount Hood has us covered. Rugged rocky coastline? The Oregon Coast is exactly 90 minutes from our front door! And we haven’t even gotten to the spectacular waterfall hikes in Silver Falls State Park and the incredible hikes in the Columbia River Gorge yet. 

The point is, no matter what kind of hike you’re in the mood for, you’ll find it near Portland.

Between living here and our numerous trips before we decided to commit to living here, we’ve done A LOT of hikes. We’re avid hikers, and make it a priority to hit the trail once a week when we can. 

Which means that we’ve personally done every hike on this list AT LEAST once. So you can think of this list of the best hikes near Portland as an ever-evolving list that we’ll add to over time as we discover more and more trails. 

Each of these hikes is within 90 minutes of the city, and makes for an excellent day trip from Portland to get out of the city and experience Oregon’s diverse natural beauty for yourself.

For each hike, we’ll give you an overview, the important trail details like distance and elevation gain, and link to a place where you can read recent trail reports to see what conditions are like at the moment. 

Sound like what you’re looking for? Great! Let’s dive into hiking in Portland and talk about our favorite trails. 

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel and vacation rental links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would absolutely never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

A Complete Guide to the Best Hikes Near Portland

Portland has some great hikes, both within its city limits, and within a short drive of the city center. 

Below, you’ll find our top picks for hiking near Portland, divided into hikes that are actually in Portland, hikes that are just outside of the city, and hikes that are a little further out (90 minutes max), and make for a perfect for a day trip from Portland .

In both sections, we’re going to roughly organize the hikes by our favorites, which is completely subjective, but also probably the most useful for you, dear reader, as you’re looking for hikes to add to your list.

It’s not the most scientific way to organize them, but that’s probably okay. 

9 Great Portland Hikes Within the City Limits

One thing to know about hiking trails in Portland: in places like Forest Park, Mt. Tabor, and Tryon Creek State Park, there’s a nearly endless combination of trails, weaving through the forest, across creeks, and to various viewpoints. 

Below, we’ve given you our picks for the loops we liked, but know that you can make each of them shorter or longer according to what you’re looking for. 

The Washington Park Loop (the Long One!)

• Length : 4.8 miles
• Elevation Gain : 750 ft.
• Trail Type : Loop
• Difficulty : Easy / Moderate
• Dog-Friendly? Yes, on a leash
• Parking Pass : None (paid parking in Washington Park)
• Trailhead Location

We love this trail! We were looking for a hike through Washington Park that combines both the International Rose Test Garden and Hoyt Arboretum, and stumbled across this five mile route.

We think it’s the best bang-for-your-buck hike in Portland.

There are a nearly unlimited number of trails in Washington Park, but this is our favorite because it hits both the roses and Hoyt Arboretum, which are our two favorite parts of the park.

Along the way, you’ll also see the archery range in the park, the Japanese Garden, the Vietnam Veterans of Oregon Memorial, and plenty more. 

There are a couple of different ways to do this hike, and it basically comes down to whether you’re driving or not, and whether you want to pay for parking or risk not finding a spot. Here’s the quick breakdown: 

• If you don’t have a car : Take the MAX Line (red or blue) to the Oregon Zoo / Washington Park stop, and start / end the loop there. You could also walk up the hill to the rose garden from the Northwest District if you were feeling extra energetic. 
• If you have a car, and are willing to pay $8 for parking : Park at either the Rose Garden or the Zoo. 
• If you’re cheap and want free parking : Park on Fairview Blvd – roughly here – and start the loop there heading in either direction.

Lower Macleay Trail to Pittock Mansion

• Length : 5 miles
• Elevation Gain : 950 ft.
• Trail Type : Out & Back
• Difficulty : Moderate
• Parking Pass : None 

If you only have time for one hike in Portland, this is our choice for you. It starts from the Lower Macleay Trailhead in northwest Portland, where there are bathrooms and a small parking lot.

From the trailhead, you’ll head into the heart of Forest Park, starting with a flat, meandering walk along the creek. About a mile in, you’ll hit the Witch’s Castle, which is a spooky looking building that used to be a ranger station and restroom, but was destroyed in the 60’s and never rebuilt.

Today, it’s Insta-famous, with all sorts of graffiti covering nearly every surface. It’s very…odd. Peak Portland. 

After spending a second there, continue along the trail. You’ll cross a bridge across the creek, and that’s where the climbing starts in earnest. It’s all uphill from here! 

You’ll climb some switchbacks up to the Upper Macleay parking lot, where you’ll need to cross the road, and start up even more switchbacks on the other side.

It’s a good climb, and you’ll probably be breathing a little bit harder when you arrive at Pittock Mansion than the people who are getting out of their cars after driving there. 

Admire the views, check out Pittock Mansion , and head back down the way you came when you’re done. 

You could do this two other ways, depending on what you’re looking for. 

• To make it shorter, start at the Upper Macleay Trailhead , but know that you’ll miss the Witch’s Castle.
• Do it one way from the trailhead to Pittock Mansion and continue into Forest Park and over to the International Rose Test Garden and Hoyt Arboretum. Just get a Lyft (or a ride) to the trailhead.

Note that the parking lot at the trailhead is small, but there’s plenty of street parking in the adjacent neighborhood if it’s full when you get there. 

Read More: The Hike to Pittock Mansion: A Complete Guide to Portland’s Best Urban Hike

Marquam Trail to Council Crest Park

• Length : 3.1 miles
• Trail Type : Out and Back

This was our favorite section of the 4T trail, which is why it makes the list here!

You’ll start from the trailhead in Marquam Nature Park, and embark on a semi intense climb through old growth forests to an excellent viewpoint up at Council Crest Park. 

From Council Crest, you can see north up to Mount St. Helens, and east to Mount Hood. This is a great sunset spot, so we’d recommend doing this hike in the afternoon if you can swing it. 

If you don’t have a car and still want to do this trail, taking the Portland Aerial Tram up and back down is actually a great option to reach the trailhead.

It adds about a mile and 250 feet of climbing (on the way back to the tram), but it’s a beautiful view from the top station of the tram.

The 4T Trail

• Length : 4.2 miles (this is the hiking portion of the trail)
• Elevation Gain : 600 ft.
• Dog-Friendly? No dogs allowed (because of public transportation)
• Parking Pass : None (though you will pay for parking)
• Trailhead Location (the best place to start is the Oregon Zoo)

This is one of the more unique hikes in Portland. If you follow the 4T trail, you’ll make a giant loop around downtown Portland, using four different modes of transportation (trail, tram, train, trolley) to navigate the city.

It was one of the first hikes we did upon moving to Portland, and it’s a fun experience to share with visitors because you see the city from different angles than you usually would. 

Plus, the view from both Council Crest Park and the Portland Aerial Tram are spectacular. 

Tackling this trail was a little complicated, and we found it hard to find reliable information on the internet helping us figure out things like where to start, what direction to go, and other important logistical questions.

So we wrote a guide! If you’re interested in this hike, you should read our guide to hiking the 4T Trail . 

Here’s the summary. Begin at the Oregon Zoo and start a forested climb up to Council Crest Park where, on a clear day, you can see multiple snowy peaks like St. Helens and Mount Hood.

Head down the Marquam Trail to the top of the Portland Aerial Tram, where you’ll embark on a scenic three minute journey down to the river level. 

From the base of the Aerial Tram, hop on the Portland Streetcar and head downtown. To complete the loop, take the MAX back to the Oregon Zoo (although, if you’re starting from downtown Portland, you’ll start with the MAX ride to the zoo).

All in, it will cost you between $8 and $11 to do this trail, which covers the aerial tram and tickets on the MAX and Streetcar (or a day pass). 

There’s more to it, so we’d really encourage you to read our guide to the 4T trail to figure out exactly how to do the hike!

The Powell Butte Loop Trail

• Length : 4.1 miles
• Elevation Gain : 554 ft.
• Trail Type : Loop Trail

This hike is best on a clear day, because from the summit of Powell Butte, which is an extinct volcano, you can see Mount St. Helens, Mount Hood, AND Mount Adams.

We saw a clear day in the forecast, woke up to some sun, and booked it out to the trailhead before the precious winter sun went away.

The hike starts from a relatively small trailhead with plenty of parking for a weekday, but I’m sure it gets packed on weekends.

You’ll follow a wide, paved path along the northern edge of the park before taking a right at the fork to take Holgate Lane, which leads you down into the forested area. 

Meander through the ferns and tall trees before taking a left up the stairs and connecting with the Elderberry Trail, which is where the hike gets very woodsy, and connect with first the Cedar Grove Trail, then the Hawthorne Trail, which leads you most of the way around the western edge of the park and ends at the Summit Trail.

From there, make the return down to the parking lot after you spend some time admiring the views of the different mountains in all directions. 

It’s a good urban hike in Portland, and like most of the parks in Portland, there’s a nearly endless number of trails that you can connect and explore, so hiking here never gets old. 

The Mount Tabor Blue Loop Trail

• Length : 2.2 miles
• Elevation Gain : 250 ft.
• Difficulty : Easy

Mount Tabor is an extinct volcano in southeast Portland, and from viewpoints on the west side you can get a nice vista of downtown Portland.

Like a lot of the other parks in Portland, there’s a nearly endless number of different hiking trails you could combine here. 

We did the Blue Loop, which is just over a mile and takes you up to the summit, down to the southwest side of the park around the two reservoirs, and back up to the summit before returning to your car. 

You can combine parts of the Blue and Green Trails to do a slightly longer loop – roughly two miles – that takes you around the entire boundary of the park in a big loop.

For this one, you’ll walk on the outside edge of the big reservoir, and climb through the trees back up to the summit. 

The color coded markers along the trail make it super easy to figure out where you’re going. 

Hoyt Arboretum

• Length : 2.4 miles
• Elevation Gain : 400 ft.

We love this one too, and it’s BARELY a hike, but we wanted to include it anyway because it was so cool.

There is a whole system of trails within the Arboretum – 12 miles worth, to be exact – and we did what is marked as the 1 hour loop (which took us 20 minutes), plus a little bit of exploring on the south side of the park. 

Did you know that an arboretum is like a botanical garden, but for trees? Me neither. In the Hoyt Arboretum, they have 6,000 trees of more than 2,000 different species! You’ll see redwoods, spruce, and a magnolia collection, among other things. 

We’d recommend combining the 1 hour loop, which takes you to the gorgeous Redwood Deck, and along the Spruce and Redwood sections, and the 2 hour loop, which takes you along the south end of the park, for a total of 2.4 miles. 

There are tons of interpretive signs along the trail – make sure to stop along the way to learn about all the different species of trees and shrubs you’re passing. 

Parking will cost you $2 per hour at the trailhead (machines take cards, or you can use Parking Kitty, Portland’s parking app), but we realized afterwards that you can basically park along the road pretty much anywhere there’s not a “no parking” sign for free. 

The Forest Park Ridge Trail

• Length : 4 miles
• Elevation Gain : 900 ft.

The reason this hike is on this list is mainly the first quarter of a mile, which is where you get the spectacular view of the St. Johns Bridge. From there, it’s a good workout, but the views are nothing special.

You’ll climb through the densely packed trees of Forest Park, eventually reaching a fire road that serves as the turnaround point. 

The parking lot for the trail is along NW Bridge Avenue, and is a tiny pullout along the side of the road. From there, walk back up the road to find the trailhead. 

Tryon Creek Triple Bridge Loop

• Length : 3.5 miles
• Elevation Gain : 541 ft.

This was our first hike in Portland’s city limits, and it didn’t disappoint. It was a gray winter day, and it was foggy and lightly misting, but that didn’t stop us from hitting the trail.

It’s crazy that this is in Portland, because it feels like you’re out in the woods (aside from when you randomly pass houses next to the trail). 

You’ll meander through the woods, crossing several bridges over the creek, and gently climbing and descending with the rolling hills. It was actually pretty pleasant in the rain, although it was muddy in spots.

Thing to Note: When we were there, the Terry Riley Bridge at the northern end of the loop was closed, but you can do the North Horse Loop instead. 

8 Amazing Hikes Just Outside of Portland (Within ~45 Minutes)

Just outside of Portland, you’ll find a smorgasbord of amazing hikes, mostly in the Columbia River Gorge, with a few out on the Oregon Coast and at Mount Hood that are worth having on the list. 

Dog Mountain (Columbia River Gorge) 

• Length : 7.4 miles
• Elevation Gain : 2,800 ft.
• Difficulty : Moderate / Hard 
• Parking Pass : Northwest Forest Pass (plus additional weekend permit in spring / summer)
• Trailhead Location : Dog Mountain Trailhead

Dog Mountain is on the Washington side of the Gorge, which means it’s a little harder to get to from Portland than many of the hikes above, which are mostly on the Oregon side (except for Cape Horn). However, if you’re up for a tough hike, this is worth the journey. 

It’s pretty much an uphill slog the entire way up, but the views of the Columbia River Gorge from the top and, if you hit it at the right time, the spectacular bounty of wildflowers along the way, make the juice worth the squeeze. 

We first did this hike on a beautiful summer morning, and got to the top only to find one big poof of fog shrouding the summit.

Despite the fact that we sat up in the cold, wet mist for ten minutes to see if it would break, we still loved this hike. There’s an excellent viewpoint just below the summit that was not obscured by fog, and the views along the trail nearby are special. 

This hike is incredibly busy in the months of May and June, as the wildflowers start to pop in the Columbia River Gorge. There is now a permit system that is required to park at the trailhead on weekends during the summer months. You can find more details here . 

Latourell Falls

• Length : 2 miles
• Elevation Gain : 650 ft.

This is a great add-on to the hike at Multnomah we mentioned above. It’s a short two mile loop with a little bit of climbing along the way, but it’s pretty accessible for most hikers. 

The trailhead is also just off of the Historic Columbia River Highway, which is a fun drive to do on your way out to the Gorge. Make sure to stop at the Vista House and Scenic Women’s Forum Viewpoint for some excellent views of the Gorge!

Do this one clockwise. Start with the climb up and to the left of the parking lot, which takes you to Upper Latourell Falls, a unique waterfall with two distinct levels. 

Then, you’ll loop down and around to the Lower Falls, which is the real stunner. It’s a 249 foot tall waterfall, which is nothing when you compare it to Multnomah Falls, but is certainly impressive when you consider it in its own right. 

At one point near the end of the loop, you’ll come to the road. If you turn right here, it takes you back to the parking lot across a bridge. DON’T DO THAT.

Instead, cross the road and follow the trail under the bridge and to the base of the falls. You can get there either way, but this is the way you should do it.

Dry Creek Falls

• Length : 4.4 miles
• Elevation Gain : 1,600 ft.
• Parking Pass : Northwest Forest Pass

This was our first winter hike in Oregon, and it didn’t disappoint. Now, it has become one of our favorites because it’s a manageable distance, a nice waterfall, and it’s less crowded than many of the other Gorge options.

In the summer months, the waterfall might be a little less strong, but it was rip-roaring in February! We’ve also done it later in the spring, and it was equally impressive.

The trail starts at the Bridge of the Gods Trailhead, though there is more parking on the road leading to the trail.

From there, it’s a straightforward, steady climb up to the falls. You’ll pass a couple of trail junctions – at the last one, take a right, which takes you up to the falls. 

It’s an easy trail, climbing just 800 feet over two miles or so, though it does get muddy along the way.

Read More: Hiking the PCT to Dry Creek Falls – A Complete Trail Guide

• Length : 7.5 miles

Cape Horn is a hike in the Columbia River Gorge, but it’s on the WASHINGTON side of the river, which is important because there are only a few places to cross the river once you head out of Portland.

It’s easiest to cross into Washington State on I-5, then head east into the Gorge along the Washington side. 

The trailhead has a relatively small parking lot, and there’s no overflow parking allowed on the roads nearby (though people certainly do it), so you’ll want to get there as early as possible to get your parking spot. 

Along the way, there are a couple of great viewpoints out into the Gorge, both east and west. The hike gets right down to business as you leave from the trailhead, starting a series of switchbacks that have you climbing roughly 800 feet over a mile and a half to the first of many viewpoints.

You’ll meander through the forest, eventually crossing a road before you get to the next viewpoint at 4.2 miles in, which is also the turnaround point when the loop is closed (see below).  

The loop isn’t possible between Feb 1 and mid-July in order to protect the Peregrine Falcon nesting area, but you can still do an Out and Back hike when the loop is closed.

The Out and Back to the furthest point on the trail is going to be 8.6 miles with 1,600 feet of elevation gain. 

Angels Rest

• Length : 4.5 miles
• Elevation Gain : 1,500 ft.
• Parking Pass: Northwest Forest Pass

This is our most recent hike in the Columbia River Gorge, and it’s one of the best hikes in the area for its sweeping views of the Gorge at the top.

It’s a climb to get there, but it’s well worth the effort when you’re sitting at the ledge overlooking the Gorge. 

It starts from the Angels Rest Trailhead, roughly 30 minutes outside of Portland. You’ll embark on a series of switchbacks interspersed with steadier climbs for the first mile and a half, with a few points where you have a preview of the view of the Gorge you get from the top. 

At 1.5 miles in, the trail turns into tight switchbacks as you make the final ascent to the top. You’ll cross a mini boulder field that is really nothing to be concerned about, and then find yourself at an intersection of trails, which was a little confusing. Luckily, we had the map downloaded.

Follow the trail out towards the river for a bit and you’ll arrive at the viewpoint. 

It’s a pretty constant climb from the trailhead to the top, so you’ll need to be prepared for that. It also was somewhat muddy, and there were remnants of snow left over from a recent snowstorm (we hiked it in February).

Waterproof hiking boots and trekking poles will be useful here.

Multnomah & Wahkeena Falls

• Length : 5.6 miles
• Elevation Gain : 1,800 ft.
• Parking Pass : None

Multnomah is the king (or queen) of the waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge. It’s a whopping 600+ feet tall, and should absolutely be at the top of your list of day trips from Portland – it’s about 30 minutes outside of the city. 

Most people walk up to the viewpoint on the bridge, head back to their cars, and head home.

But we think you should put on your hiking boots, strap on your daypack, and do the loop up and around Multnomah, passing nearby Wahkeena Falls on your way back. 

Because Multnomah Falls is so popular, you’re going to want to do this one early in the day to get a parking spot and beat the crowds. Plus, the falls itself is so much more peaceful without hundreds of people jockeying for the best photo spot. 

We recommend doing this trail clockwise, starting with the climb up to the top of Multnomah, then hitting Wahkeena on the way back down. 

The trail starts up the switchbacks to the left of the falls, aggressively climbing 700 feet over the course of a mile. When you reach the top of Multnomah Falls, there’s a nice viewpoint that’s worth a quick detour.

The trail continues climbing over the next mile and a half or so, and you’ll pass multiple smaller falls along the way.

Eventually, you’ll reach the high point, which isn’t marked or really all that special, and it’s all downhill from there. 

You’ll pass Fairy Falls on the switchbacks on the way down, and then Wahkeena Falls at the base of the trail.

From there, you’ll follow a mostly flat trail along the side of the road back to your car at Multnomah. 

Read More: Hiking the Multnomah – Wahkeena Falls Loop Trail (Helpful Trail Guide)

Kings Mountain

• Elevation Gain : 2,500 ft.
• Difficulty : Hard

This hike is actually not in the Columbia River Gorge- it’s out towards the coast, due west of Portland along Highway 6, which takes you to Tillamook. It’s part of Tillamook State Forest. 

We did this hike on the way back into Portland from a trip out to the coast, and we went in knowing exactly what we were getting ourselves into.

This hike is STRAIGHT up. 2,500 feet of elevation gain over 2.5 miles, which is no joke.

This hike is for people in good shape, and you’re going to need hiking boots with good traction for the climb through the dense forest, which is often muddy and slippery. 

All that being said, it’s a great workout, and from the summit you can see Mount Hood to the east, and the coast to the west.

At least on a clear day. The views are worth the climb – take your time, bring plenty of water and snacks, and get to the trailhead early because the parking lot only has room for 10-15 cars with no overflow parking. 

Warrior Rock Lighthouse Point Trail

• Length : 6.5 miles
• Elevation Gain : None
• Parking Pass : Sauvie Island Recreation Permit (READ DESCRIPTION)

This hike is at the north end of Sauvie Island, which takes a while to get to from Portland.

However, once you’re on Sauvie Island, you might just forget that you’re anywhere near a big city as you drive past farm after farm, with bald eagles sitting high in the trees, and all sorts of amazing birds hanging out around the island. 

IMPORTANT : There’s plenty of parking at the trailhead, though you will need to buy a Sauvie Island recreation permit, which you can get at these locations (we got it at Cracker Barrel right as you come across the Sauvie Island Bridge from Portland). Buy it BEFORE you head out to the trailhead, otherwise you’ll have to double back a long way. It’s going to cost you $10 for the day, or $30 for an annual pass. 

The hike out to Warrior Point Lighthouse is an easy, family-friendly one. It’s essentially flat, though it is 6 miles there and back.

One thing to note – This hike can be SUPER muddy in the winter, so don’t wear your new white Nikes on this one. 

The Lighthouse itself is nice, and the beach nearby is worth stopping on for a rest and a snack before you head back the way you came.

Hiking Further Afield: Great Hikes within 90 Minutes of Portland

If you’re up for some driving, there are some truly spectacular hikes to be had within 90 minutes of Portland.

It’s a long drive for a day trip, but we think these hikes are worth it. Many of them make our list of the best hikes in Oregon , and are worth doing at least once in your lifetime. 

McNeil Point (Mount Hood)

• Length : 11 miles
• Elevation Gain : 2,700 ft.
• Trail Type : Lollipop
• Difficulty : (Very) Hard
• Dog-Friendly? Yes, on a leash.

I’m fairly certain that this is our favorite hike in the entire state of Oregon.

However, I’m also not certain that we would do it again anytime soon. This hike is TOUGH, y’all, and you need to be prepared for a long, strenuous hike when you set out.

That means proper footwear, lots of snacks, plenty of water, and a map (which can be digital). 

The first mile or so of the trail gets you up to the Pacific Crest Trail, which takes you out to Bald Mountain, our favorite view in the state of Oregon.

In the summer, the wildflowers and stunning view of Mount Hood here are spectacular. It’s hard to believe that it could get any better than this!

From there, it’s a long uphill hike that is relatively steady in terms of elevation gain. Eventually, you’ll reach the lollipop section of the hike.

THIS IS IMPORTANT: The right side of the lollipop involves what is essentially an all-out scramble that we would definitely not recommend coming down. For that reason, we’d do the lollipop counter-clockwise, doing the steep scramble on the way up, and coming down the more steady, established trail. 

If the scramble section makes you nervous, you can also do this hike as an out and back, following the left side of the lollipop to the top, and coming back down the same way. It adds a mile and a half to the distance, though.

This is actually what we did, because we got to the top and realized that we weren’t into the idea of a downhill scramble, so we went back the way we came. 

Read more in our McNeil Point Trail guide , where we go over your different route options.

At the top, there’s a cool stone shelter, and an up-close-and-personal view of Mount Hood. You’ll climb up the ridge, getting closer and closer to the face of Hood as you climb. It’s gorgeous up there, if not a little windy. 

The Trail of Ten Falls Loop (Silver Falls State Park) 

• Elevation Gain : 1,200 ft.
• Dog-Friendly? No dogs allowed
• Parking Pass : Oregon State Parks Pass

The Trail of Ten Falls down in Silver Falls State Park might be the best waterfall hike in Oregon, which is a state FULL of amazing waterfalls.

The name pretty much describes the hike – you’ll do a big loop through Silver Falls, and along the way you’ll see TEN different waterfalls. 

It’s magical. 

The hike itself isn’t particularly hard, though it is a little bit long to be in the “easy” category. The loop combines the Canyon Trail and the Rim Trail, and the best part of the loop (where you’ll find all the waterfalls) is the Canyon Trail.

We’d start at the main parking lot near South Falls, a 177 foot waterfall tumbling off of a rocky bowl, and go clockwise, starting with the Canyon Trail and ending with a forested walk back to the car on the Rim Trail. 

Don’t miss Upper North Falls on the eastern side of the loop!

P.S. It’s well worth stopping in Salem, the capital of Oregon, on your way home if you have the time. We love the freshly fried donuts at Bigwig , and Xicha Brewing’s beer and tacos would make excellent recovery food. 

For more information, including logistics and a trail report, read our guide to hiking the Trail of Ten Falls .

Tom, Dick, and Harry Mountain (Mount Hood) 

• Length : 9 miles
• Elevation Gain : 1,700 ft.
• Difficulty : Moderate / Hard

We’ve now done this hike a couple of times, and it’s a fantastic hike that is surprisingly accessible from Portland. The Mirror Lake Trailhead is where you’ll want to park, and it’s an hour and 15 minutes from Portland, right off of Highway 26.

Because of that accessibility, this can be a busy trail. Best to either start early in the morning (before 9:00 am) if you’re doing it on a weekend.

Or, do what we’ve done and start later in the afternoon to catch the view of Mount Hood at the top in the soft golden glow of the setting sun. Just make sure to bring a headlamp for the way down!

This trail gets busy because it shares the first half of the trail with a much easier hike up to Mirror Lake, which brings tons of families with kids out on sunny summer weekends to frolic in the lake.

Once you pass the lake – about halfway into the ascent – the crowds thin out and you’ll have the trail mostly to yourself. 

The distance above reflects the entire hike to all three peaks (Tom, Dick, and Harry), but most people only go to the first peak, which is the main viewpoint. To that point, it’s eight miles roundtrip.

It’s a rocky plateau with excellent views of Mount Hood’s southern face across the Zigzag Valley, with Mirror Lake in the foreground.

On a clear day, you can also see Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, and Mount Rainier to the north (barely), and Mount Jefferson to the south. 

The last half mile of the ascent requires some scrambling and light route finding as you traverse the ridge. We’ve gone to the second viewpoint, which is worth it to leave the crowds behind and have the view to yourself, but is a little tricky at times. 

You can also backpack this trail, and sleep up on the ridge (which is something that’s on our bucket list).

Be aware that there are limited opportunities for water once you’re up on the ridge, so fill up down at Mirror Lake. 

For more information, including logistics and a trail report, read our guide to Tom, Dick, and Harry Mountain .

Ramona Falls (Mount Hood)

• Length : 7.1 miles
• Elevation Gain : 1,000 ft.

Yet another spectacular waterfall hike within 90 minutes of Portland! This one is a relatively easy hike that takes you to a cascading falls that tumbles 120 feet into the creek below.

However, rather than a waterfall like Multnomah, which is cool because of the volume and power of water, the beauty of Ramona Falls is the snaking, silky streams of water that create a wall of cascades. 

It’s pretty cool, and is pretty different from most of the waterfalls in the Gorge and down at Silver Falls. 

By far the hardest part about this hike is crossing the Sandy River. There used to be a seasonal bridge across the river, setup by the Forest Service.

But after years of washing out, they decided to stop placing the bridge going forward, so it’s up to you to find a log to use to traverse the Sandy River. 

When it’s really moving – spring and early summer – it can be treacherous. And it creates a bottleneck on the trail when people are slowly crossing. 

If you’re not stoked about crossing the river, and are comfortable adding a little over a mile on either end of the hike, you can start from the Top Spur Trailhead instead.

That route takes the river crossing out of it (though there is still a much more manageable creek crossing you’ll have to do). 

The Saddle Mountain Trail 

• Season : Year Round (unless it has been really cold)
• Difficulty : Moderate / Difficult
• Dog Friendly? Yes, on a leash (see note on mesh along trail below)
• Pass Required : None (even though it’s in an Oregon State Natural Area)

We got to the trailhead on a Friday morning at about 8:00am after driving almost exactly 90 minutes from Portland.

It was two days after the Saddle Mountain trail had opened after two (ish) years of being closed, and we were greeted with what felt like a thick blanket of coastal fog at the trailhead. 

Keep in mind, this hike is popular because it takes you up to the highest point in the northwest corner of Oregon, where you have views from the ocean to the Cascades. 

“Well, we came all the way out here, might as well head up and see if it clears” we told ourselves as we started up the trail. 

Turns out, that was a fantastic decision, because the 1,800 or so feet of climbing took us above the fog line, and we were treated to spectacular views out over northwest Oregon (and southwest Washington State). 

From the viewpoint at the top of Saddle Mountain, we could see clear out to the Pacific Ocean and up to the mouth of the Columbia River, which Lewis and Clark traversed a few hundred years ago. 

In the other direction, all of the mountains were out. Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, and Mount Hood were visible directly to the east, and Mount Rainier could even be glimpsed out to the northeast!

The trailhead for Saddle Mountain is out on Highway 26, about 90 minutes east of Portland just before you get out to the coast. 

The thing to know about this hike is that the first half is on the easier side of the moderate category, and the last half of this hike gets progressively harder until the last quarter mile, which we think is firmly in the “difficult” category. 

It starts with a winding climb through the forest, and ends with a steep, rocky climb to the summit after the saddle. 

On the way back from the hike, we were talking about how this hike would make an excellent start to a day trip from Portland out to Cannon Beach, where you could have lunch, shop in Cannon Beach, and hang out at one of the many beaches for the afternoon before heading home. 

One note for dog owners: The top half of the trail – from the saddle to the peak, mostly – is covered in what is essentially chain link fence laid down along the trail. We took our dog Lupine up with us not realizing this, and while she didn’t have any injuries, she definitely was not a fan of it, and I can see it being troublesome for dogs, especially bigger ones. 

The Best Hikes Near Portland, Mapped

Here is a handy map so that you can visualize exactly where the hikes we’ve mentioned in the guide above are located.

When to Go Hiking in Portland

Like most of the Pacific Northwest, hiking in Portland is best during the summer. However, unlike a lot of places – like Mount Hood, Bend, and Mount Rainier – you CAN hike during the winter if you’re prepared for the elements. 

In the summer , you’ll find long, warm days that are the perfect time to get outside. Hit the trail early, before the heat of the day, and spend the afternoon refueling.

The downside to summer is that trails are PACKED. You’ll need to be prepared to get up early and get out to the trailhead before 8:00 am on weekends to guarantee parking, and even then getting a parking spot can be tricky. 

Spring is a good time to go hiking – particularly those precious spring days where it feels like summer is finally here, only to find yourself rudely set straight when it rains for the next ten days.

Expect variable temperatures and rain, but the waterfalls are going to be roaring!

Fall is a great time to hike, with warm days and relatively little precipitation until later in the season. This is probably the best combination of weather and crowds. Plus, you’ll get some nice fall color, especially out in the Gorge. 

Unlike most places in the Pacific Northwest, you can go hiking in the winter here in Portland. We know because we did it.

We stayed a month in Portland in February to make sure we could handle winter in the Pacific Northwest, and spent our days exploring Portland’s hiking trails.

Is it ideal hiking weather? No, probably not. It’s cold and wet. But if you’re prepared with appropriate gear, then it’s really no big deal at all.

I always say that if you don’t do things when it’s raining in the Pacific Northwest, then you’ll never get to do anything!

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The 16 best day trips from Portland

Feb 25, 2021 • 12 min read

Portland has an abundance of natural beauty just a short drive away, from high desert crags to lush coastal rainforests ©Danielle D. Hughson/Getty Images

Portland is blessed with a pretty prime geographic location – drive two hours in any direction and you might find yourself at the coast, on a snow-capped stratovolcano, in the heart of wine country, at a rock climbing crag, soaking in a hot spring or even closing in on other major cities like Seattle, Washington. If you're itching for a change of scenery, Portland has a wealth of day trip-worthy destinations in arm's reach. We narrowed it down to sixteen of the best, with a little something for everyone from foodies to families to outdoor enthusiasts to oenophiles.

Editor's note: during  COVID-19  there are restrictions on travel. Check the latest guidance before departure, and always follow local health advice.

1. Waterfall Alley, Columbia River Gorge

Steep, evergreen-covered cliffs are striated with so many high, lush waterfalls that it boggles the mind. Walk into this temperate rainforest and you’ll find golden-red foliage in fall, snow sprinkles in winter, wildflowers in spring and flourishing mosses year-round. The lower edge is dominated by the mighty, curving Columbia River. Adventures in Columbia River Gorge range from easy jaunts from a parking lot to full days exploring the wilds.  

How to get to the Gorge:  I-84 East runs the length of the Gorge, and you can easily exit to stop in numerous small towns and trail head parking lots along the way. Traffic can get backed up, though, so give yourself plenty of time. Alternately, you can reach the Gorge by public transit if you take the bus or light rail to the Gateway/NE 99th Avenue Transit Center and transfer to the Columbia Gorge Express. 

2. Willamette Valley Wine Country

The New World’s answer to Burgundy, the bucolic Willamette Valley  excels at producing complex pinot noirs. Small towns chock-full of gourmet restaurants and cute shops are separated by rolling hills covered in grapevines and flowers. Most wineries are family-owned and you’re more likely to be met by a happy dog than an attitude. Beyond wine, check out distilleries, cheese factories, bike trails and more.  

How to get to the Willamette Valley: Towns like Dundee at the north end of the Willamette Valley are only 40 minutes or so from downtown Portland, but the Willamette Valley extends for about a hundred miles to Eugene at the far southern end.

3. Sauvie Island

With pick-your-own fruit farms in summer, corn mazes and hay rides come autumn, and beaches, trails and waterways to explore year-round, Sauvie Island is an easy trip to pastoral bliss. Plus, it’s as fun for kids as it is for adults. As the largest island in Columbia River, any land not dedicated to farming is a protected wildlife area. Expect to see ospreys, herons, bald eagles and maybe even a beaver.   

How to get to Sauvie Island:   Sauvie Island is just 40min from Portland by car and can be reached by US-30 East, I-5 South, or US-26 East. There will be plenty of parking at the farms and other destinations, as well as at the public beaches – just be sure to get there early if it's a sunny summer day.

4. Silver Falls State Park

Silver Falls is quite possibly the most stunning park in the state. The 7.2-mile, not-to-miss Trail of Ten Falls does what it says and more as it winds up a basalt canyon through thick forests. Walk the full loop to see all the waterfalls – and even walk behind a few – in their fern-draped, wildflowered splendor, or park at the Silver Falls Lodge from where it’s a short walk down to South Falls – here the trail leads underneath an unforgettable 177ft cascade curtain. 

How to get to Silver Falls State Park:   Silver Falls State Park is about 26 miles east of Salem on Hwy 214 and 53 miles south of Portland via OR-214 N and I-5 N. It should only take an hour to reach from downtown, depending on traffic.

5. Cannon Beach

The Oregon Coast holds some of the most beautifully grand but lesser-known beaches in the contiguous USA. Cannon Beach is the ideal, easy-to-reach introduction to the region, with miles of white sand, waterfalls tumbling to the beach and the hulking, 72m Haystack Rock which makes for a picture-perfect silhouette. In town, you’ll find art galleries, chic boutiques and incredible dining (hint: try the chowder).

How to get to Cannon Beach: Take US-26 East until it junctions with US 101 – a trip that should be only 1hr 30min by car.

6. Timberline Lodge

Stay, dine, hike, ski or gawk – this iconic Oregon lodge is a destination in itself or a must-stop if you’re exploring Mt Hood. The grand structure was built of local stone and timber to blend in with the surrounding forest and the six-sided central tower is meant to mimic the pyramid-like peak of its glorious mountain location. Timberline Lodge is a National Historic Landmark as well as a hotel, a fine restaurant, a pub, a ski resort and a trailhead for adventurous hiking. You may recognize the exterior from the 1980s horror film, The Shining .

How to get to Timberline Lodge:   Mount Hood is only an hour and a half from Portland by US-26 East. Alternately, you can take public transit to the Gresham Transit Center and transfer to the Sandy Local / Gresham Express to Sandy, Oregon. From there you transfer the Mount Hood Express before getting off in Timberline, but it will extend your journey to about three hours. 

7. Johnston Ridge Observatory, Mt St Helens

Gaze into the awesome crater of Mt St Helens from the state-of-the-art Johnston Ridge Observatory . Whether this is your destination or you’re preparing for a longer hike through the National Volcanic Monument, you’ll learn the science behind the 1500 atomic bomb-force eruption in 1980. Then take the 1-mile Eruption Trail walking loop for even more views, with explanations, of the volcanic destruction.   

How to get to Johnston Ridge Observatory:  Take I-5 N to WA-504 E/Mt St Helens Way NE in Castle Rock. The drive is about two hours long.

8. Smith Rock

Best known for its glorious rock climbing, Smith Rock State Park boasts rust-colored 800ft cliffs that tower over the pretty Crooked River. Nonclimbers have several miles of fine hiking trails, some of which involve a little simple rock scrambling. Nearby Terrebonne has a climbing store, along with some restaurants and grocery stores. The formations in the park are simply spectacular.

How to get to Smith Rock: It's a three hour drive to Smith Rock from Portland via US-26 East. Be sure to get there early – Smith Rock quickly fills up on a sunny day. There's camping right next to the park, or at Skull Hollow (no water; campsites $5), 8 miles east. The nearest motels are a few miles south in Redmond.

9. The Fruit Loop

Covering 35 miles along scenic fertile lands, the Hood River County Fruit Loop takes you by family fruit stands, U-pick orchards, lavender fields, alpaca farms and winery tasting rooms. There are blossoms in spring, berries in summer, and apples and pears in fall – with plenty of festivals and celebrations throughout the seasons (except for winter). It's a good way to sample the area's agricultural bounties while appreciating the local scenery too. For more information and a list of events, check www.hoodriverfruitloop.com.

How to get to the Fruit Loop: State   Highway 35 runs from Government Camp on the slopes of Mount Hood and the city of Hood River in the Columbia River Gorge. It's along this stretch that most of the farms and other destinations on the Fruit Loop are located. You can take either US-26 East or I-84 to reach one end of the Loop or the other, depending on whether you'd like to drive it clockwise or counterclockwise. 

10. Eugene, Oregon

Eugene offers a great art scene, exceptionally fine restaurants , buzzy breweries , boisterous festivals , miles of riverside paths and several lovely parks . Its location at the confluence of the Willamette and McKenzie Rivers, just west of the Cascades, means there's plenty of outdoor recreation on offer – especially around the McKenzie River region, the Three Sisters Wilderness and Willamette Pass. Not only that, Eugene's at the southern end of the Willamette Valley, which boasts several world-class wineries.

How to get to Eugene: It's about a two hour drive on I-5 South from Portland to Eugene. If you don't mind the potential for delays, or want to extend your daytrip into a weekend away, you can also take Amtrak's Coast Starlight or Cascades lines from Portland's Union Station to Eugene, a journey of about 2 hours and 30 minutes if you don't have to wait on a freight train to pass.

11. Tillamook

Best known for its huge cheese industry, Tillamook is a fun destination for a day trip if you're aiming to down some dairy. Cheese production began in Tillamook in the 1890s, when an English cheesemaker brought his cheddar-making techniques to the fledgling dairies along Tillamook Bay. Nearly a million people stop here annually to visit the famed  Tillamook Creamery , which produces 171,000 pounds of cheese every day. South of Tillamook, US 101 loses the beaches and headlands and follows the Nestucca River through pastureland and logged-off mountains. The slower but prettier  Three Capes Scenic Drive  begins in Tillamook and follows the coast.

How to get to Tillamook:  US-26 West and OR-6 West will get you to Tillamook in under an hour and a half. Alternately, you can take the 5 bus from Union and disembark at the Tillamook Transit Center, but that will add a half hour or so to the trip.

12. Bend, Oregon

Not all of Bend is as pretty as nearby Smith Rock – Hight 97 (3rd St) is a long commercial strip of cheap motels, fast-food restaurants and run-of-the-mill services. But something has to support Bend's fast-growing population, which has skyrocketed with outdoor-lovers over the past decade or so. You can ski fine powder in the morning, paddle a kayak in the afternoon and grab a beer  in the evening at a crop of local watering holes . Or would you rather go mountain biking, hiking, mountaineering, stand-up paddle boarding, fly-fishing or rock climbing? All of those are possible at the nearby  Three Sisters Wilderness ,  Lava River Cave  and  Newberry National Volcanic Monument . You can even surf a river wave in the center of town. It's the perfect getaway from cloudy Portland, too, with nearly 300 days of sunshine each year.

How to get to Bend: US-26 East will get you to Bend from Portland in just over three hours, though traffic can sometimes tangle up where you pass through Smith Rock State Park. You can also take I-5 South to Salem and take OR-22 East over the Cascades to Bend – a drive of about three and a half hours.

13. Bagby Hotsprings

A 90-mile drive east of Salem is this rustic, clothing-optional hot spring with various wooden tubs in semi-private bathhouses. Bagby Hot Springs  is accessible via a lovely 1.5-mile hiking trail through lush forest. Be prepared to wait your turn on weekends. The admission fee is collected by an attendant near the trailhead.

How to get to Bagby Hotsprings: There are a couple different routes you can take south from Portland that all converge around Shady Dell. Whichever you take, you'll ultimately end up driving 11 miles on forest service road NF-7010 until you reach the trailhead parking lot. From there it's a 30 minute hike to the springs.

14. Trillium Lake

If there's one thing Portlanders love, it's heading to Trillium Lake for the day. This popular spot offers stunning vistas of Mt. Hood reflected in the lake's shimmering waters, a nice campground, and boardwalk hikes surrounded by wildflowers in season. During the spring and summer, there are opportunities for boating, swimming and fishing, too. The 63-acre lake sits at an elevation of 3,600 feet, though, so by the middle of autumn the access road is closed by the park service, and instead transforms into a cross country ski and snowshoe trail for the winter. A State of Oregon Sno-Park permit is required November 1 through April 30.

How to get to Trillium Lake: US-26 East will get you to Trillium Lake in about an hour and a half. Once you reach Government Camp, you'll use forest service road NF-2656 to reach the campground.

15. Astoria

Named after America's first millionaire, John Jacob Astor, Astoria sits at the 5-mile-wide mouth of the Columbia River and was the first US settlement west of the Mississippi. The city has a long seafaring history and has seen its old harbor, once home to poor artists and writers, attract fancy hotels and restaurants in recent years. Inland are many historical houses, including lovingly restored Victorians – a few converted into romantic B&Bs. With a number of quirky festivals like the Fisher Poets Gathering  and the  Festival of the Dark Arts  beer showcase, Astoria has plenty to keep day trippers coming back throughout the year. 

How to get to Astoria: It takes just under two hours to get to Astoria from Portland on   US-26 West. Alternately, you can take public transit to Union and transfer to the CC bus to Astoria before getting off at the East Columbia River Highway stop. It takes just under three hours by bus from Portland.

16. Seattle

Just three hours away from Portland, its bigger, sleeker sibling sits on Puget Sound. Seattle 's current reputation as the town that spawned Amazon and Starbucks won't give you the full picture of the city's oddball cultural heritage. Crisscross its urban grid and you’ll find all kinds of apparitions: a rocket sticking out of a building; a museum built to resemble a smashed-up electric guitar; glass orbs in wooden canoes; a statue of Lenin; a mural made of used chewing gum; fish-tossing market traders; and a museum dedicated to antique pinball machines (that you can still play). Need help acclimating? The city's still-booming legal weed market will help you embrace your own weird side.

How to get to Seattle: It's under three hours to Seattle from Portland on I-5 North. You can also take the Bolt bus, which departs regularly from the Park Blocks in downtown Portland. Another option is to take the Amtrak Coast Starlight or Cascade train from Portland's Union Station in to Seattle. The later two options will take anywhere from three and a half to four and a half hours, not counting possible delays.

You might also like:

Celebrate spring with lush backpacking trips near Portland, Oregon The 11 best beaches in Oregon The best tasting rooms in Oregon’s Willamette Valley wine country

This article was first published September 2020 and updated February 2021

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14 Incredible Hikes near Portland, Oregon for All Levels

By Guest Contributor

FYI: Some of our posts include affiliate links. When you make a purchase from one of these links, Urban Outdoors may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

Updated June 24, 2021

Hiking near Portland, Oregon is an incredibly easy feat, thanks to the dozens of parks, national forests, and recreation areas that surround the city. Whether you are into skiing, kayaking, or hiking, this city has everything for outdoor lovers. The hikes near Portland range in difficulty from short 1-milers through the city park, to epic mountain summits, offering a wide range of options for everybody. Check out our list of some of the best hikes near Portland, Oregon!

Easy Hikes near Portland

Hoyt arboretum trail.

• Distance: 1.3 mile loop
• Location: Hoyt Arboretum

A free park located a couple of minutes from downtown, the Hoyt Arboretum is a sanctuary for trees. The trail is short and sweet, but can be combined with the multitude of other nearby trails to lengthen it (including the epic, nearby wildwood trail). You’ll see magnificent redwoods, spruce, and fir trees along the path. Situated so close to the city, every Portlander should check out this beautiful park.

Springwater on the Willamette

• Distance: Varies
• Location: Eastern bank of the Willamette River

This paved riverfront trail will give you lost of options for an urban adventure. Commonly used by bikers and runners, the trail offers sights of the gorgeous Willamette river and the downtown Portland area. The trail is open all year round and is pet friendly. You can extend your trek into the nearby North Woodland and Bluff trails to circle back around Oaks Bottom Lake and catch some ospreys nesting nearby.

Trillium Lake Loop

• Distance: 2 miles
• Location: Mt Hood National Forest

Trillium Lake is a classic PNW experience. The lake offers scenic views of nearby Mt. Hood and is easily accessible by car. The lake loop is an excellent hike for beginners and families. The path is made of gravel but is well marked. It will take you through the edge of the woods surrounding Trillium lake, offering a different perspective of this iconic body of water. The area costs $5 to enter , or you can get in with your NW Forest Pass .

Haystack Rock Trail

• Distance: 8.2 miles
• Location: Cannon Beach

You’ve probably seen it in pictures before: Haystack Rock is a series of rocky, tall islands located right off the coastline that look imposing and bold up close. Although there are several of these types of rocky islands along Oregon’s coast, the rock near Cannon Beach is the most accessible one. You won’t need to hike the whole 8 mile trail to see the rock. The trail is on the beach, so ensure you have the proper footwear. Birdwatchers should bring their binoculars on them as the area is a bird and wildlife reservation.

Tamolitch Blue Pool

• Distance: 3.7 miles
• Location: Willamette National Forest

This gentle trail will take you through old fir trees to a beautiful turquoise colored lake. This trail is actually the site of some interesting geological formations. The Blue Pool is formed from a river that descends into a submerged lava tube. At the beginning of the trail, you’ll see the source of the pool, the McKenzie River. If you hike this trail after a particularly rainy season (or after heavy snow-melt), the submerged river will overflow over the lava tube and created a waterfall that flows into the Blue Pool. This is a great option for beginner level hiking near Portland, Oregon!

Moderate Hikes near Portland

Ramona Falls Loop

• Location: Mt. Hood National Forest

Ramona Falls is a gentle 120 ft tall waterfall near Mt. Hood. The waterfall is unique in that the water trails off and cascades into a hundred different fingers over basalt columns. The trails leading up to it is lollipop shaped and moderate in difficulty. The path is relatively well maintained, but does require a stream crossing over logs. You’ll start and end your trek at the base of the towering Mt. Hood, and it’s one of the most spectacular outdoor day trips from Portland that you can find!

Tamanawas Falls

• Distance: 3.3 miles

The Tamanawas Falls trail will take you a short distance into the woods to find a large waterfall covering a dry alcove. The trail is technically an easy hike in terms of difficulty, but ice and rain can make the rocks very slippery. If you are going in the cold, crampons/spikes are a must if you want to avoid injury. Despite this, the most magical time to go is winter as the snow and iced over waterfall will give the whole place a fairy-tale-like atmosphere (plus the crowds tend to be smaller).

Tom, Dick, and Harry Mountain

• Distance: 9 miles round trip
• Location: Mt Hood

Take a walk up a mountain to get breathtaking views of Mt. Hood at the Tom, Dick, and Harry Mountain trail. This hike will have you ascend 1,700 ft through moderately steep terrain. Somewhere near the halfway point, you’ll encounter Mirror Lake, a tranquil alpine lake that offers a good place to rest. Depending on the climate and snowfall levels, snowshoes or spikes may be required after the lake. Northwest Forest Passes are needed to access the trail during the summer time. Be sure to buy this in advance as you cannot buy them at the trailhead.

Cape Lookout

• Distance: 4.7 miles round trip
• Location: Cape Lookout State Park

If you’re looking for jaw-dropping views of the Pacific Ocean, this is the place to go. This moderate hike will take you out on the cliffs of a peninsula overlooking the sea. The trail has a few moderate ascents and descents, and it will take you through a wooded scene on top of a 400 foot tall cliff in some parts. The views at the end of the trail are gorgeous, however, and the sunset on a clear day is something that’s unrivaled anywhere else. If you’re lucky, you’ll see whales and sea lions below, making this one of the most unique experiences you can get hiking near Portland!

Tryon Creek Loop

• Distance: 3.5 miles
• Location: Tryon Creek State Natural Area

Inside a suburban park south of Portland, the Tyron Creek loop will take you on a short adventure inside a lush PNW rainforest. You’ll cross several small bridges that offer great views and great picture spots. The highlight of the trek is a green suspension bridge located in the Lewis and Clark Loop within the park. Trail-finding can be a little difficult here, so we recommend using either a GPS or obtaining a trail map at the information center.

Difficult Hikes near Portland

Salmonberry trail.

• Distance: 12.5 mile round trip
• Location: Clatsop State Forest

A trail for those seeking hikes that are truly off-the-beaten path, the Salmonberry Trail is a secluded trek deep within the Clatsop State Forest. Most of the hike follows an old abandoned railroad track, full of wild overgrowth. Make sure to wear long-sleeves and pants on this hike as you’ll constantly be rubbing up against thick bushes and plants. Some would even recommend a machete to chop your way through the dense bush.

The trail has a steep elevation gain of 1,600 feet over 6 miles. The path will take you through tunnels and over truss bridges. The abandoned nature of the tracks along with the dense foliage adds a spooky feel to the whole experience.

If you’re planning on doing this trek, drive up to the eastern trailhead off of Cochran rd and NOT the Beaver Slide road trailhead. The road on Beaver Slide is narrow, steep, and full of potholes. Low clearance cars without 4WD may get stuck.

Wildwood Trail

• Distance: 29.6 miles
• Location: Trailheads near Oregon zoo and Newberry road at the edge of Linnton Park

You don’t have to go far at all to get multi-day hiking near Portland. The Wildwood trail is an almost 30 mile path that zig-zags its way through Forest Park. Most runners and beginner hikers will stay within the first few miles of the trailhead near the zoo and arboretum. Most of the northern part of the trail is relatively flat. The difficulty progressively picks up the further south you go, with most of the elevation gain happening in the 5 miles closest to the arboretum. Near the southern trailhead, there is an optional quarter mile detour to the Pittock Mansion. Visitors can tour the mansion for a small fee. The rest of the trail is mostly dense redwoods, without many other epic sights. What the trail offers, however, is tranquility and peacefulness in an extremely close location to the city. This is a superb option for urban hiking near Portland.

Dog Mountain

• Distance: 6 mile loop
• Location: Columbia River Gorge

Easily accessible right off Highway 14, Dog Mountain summit offers a scenic overlook of the Columbia River and is well known for its wildflower blooms during Spring. This is a very popular hike and the parking lot can sometimes fill up. Be sure to arrive early and bring $5 cash to pay for passes per hiker. There’s a fork in the path a little less than a mile in where the trail splits into two paths that converge at a later point. The left is labeled “More difficult” and the right “Less difficult.” We recommend sticking to the “Less difficult” route as it is better maintained, less steep, and offers great views of the valley below. Be prepared to work out the calves; you’ll climb over 2,800 feet during this trek, making this one of the more difficult hikes near Portland.

• Distance: Varies depending on route

Mt. Hood is the pinnacle of hiking in Oregon (sorry, I couldn’t resist). There are several approaches to the summit, but all, obviously, require quite a bit of training and endurance. Be prepared for unpredictable weather and snow. One of the shorter approaches is a the Timberline route from the south side. This is a 7 mile trek that ascends over 5,200 feet to reach the summit at 11,240 feet. Hikers must obtain a wilderness pass; the US Forest Service has some important information on their website for anyone attempting the climb. The views at the top are unparalleled and you’ll forever have bragging rights for having climbed the tallest peak in Oregon.

Additional Resources for Hikes near Portland, Oregon

• Breathable hiking clothes – For warmer hikes, you’ll want to wear a sweat-wicking shirt and breathable pants, like these Patagonia hiking shorts for men and women . For cold-weather hikes, we recommend dressing in layers, including merino wool baselayers for men and women , a down puffer jacket for men and women , and a Northface waterproof outer shell for men and women (a must for hiking in Seattle). And don’t forget a pair of the best women’s and men’s hiking socks!
• Trekking poles – You won’t need these for every single hike , but we suggest throwing them in your car just in case. We recommend the Black Diamond Trail Ergo cork trekking poles , which are lightweight, easy to transport, and durable.
• Water bottle – Having water available at all times is a huge must. To limit disposable plastic, we recommend bringing your own refillable water bottle. We’re obsessed with Hydro Flask water bottles because they keep water cold for hours.
• Sunscreen and bug spray – Sweatproof sunscreen and DEET bug spray can help you avoid sunburn and bug bites, two of hiking’s most annoying after-effects. Our favorite kind of sunscreen is Sun Bum , as it is free of harsh chemicals and safe for marine life, including coral reefs.
• A brimmed hat or cap – The sun can be brutal in open hikes, so always pack a brimmed hat or cap for day hikes in the sunshine.
• Emergency blanket and first aid kit – We’d strongly recommend bringing a first aid kit and a lightweight emergency blanket on every hike. Why? Because the unfathomable can happen, and it’s always best to play it safe.
• Durable day pack – A durable day pack is the perfect spot to stash all your hiking gear. While any backpack will do, we recommend the Osprey Tempest 20 or the Talon 22 day packs because they’re comfortable and breathable for long hikes. For more information, check out our best day packs for any terrain guide.

Wondering what exactly you should pack for your next hike? Visit our Complete Day Hiking Packing List for our full list and our top gear recommendations.

Enjoy Hiking near Portland, Oregon? Check out these Other Resources!

• The Complete Day Hiking Packing List
• 55 Hiking Quotes to Inspire Your Next Adventure
• 35 Gifts for Hikers that They’ll Actually Use

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13 Great Day Hikes Near Portland, Oregon for a Quick Escape

Waterfalls, scrambles, leisurely hikes, and more, explore the rich nature that surrounds Oregon's largest city

Leah Balagopal

Field Mag may receive a minor commission from purchases made via affiliate links.

One of the most incredible things about Portland, Oregon is its easy access to miles and miles of wilderness. Hitting the trails has become synonymous with the Portland lifestyle, and there's no shortage of scenic hikes, waterfalls, and mountain vistas to venture to. The best part? Most of these hiking trails are close enough to the city that you can get a hike in pre- or post-work.

The greater Portland region is also gifted with a variety of interesting terrain. Just north of the city lies the Columbia River Gorge, which is packed with a rich geological history and home to more than 90 waterfalls. Many of the lakes and basins in the region were formed by the Missoula floods , a cataclysmic glacial lake outburst that swept across Oregon and Washington during the last ice age. Many of the basalt columns and waterfalls in the region were created as a result of this flooding.

To the east, Mount Hood dominates the skyline (on clear days) and Mt. Hood National Forest offers more than a million acres of wilderness to explore complete with lakes and old-growth forests . Drive west from the city and you'll reach Tillamook State Forest and the Oregon Coast beyond it.

To the northwest of the city is Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the country with over 80 miles of trails. And if you're really short on time, Marquam Nature Park and the Marquam Trail as well as Washington Park and Mount Tabor offer walking trails in an urban park setting within city limits.

The list of hiking trails around Portland is never-ending, but we've rounded up a few of our personal favorites if you're in need of a post-work wilderness bath or a quick day trip, presented below in no particular order. As always, remember to leave no trace to preserve all that pristine beauty for future hikers.

13 Solid Day Hikes Near Portland, ORE

Wahclella Falls

Driving time from Portland: 40 minutes Distance: 1.9 miles Elevation Gain: 223 feet Difficulty: Easy Route Type: Out and Back Dogs: Allowed on leash

After closing due to the Eagle Creek Fire, the trail to one of the must-see waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge is finally open again. Starting from the Wahclella Falls trailhead parking lot, which is just off the Columbia River Highway, you'll first pass Murna Falls across a bridge which is impressive in itself before arriving at Wahclella, which makes Murna seem very small. The trail opens up to a beautiful amphitheater view of the falls and you can either take an upper or lower trail (or test out both) to get a view from multiple angles.

Punch Bowl Falls

Driving time from Portland: 50 minutes Distance: 4.7 miles Elevation Gain: 1,046 feet Difficulty: Easy Route Type: Out and Back Dogs: Allowed on leash

The Columbia River Gorge is known in the Pacific Northwest for its abundance of waterfall hikes and Punch Bowl is one of the most accessible to keep in mind. Just under five miles on fairly easy terrain will bring you a spectacular view of the cascade and its dense forest setting. Although this is a lush temperate rainforest climate, much of the canopy was burned off during a fire in 2017. Despite this, it is still a beautiful hike and the vegetation is making a comeback.

Steigerwald Lake Refuge Loop

Driving time from Portland: 50 minutes Distance: 4.0 miles Elevation Gain: 30 feet Difficulty: Easy Route Type: Lolipop loop Dogs: Not Allowed

Spanning over 1,000 acres of wetlands, the Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge will make you forget you're only 30 minutes away from Portland. Because the wetlands tend to be, well, wet, it's important to check the weather before driving out because sections of the trail can close if the water rises too high. The trail has been closed for some time but is set to reopen on September 22nd with a refurbished visitor center.( Check trail status here .)

Beacon Rock

Driving time from Portland: 30 minutes Distance: 2.0 miles Elevation Gain: 600 feet Difficulty: Easy Route Type: Out and Back Dogs: Allowed

Beacon Rock, an 848-foot basalt column that was carved out by the Missoula Floods, sits on the Washington side of the Columbia River. You can rock climb the northwest face, but for the hikers among us, there's a two-mile trail that winds its way to the top. The way includes a boardwalk and handrails so it's pretty tame but no less scenic. For a longer and more challenging hike, check out the 7.5-mile Hamilton Mountain Loop , which is also in Beacon Rock State Park and has views of Mount Hood, Mount Adams, Mount St. Helens, and Table Mountain.

Lower Macleay Park to Pittock Mansion

Driving time from Portland: 10 minutes Distance: 5.0 miles Elevation Gain: 921 feet Difficulty: Moderate Route Type: Out and Back Dogs: Allowed on leash

Starting from Portland's Northwest District, this hike is perfect if you're a beginner hiker who wants to push the boundary a little bit. You'll gain 921 feet of elevation on this five-mile hike, so it is steep in some sections. The challenge is worth it though and you'll be rewarded with a view of Portland and the Willamette River from the top.

Hoyt Arboretum

Driving time from Portland: 10 minutes Distance: 1.3 miles Elevation Gain: 213 feet Difficulty: Easy Route Type: Loop Dogs: Allowed on leash

Just 10 minutes away from downtown Portland, this is a quick and easy hike that is convenient for before- or after-work hikers. Several different paved paths wander through the arboretum and the greater Washington Park it's set in, so you can either stick to the loop or if you have some extra time to kill, choose your adventure and wander through the forest. If you're with kids, the Oregon Zoo is in the same area.

Multnomah Falls

Driving time from Portland: 30 minutes Distance: 2.4 miles Elevation Gain: 810 feet Difficulty: Moderate/ Difficult Route Type: Out and Back Dogs: Allowed on leash

Multnomah Falls, another iconic waterfall that makes up the Columbia River Gorge area, is a moderate hike packed full of history. The trail begins from a parking area on the Columbia River Highway and starts by passing a stone lodge from 1925. From there, the 2.2 miles will gain 700 feet of elevation through a series of switchbacks. Twenty-five million years in the making, the falls expose six layers of an ancient basalt lava flow. If you want an even harder version you can continue five miles to Wahkeena Falls for a total 1,600 feet of elevation gain. This is the most popular hike in the state, so expect crowds.

Angel's Rest

Driving time from Portland: 30 minutes Distance: 4.5 miles Elevation Gain: 1,476 feet Difficulty: Moderate/ Difficult Route Type: Out and Back Dogs: Allowed on leash

The hike up to Angel's Rest might not be for the casual hiker but the workout is worth the reward. This steep and rocky hike takes you up from the Columbia River through the forest to a bluff above. From there you get a view of Beacon Rock and Silver Star Mountain as well as other landmarks across the gorge. You can also choose to extend your hike east to Wahkeena Falls .

Oaks to Wetlands Loop Hike

Driving time from Portland: 45 minutes Distance: 1.7 miles Elevation Gain: 88 feet Difficulty: Easy Route Type: Loop Dogs: Not Allowed

This loop trail starts at the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge just across the Columbia River on the outskirts of Vancouver, Washington. It's an easy loop for a casual hike that's open all year and home to a plethora of flora and fauna—you might catch sight of nutrias, bald eagles, raptors, or the occasional beaver. The trail crosses over the Ridgefield Bridge and the Amtrak that rumbles through periodically is a reminder that you're close to a city but doesn't detract from the scenery and wildflowers you'll see blooming all through the spring months. If you want a bit of a longer route you can connect it to the 2.8-mile Carty Lake Hike .

Round Lake and Camas Potholes Falls via Lacmas Creek

Driving time from Portland: 35 minutes Distance: 3.8 miles Elevation Gain: 288 feet Difficulty: Easy Route Type: Out and Back Dogs: Allowed on leash

Round Lake Loop is another casual hike for those to just want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city without venturing too far. Meander 3.8 miles on fairly easy (but sometimes muddy) terrain to Potholes (Lacamas Creek). It can be less impressive in the summer when water levels are much lower, the scenery is still worth the quick 30-ish-minute drive out of Portland.

Wildwood Trail and Leif Erickson Drive Trail Loop

Driving time from Portland: 15 minutes Distance: 4.3 miles Elevation Gain: 479 feet Difficulty: Moderate Route Type: Loop Dogs: Allowed on leash

Wildwood Trail is a popular hiking, biking, trail running, and bird-watching loop that's just a 15-minute drive outside of Portland. It is fairly flat with slightly rolling hills making it perfect for leisurely meandering through the dense forest while taking in the lush flora and fauna that PNW has to offer.

Dog Mountain

Distance: 6.5 miles Elevation Gain: 2,988 feet Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult Route Type: Modified Loop Dogs: Allowed

With 2,800 feet of elevation gain, Dog Mountain is one of the tougher hikes on this list. Fields of wildflowers line the hike in the spring, but the views are good all year round. Be cautious during the lower forested section because poison oak tends to grow along the path. If you want a slightly less committing hike, you can go 1.5 miles to the Lower Viewpoint meadow, which makes a pretty good lunch and nap spot to soak in the views. Be advised: this is a popular spot, so plan to arrive early or risk a full parking lot.

Trail of Ten Falls

Driving time from Portland: 70 minutes Distance: 7.4 miles Elevation Gain: 1,151 feet Difficulty: Moderate Route Type: Loop with a spur Dogs: Not Allowed

With 9,000 acres, Silver Falls State Park is the largest in Oregon's state park system. It's also one of the lushest, with plenty of Douglas-firs in the forest and impressive waterfalls. This loop takes you past 10 of them over just under eight miles or rolling terrain.

*If you're looking for a more relaxing vactaion check out our Oregon glamping guide . *

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Our Favorite Hikes & Backpacking Trips Near Portland, Oregon

Flanked by volcanic peaks, deep gorges, and old-growth forests, Portland, Oregon is home to many of the best hikes near any major American city. Whether visiting the Pacific Northwest for the first time or exploring as a long-time resident, these trails need to be on your list whenever pass through The Rose City.

Searching for a quick day hike within walking distance of the city or want to escape for an all-day adventure within an hour and a half drive from the city? Between Mount Hood, Tillamook Forest, the Columbia River Gorge, and other popular destinations, Portland has excellent adventures for hikers and backpackers of all levels.

To make life easier, I’ll cover each hike’s essential info like distance and elevation gain, a quick overview of what to expect, and a difficulty rating. Some trails may need a permit, so read our guide thoroughly to ensure you’re good to go before heading out.

We’re exploring a wide range of ecosystems to cover all the best hikes near Portland, Oregon. The perfect hike isn’t universal, but everyone will find something to enjoy on this list. And be sure to stick around until the end for a few bonus backpacking trip ideas.

Mt. Tabor Park (Blue Loop)

• Tyron Creek State Natural Area
• North Forest Park
• Angel’s Rest
• Punch Bowl Falls

Dog Mountain Loop

Hamilton mountain, ramona falls, paradise park.

• Mirror Lake
• King Mountain

Historic Hiking Loop

Silver falls state park.

• Silver Star Mountain

Siouxon Creek

Timberline trail.

• Final Thoughts

Hikes Within Portland

If you’re rolling out of bed late on the weekend, but still craving a little adventure, you’ve got options. Luckily, well within the city limits of Portland, there are many trails that you can drive, or even walk, to.

Distance: 3 miles Elevation Gain: 500 feet Difficulty: Moderate

Home to many of Portland’s historic water reservoirs, hiking Mt. Tabor offers the rare opportunity to stand on top of an extinct volcano. A maze of trails covers the park, but the Blue Loop is officially marked and presents the perfect tour for historic sights and views of the city.

From the north side kiosk, you’ll get a chance to loop around three historic reservoirs and stomp atop a volcanic cinder cone. Short and sweet, the hike is accessible to most hikers. Remember: you’re technically climbing a volcano, so be ready for a few steep sections.

Tryon Creek State Natural Area

Distance: 2.2 miles Elevation Gain: 225 feet Difficulty: Easy

If you hike through the woods to get lost in a dreamlike trance, the web of trails at Tryon Creek provides the perfect place to stumble. And worry not, you’ll never be too far from your car even if you get confused by the myriad of intersections.

Most trails here tend to traverse gentle rolling hills that take you over ridges and down to various creeks in the park. Tryon Creek is great for families and anyone seeking relaxation over exertion.

For an easy beginner’s loop that gives you a taste of the park, take the Old Man trail to the Middle Creek trail, and return via the North Horse loop trail.

Grab a trail map at the visitor’s center to help keep you oriented.

North Forest Park (Wildwood + Springville + Leif Erickson)

Distance: 4.5 miles Elevation Gain: 500 feet Difficulty: Moderate

The crown jewel of Portland’s trail system is undoubtedly Forest Park, which offers endless options for exploration. Leif Erickson, a pedestrian-only dirt road, and Wildwood trail, the 30-mile-long main artery of the park, are the primary building blocks for a day of adventuring.

The southern start of Wildwood gives you access to the Portland Zoo, Japanese and Rose Gardens, and the Hoyt Arboretum, making the area perfect if you want to incorporate other activities. For solitude, head to the northern Leif Erickson trailhead found off Germantown Road.

A quick jaunt up the Cannon Trail Connector will get you cruising down Wildwood. Continue until Springville Road, which will drop you down to the return on Leif Erickson. The eastern-facing slopes of Forest Park are well-shaded and keep you nice and cool in the summer heat.

If you’re venturing out during the rainy season, be prepared for some mud, as the trails tend to get a bit sloppy. Though open year-round, the elevation of Forest Park can make for treacherous icy conditions if you’re exploring during a cold snap.

Hikes Near the Columbia River Gorge

Carved by glacial forces, the Columbia River Gorge is famous for explorers as far back as the iconic Lewis & Clark expedition. The steep walls provide fantastic views, but they’ll make you work for your lunch. As many locals say: The Gorge has teeth!

Angel’s Rest

Distance: 4.8 miles Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet Difficulty: Moderate

One of the closest Gorge hikes to Portland, Angel’s Rest is an iconic hike of the region. While the climb to the top takes a significant effort, views from the ridgeline provide immaculate sightlines both east and west of the Columbia River. Sunsets here are spectacular.

Despite climbing 1,500 feet, the switchbacks are well-graded, allowing all skill levels to make it to the top for the sweet views of the Gorge. A small waterfall partway up provides a nice break, and the top ridge has steep drops, so keep an eye on reckless pets and wandering children.

Punch Bowl Falls with Tunnel Falls Extension Option

Distance: 3.8 miles or 12 miles Elevation Gain: 600 feet or 1,600 feet Difficulty: Moderate to Hard Permit: Northwest Forest Pass

Love waterfalls? The short route option provides an excellent overlook of the appropriately named Punch Bowl Falls. During the hot summer months, the pool at the bottom of the waterfall provides a refreshing spot to dip in.

For an all-day adventure, consider extending the hike out all the way up to Tunnel Falls. The steep ravine walls surrounding you will act as a hypnotic companion during the long trek up. Near the end of the trail, you’ll be able to sneak through the naturally formed tunnel tucked behind the waterfall.

Most Gorge hikes are steep , however, both options on this trail provide some of the gentlest inclines you will find in the area. If you want more hiking and less climbing, these hikes are made for you. A few sections have steep drop-offs but have chain handrails you can hold.

Distance: 6.8 miles Elevation Gain: 3,100 feet Difficulty: Hard Permit: Northwest Forest Pass

Speaking of steep, Dog Mountain will eat your legs up if you’re not prepared. Though one of the hardest hikes on this list, it’s well worth the effort during wildflower season as the summit ridge explodes with the vibrant yellow of the blooming balsamroot. The views from 3,000 feet up are equally rewarding.

I highly recommend looping the Dog Mountain and Augspurger trails. Take Augspurger Trail up if you want a gentler climb, or earn your dinner on the relentless switchbacks of the Dog Mountain Trail. Packing lunch and water for the top is a must for this hike.

For peak wildflowers, you’ll generally want to go in late spring or early summer. On weekends from April 29 to June 19, you’ll need to snag an extra permit due to this hike’s extreme popularity. If you drive out via Cascade Locks, be prepared to pay the $2 bridge toll.

Distance: 7 miles Elevation Gain: 2,800 feet Difficulty: Hard Permit: Discover Pass

Hamilton Mountain is another steep climb, and while the official peak has limited views, the loop still has worthwhile features on both the ascent and descent. Midway up the Rodney Falls hike, the Pool of the Winds forms. Just below the peak, the saddle has rare southern-facing Gorge views.

After climbing up the Hamilton Mountain Trail and dropping to the saddle, Don’s Cutoff will lead you right to the Upper Hardesty Creek Trail, which leads back to Rodney Falls and the descent to the trailhead. Like Dog Mountain, you’ll want to bring food and water to help power through to the top.

Hikes Near Mount Hood

The arrival of summer means it’s time to head to Mount Hood to take advantage of the limited window to access the best trails near Portland. Nothing beats the variety of alpine meadows, roaring glacial rivers, and summer wildflowers you’ll find here.

Distance: 7.2 miles Elevation Gain: 1,050 feet Difficulty: Moderate Permit: Northwest Forest Pass

One of the most hiked loops on Mount Hood, Ramona Falls, comes crashing down on mossy rocks in a forested, magical part of the mountain. The log bridge crossing directly underneath the waterfall is the ideal place to soak in the sights and snap a scenic photo or two.

Combining the PCT and Ramona Falls trail allows for a neat lollipop loop that treats hikers to a wide range of environments. The hiking is relatively easy throughout, with the only challenge coming early when you must ford the Sandy River. Consider packing trekking poles for the crossing.

Distance: 12.1 miles Elevation Gain: 2,300 feet Difficulty: Hard Permit: Northwest Forest Pass

If you catch Paradise Park in full bloom, you might think you woke up in a buzzing heaven of bees. The sprawling alpine meadows are flooded with paintbrush, lupine, mariposa, and other mountain flowers. At peak wildflower season, there’s a sweetness in the air that is unmatched anywhere.

The price of admission is a lengthy 12-mile jaunt that requires you to descend and then climb Zig Zag Canyon. On the far side of the climb, follow the signs for the Paradise Park Loop. With multiple water crossings, wear either quick-draining trail runners or waterproof boots.

Mirror Lake with Tom, Dick & Harry Mountain Extension Option

Distance: 4.2 miles or 8 miles Elevation Gain: 600 feet or 1,500 feet Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Permit: Northwest Forest Pass

Tucked into the south slopes of Mount Hood, Mirror Lake is a classic destination to spend a summer’s day relaxing and cooling off in the ice-cold mountain water. If a respectable climb is more your speed, continue past the lake to Tom, Dick & Harry Mountain, where vistas await.

Families will love the easy access to the lake. The short 1/3-mile loop around the lake will provide dreamy, lackadaisical exploration. If going the full distance, pack extra water or filter from the lake, as the trail can get dry and hot on the ascent.

Hikes Near Tillamook

Tillamook Forest is often overlooked by Portlanders as the rolling coastal range lacks the number of iconic peaks and rivers found to the east. For those willing to explore a new area, there are still plenty of gems to be found here.

Kings Mountain

Distance: 4.6 miles Elevation Gain: 2,500 feet Difficulty: Hard

Rising high above the Wilson River, King Mountain is the best workout to be had west of Portland. For most of the climb, you’ll be hidden in mossy, old-growth forest, though the top vistas show off the surrounding coastal range. Fill out your summit logbook to celebrate.

Hiking to the peak is an option all year long if you’re not afraid to tackle a little snow in the winter. Bring along a pair of microspikes to help navigate the steep, snowy switchbacks.

Distance: 8 miles Elevation Gain: 1,100 feet Difficulty: Moderate

Rather than climbing to a scenic peak, the Historic Hiking Loop allows you to meander through the rolling foothills of the coastal range for a lengthy but casual day out. Going clockwise, just past five miles in, you can make a tiny detour to check out University Falls.

Be aware that this area of the Tillamook Forest is multi-use, and many dirt bikes and ATVs will be present at the trailhead. While the loop is for pedestrian use only, you will intersect with multiple OHV trails, so be sure to look twice at trail intersections.

More Day Hikes Near Portland

Many of Portland’s great hikes come densely clustered in a specific forest or mountain, but there are also stand-alone trails that shine brightly and are well worth visiting.

Distance: 7.2 miles Elevation Gain: 1,150 feet Difficulty: Moderate Permit: Oregon State Park Pass

Silver Falls, the most famous park in Oregon, is popular for the aptly named Trail of Ten Falls. This seven-mile loop takes hikers through a canyon, which offers a new waterfall to enjoy every few minutes. The return trail above the canyon provides panoramic views of your traverse.

While fantastic year-round, spring snowmelt will have the waterfalls raging at full force. Several of the waterfalls allow hikers to walk directly behind them. The noise and blast of mist is an iconic experience, but watch out for the slick, wet rocks that can be tricky to navigate.

Silver Star Mountain via Grouse Vista

Distance: 6.4 miles Elevation Gain: 2,100 feet Difficulty: Hard Permit: Discover Pass

Crossing Oregon’s northeast border into Washington will take you to Silver Star Mountain, my favorite lesser-known hike near Portland. The peak shows off extremely photogenic ridgelines, some of which you can explore on several adjacent trails. On a clear day, this is one of the best places to see all the volcanic peaks in the area.

Accessing this hike from any of the other trailheads requires either a very long day of hiking or a high-clearance vehicle for the rough roads. Starting from the Grouse Vista trailhead requires a longer drive but allows everyone easy access to this breathtaking hike.

Backpacking Trips Near Portland

Have you already nailed down your perfect day hiking gear list and are now ready for a multi-day challenge? Here are several Portland classics to get you out of the city and sleeping under the stars.

Distance: 2 to 8 miles Elevation Gain: 250 to 750 feet Difficulty: Easy Permit: Northwest Forest Pass

Multiple easily accessible campsites directly on Siouxon Creek make this trip a great location for a stress-free getaway. Within the first four miles of the trail, you’ll pass Horseshoe Creek, Siouxon, Wildcat, and Chinook Falls. All landmarks campsites within a few minutes.

Siouxon Creek provides a great opportunity for beginner backpackers to test their gear and skills. This out-and-back is a choose-your-own adventure, as you can adjust the length of the hike to best meet your needs.

Distance: 26 miles Elevation Gain: 6,500 feet Difficulty: Hard Permit: Northwest Forest Pass

Starting from the Herman Creek Trailhead, you can loop the Herman Creek Trail with a scenic return on the PCT. For a two-night adventure, camp at either Cedar Swamp or Noble camp on night one and the Benson Plateau on night two. For a single-night trip, camp midway at Wahtum Lake.

The loop allows you to explore both Tomlike and Chinidere Mountains, which provide some of the best 360-degree views to be had this high up in the Gorge. Hiking the Benson Plateau offers a quiet, almost eerie contrast to the long canyon climbs.

Distance: 41.5 miles Elevation Gain: 10,300 feet Difficulty: Hard Permit: Northwest Forest Pass

Arguably the best way to spend a long weekend outdoors in Oregon is circumnavigating Portland’s most iconic volcano. Timberline Trail boasts all the stunning sights of the mountain, with every crested ridgeline opening a new perspective. Put this loop on your bucket list immediately.

The backpacking trip generally functions as a long series of climbs and descents over the many ridgelines that make up the mountain. At the bottom, you’ll have to cross glacial rivers, and at the top of the ridges, you’ll be rewarded with fresh breezes and jaw-dropping sights.

I recommend making this a four-day adventure. From Timberline Lodge, go clockwise, camping at the Sandy River, Elk Cove Camp, and Elk Meadows. Equal 10-mile days ease the challenge and let you fully take in the experience.

Don’t forget to dial in your backpacking gear list before you go.

Which Portland Hikes are on Your List?  

You won’t be let down after exploring Tillamook, Columbia River Gorge, Mount Hood, or any of the other popular destinations providing the best hikes near Portland, Oregon. Each unique area offers options for all sorts of distance and elevation gain, allowing you to choose your preferred difficulty.

If you’re searching for scenic day hikes within walking distance of the city or crave a few backpacking trip ideas, everything can be reached within an hour and a half drive of the city center.

The ball is now in your court. Choose one of our 17 best hikes and backpacking trips near Portland, throw on your backpack, hit the trail, and start exploring.

Last Updated on March 25, 2024

Maks Durayev

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The Best 7 Hikes Within 90 Minutes of Portland

Discover the best trails in close vicinity to Portland!

By: Austin Jackson + Save to a List

Editor's note: As of July 2021, Oneonta Gorge (Hike #4) is currently closed. Be sure to check The Forest Service website for up-to-date details.

Oregon is one of the nation's most beautiful places. Unlike many other states, Oregon is incredibly vast in the way that the climate ranges from dry deserts all the way to dense forests. Because of this, Portland is becoming an extremely desirable place to live for the outdoor-minded individuals. Portland is just a hop, skip, and a jump from Mount Hood, the west coast, and the beautiful Columbia River Gorge. Use this guide to find the best great hikes for an after-work outing, or a great family hike for the weekend all within 90 minutes of Portland!

1. Wahclella Falls

Wahclella Falls is an excellent choice for a hike after a long work day or after another hike in the area. Due to its short length (2.0 miles round trip), and mostly flat trail, this hike can easily be done in an hour or less. The best part about the hike however, is the raging waterfall at the end. The power of the water coming off of the falls is sure to amaze. 

2. Eagle Creek

If you want the best bang for your buck this is the hike for you! Walking next to the river the whole time, Eagle Creek is sure to amaze with the many waterfalls you will pass. For a shorter hike, many people hike to Punchbowl Falls (3.8 miles round trip). If you take this option, you will pass Metlako Falls and end up at Punchbowl Falls, all while seeing many other smaller falls that you will pass by. For a longer option, hike to Tunnel Falls (12.0 miles). This is a really great choice for a day trip. Lastly, backpack all the way to Wahtum Lake (26.5 miles loop) if you have the whole weekend and enjoy the weekend away from the city! As you can see, the thing that makes Eagle Creek so great is that you see amazing waterfalls the whole way, and can turn around at any point!

3. Trail of Ten Falls (Silver Falls)

Another "bang-for-your-buck" hike is the Trail of Ten Falls loop at Silver Falls State Park. As the name states, if you do the whole loop (8.7 miles), you will get to see ten different waterfalls. The trail even takes you behind a few of the falls! This is another hike that can be sectioned, and with many different trailheads, you have the luxury of choosing exactly how long you want your hike to be!

4. Oneonta Gorge

Oneonta Gorge is quite possibly the pinnacle of the Columbia River Gorge. This is different from most any hike you've ever been on, and you'll need some water shoes and swim shorts for this one. This hike takes you up the river (.6 miles round trip) to a waterfall at the end. If you're wondering if you can get there without getting wet, I'm here to tell you that you can't! The whole hike is walking up river. Summer is the best time to go if you don't want the water to be over your waist. However, if you wish to beat the crowds, throw on a wetsuit and be prepared to swim in the fall or winter!

5. Tom, Dick, and Harry Mountain

Tom, Dick, and Harry Mountain Hike makes for an excellent day up at the mountain. Not only will you hike up to an amazing viewpoint of Mount Hood, but you'll also pass a lake on the way up. This hike (5.8 miles round trip) is a great place to go to have lunch with a view. During winter months, this hike will be covered with snow, making it a great destination with snow shoes!

6. Falls Creek Falls

Falls Creek Falls is an amazing place that everyone has to see in person! The massive three tiered falls towering at 250 feet is an easy day hike (6.2 miles round trip) with no spots too steep, making this an exceptional hike for the kids. Once you reach the falls, if you are feeling adventurous, take the steep trail up a few hundred feet to the middle tier of the falls!

7. Tamanawas Falls

Tamanawas Falls is one of those places that is amazing at any time of year! In the winter, the is in deep snow and generally is partially frozen. Due to this, if you hike it in the winter months, be sure to throw in some snowshoes! This hike takes you through the beautiful woods of the Mount Hood National Forest and crosses the river a couple of times. With a moderately short hike (3.6 miles round trip), this makes for a perfect add on to a day of skiing or snowboarding at the mountain!

As I am sure you can tell, Oregon is an amazing place. There is so many amazing hikes that one could not list them all. These hikes are just a few of the best, but definitely explore around and find out what your favorite hike is! Happy adventuring!

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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13 Best Day Trips from Portland

Home » Blog » U.S.A. » 13 Best Day Trips from Portland

Being so close to both majestic mountains and the Pacific Coast, Portland has abundant opportunities for adventure outside the city. From jaw-dropping, gorgeous scenery and waterfalls galore to heart-pounding extreme sports and diverse food and drink scenes, this list of day trips from Portland has something in store for everyone!

Portland itself is an incredible city with a ton to offer and endless things to do . However with incredible nature and stunning scenery in every direction, there are also many great options when it comes to day trips from Portland. 

The largest city in Oregon is surrounded by vibrant coastal communities, world-class state parks and recreation areas with countless hiking and mountain biking trails. There is also a rich cultural heritage dating back to the 19th century. Not to mention a seemingly infinite number of local microbreweries, coffee houses, food trucks, and hole-in-the-wall seafood joints. 

Oh, and we can’t forget about all the amazing Oregon road trip opportunities !

In this guide, we’re sharing our favorite day trips from Portland, plus all the specific things to see, do, eat, and drink that should be on your itinerary. Each of these hand-picked adventures are within a 2.5-hour drive from Portland, so you can easily venture there and back in a day.

Before we get to the good stuff, we have a few helpful resources we wanted to share with you…

Getting a rental car in Portland

Having your own vehicle when visiting will give you a lot more freedom to explore the best day trips from Portland. 

We personally like using  Discover Cars  when we rent vehicles around the world, as they gather options from all sorts of rental companies in one place. It makes it really easy to compare prices and vehicles so you can determine which is the best option for you.

Search & Compare Rental Car Prices

• Discover Cars : We personally use this aggregate site to compare rental car prices from all the big name companies and get the best price possible. 
• Booking.com :  We’ve had good experiences finding rental cars with this site (formerly RentalCars.com) in the past. 

Wanna try out #vanlife in Oregon?

It’s no secret we are big fans of #vanlife. If you want to give it a test drive, we’ve got tons of resources for you! Check out our list of top companies for  USA Campervan Rentals , from budget to bougie, including exclusive discounts for our readers.

We also have a guide to the  best campervan rentals in Portland  specifically.

One company we’d recommend looking into is  Escape Campervans . They have 12 different locations across North America (including Portland, making it a great choice for an Oregon road trip). They come fully loaded with all the gear you need for an epic road trip, and they are a good budget option.

BONUS: We’ve partnered with them to give you a 10% off discount when you use our  link !

Don’t forget to download your Pacific Northwest bucket list!

Ultimate PNW Bucket List!

Traveling around the Pacific Northwest? We have just what you need!

We’ve created the  ultimate PNW Bucket List , filled with fun and unique adventures. From epic outdoor escapes to off-the-beaten-path foodie experiences, we have a little something for every type of traveler!

Go ahead and grab your copy now.  It’s free , so what do you have to lose?!

1. Hood River

• At a glance: Widely considered the windsurfing capital of the world (seriously!), Hood River has some of the best water recreation around, plus an amazing wine culture. 
• Distance from Portland: 62 miles; just over 1 hour

Hood River is a small town in northern Oregon that packs a tremendous punch. Nestled at the foot of snow-capped Mount Hood and between the scenic Columbia River Gorge and the Cascade Range, Hood River offers a ton of different adventures on day trips from Portland. 

Unlike many other places in Oregon, the Gorge’s strong, gusty winds typically come with sunny weather, making it ideal for watersports including jet-skiing, kiteboarding, and windsurfing, which is actually Hood River’s thing . 

On land, hikers, bikers, campers, and winter sports enthusiasts all flock to the town’s namesake mountain. A very different side of Hood River is Fruit Loop , the town’s famous 35-mile scenic drive through endless vineyards and orchards.

Top things to do in Hood River

• Try windsurfing or kiteboarding on the Columbia River
• Drive the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail and stop for a couple of hikes along the way. We highly recommend the easy 2-mile Wahclella Falls trail.
• Go skiing or snowboarding along the slopes of Mount Hood
• Drive the 35-mile scenic loop through local farms, wineries, cideries, fruit stands, and orchards known as the Hood River Fruit Loop
• Stop into one of the dozens of Hood River wineries (or breweries!) for a tasting and/or tour

Psst! Check out our complete guide with all the fun things to do in Hood River to help you plan your trip!

2. Mount Hood

• At a Glance: Iconic Mount Hood offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. 
• Distance from Portland: 76 miles; 1 hour, 20 minutes

Named one of the 7 wonders of Oregon   by the Oregon Tourism board, the 11,249-foot-tall Mount Hood is the highest mountain in Oregon and visible from just about anywhere in Portland. 

This dormant stratovolcano serves as the gorgeous backdrop for year-round recreation: world-class ski resorts, summer hiking and camping, and the magical Mount Hood National Forest–home to some of the best waterfalls near Portland . 

Whether you prefer your adventure in the form of scenic drives, hiking, historical sites, waterfalls, wild rivers, hot springs, or camping, Mount Hood is one of the best day trips from Portland. 

Top things to do at Mount Hood

• Take a scenic road trip on the 100-mile Mount Hood Scenic Byway
• Hike the popular Trillium Lake Loop Trail , one of the best hikes near Portland
• Glimpse the best view of Mount Hood is from Lost Lake which is located deep in Mount Hood National Forest
• On your way to Lost Lake, stop by the beautiful Lavender Valley ( seen in our cover photo! ) just outside of Parkdale, Oregon
• Hit the slopes at one of the two Mount Hood Ski Resorts during the winter months
• If you want to make your day trip an overnight stay, book a night at the Timberline Lodge , a National Historic Landmark (and site of a filming location in The Shining !).

3. Columbia River Gorge

• At a Glance: The stunning Columbia River Gorge is full of some of the best waterfalls in Oregon , family-friendly hiking trails, and countless other outdoor recreation opportunities. 
• Distance from Portland: 15-100-ish miles, depending on exact destination; 30 minutes to 1.5 hours (ex: Multnomah Falls is 30 miles from downtown Portland)

Chasing waterfalls is one of our favorite things to do in Oregon . When you need a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, the 80-mile Columbia River Gorge is within easy access for one of the best day trips from Portland. 

The most popular site is Oregon’s tallest waterfall, the 620-foot Multnomah Falls , but that hardly scratches the surface of all there is to see and do in the Columbia River Gorge. 

As the largest officially-designated National Scenic Area in the United States, this is where the Columbia River dramatically empties into the Pacific Ocean, carving canyons and cliffs and creating waterfalls along its route. The Gorge also provides natural habitat for a diverse range of wildlife, including grizzly bears, bald eagles, bull trout, gray wolves, and the Canada lynx. 

Top things to do in the Columbia River Gorge

• Road-trip along the 70-mile Historic Columbia River Highway, stopping to take in scenic viewpoints (including roadside waterfalls!) along the way.
• Stop at the 100-year-old Crown Point Vista House observatory for ahhh-mazing views
• Visit Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon, where you can simply marvel and take photos or embark on a short hike.
• Hike the Oneonta Gorge Trail through slot canyons and waist-deep water to Lower Oneonta Falls.
• Watch the seasonal salmon spawn, swimming from the ocean and heading upstream.
• Take a river cruise and sample local craft beer and delicious pizza in Cascade Locks.

4. Farm 2 Fork Guided Tour

• At a Glance: Learn about sustainable farming methods and where our food comes from during a tour of either Oregon’s countryside or the coast
• Distance from Portland: Within about 1 hour of downtown Portland, but Farm 2 Fork provides transportation
• Start time: 10:00 a.m.
• Duration: 5-6 hours
• Cost: $149 per person + service fee

If you’re interested in sustainability and food, we think you’ll really enjoy this day trip from Portland! 

Farm 2 Fork offers guided tours of several sustainable farms within an hour from Portland. The focus of these tours is specifically on how our food goes from land (or sea) and transforms into our favorite dishes. 

Choose between the Tillamook Seafood Tour of seafood and oyster farms on the coast, or the Taste of Willamette Valley Tour with vegetable and dairy farms. Or, if you can’t choose, do what we did and book both!

Both tour options have similar pricing and last most of the day, visiting three or four farms. Not only do you get a day’s worth of incredible food, but you’re helping to support small farmers who are passionate about what they do and are operating with the environment in mind. 

Psst! As an added bonus, we’ve got a little discount code for ya! Use our discount code: 2Wander for $5 off your tour!

Highlights of the Farm 2 Fork Tours 

• Catch and prepare your own crab lunch
• Learn to shuck oysters 
• Discover sustainable rearing practices in pig farming 
• Collect chicken eggs and prepare a fresh omelet from a poultry farm
• Buy native plants, flowers, herbs, and lavender from markets at each farm

Note that the specific farm experiences vary slightly depending on the time of year.

• At a Glance: A classic PNW coastal town packed with cultural and historic attractions, plus a cute waterfront, great restaurants, and outdoor recreation galore
• Distance from Portland: 95 miles; 2 hours

Scandinavian-influenced Astoria has a long fishing and fur trading history. In fact, it’s the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies, founded in 1811 by our country’s first-ever millionaire, John Jacob Astor. 

This cultural haven is sandwiched between the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean, and makes a perfect first stop on your Oregon Coast road trip . However, we think it’s worth making a day trip from Portland too. 

The plethora of Victorian-era homes in the town really adds to the postcard-perfect scene. Astoria has numerous canneries, restaurants, museums, and waterfront attractions, as well as the popular Astoria Column, a unique historical structure you’ll want to check out. 

Psst…did you know the classic ‘80s movie The Goonies was filmed in Astoria?!

Top Things to Do in Astoria

• Ride the historic Astoria Riverfront T r olley
• Climb up all the stairs of the Astoria Column for incredible views
• Visit the family-friendly Columbia River Maritime Museum
• Hike the relatively easy Cathedral Tree Trail to the actual Cathedral Tree, a massive 300-year-old Sitka spruce.
• Revisit Civil War and World War II history at Fort Stevens State Park

For more ideas, check out our full guide to all the awesome things to do in Astoria, Oregon .

6. Cannon Beach

• At a Glance: An adorable, ultra-charming Oregon Coast town with iconic sea stacks and great proximity to sandy beaches and epic hiking trails. 
• Distance from Portland: 80 miles; 1.5 hours

Another one of the charming Oregon coast towns . When people think of the Oregon Coast, they typically envision Cannon Beach — the famous Haystack Rock really is that iconic. 

Because of its notoriety, Cannon Beach is admittedly fairly touristy and it gets extremely busy at times. However, its proximity to some of Oregon’s best hikes and beaches still make it one of our favorite day trips from Portland. 

There are plenty of fun things to do in Cannon Beach to keep you occupied on a day trip. Spend your time indulging in fresh local seafood, strolling through the main part of town shopping, and enjoying the dramatic scenery. 

Top things to do in Cannon Beach

• Take advantage of the natural photo-op that Haystack Rock provides, especially during sunset. Look for nesting bald eagles and puffins!
• Walk the beach during low tide and explore tide pools. 
• Head to Hug Point to witness a sea cave and waterfall flowing right onto the beach!
• Explore the numerous trails and roadside viewpoints at Ecola State Park, just a few minutes north. 

Pro tip: Sunset at Haystack Rock is hard to beat! Pack a picnic dinner and blankets, then build a bonfire right on the beach. Just be prepared for a late-evening return to Portland afterwards. 

7. Tillamook

• At a Glance: The ultimate Oregon Coast destination for anyone who loves cheese, nature, and U.S. history
• Distance from Portland: 72 miles; 1 hour, 25 minutes

Even along the Oregon Coast, where dramatic, rugged scenery is around every corner, Tillamook stands out as unique. 

Three rivers converge here, the Trask, Wilson, and, of course, Tillamook, creating scenic forested areas that serve as a stark, beautiful contrast to the coastline. And while most of us associate the name Tillamook with the beloved cheese, ice cream, and other dairy products, the name actually comes from the area’s Indigenous people. 

The Tillamook Cheese Factory is, naturally, a huge attraction in this seaside town. We think it’s just the icing on the cake to the stunning scenery. Popular Cape Lookout State Park is also nearby, as well as several hiking trails and the historic Cape Meares Lighthouse, now a living history museum.

Top things to do in Tillamook

• Take a tour of the Tillamook Cheese Factory , then stay for lunch and treat yourself to some of the best ice cream on the coast. Try local-inspired flavors like huckleberry or marionberry!
• Drive the Three Capes Scenic Route to Cape Lookout State Park, where you can enjoy the beach, hike, or try hang-gliding.
• Tour the historic Cape Meares Lighthouse, where you’ll learn about Tillamook Bay’s interesting history. 
• Hike through an old-growth forest to the 300-plus-foot-tall Munson Creek Falls.
• Go kayaking with Kayak Tillamook  along the 100 miles of waterways in the area. Choose from scenic trips to moonlight tours, or learn how to dig for clams from a kayak!
• Explore World War II-era collections at the Tillamook Air Museum
• Grab a beer at Pelican Brewery
• Enjoy fresh oysters and wine at JAndy Oyster Co.

8. Willamette Valley

• At a Glance: A world-renowned 150-mile-long wine region with over 700 wineries, plus an amazing food scene and a healthy dose of outdoor adventure
• Distance from Portland: 48 miles; 55 minutes

Oregon’s celebrated Willamette Valley has over 700 wineries and eight distinct American Viticulture Areas (AVAs), all spread across four individual valleys. In fact, more than two-thirds of Oregon’s wineries and vineyards are here in Willamette Valley! 

No matter what type of wine you typically prefer, you’ll want to try a glass of Pinot Noir — the best Pinots are produced in this region.

Aside from the vineyards and surrounding postcard-worthy scenery, Willamette Valley is paradise for hikers, mountain bikers, watersports enthusiasts, bird watchers, and foodies, making it one of the best day trips from Portland. 

The Willamette River also cuts through the valley (part of why it’s such an ideal wine region!), providing both scenery and a base for water sports enthusiasts. 

Top Things to Do in Willamette Valley

• Enjoy wine tastings or tours at one of the 700+ wineries. It can be overwhelming choosing a few, but the Willamette Valley Wine website lets you filter search results by ultra-specific categories including dog-friendly wineries, wineries with food pairings, or those with live music. 
• Hike the Trail of Ten Falls at Silver Falls State Park (more info in #9 on this list)
• Walk, run, or cycle part or all of the 29-mile, 9-loop trail in Minto-Brown Island Park
• Sip a beer brewed by monks at the appropriately-named Benedictine Brewery
• Experience freshwater diving at pristine Clear Lake in Willamette National Forest
• Soak in Terwilliger (Cougar) Hot Spring

9. Silver Falls State Park 

• At a Glance: A little slice of heaven just over an hour from Portland with numerous trails, waterfalls, and campsites
• Distance from Portland: 54 miles; 1 hour, 15 minutes
• Entrance fee: $5 for a single day parking pass

Best known as the home of the magnificent Trail of Ten Falls (with, yes, a whopping 10 waterfalls!), Silver Falls State Park is a natural respite within an easy drive from the city. Note that because of its proximity to Portland, the park gets very busy on weekends and holidays. Plan to arrive early!

Aside from its abundance of waterfalls, this is one of the best day trips from Portland because of its sheer diversity in terrain and recreation options. There are canyons alongside old-growth forest, with panoramic viewpoints, multi-use trails, and campsites dotting the entire park.  

Top Things to Do in Silver Falls State Park

• Hike the 7.2-mile Trail of Ten Falls , one of the best hikes in Oregon
• During the summer, you can do swimming at the South Falls Day Use Area
• Meander through the park on a guided horseback ride  
• Shop for souvenirs at the Silver Falls Nature Store
• If you have more time, set up camp at the Silver Falls State Park campground

10. McCredie Hot Springs

• At a Glance: Easily-accessible natural mineral hot springs in the Willamette National Forest
• Distance from Portland: 158 miles; 2.5 hours

One of Oregon’s amazing natural hot springs, McCredie Hot Springs in the Willamette National Forest is one of the best day trips from Portland. 

The springs are unique in that they are natural but also have man-made features, including rock walls to form shallow pools. This lends a unique experience to McCredie Hot Springs and helps make them accessible year-round. 

Have a soak in the natural jacuzzi, but be aware that clothing is optional

The McCredie Day Use Area is a great spot for a picnic and jumping off point to explore the various hiking trails. A short drive from the springs themselves, the area has ample parking, a pit toilet, and two picnic areas. 

If you’re looking for more than just a soak, you can rent a kayak or canoe at nearby Waldo Lake. A visit to Salt Creek Falls is just another 15 minute drive up the road. Or you can enjoy a local cocktail at the nearby Deep Wood Distillery .

Note: McCredie Hot Springs isn’t difficult to access, but it is difficult to find. Do some thorough research ahead of time, including reading our full guide to the springs on our sister site, before planning your trip.

11. Tamolitch Blue Pool

• At a Glance: A strikingly blue, pristine natural pool at the base of (usually dry) Tamolitch Falls in the Willamette National Forest.
• Distance from Portland: 139 miles; 2.5 hours

Located along the McKenzie River, Tamolitch Blue Pool is so vibrant and pristine that it truly doesn’t even look real. As if this wasn’t unique enough, the waterfall itself only flows a few times throughout the year — the pool is actually fed by natural underground springs!

Hike the spectacular McKenzie River Trail , a 3.6-mile out and back trail that passes by Tamolitch Falls. Just be sure to start from the proper Tamolitch Trailhead and hike north to the Blue Pool. We hiked south from the Carmen Reservoir and it took us twice as long. 

Insider tip : In the summer, McKenzie River Mountain Resort offers a by-reservation-only shuttle. Call in advance to avoid dealing with the hectic parking situation! 

Check out our guide to the Tamolitch Blue Pool Oregon on our sister site for everything you need to know to plan your visit.

Also, be warned that the water is absolutely frigid, at all times! Even on the hottest day of summer, a dip in the Blue Pool is sure to send a shiver up your spine.

12. Sauvie Island 

• At a Glance: Sandy beaches, wildlife galore, hiking, a lighthouse, and even a U-pick farm just outside of Portland
• Distance from Portland: 18 miles; 35 minutes

If you’re looking for one of the best day trips from Portland but don’t want to do much driving, head to Sauvie Island. Just a short 30-minute drive from downtown, this 26,000-acre natural paradise is the largest river island along the Columbia River and serves up tons of recreation options. 

From short nature trails to more strenuous hikes, paddling on the many lakes, sampling locally-grown fresh produce, and lounging on a non-coastal beach, Sauvie Island has something for everyone. 

Top things to do on Sauvie Island

• Get on the water with gear rentals or lessons from Scappoose Bay Paddling Center
• Stroll through maples and Douglas firs on the Wapato Loop Hike
• Pick your own fresh berries at the 80-acre Sauvie Island U-Pick Farms
• Go birdwatching at Sturgeon Lake
• Relax on the island’s golden sandy beaches
• At a Glance: Oregon’s historic capital city, surrounded by gorgeous scenery and located almost perfectly between the coast and the mountains
• Distance from Portland: 46 miles; 50 minutes 

Plunked down right in the heart of the Willamette River Valley, Salem is easily one of the most scenic capital cities in the country. 

It also has a ton to see and do, ranging from outdoor activities to family-friendly events and historical and cultural attractions. And of course, there’s no shortage of wine-related experiences and excellent restaurants in Salem!

The capital is situated almost exactly one hour from both the Coast Mountains and the Pacific Ocean and its scenery is exactly what you’d expect: lush, green, and beautiful. It seems everywhere you look, you see rolling green vineyards, colorful flower fields, and blooming cherry trees. 

You’ll also find plenty of opportunities to tour historical buildings and enjoy the outdoors. 

Top things to do in Salem

• Tour the Oregon State Capitol 
• Sample wines from more than a dozen wineries on the Salem Wine Trail
• Spend a day learning about Oregon’s history at the Willamette Heritage Center , designated an “American treasure” by the National Park Service. 
• Participate (or cheer someone on!) in one of the many annual bike races in Salem 
• Visit the Reed Opera House, which was opened in 1871 and is designated on the National Register of Historic Places.

Are you planning a trip to Oregon?

Being that Oregon is our home state, we have TONS of content to help you plan your trip. Start with our Oregon Homepage and be sure to check out the articles below. Leave us a comment if you have any more questions!

• Check out all the  weirdly awesome things to do in Portland .
• For a taste of #vanlife, choose from the best campervan rentals in Portland .
• If you’re headed west, here are all the cutest Oregon Coast towns .
• Plan your  Oregon coast road trip  with our insider tips & map.
• Don’t skip  Cannon Beach , our favorite small town in Oregon.
• You’ll want this itinerary for an  epic Oregon road trip !
• Read up on all the  fun things to do in Bend, Oregon .
• This article will help you visit the 7 wonders of Oregon .

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We want to hear from you!

Which of these Portland day trips is going to the top of your bucket list? Do you have any other day trips from Portland you’d suggest we add to this list? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

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25 Day Trips from Portland, Oregon + Road Trip Ideas

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After waiting an hour for a Voodoo donut and getting a selfie with the “Portland is Weird” sign, you may be ready to see what else Portland offers… (JK, there’s a lot more than this, we just aren’t city people!)

Don’t get us wrong, we LOVE Portland but mostly because of its proximity to so many badass places to go. Cascading waterfalls, insane mountains, surf, and sand are all under two hours away from this diverse city. Yep, Portland is really an outdoor-lovers dream city.

Don’t hate us, but if you’re looking for epic Portland day trips or ideas on how to road trip around Portland, our list will keep you busy for almost a MONTH. Sorry, not sorry?

Table of Contents

25 Portland Day Trips and Road Trip Ideas

1. windsurfing at hood river, 2. wahkeena and multnomah falls loop trail, 3. bridal veil falls, 4. dry creek falls, 5. ponytail falls, 6. latourell falls loop trail, 7. mount defiance trail, 8. indian point loop, 9. herman creek trail, where to stay around the columbia river gorge, 10. tom dick and harry trail, 11. bald mountain, 12. tamanawas falls, 13. umbrella falls and sahale falls, 14. trillium lake, 15. lost lake, 16. frog lake, where to stay around mount hood, 17. cannon beach, 18. tillamook bay, 19. seaside beach, 20. astoria beach, 21. neskowin beach, 22. manzanita beach, 23. sand lake recreation area, 24. pacific city beach, 25. lincoln city beach, where to stay on the oregon coast, your portland road trip, 43 best things to do in portland, oregon for adventurers, 13 portland tours for the adventurous, 17 best beaches in portland, oregon, a guide to the columbia river gorge - 25 hikes + camping, windsurfing, and more, 19+ awesome hikes near portland to escape the bustle, 17 hikes to waterfalls near portland, 17 of the best places for camping near portland.

As you’ll notice, we separated all of our Portland days trips into three sections to better organize everything for you. There are the places on the coast (yellow), the Columbia River Gorge (blue), and Mount Hood (purple).

At the end of our list of all the cool things to do around Portland, you’ll find some road trip suggestions to help you as well if you’re looking to hang around for a few days!

Day Trips From Portland on the Columbia River Gorge

30 minutes to 1.5 hours from Portland

The Columbia River Gorge has a little something for every outdoor enthusiast. Dreamy waterfalls, challenging hikes, jaw-dropping vistas, and aquatic activities, just to name a few.

And best of all? The quickest day trips from Portland to the Gorge only take about a 30-minute drive. Some adventures will take you over an hour to reach, but that still gives you plenty of time to explore one of Oregon’s most spectacular regions.

RECOMMENDED GEAR:

How about a trip to the windsurfing capital of the world? This exhilarating day trip from Portland was made for those with a craving for adrenaline. The Columbia River Gorge creates a glorious backdrop, and the exposed portions of the river help riders catch big air.

Don’t worry if you’re a beginner who has never hopped on a board before. There are plenty of swells here ideal for newbies and the biggest windsurfing daredevils. Blustery winds barrel through the canyon right onto Hood River, but sheltered coves protect those trying the sport for the first time.

There are tons of windsurfing shops giving lessons on the calmer areas of the river, and beginners often conquer their first swells in minutes.

Distance: 4.7 miles Type of Trail : Loop Difficulty: Moderate

Multnomah Falls is not only one of the Gorge’s most spectacular waterfalls, but it’s one of the state’s crown jewels. The waterfall itself is a must, but adding this looped hike takes you to several other worthy cascades.

You’ll hike past Wahkeena Falls, Ecola Falls, Fairy Falls, and others before reaching Multnomah Falls on this loop trail. Enjoy the quieter side of the loop and listen to the peaceful creek approaching each waterfall beside the trail.

The trail makes a steady elevation gain of over 1,500 feet before coming out at the top of Oregon’s tallest waterfall. Take in the sensational views and feel the rush of the falls on this famous day trip from Portland.

→ If you don’t have access to a vehicle, join this awesome waterfall hiking tour to the Columbia River Gorge from Portland!

Distance: 0.5 miles Type of Trail : Out & Back Difficulty: Easy

This short hike is great for all skill levels and presents one of the Gorge’s most picturesque waterfalls . Follow the paved path to the viewpoint that gives you a spectacular vantage of the Pillars of Hercules.

Alternatively, you can follow the stairs and face a series of steep inclines to reach the base of the falls.

Although the trail is in great condition, it can get slippery after rainfall. Make sure to arrive early or during the week to beat the large crowds that flock to the trail.

RELATED: Waterfalls Near Portland: 17 Gorgeous Waterfall Hikes

Distance: 3.6 miles Type of Trail : Out & Back Difficulty: Easy

Not only is this surreal waterfall a popular Portland day trip, but it can also easily be reached off the Pacific Crest Trail. Start from the Bridge of the Gods trailhead and hike alongside the creek with gorgeous woodland scenery in every direction.

Pass Douglas-firs, hemlocks, and blooming wildflowers if you hike during the spring. Before making it to the falls, you’ll notice an intriguing series of lava boulders blending with the trees.

Dry Creek Falls is situated in what appears to be an amphitheater carved by the hands of Mother Nature. Feel the cooling mist against your face while taking in the grandeur of the basalt column wall around the falls.

RELATED: 43 Best Things To Do in Portland, Oregon For Adventurers

Distance: 0.8 miles Type of Trail : Out & Back Difficulty: Easy

Forest fires left a harsh scar in this section of the Gorge, but you can still enjoy a beautiful Portland adventure here. The trail only takes you to Ponytail Falls and the hypnotizing pool created by the cascade.

You’ll have the chance to stand directly behind the falls for a magical view of the forest. Even though the path is closed beyond this point, seeing just Ponytail Falls is a Portland day trip not to pass up.

Distance: 2 miles Type of Trail : Loop Difficulty:  Moderate

This loop may have a few muddy patches, but you’ll gain incredible waterfall views in return. The trail is packed with lush greenery as it meanders around Lower and Upper Latourell Falls.

You can even stand close to the rear of the falls for dramatic shots of basalt columns and evergreen trees. There is marginal elevation gain on the way up but nothing too strenuous for those in at least relative shape.

→For a fun and active tour to Latourell Falls and other beautiful falls in the Columbia River Gorge, take this hike and bike waterfall tour from Portland.

Distance: 12 miles Type of Trail : Loop Difficulty: Hard

You’ll stare defiance right in the face during this leg-burning adventure from Portland. With 5,072 feet of elevation gain, your legs are in for a serious workout.

However, no other trail in Starvation Creek State Park offers dramatic panoramas like this one. With clear skies, you’ll see soaring peaks like Mount Hood, Adams, and Rainier.

Plus, the path takes you by four cascading waterfalls within the first couple of miles. Those who would rather skip the rest of the trail can turn back after the waterfalls, but hardy trekkers can keep on trucking towards the shimmering Warren Lake.

The descent is brutally steep, which can present a difficult challenge for those with knee problems.

RELATED: A Guide to the Columbia River Gorge – 25 Hikes + Camping, Windsurfing, and More

Distance: 7.3 miles Type of Trail : Loop Difficulty: Hard

Get your climbing shoes ready for this difficult trek as you cover 3,185-feet of elevation gain.

This hike is worth the challenge as you’ll be greeted with sweeping views of the Columbia River Gorge. There are several other trails branching off the loop, which can easily make this one of the more exhausting Portland adventures.

You’ll see areas with fire damage, but this has led to a plethora of wildflowers to bloom along the trail. Once you’ve made it through the treacherous climb, you’ll have impressive views of Douglas-firs, the mighty river, and even Mount Hood.

Long pants are highly recommended for this trail since you’ll encounter poison oak.

Distance: 19.8 miles Type of Trail : Out & Back Difficulty: Hard

This day trip from Portland requires an early start, but this trail lets you explore large portions of the wilderness. You’ll use the same trailhead as Indian Point Loop, and with 5,150-feet of elevation gain, your legs are in for a long day of climbing.

You’ll pass numerous waterfalls at certain times of the year, which includes some creek crossings. The dense forest and tranquil sounds of the flowing creek make this a wonderful place for solitude.

Just make sure to protect yourself from poison oak by wearing long pants and sleeves.

→ There are a couple of really fun and unique ways to experience the Columbia River Gorge – by taking a flightseeing tour from Portland and from the water on a sailing tour on a classic yacht !

Ainsworth State Park: Ainsworth Campground is located right in Ainsworth State Park, and it’s pretty central to any spot in the western Gorge area. There are about 40 full-hookup spots you can reserve along with six walk-in tent sites.

Deschutes River State Recreation Area: Located where the Deschutes River flows into the Columbia, this campground is a great spot to access the east end of the gorge. It has 34 electrical sites and 25 primitive sites.

Viento State Park: Viento State Park is in a great area, though it’s a bit less popular than other campsites. That means there’s almost always a spot to camp when other sites are full.

Conductor’s Cottage : This cozy cottage is located right across from the river on the Washington side of the gorge. It has two bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, and mountain views.

Dragonfly Creek Retreat Cabin: Located in Mosier, this artsy cabin sits on 24 wooded acres with a seasonal creek. It’s only two miles from town but it feels secluded and wildlife abounds.

Cottage in the Heart of the Gorge : This beautifully remodeled cottage in Mosier has river views, which are best enjoyed from the deck. It has everything you need for a relaxing and comfortable vacation.

Day Trips From Portland Around Mount Hood—Hikes & Lakes

1 to 2 hours from Portland 

Oregon’s tallest mountain sits at the doorstep of Portland, and the pristine forest surrounding this snowy peak is full of thrilling day trips. There are tons of hiking trails that give you incredible views of this iconic peak and take you to many of Oregon’s picturesque lakes.

Whether you’re an avid trekker or you prefer a calmer day by the lake, the Mount Hood Wilderness has a bevy of Portland day trips at your fingertips. Some are just over a 1-hour drive from Portland, while others are closer to the 2-hour range.

RELATED: What to Do at Mount Hood in Winter

Distance: 9 miles Type of Trail : Out & Back Difficulty:  Moderate

The Tom Dick and Harry Trail presents Mount Hood in all her glory and goes around the sparkling Mirror Lake.

The trail has a steady elevation gain of 1,705 feet but is not a difficult trek to conquer. After traversing along a paved road and then through some switchbacks in the forest, you’ll reach the Mirror Lake Loop.

This section of the trail gives you a breathtaking vantage of Mount Hood and its surrounding evergreen forest.

Once you pass the loop, the trail gets rocky and a little trickier to navigate, but eventually opens to incredible viewpoints of Mount Hood. You can summit Tom Dick and Harry Mountain if you’re up for the challenge and have the time to spare.

For the complete rundown on this thrilling day trip from Portland, check out our guide to hiking the Tom Dick and Harry Trail .

Distance: 6 miles Type of Trail : Out & Back Difficulty:  Moderate

This trail is mostly through the dense forest but gives patient hikers sensational mountain vistas. Since much of the trail is shaded, this would be one of your best Portland day trips for a hot day.

Most of the elevation gain is through a series of switchbacks in the trek’s early stages, and you may need to catch your breath at times. Once you peek through the forest, you’ll have an unbelievable view of the mountain and nearby wildflowers.

Distance: 3.3 miles Type of Trail : Out & Back Difficulty:  Moderate

If you’re up for waterfalls instead of mountain views, the relatively easy Tamanawas Fall hike near Mount Hood has you covered. The hike meanders through the forest, offering plenty of shade and to a tumbling waterfall.

Make sure you have proper hiking boots since you’ll have to scramble near the falls, and the rocks can be slippery. You can even stand behind the falls for a unique panorama looking into the Mount Hood Wilderness.

We know this one is one of the furthest out (1.5 hours), but it’s one of our favorite waterfalls near Portland !

READ MORE: Hiking the Gorgeous Tamanawas Falls Trail

Distance: 3.4 miles Type of Trail : Out & Back Difficulty:  Moderate

You won’t have to go far on the trail to reach the cascading Umbrella Falls. The 60-foot falls tumble down a staircase-like bedrock and offer some unbelievable pictures.

You’ll have to scramble downhill to reach Sahale Falls, but there won’t be as much traffic on this section of the trail. Before trekking back from Sahale Falls, you can dip your feet in the refreshing pool at its base.

Hikers of all levels can enjoy the relaxing trail around this gorgeous lake sitting beneath Mount Hood. The mountain’s reflection shines on the lake’s surface on a sunny afternoon with thick forest and wildflowers around its shores.

There’s a small beach situated in one corner, which makes the ideal spot to begin a kayaking or SUP adventure.

READ MORE: Checking Out Trillium Lake: Paddling, Hiking, and Camping

This shimmering lake is another magnificent spot near Mount Hood to take your kayak or SUP for a relaxing day on the water. It’s impossible to take your eyes off the snow-lined mountain as it towers over the wilderness.

When your feet are ready for another hike, the trail loops around the lake without much elevation gain, there is a popular campground nearby, so the trail often gets crowded during peak season.

RELATED: 7 Mount Hood Hikes and Waterfalls

Frog Lake provides more impressive views of Mount Hood and a serene spot to kayak, SUP, or swim. You’ll have to venture out for hiking excursions, but there are plenty of trailheads nearby to work up a sweat.

Pine, hemlock, and Douglas-fir trees encircle the lake as Mount Hood’s reflection can be seen on a clear day.

→ If you don’t have a lot of time, do this Mount Hood Day Trip from Portland to see the best of the area.

Nottingham Campground : Located off of Highway 35, this campground is centrally located and is next to Mt. Hood and Hood River. It’s also next to Tamanawas Falls, and you’ll have a peaceful experience here.

Sherwood Campground: Sherwood Campground is further down the road and is located on the East Fork Hood River. The campsites here are quite close together and had little privacy so it wouldn’t be my first choice to stay here.

Trillium Lake Campground: Trillium Lake Campground sits next to beautiful Trillium Lake at an elevation of 3,600 feet, and offers dozens of single and double sites for tents and RVs.

Little House on the Mountain : Relax and unwind in this custom-built, one-of-kind cabin that is furnished with art and furniture from local artisans. The cabin sits on four acres of private wooded land, bordering Mt. Hood National Forest Land.

Private Cabin With Hot Tub : This dog-friendly cabin at the base of Mount Hood has a wood-burning stove to keep the inside cozy, and a hot tub to relax in after a day of adventure.

Romantic Mount Hood Cabin : A cozy cabin with touches of home that is nestled in the Mt. Hood National Forest and is the perfect backdrop for any romantic getaway. Relax in the hot tub under a canopy of trees.

RELATED: 13 Portland Tours for The Adventurous!

Day Trips From Portland on the Oregon Coast

1.5 to 2 hours from Portland

The Oregon coast is packed rugged sea stacks, dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and charming coastal towns. The coast stretches roughly 362 miles from the California border all the way to the mouth of the Columbia River.

Although it’s not realistic to reach many areas of the Oregon Coast from Portland, there are still several areas you can easily reach within 2 hours. Whether you’re craving a seaside hike or want to explore sand dunes, the Oregon coast has plenty of day trips from Portland.

RELATED: 11 Most Scenic Oregon Coast Towns (And What to Do There!)

No trip along the Oregon coast is complete without a stop in this surreal town and all its outdoor adventures. Cannon Beach is one of the most convenient Portland day trips and a picturesque escape from city life.

The moment you lay eyes on the dramatic Haystack Rock, you know a coastal paradise awaits.

There are endless hiking trails in Ecola State Park that take you through tranquil forests and offer jaw-dropping ocean vistas overlooking enormous sea stacks. Climbing the nearby Neahkahnie Mountain is another beauty offering panoramic views of the Oregon coast.

If you prefer staying on the water, kayaking Ecola Creek is a real treat for nature lovers. The waterway is easy to navigate, and you’ll see incredible scenery right on the beach. Just make sure to bring your own kayak since no rentals are available.

Just 2 miles south of Cannon Beach, Arcadia Beach Recreation Site has some unique caves worth checking out on this Portland road trip.

RELATED: 19 Must-Visit Oregon Coast State Parks

Besides its well-known cheese factory, Tillamook Bay offers a world of outdoor adventures for any Portland road trip. Fishing is embedded into the local culture, and a boating trip is a great way to stock up on fresh seafood.

More spectacular views of scenic hills and sea stacks await in Cape Lookout State Park . This hiking paradise has lots of trails for all skill levels that meander through old-growth forests and give you fantastic views of the beach.

Don’t be put off by Seaside ’s glamorous appearance. There are lots of activities to satisfy any outdoor enthusiast who wanders into town.

The Necanicum River offers a kayaking excursion that leads you straight into the Pacific Ocean. This peaceful stream is also one of the top places near Portland to fish for trout and Chinook salmon.

If you’re connecting to or from Cannon Beach on your Portland road trip, hike the Tillamook Head Trail for a scenic stroll along the coast. Just be aware that the road leading to the Cannon Beach entry is closed as of February 2020.

READ MORE: 13 Adventurous Things To Do in Seaside, Oregon

Sitting at the mouth of the Columbia River, Astoria is a goldmine for a Portland day trip on the water. This is one of the state’s cherished fishing spots, and anglers will be in paradise exploring the town’s waterways. Buoy 10 is the most popular spot near Astoria that is known for producing high-quality salmon.

Of course, it’s not all about the fishing excursions when you arrive in Astoria. There are plenty of hiking trails to keep you busy during your day trip from Portland.

Despite its depressing name, Cape Disappointment State Park is full of uplifting treks to explore. The park is just over the state line in Washington, but the trails wander through dense forests, and you’ll have a front-row seat to powerful ocean waves.

READ MORE: 11 Adventurous Things to do in Astoria, Oregon

This cozy Oregon town is an amazing spot for those seeking solitude and a day full of adventures near Portland.

Proposal Rock sits right along the beach, and getting up this steep rock face can pose quite the challenge. The views from the top are incredible, but you’ll need to be in good shape to reach it.

You’ll have to hop in the car to find the trailhead, but Hart’s Cove Trail is one of the best outings for hikers near Neskowin. The relatively flat trail takes you to craggy overlooks, thick forests, and awe-inspiring ocean vistas.

If you’re searching for peace and quiet, Manzanita Beach is a wonderful place to escape the crowds. This beautiful town has tons of adventures without the hordes of tourists in more popular Oregon coast towns.

The 4.6-mile Cape Falcon Trail is one of the most underrated hikes on the Oregon coast with its breathtaking panoramic views towards the end. There are lots of offshoots from the trail that allow you to explore more of the area.

Nehalem Bay State Park offers more hiking trails, and you can take your kayak onto Nehalem Bay for a relaxing day on the water.

READ MORE: Your Guide to Nehalem Bay State Park

With over a thousand acres of sand dunes, this one of Oregon’s most exciting spots for an off-road adventure. This vast pit of sand is mesmerizing to behold, and you can spend hours riding around peering out at the ocean.

If you’d rather explore on foot, make sure your legs are prepared for a serious workout climbing the dunes.

Some of the adventures in Pacific City Beach will be a bit out of the ordinary compared to other places on the Oregon coast.

In particular, the mesmerizing sand dunes make for quite a unique experience on your Portland road trip. Climb the largest dune for impressive views, but don’t underestimate the difficultly of the steep incline.

After catching your breath, head over to the Nestucca River where you can swim, fish or kayak. The diverse scenery surrounding the Nestucca makes it one of the most picturesque rivers on the Oregon coast.

READ MORE: 11 Adventurous Things To Do in Pacific City

Lincoln City is a favorite for many Portland locals looking for a beach day with many outdoor adventures. You could spend hours just roaming the beach, gazing at the rocky cliffs overlooking the ocean.

Siletz Bay is one of the most gorgeous places in the area with kayaking and fishing as two popular ways to enjoy its beauty. Elsewhere, Devil’s Lake is a great alternative where you can hike, kayak, fish, or even camp if you want more than just a day trip from Portland.

Hikers can head to the north end of Lincoln City for an exhilarating trek at God’s Thumb. The steep basalt formation helps you break a sweat and presents a magnificent panorama of the Oregon coast.

→ If you don’t have a lot of time, do this Oregon Coast day trip from Portland to see the best of the coast with a local.

READ MORE: 15 Adventurous Things To Do in Lincoln City

Fort Stevens State Park: Located in northwest Oregon in Astoria, Fort Stevens is a converted military space and is now one of the largest Oregon coast campgrounds with 500 spaces.

Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area: Downtown Lincoln City is just a few minutes away from this campground, making it one of the only Oregon coast campgrounds in the middle of a city.

Honey Bear by the Sea: As one of the largest Oregon coast campgrounds and RV resorts on the Pacific Coast, Honey Bear by the Sea is a great choice, with broad sandy beaches and woodland.

Adorable Seaside Cottage :  This dog-friendly cottage is close to the beach and town in beautiful Cannon Beach. It offers amenities like a gas fireplace and a flat-screen cable TV.

Shepherds Cottage Retreat:  This cottage retreat is located on a peaceful farm close to Astoria. It has a fully stocked kitchen, an outdoor patio with a fire pit and grill, and great wildlife watching.

Whale Watch :  This gorgeous seaside cottage in Lincoln City has amazing ocean views from the patio, an outdoor grill, and a wood-burning fireplace.

You should be reeling with ideas on where to day trip from Portland, but if you’re perhaps after a little Portland road trip adventure, we have some more recommendations there too. As you can tell from above, there are plenty of things to do around the city. Hiking, camping, coastal fun… You name it.

So depending on how long you have, it will depend on where to go on your Portland road trip.

2-Day Portland Road Trip

We’re going to go ahead and recommend the obvious. If you only have a couple of days, choose only one of the three areas! Either hang out along the Columbia River Gorge, around Mount Hood, or along the coast. It will be hard to squeeze everything in with only a couple of days.

3-4-Day Portland Road Trip

With 3-4 days, we’d recommend hanging out around Mount Hood and the Gorge. You can easily combine these two areas, and they pair well. Go chase waterfalls along the Gorge and have your jaw drop at the mountain views at Mount Hood. Squeezing in the coast to a few days may be a bit tricky.

5-Day Portland Road Trip

If you have five days or more, you should be golden to comfortably see all three of the areas we’ve mentioned in this post. It will still be ambitious and a bit hurried, and you won’t be able to see everything on this list but at least you’ll get a taste of the three areas.

A Few Tips For Road Tripping Around Portland

• Animals like to come out at night, keep your driving hours to during the day.
• If you’re driving out from the middle of the city, you’ll have to add on some time to the estimates listed, traffic is always prevalent.
• With that said, it’d best to stay on the outskirts of the city if you’re planning on road tripping or day-tripping because unless you want to see things IN the city (of which, we mentioned none haha) you’re better off staying outside of the congested areas.
• If you’re coming to  Oregon in winter , or even just before/after, be aware of  road closures .
• For car rentals, we always check here first. 

More Things to Do Near Portland

We hope this post helped you plan some awesome road trips! Check out more great activities near Portland  and other fun  adventures in Oregon .

Oregon native and explorer at heart. Loves tackling expeditions around the world and drinking a good beer at the end of the day. PNW obsessed, VW nerd, and surf or snow riding fanatic.

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• United States

15 Day Trips from Portland: Unforgettable Destinations to Explore

• 18 June 2023

Portland, Oregon is a bustling city known for its vibrant arts scene, delicious food, and beautiful parks. However, just outside the city’s borders lie countless unique destinations that offer incredible day trip opportunities. From stunning natural wonders to quaint small towns, there’s something to suit everyone’s fancy.

Exploring the Pacific Northwest is an adventure waiting to unfold, and using Portland as your starting point is an excellent idea. The region boasts a diverse array of landscapes, such as the picturesque Oregon coast, the mighty Columbia River Gorge, and the towering peaks of Mount Hood. These attractions are just a short drive away, allowing for endless possibilities for day trips, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking to relax and unwind.

With so many options available, planning a perfect day trip from Portland can be an exciting process. In this article, we will share some fantastic destinations that guarantee unforgettable experiences. So pack your bags, hit the road, and let the beauty of Oregon and the surrounding area charm you.

Columbia River Gorge and Waterfalls

The Columbia River Gorge is one of the most scenic day trips from Portland, Oregon, with numerous waterfalls, trails, and hikes to explore. The Gorge stretches along the Columbia River and is home to many beautiful falls that can be easily accessed from the Historic Columbia River Highway.

Multnomah Falls

Multnomah Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oregon and a must-see when visiting the Columbia River Gorge. It features a 620-foot drop and can be admired from the ground or from the Benson Bridge. A short 2.2-mile round-trip hike leads to the top of the falls, offering stunning views of the Columbia River and the surrounding area.

Latourell Falls

Latourell Falls is another breathtaking waterfall located in the Gorge. The falls can be viewed from a short trail near its base, or you can embark on a 2.4-mile loop hike that goes up to a viewpoint overlooking the waterfall and Columbia River Gorge. The hike is relatively easy and suitable for most skill levels.

Bridal Veil Falls

Bridal Veil Falls is a two-tiered waterfall that can be accessed through a short 0.6-mile hike. The trail leads to a wooden platform offering an optimal vantage point of the falls. This picturesque waterfall gets its name from the mist created by the tumbling water, which resembles a bridal veil.

Wahkeena Falls

Wahkeena Falls, located near the Multnomah Falls area, is a tiered waterfall with a total height of 242 feet. The 0.4-mile hike to the falls is relatively steep but rewards you with beautiful views. In addition, an extended 4.9-mile loop trail connects to other falls, such as Fairy Falls and the upper part of Multnomah Falls.

Trail of Ten Falls

The Trail of Ten Falls is located in Silver Falls State Park, which is about an hour-and-a-half drive from Portland but worth the visit. This 7.2-mile loop trail takes you past ten mesmerizing waterfalls, including South Falls, Lower South Falls, and the 177-foot Double Falls. The hiking difficulty ranges from easy to moderate, making it suitable for various skill levels.

Remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery. This day trip to the Columbia River Gorge and its waterfalls will surely provide you with lasting memories and unparalleled views of nature’s beauty.

Oregon Coast Adventures

The Oregon Coast offers stunning scenery and numerous outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for day trips from Portland. Explore some of the most popular spots and attractions along the coast in this section.

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is an iconic Oregon Coast destination, known for its miles of white sand and the impressive 72m Haystack Rock. Browse antique shops and art galleries in the charming town, or enjoy the picturesque views as you stroll along the beach.

Ecola State Park

Ecola State Park is another must-visit stop on your coastal adventure. With dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, the park provides excellent opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and photography.

Situated near the mouth of the Columbia River, Astoria is a historic and picturesque city worth exploring. Take in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, learn about the rich maritime history at the Columbia River Maritime Museum, and sample delicious local cuisine.

Arcadia Beach

Arcadia Beach is a lesser-known gem along the Oregon Coast, offering a peaceful retreat from more crowded spots. The beach features tide pools teeming with marine life, and the surrounding cliffs provide stunning backdrops for photography.

Home to a world-famous cheese factory, Tillamook is more than just a dairy haven. The area also boasts scenic drives, sandy beaches, and the Oregon Coast’s largest bay. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking trails, fishing, and kayaking opportunities.

Cape Kiwanda

A popular destination for adventure-seekers, Cape Kiwanda offers sandboarding on its massive sand dunes, tide pool exploration, and exceptional views of the surrounding coastline. Don’t forget to visit the unique rock formations including the much-photographed Kiwanda Rock.

Cape Lookout State Park

Cape Lookout State Park offers a variety of coastal experiences. Hike the Cape Trail, which offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, or explore the secluded beach and tidal pools at the base of the cape. The park is also home to a stunning campground, if you decide to extend your day trip to an overnight stay.

Mount Hood Excursions

Trillium lake.

Trillium Lake is a picturesque destination at the base of Mount Hood, offering stunning views of the mountain. It is an ideal spot for various outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. In the winter months, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities to partake in. The lake is often frequented by both locals and tourists. It’s about 52 miles away from Portland, making it a convenient day trip destination.

Timberline Lodge

Timberline Lodge is both a ski resort as well as a National Historic Landmark located on the slopes of Mount Hood in Oregon. The Lodge is renowned for its role in the film “The Shining.” Additionally, being open year-round, it attracts numerous visitors for skiing, snowboarding, and hiking in its surrounding areas. It is around 60 miles from Portland and can be accessed by the Mt. Hood Express bus .

Mount Hood National Forest

Mount Hood National Forest covers approximately 1.067 million acres and offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities. Explore its vast network of hiking trails, scenic drives, and campgrounds for a memorable day trip from Portland, Oregon. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, visitors can immerse themselves in dense forests, mountain meadows, and alpine lakes.

Some popular trails in Mount Hood National Forest include:

• Ramona Falls Trail
• Mirror Lake Trail
• Lost Lake Trail

Dog Mountain

Dog Mountain is a popular hiking destination located in the Columbia River Gorge, near Hood River. The moderately challenging trail offers incredible vistas of the gorge and surrounding landscape, especially in spring when the wildflowers are in full bloom. The hike is approximately 6.9 miles round trip and gains about 2,800 feet in elevation. Due to its popularity, it can get crowded during weekends and peak seasons, so an early start is recommended for those planning a day trip from Portland.

Willamette Valley Wine and Nature

The Willamette Valley, just outside of Portland, offers some of the best opportunities for wineries and nature in the state. Known for producing excellent pinot noir wines, the valley is home to over 400 wineries, making it an ideal location for day trips from Portland. This section will guide you through some of the top destinations, including Sauvie Island, Rowena Crest, McMinnville, and Eugene.

Sauvie Island

Sauvie Island, located at the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, is a natural paradise. The island is perfect for bird watching, hiking, or simply enjoying the picturesque surroundings. In addition, Sauvie Island has some unique wineries to explore that offer an opportunity to sample locally produced wines.

Rowena Crest

Rowena Crest is a stunning viewpoint in the eastern part of the Columbia River Gorge. Offering sweeping views of the gorge and the surrounding rolling hills, it’s an excellent spot for photography and learning about the Willamette Valley’s unique geological formations. Don’t forget to venture off and explore the nearby vineyards, where you can enjoy wine tasting experiences.

McMinnville

McMinnville is a charming small town in the heart of Willamette Valley and is widely known for its vibrant wine scene. Take a stroll through the quaint downtown area, where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and even craft beer breweries alongside the numerous wineries. For a memorable experience, consider joining a guided wine tour that includes lunch at the acclaimed Red Hills Market.

Eugene, a bustling city in the southern Willamette Valley, offers a mix of nature, culture, and wine. Enjoy a day trip to this city by exploring its lively arts scene, attractive parks, and thriving foodie culture. Also, don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore Eugene’s surrounding wine country, where you’ll find more wineries and wine tasting experiences .

Outdoor Activities in Portland Vicinity

Smith rock state park.

Smith Rock State Park is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a day trip from Portland. Located in central Oregon, this park is famous for its stunning rock formations and offers various activities such as rock climbing, hiking, and mountain biking. With its picturesque landscape, Smith Rock State Park attracts climbers from all over the world and is considered one of the premier climbing destinations in the United States.

Bagby Hot Springs

Another popular option for day trips from Portland is Bagby Hot Springs nestled deep within the Mount Hood National Forest. A moderate 1.5-mile hike leads visitors to the hot springs, featuring rustic bathhouses and soaking tubs made from logs. The area is surrounded by lush forests and offers an excellent opportunity for relaxation and rejuvenation in nature’s embrace. Visitors can also explore nearby trails, take up bird-watching or simply enjoy the serenity of the forest.

Coyote Wall

For those interested in hiking and enjoying scenic views, Coyote Wall is a perfect choice among day trips from Portland . Located in the Columbia River Gorge, this trail takes hikers through a series of stunning vistas of the river and the surrounding hills. The area is also known for its wildflowers, which bloom during spring, adding a splash of color to the landscape. Coyote Wall offers various trails ranging from easy to difficult, providing options for hikers of all skill levels.

In summary, the Portland vicinity offers a wide range of outdoor activities for those seeking adventure or relaxation during their day trips. The stunning landscapes, diverse trails, and unique natural features provide unforgettable experiences for visitors exploring Smith Rock State Park, Bagby Hot Springs, and Coyote Wall.

Historic and Beautiful Small Towns

The Pacific Northwest is filled with charming towns that make for picture-perfect day trips from Portland. These small towns offer a mix of history, culture, rolling hills, art galleries, and historic sites that are perfect for travelers who want to explore unique destinations.

One such delightful destination is Cannon Beach , a coastal gem known for its stunning Haystack Rock and miles of sandy shorelines. Strolling through the town, visitors will encounter local art galleries and boutique shops, making it an ideal spot for culture enthusiasts.

For those who appreciate spectacular landscapes, the Columbia River Gorge is a must-visit destination. Located just a 30-minute drive from Portland, this 80-mile canyon features breathtaking waterfalls, such as the iconic Multnomah Falls, and numerous hiking trails to immerse oneself in the area’s natural beauty.

Nestled between Mt. Hood and the Columbia River Gorge, the picturesque town of Hood River is famous for its fruit orchards, vineyards, and outdoor recreation opportunities. This small town is perfect for a day of wine tasting, exploring local history, or embarking on an exciting windsurfing or kitesurfing adventure on the Columbia River.

Another charming town brimming with history is Astoria. Found at the mouth of the Columbia River, Astoria is the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies. Visitors can explore the Columbia River Maritime Museum , take a ride on the historic Astoria Riverfront Trolley, or admire the grand Victorian homes lining the city streets.

In summary, a day trip from Portland to any of these historic and beautiful small towns offers a memorable experience filled with charming streets, vibrant culture, and unforgettable landscapes. Time spent exploring these destinations will undoubtedly leave visitors wanting to return for more adventures in the region.

Road Trip and Transportation Tips

When planning a day trip from Portland, Oregon, there are various transportation options to consider. Depending on your preference and itinerary, you can choose between renting a car, using public transportation, or joining a guided tour.

Renting a car can provide a flexible and convenient option for exploring Oregon’s diverse landscapes. Many car rental services are available in Portland, and you may also consider using Turo , a peer-to-peer car-sharing platform that often features unique and affordable vehicles. Before hitting the road, make sure to check the current traffic and road conditions in Oregon to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Public transportation is another option if you prefer a more environmentally friendly and budget-conscious choice. Many popular destinations, such as the Columbia River Gorge and Cannon Beach, can be reached via public transit from Portland. Additionally, Amtrak’s Coast Starlight and Cascades lines connect Portland to other cities in Oregon, like Eugene . This scenic journey takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes and offers a unique perspective on the state’s natural beauty.

Guided tours can be an excellent choice for those who seek a more structured and informative experience while exploring Oregon. From hike and bike waterfall tours to weekend road trips along the Columbia River Gorge , guided excursions can cater to various interests and abilities. Additionally, joining a tour can help you uncover hidden gems and insider tips from knowledgeable guides.

No matter which transportation option you choose, remember to be prepared for Oregon’s weather, as conditions can change quickly. Bring appropriate clothing and gear to ensure a comfortable journey through the state’s diverse landscapes.

To sum up, Portland offers a plethora of road trip opportunities, with various transportation options available to suit individual preferences. By considering factors such as budget, flexibility, and interests, you can plan a memorable and enjoyable day trip in Oregon.

Post written by: Jay Y

• 10 June 2023

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26 Best Day Trips From Portland Oregon

If you’re looking for the best day trips from Portland Oregon, this list of our favorites has been compiled over many decades of living in Oregon. 

Portland, Oregon is surrounded by some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. With its close proximity to the Oregon Coast, the Columbia River, the Cascade Mountains, the Willamette Valley, and many other cities in between, Portland is the perfect destination for those wanting both city and nature day trips.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor staying in Portland for a while, make sure to take advantage of the city’s ideal location and explore the diverse beauty of the surrounding areas.

Table of Contents

Best Portland Day Trips: Quick List

Here is a quick rundown of our top day trips from Portland based on different activities and locations:

Best hiking day trip: Silver Falls State Park Best beach day trip: Pacific City, OR Best town day trip: McMinnville, OR Best waterfall day trip: Silver Falls State Park Best winter day trip: Mt. Hood Meadows Snow Park

Read on for more details about each day trip and travel tips.

Best hiking day trips from Portland

Here are the best hiking day trips to discover the great outdoors and natural beauty of Portland’s surroundings.

Top Pick: Silver Falls State Park Trail of 10 Falls

Driving distance from Portland to Silver Falls State Park: 1 hour 15 minutes (54 miles)

Silver Falls State Park is one of our favorite places in Oregon and our personal pick for the best day trips from Portland. It’s Oregon’s largest state park with over 10 waterfalls. The Trail of 10 Falls takes you both behind and around these ten spectacular waterfalls scattered throughout the park.

The trail is a moderate loop with mostly unpaved paths but there are several trails you can take depending on your skill and time. For more information on the different trails, check out our Silver Falls State Park guide.

Multnomah Falls – Most Famous Portland Day Trip

Driving distance from Portland to Multnomah Falls: 30 minutes (30 miles)

Multnomah Falls is located in the Columbia River Gorge just half an hour drive away from Portland. The famous waterfalls stand at a height of over 620 feet, making it the second tallest year-round waterfall in the United States.

The falls are surrounded by hiking trails and a historic lodge with spectacular views of the scenery. There is a nearby bridge that allows you to cross over the lower falls and follow a paved trail to the viewing platform. Inside the lodge you’ll also find a gift shop and restaurant.

Latourell Falls Trail, Columbia Gorge

Driving distance from Portland to Latourell Falls Trailhead: 30 minutes (30 miles)

Latourell Falls Trail is an easy to moderate loop hike that brings you to Latourell Falls, a tall single-plunge waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge. The falls provide a unique sight of the water cascading over columnar basalt formations. There’s also several smaller streams and falls like the Upper Latourell Falls before you get to the main viewpoint.

Angel’s Rest Hike, Columbia Gorge

Driving distance from Portland to Angel’s Rest Trailhead: 30 minutes (27 miles)

The hike to the Angel’s Rest viewpoint rewards you with panoramic views of the Columbia Gorge and other landmarks like Beacon Rock and Silver Star Mountain. It’s a relatively short hike at around only 2.5 miles one way but the trail winds uphill in a series of switchbacks before reaching the crest. Throughout the hike, you’ll see signs of recovery from the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire so make sure to be cautious and stay on the designated trails, especially along the cliff edges.

Wahclella Falls: Short Hike, Columbia Gorge

Driving distance from Portland to Wahclella Falls Trailhead: 33 minutes (30 miles)

Wahclella is another short hike that would be a great spot for family day trips from Portland since it’s considered to be an easy hike. This 2.4-mile out and back hike takes you through a scenic canyon and down a bridge until you reach the waterfalls.

The Wahclella Falls drop from a height of around 350 feet through a narrow gorge and into a plunge pool. Depending on the season, there’s even a second waterfall that becomes visible from the lower level of the trail.

Short Sands Trail (South Trailhead), Oregon Coast

Driving distance from Portland to Short Sands Trail (South Trailhead): 1 hour 35 minutes (88 miles)

The Short Sand Trail leads hikers to Short Sand Beach, one of the most popular Oregon Coast day trips from Portland. This beautiful beach is located in Oswald West State Park and is easily reached by the South Trailhead off the Oregon Coast Highway.

The hike is very straightforward as it just goes through a trail of dense green old-growth forests that runs along the coast of the sandy beach. You’ll get to enjoy views of the jagged coast and the open ocean. It’s a great place to visit during summer for surfing.

Cape Lookout Cape Trail, Oregon Coast

Driving distance from Portland to Cape Lookout Trail: 1 hour 40 minutes (85 miles)

Cape Lookout is another popular destination on the Oregon Coast, known for having some of the best views of the Pacific Ocean. The 5-mile out and back hike is of moderate difficulty with muddy and rocky paths but it’s worth it, especially during December-June when there’s a chance to see migrating whales.

The hike starts at the Cape Lookout Trailhead and brings you through a lush forest of Sitka Spruce trees. Coming out of the forest, you’ll also get a glimpse of other landmarks like Cape Kiwanda and Cascade Head before reaching the end viewpoint of expansive ocean views.

Dog Mountain Trail, Washington

Driving distance from Portland to Dog Mountain Trail, Washington: 1 hour (55 miles)

Dog Mountain Trail is located in Washington state but is part of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. It’s one of the many crowd-favorite hikes because of its easy access. It’s better to go early to avoid crowds and a full parking lot, especially during spring.

The 7-mile loop hike is fairly challenging with rocky paths and steep ascents. The first section begins in a wooded area and leads you to the wildflower meadows, which are blooming with yellow balsamroot. The remaining uphill ascent gets more difficult but you’ll be rewarded with views of Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood on clear days.

Other scenic day trips from Portland

Here are some scenic day trips for those looking to venture out a bit further away from Portland.

Mt. Hood and Timberline Lodge

Driving distance from Portland to Mt. Hood: 1 hour and 35 minutes (70 miles)

If you’re looking for day trips around Portland to iconic Oregon landmarks, then Mt. Hood should be at the top of your list. As the tallest mountain in Oregon, it’s definitely one of the top Oregon road trip destinations. The mountain is surrounded by the Mount Hood National Forest which is home to diverse wilderness, hiking trails, and campgrounds. It’s also the perfect place to visit during winter for its ski and snowboarding areas.

Another highlight of Mt. Hood is the Timberline Lodge. This historic lodge was built during the Great Depression and is now known as a destination for winter recreation sports and breathtaking views of the surrounding alpine scenery.

Historic Columbia River Highway and Cascade Locks

Driving distance from Portland to Historic Columbia River Highway: 36 minutes (35 miles) / Cascade Locks: 45 minutes (43 miles)

For something close by, the Historic Columbia River Highway is just a short drive away from Portland. It’s recognized as both America’s first scenic highway and a National Historic Landmark. Throughout this scenic drive, you can see waterfalls, vistas, and bridges.

Cascade Locks is one of the small towns you can stop by on your drive. This town is located on the banks of the Columbia River and is home to the Bridge of the Gods and the Bonneville Lock and Dam nearby, an important source of hydroelectric power in the region.

Willamette Valley Oregon Wine Country

Driving distance from Portland to Willamette Valley Oregon Wine Country: 50 minutes (45 miles)

The Willamette Valley is one of Oregon’s most beautiful places, home to over 700 wineries and vineyards. The rolling hills surrounding the valleys are the prime location for growing some of the most high quality pinot noir and pinot gris in the world.

If you’re a wine enthusiast or looking for a romantic getaway, staying in the wine region for a few days is a great option. You can take guided tours of the wineries or go wine tasting in world-class vineyards. There’s also so much more hidden gems in the Willamette Valley that don’t involve wine like charming historic towns, waterfall hikes, urban parks, and restaurants.

For more information read our guide on where to stay and what to do in Willamette Valley.

Detroit Lake, Oregon

Driving distance from Portland to Detroit Lake: 1 hour and 55 minutes (104 miles)

Detroit Lake is a reservoir in the Cascade Mountains surrounded by lush forests and mountain peak views of Mt. Jefferson in the distance. The lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, swimming, water skiing, wakeboarding and other water sports.

The surrounding area also has plenty of opportunities for other outdoor activities like hiking and camping. Whether you’re camping or just visiting, make sure to check out our guide to Portland packing essentials.

Mt. Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument

Driving distance from Portland to Mount St Helens National Volcanic Mountain: 2 hours and 10 minutes (116 miles)

Mount St. Helens is an active volcano located west of Mount Adams, in the western part of the Cascade Range. Following the eruption of 1980, the National Volcanic Monument was established for the purposes of research and recreation. Visitors can go on hiking trails, scenic drives, and interpretive walks to learn more about the natural history of the area. Mountain climbing the summit is also an option for the brave and adventurous.

Sisters and Central Oregon’s High Desert

Driving distance from Portland to Sisters: 3 hours (153 miles) / Central Oregon’s High Desert: 4 hours and 30 minutes (215 miles)

For those with more time to go on weekend trips from Portland Oregon, head on to Sisters , a city nearby the Three Sisters mountains. The city has a charming Western vibe where you’ll find art galleries, specialty boutiques, and local restaurants.

The Three Sisters Wilderness area also offers tons of outdoor activities like hiking, climbing, and camping.

Sisters is a gateway to Central Oregon’s High Desert, a vast landscape known for its relatively drier terrain and climate. The region boasts of a unique natural beauty with rock formations, canyon rivers, sagebrush steppe, and natural hot springs.

Some must-see destinations include the Smith Rock State Park and the High Desert Museum.

Best Oregon Coast Day Trips from Portland

Here are some beautiful coastal towns you can explore on day trips along the Oregon Coast.

Pacific City, Oregon

Driving distance from Portland to Pacific City: 1 hour 55 minutes (96 miles)

Pacific City is a coastal town worth visiting for its beautiful beaches with some main attractions being the iconic Haystack Rock and Cape Kiwanda. This natural area is home to unique sand dunes, scenic cliffs, caves, and tide pools.

Read our guide on the best things to do in Pacific City.

Tillamook, Oregon

Driving distance from Portland to Tillamook: 1 hour 20 minutes (73 miles)

Tillamook is located on the northern part of Oregon Coast and is known for its delicious cheese and dairy products and its natural beauty. Visitors can tour the Tillamook Creamery to not only taste their cheese and ice cream but to also see how they’re made. Other must-do activities are hiking the nearby forests and beaches and visiting the Tillamook Forest Center.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Driving distance from Portland to Cannon Beach: 1 hour 30 minutes (80 miles)

Cannon Beach is another one of Oregon Coast’s beautiful beaches. The beach is home to another impressive Haystack Rock (different from the one in Pacific City!). It’s also near the Ecola State Park which has many hiking trails with incredible views of the Pacific Coast.

Manzanita, Oregon

Driving distance from Portland to Manzanita: 1 hour 45 minutes (85 miles)

Manzanita boasts of a pristine seven-mile beach perfect for a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. Another main local attraction is the nearby Neahkahnie Mountain which has plenty of hiking trails. Manzanita also has a quaint downtown area with local shops and eateries.

Astoria, Oregon

Driving distance from Portland to Manzanita: 1 hour 55 minutes (95 miles)

Astoria is a charming town located in the mouth of the Columbia River. Some of its must-see attractions include the Astoria Column, a tower with an interior spiral staircase leading to an observation deck with views of the river. The historic downtown district is also home to the Maritime Museum.

Best City Day Trips to Visit from Portland Oregon

Here are the best nearby cities to visit from Portland, each offering unique experiences and sights.

McMinnville, Oregon: Heart of Oregon Wine Country

Driving distance from Portland to McMinnville: 1 hour 15 minutes (40 miles)

Located in the heart of Oregon Wine Country, McMinnville is surrounded by amazing vineyards and wineries for visitors to go on wine tastings and tours. McMinnville’s historic downtown is also worth a visit for its restaurants, boutique shops, galleries and the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum.

Hood River, Oregon: Windsurfing Capital

Driving distance from Portland to McMinnville: 1 hour 12 minutes (61 miles)

Hood River is located in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, making it a popular destination for wind and water activities. The Hood River Waterfront is packed during summer months with people windsurfing, kayaking, kitesurfing. For those looking for more laidback activities, award-winning craft breweries and wineries are worth checking out.

Salem, Oregon: State Capitol

Driving distance from Portland to Salem: 1 hour 15 minutes (48 miles)

There’s plenty of things to do and see in Salem , the capital city of Oregon. It’s known for its historic downtown landmarks, like the Oregon State Capitol and its city parks like Salem Riverfront Park. Downtown Salem is also filled with delicious coffee shops and restaurants. Some of our favorite outdoor activities in Salem include going on hikes and floating down the Willamette River.

For more information read our guide on where to stay and what to do in Salem .

Olympia, Washington: Oregon Capitol

Driving distance from Portland to Olympia, Washington: 2 hours 20 minutes (115 miles)

Olympia, the capital city of Washington, is known for its rich history, beautiful parks, and arts scene. Some must-see places include the historic Washington State Capitol and Percival Landing Park with its waterfront and view of Puget Sound. The outdoor Olympia Farmers Market is also worth checking out for food and local products.

Vancouver, Washington

Driving distance from Portland to Vancouver, Washington: 45 minutes (10 miles)

Located right across the river from Portland, Vancouver is an ideal and quick day trip destination. Its location is perfect for riverside strolls along the downtown area and the Vancouver Waterfront. Another main tourist spot is the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, a well-preserved fort from the 1800s that played a significant role in the early history of the Pacific Northwest.

Independence, Oregon

Driving distance from Portland to Independence: 1 hour 35 minutes (58 miles)

Independence is another hidden gem located in the Mid Willamette Valley. This town boasts of historic buildings and a riverside park in its downtown area filled with charming cafes and nearby wineries and vineyards.

Corvallis, Oregon

Driving distance from Portland to Corvallis: 1 hour 50 minutes (84 miles)

Corvallis is a vibrant college town in the Willamette Valley, surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. The city is known for being home to Oregon State University and for its urban greenery given that there are at least 47 public parks within and adjacent to the city limits.

What is your favorite day trip from Portland? Let us know in the comments!

You might also like … Best Oregon Road Trip Destinations & Itineraries A Local’s Guide to Portland Oregon Where to Stay in Portland Portland packing checklist Places We Love Best in Oregon

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The TOP 15 Adventurous (And Unique!) Day Trips From Portland, Oregon

Post Summary: The Best Day Trips From Portland, Oregon

Do you have a free day to spend in Portland, Oregon? There is so much to do in the city of roses, but sometimes you just want to spice it up with a little outdoor adventure!

It doesn’t matter if you are a local or just a visitor – this guide is for YOU! We’re showing you epic day trips from Portland to discover giant waterfalls, gorgeous PNW hiking trails , and some of the best stops along the Oregon coast just a quick drive from the city. 

Scroll to the bottom to find our map of Portland day trips (you can save it, too!) and read through the post to discover some amazing spots to plan an adventurous day.

Let’s get started!

First Of All, What Qualifies As A Day Trip From Portland?

Basically, any destination you can reach and still return to sleep in your own bed at night is a Portland day trip in our books.

Berty and I have definitely had our fair share of huge driving days – waking up at 4:00 am and arriving back in Portland well after dinner time. However, for the sake of your sanity, we’re keeping these day trips from Portland very doable – no more than around a 2-hours-ish drive out .

This way, you can spend a lot of time exploring and less time in the car , which is all that we want from a good day trip, right? 

Coming during the fall season? Take a tour of the most haunted places in Oregon!

Now without further ado…

15 Incredible Day Trips From Portland, Oregon

Day Trips From Portland To The Columbia River Gorge

The Columbia River Gorge is the most popular area for day trips from Portland, for its proximity, numerous outdoor options, and amazing scenery. Along I-84, you can experience some rewarding hikes, gorgeous waterfalls, and amazing water and land activities along the river.

Some of the most popular things to do here are visiting the Columbia Gorge waterfalls , and you can even take a leisure tour of several of them on the Columbia River Gorge Historic Highway .

Multnomah Falls is by far the most popular to visit (and the tallest waterfall in Oregon), but here are some others to consider for your day trip from Portland to the Columbia River Gorge:

• Latourell Falls (2 miles round trip to Upper Falls)
• Wahkeena Falls (4.7-mile loop to see Multnomah and Fairy Falls)
• Bridal Veil Falls (0.5 miles round trip)
• Dry Creek Falls (3.6 miles out and back)
• Ponytail Falls (0.8 miles round trip)

Note: The Eagle Creek Fire of 2017 devastated much of this area and some hikes/waterfall trails are still closed for restoration. Click here to be updated on real-time trail openings in the Columbia River Gorge . 

Finally, take some challenging hikes in the Columbia River Gorge like Mount Defiance, Dog Mountain , Indian Points Loop, or Munra Point for incredible views of the river, and across it to Washington state!

Silver Falls State Park

Silver Falls State Park is the perfect place to take a day trip from Portland if you love waterfalls! One of the park’s most famous trails is called the “ Trail of Ten Falls “ which connects ten Oregon waterfalls in a 7.6-mile loop.

This is a can’t-miss opportunity to see some of Oregon’s prettiest waterfalls , which include the popular Double Falls, Middle North Falls, and South Falls. 

Now, waterfalls aren’t the only things to see at Silver Falls State Park – you can mountain bike the exciting  Catamount Trail or even swim at the  South Falls Day Use Area.  There is something to do for the entire family here!

Portland Day Trips To Mount Hood

Mount Hood is a great option for a Portland day trip if you are seeking calm lakes, gorgeous wildflowers, and forest hikes.

Just a 1.5-hour drive east from Portland will bring you to the shores of Trillium Lake . On a clear day, you will be able to see the reflection of the picturesque Mount Hood beautifully framed in the distance! Other lakes in Mount Hood include Frog Lake,  Lost Lake,  and Mirror Lake –  each with their own unique reflection of the mountain. 

For a longer Portland day trip in the mountains, consider the 7.1-mile hike to Ramona Falls . This gorgeous horsetail falls is hidden deep in the forest, but the payoff is huge once you see it with your own eyes. Care for a short waterfall hike for your Portland day trip? Consider Tamanawas Falls , an easy 3.3-mile trail with a gorgeous view!

Want to challenge yourself? Here are some fun things to do in Mount Hood for a full-day trip from Portland:

• Hike Tom Dick and Harry (9 miles out and back)
• Hike Bald Mountain (6 miles out and back)
• McNeil Point Trail (9.6 miles out and back)

The Willamette Valley Wineries

The Willamette Valley is one of the closest day trips in Oregon, but it’s also a trip that feels like you are visiting an entirely new country at the same time!

The beautiful Willamette Valley is popular for its agricultural ventures and many local farming communities. One of the easiest ways to experience this area is to come for a day for a wine tasting with your friends!

Commonly referred to as “Oregon Wine County” this area hosts more than 500 wineries , each with their own unique take on Oregon grown grapes and flavors (but you’ve really got to try their Pinot Noir!). Spend some time exploring amazing wineries like Penner-Ash Cellars , Trisaetum , and Styring . Go even farther south to stay in Eugene , and experience King Estate Winery ‘ s award-winning pinot noir.

Abiqua Falls

Abiqua Falls is one of the most stunning demonstrations of basalt cliffs on Oregon waterfalls in the entire state! It’s also one of the closest and most adventurous day trips in Portland if you like waterfalls and hiking together (besides the Columbia River Gorge ones, of course)!

The trail to Abiqua Falls is reserved only for the truest of adventurers. Parking is located in small pullouts scattered along CF 3000 Road, just off of Crooked Finger Road NE.

Park anywhere along this road to start your journey, but if you have a high-clearance vehicle/SUV, you can risk going down the road further to cut your trail time down. Be warned – the road gets significantly worse the farther you go, and many cars have gotten stuck without rescue here!

The 5.3-mile out-and-back trail is rated difficult, with steep slopes and wet conditions nearly the entire way. However, all the hard work and effort to get here will pay off – it’s one of the most stunning waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest! Stay awhile to enjoy the 92-foot-tall drop, incredible natural scenery, and the ambiance of the Oregon forest. 

Rowena Crest

Want more activities to do for Portland day trips to the Columbia River Gorge? There are plenty of breathtaking places to see that don’t require a lot of effort . Consider taking a visit to the Vista House  or the Bridge of the Gods in Cascade Locks.

But do you want to know the real star of the CRG?  Rowena Crest.

Rowena Crest is a super easy 1-hour 20-minute drive from Portland on I-84, with a high up view of an iconic windy road near the river. This place is popular for photographers for many different reasons.

Some want to catch the sunrise as the road is lighting up, others want to catch tiny car driving on the road, and others want to visit at night and take long-exposure shots of car lights streaming across the path. No matter the reason you visit, come with your camera!

Falls Creek Falls

Falls Creek Falls trail is an excellent day trip from Portland if you love hiking! The journey to Falls Creek Falls is actually a Washington hiking trail , just across the Columbia River. Between lush green forests , bridges, and winding rivers , this trail provides excellent opportunities for forest bathing and escaping the busy-ness of everyday life.

The trail to this Washington waterfall is a 5-mile out-and-back trek , ending at a three-tiered (but only the bottom two are visible!) falls, plunging a total of 335 feet into the creek below. You can get close enough to feel the mist of the falls and it’s a perfect Washington photo spot if you are into photography! 

Come in the spring season to see the full power of the water, but really, any time of the year is perfect for a Portland day trip to Falls Creek Falls!

Cannon Beach Is One Of The Most Iconic Day Trips From Portland

A trip to Cannon Beach is probably the most popular Oregon coast day trip from Portland out there! The picturesque beach town, massive sandy shores, and the iconic Haystack Rock make it a welcome oasis for people who are tired of city life.

Staying around Cannon Beach and Seaside are great options if you love long walks on the beach  and incredible backdrops for sunsets along the ocean. Dogs are allowed to roam the shores of Cannon Beach, so bring your pup for a fun day at the beach!

If you want to explore a little deeper, consider driving to the nearby Ecola State Park . Here, there are several miles of hiking trails with incredible overlooks, secret shorelines, and dramatic cliff edges. Venture south of Cannon Beach to Neahkahnie Mountain for even more vistas and viewpoints of the Pacific Ocean. 

Read More: The 25 best beaches in Oregon (from North to South!)

Astoria, Oregon

Astoria is a town in the most northwest corner of Oregon, sitting at the mouth of the Columbia River. Astoria holds a wonderful combination of eclectic antique stores, delicious eateries & cafes, and lots of opportunities to get outside. Some local hikes include the trail to Cathedral Tree , and a lookout view to the Astoria Column .

Fishing is one of the main attractions for day trips from Portland out on the water. Salmon is a popular fish to catch here, and Buoy 10 fishery is the most popular place to catch them. If fishing isn’t your thing but EATING fish is, go ahead and try Buoy Beer Company or Hanthorn Crab Company for some of the freshest seafood in Oregon. 

Read More: The Perfect Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Cape Kiwanda in Pacific City

Between iconic Oregon Coast views to stunning sand dunes, Cape Kiwanda in Pacific City is the perfect day trip from Portland, OR if you’re looking for an ocean breeze and crashing waves .

The coast is a little wilder here , with brave surfers and dory boaters launching themselves into the wild waves. It’s fun to sit and watch them awhile, and if you need a refresh we suggest popping into Pelican Brewing Company right off the water to continue your ocean views, but indoors. 

Sit awhile and enjoy the view of Pacific City’s Haystack Rock (yes, it’s got the same name as its neighbor to the north!), or venture up to explore the sand dunes at Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area . This is a steep hike and can be dangerous near the edges, so take caution!

Read More: 25 Photos To Inspire You To Visit Cape Kiwanda

God’s Thumb (Lincoln City)

Lincoln City is the perfect sleepy beach town for people who want to unwind along the ocean’s edge. Stay in town at Road’s End State Park or Nelscott Beach , or venture out onto the water at Siletz Bay for some kayaking opportunities. 

Some of our favorite Oregon Coast hikes are located here, specifically God’s Thumb Trail , a unique cliffside vista that’s wrapped in a green mossy field. Drive just 45 minutes inland to Drift Creek Falls trail , if you are a fan of Oregon waterfalls!

Mount St. Helens

Mount St. Helens is in the neighboring state, Washington, but it’s an awesome Portland, Oregon day trip if you like nature and history!

Drive all the way east on Highway 504 to the Johnston Ridge Observatory . Here, you can see Mount St. Helens up close, and learn about the history of the recent eruption in 1980. If you want to learn more about the area, make sure to stop by the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center and The Forest Learning Center, too.

Take the Hummocks Trail during the summer to see some incredible wildflowers and stroll the boardwalk at Coldwater Lake for distant views of the mountains. There are plenty of hiking trails around the area, and you can even summit the mountain in a Portland day trip with proper permits and preparation!

Washington State Waterfalls

We mentioned this day trip from Portland above with the trek to Falls Creek Falls, but that is just one of several Washington waterfalls that you can see on a Portland day trip! They aren’t all just on the Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge!

Panther Creek Falls is a long (but worth it!) hike to one of Washington’s coolest falls. For a little bit of a closer adventure, consider driving to see Lewis River Falls . There is a lower, middle, and upper falls, all with varying degrees of distance so you can choose your own adventure!

The McKenzie River Highway

If waterfalls, lush green forests, and natural Oregon hot springs are your jam, consider taking the long day trip from Portland to explore the McKenzie River Highway. 

Along this route, there are so many amazing stops practically right off the highway! Start off with a quick trip to see the Lost Lake Lava tubes , and then head south to your first Oregon waterfall stop. Sahalie and Koosah Falls trail is an easy loop hike, and it’s a 2-for-1 waterfall stop, too!

Further south, you will find Tamolitch Falls (The Blue Pool) , Bigelow Hot Springs, Belknap Hot Springs, and Cougar Hot Springs (also called Terwilliger Hot Springs). Take your pick on a dip that suits you best!

Before you leave, consider taking a detour on the Old Highway 242 to stop by and visit Proxy Falls ! Proxy Falls trail is an easy hike, and one of the most beautiful places in Oregon.

One the way back to Portland, drive to Eugene and take Interstate-5 North all the way back home!

Climbing at Smith Rock State Park

This is likely the farthest you can get from the city and still call it a day trip from Portland! Almost 3-hours away from the city, Smith Rock State Park is a climber’s playground, with plenty of routes and adventures to be had!

There are more than 2000 climbing routes to choose from, with most of the popular routes able to be finished in just one pitch. One of the coolest routes is called Monkey Face , a 350-foot spire that looks seriously epic (and kind of scary!) to climb. 

Not a climber? No problem. This is one of the most iconic Oregon photography locations , especially during sunrise and sunset. Set up your camera to capture the rocks with the Crooked River winding gracefully through. 

The area around Smith Rock is perfect for boondocking (aka free camping ) if you decide you want to spend more time exploring . Download the app The Dyrt before you head out, so you can find campsites nearby! We’re obsessed with the pro membership because we are able to use the features offline, and get access to cool features like BLM and National Forests map too! Try their pro membership free for 30-days when using our code MANDAGIES !

Map of Day Trips From Portland, Oregon

Below, we’ve included a map of day trips from Portland, Oregon so that you can decide which one is best for you. You can also click the top left corner of this map to save it on your own phone and refer back to it for more adventures in the future! We hope you have a fantastic time!

What are some of your favorite day trips from Portland, Oregon? Did we miss any of your favorite stops? Tell us about it in the comments below!

• Last Updated On
• September 29, 2023

25 Best Day Trips From Portland — Places Nearby!

Portland is a treasure trove of natural wonders and urban charms. 

We’re talking cascading waterfalls, vineyards, and mountain vistas that’ll have you reaching for your camera faster than you can say “Pacific Northwest.”

Worried about the clock? 

Don’t be. 

Most adventures are just a 2 to 3-hour drive from Portland, max. 

No need for endless Googling or pulling your hair out trying to pick the perfect spot because I’ve done the legwork for you. 

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or just need a break from city life, your next unforgettable day trip starts right here.

Buckle up, and you’re on your way to discover the best day trips from Portland.

Best Day Trips From Portland Compared

Discover the hidden gems around Portland with our top picks for unforgettable day trips. 

From scenic coastlines to charming towns, these adventures are perfect for families seeking a taste of Oregon’s beauty.

Editor’s Choice

Mount Hood National Forest

With the same travel time (1.5-hour) as the Timberline Lodge, Mount Hood National Forest offers more activities for a fantastic day trip from Portland all year.

• Family Friendliness: 5/5
• Safety: 4/5
• Affordability: 3/5
• Accessibility: 4/5
• Fun Factor: 5/5

#2nd Best Choice

The Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast is one of the most beautiful parts of the Pacific Northwest. From Portland, the sea is just a 1.5-hour drive through beautiful scenery.

#3rd Best Choice

It takes 2 hours and 47 minutes to go directly from Portland to Seattle across 174 miles.

• Family Friendliness: 4/5
• Safety: 5/5

Here are top 25 day trips from Portland.

1. Mount Hood National Forest (Editor’s Choice)

Sandy, OR 97055 (503) 668-1700 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Scenic beauty: Mount Hood National Forest offers breathtaking natural beauty with its snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and pristine lakes.
• Outdoor activities: You’ll find a plethora of outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to skiing and snowboarding in the winter.
• Weather variability: It’s essential to be prepared for sudden shifts in weather, especially if you’re planning outdoor activities.
• Crowds: During peak tourist seasons, Mount Hood can get crowded, which might detract from the serenity of the natural surroundings.

Is there anything more recognizable than the Timberline Lodge in Mount Hood?

Have we specified in Timberline Lodge that Mount Hood also offers trails for skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking, aside from mountain biking?

Several ski resorts in this national forest are ideal for your winter activities.

One is the Meadows.

It provides a variety of snowboarding and skiing terrain.

Most of the courses are intermediate or advanced, and 11 lifts, including five high-speed quads, provide access to all of them.

If you want to ski above the greatest lift-served elevation of 7,300 feet, hike the Heather Canyon Super Bowl.

During the season, Meadow hosts concerts, clinics, and guided tours.

Hotels and other places in the area also offer exceptional Stay & Play packages.

But if you don’t feel the Meadows, go to Skibowl.

Skibowl has four double chair lifts and five tows, making it feel like a winter playground.

Most 65 runs are for intermediate and advanced skiers, and the steepest one drops 1,500 feet.

Skibowl has more than half its routes lighted at night so that you can ski there all winter.

The hill also has a terrain park for snowboarders.

Another edge?

Cosmic Tubing at Skibowl involves riding in a tube with laser lights while loud music is playing for a fun day trip experience.

Recommended Hotel: Timberline Lodge

2. The Oregon Coast

Oregon Coast Hwy Dunes City, OR 97439 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Stunning coastal scenery: The Oregon Coast is famous for its rugged coastline, sea stacks, and dramatic cliffs. 
• Whale watching: Depending on the season, you can witness the breathtaking sight of migrating gray whales along the coast, providing a unique and memorable experience.
• Variable weather: The coast can experience cool and rainy weather, even during the summer months. 
• Highway traffic: The highway along the Oregon Coast can get congested, especially during weekends and holidays.

The Oregon Coast is one of the most beautiful parts of the Pacific Northwest.

From Portland, the sea is just a 1.5-hour drive through beautiful scenery.

Oregon’s almost 400-mile coastline is well-known all over the country, and for a good reason.

Massive rock formations, the most prominent coastal dunes, and a dazzling view of the cold Pacific Ocean make up the beautiful shoreline.

But what is so great about the Oregon Coast?

First, the Oregon Beach Bill from 1967 says everyone has free access to every inch of the coast because it belongs to the public.

Another thing is that you can visit 79 state parks and up to 11 historic lighthouses.

Yet, when most people think of the Oregon Coast, the first thing that comes to mind is Cannon Beach’s Haystack Rock.

They don’t know that aside from Haystack Rock, there are many other beautiful places to see along the coast.

Visiting the seaside, something you can do again and over again without getting tired, is already a complete satisfaction.

But where in specific can you go for a memorable Oregon Coast trip?

Old Town Florence and Columbia River Maritime Museum explorations are your two other options to enjoy for a day trip.

Discover them, and you’ll know why they are also the best Oregon Coast trips.

Recommended Hotel: Driftwood Shores Resort

Seattle, WA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Cultural attractions: Seattle boasts a rich cultural scene with world-class museums, theaters, and music venues.
• Food and coffee: Seattle is renowned for its culinary scene, including fresh seafood and a thriving coffee culture.
• Traffic congestion: Consider using public transportation or planning your activities to avoid peak traffic times.
• Cost of living: Seattle can be relatively expensive, from accommodation to dining out.

What initially comes to mind when you think of Seattle as one of the things to do outside Portland ?

It may be grunge, coffee, or even the loudest North American sports fans.

All true, but there are different levels to the Pacific Northwest’s cultural center that you must believe and experience.

Seattle has several notable museums and parks, and its coffee culture is much more than just a mermaid on every cup (Starbucks).

And to have the best Seattle trip, your activities must include cutting-edge food.

Since there are many attractions, we’ll make it simple.

Make sure to visit Pike’s Place Market and eat dinner at Serious Pie.

The first farmers market in Seattle, Pike Place Market, is where you can get locally produced, handcrafted, and specialty food.

Serious Pie is a pizzeria with a spirit of a bread artisan located in Downtown Seattle.

Its pizza delivers pies with crusts that are light in texture and crisp with the ideal amount of structure for a satisfying meal.

Lastly, for coffee lovers, don’t forget to explore the Starbucks Reserve Room for a complete Seattle experience.

Recommended Hotel: Lotte Hotel Seattle

4. Silver Falls State Park

20024 Silver Falls Hwy SE Sublimity, OR 97385 (800) 551-6949 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

On OR-214 N and I-5 N, Silver Falls State Park is located 53 miles south of Portland and around 26 miles east of Salem.

Depending on traffic, it will not take more than an hour to get there from downtown.

But if you are In the Cascade foothills, close to the town of Silverton, it is about a 1.5-hour drive south of Portland.

Why is it necessary to include Silver Falls State Park in your day trips?

One million people visit this gem of a park yearly to see its ten beautiful waterfalls and 30-mile trails through the temperate rainforest.

Most people lack the time or stamina to complete the renowned 8.7-mile Trail of Ten Waterfalls loop hike.

What can you do to maximize the adventure?

A better way to get to the waterfalls is to cut through the South Falls, Winter Falls, and North Falls day-use areas.

If this is your first time at Silver Falls State Park, you should start at the South Falls Day Use Area, which has a cafe and a nature store.

The most impressive waterfall in this location is the 177-foot South Falls, which is close to where you will park.

Walking another mile, you’ll get to the 93-foot-tall Lower South Falls.

It’s a fantastic feeling to walk behind these waterfalls and see how strong the walls of water are.

However, there’s one thing to remember.

Silver Falls State Park is beautiful year-round, but the waterfalls are its best in winter and spring.

Recommended Hotel: Silverton Inn & Suites

5. Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach, OR 97110 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Cannon Beach should take you no more than 1 hour and 30 minutes to drive east on US-26 to where it meets US-101.

Some of the contiguous U.S.’s most stunning but lesser-known beaches are on the Oregon Coast.

With miles of white sand, waterfalls flowing to the shore, and the 72-meter Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach is the perfect introduction to the area.

Cannon Beach is a fantastic spot for a day trip if you want to feel the breeze from the ocean and hear seagulls.

You will see the fantastic beach and ocean views if you walk the Clatsop Loop trail of Ecola State Park.

If you prefer an easy trek, hike to Cape Falcon in Oswald West State Park.

More beautiful views of coastal forests and broad beaches await you there.

If you’re looking for something more strenuous, hike the Neahkahnie Mountain, and you’ll have the chance to view the whole coast.

But how will you make this trip unforgettable?

Watch a stunning sunset at Haystack Rock.

With this, you can’t miss the vast sea stack rising out of the beach water.

It is also home to a group of endangered species where you can spot tufted puffins and bald eagles, which is fantastic.

Recommended Hotel: Inn at Cannon Beach

Related: Restaurants in Cannon Beach, Oregon

Related: Activities in Portland

6. Timberline Lodge

27500 E Timberline Road Government Camp, OR 97028 (503) 272-3311 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Mount Hood is home to Timberline Lodge, which is only an hour and a half by car from Portland via US-26 East.

This rustic lodge has two restaurants, hotel rooms, and a heated outdoor pool perfect for a relaxed indoor daycation.

It offers tidy hotel rooms with handmade furnishings, blazing fires, and Native American-inspired fabrics for a complete trip.

The rooms don’t have TVs, but you can rent DVDs and players at the front desk.

Of course, WIFI is available.

You can also use the games room, fitness room, library, and many board games for your leisure time.

In the winter, people love to swim in the heated outdoor pool surrounded by fresh snow.

They also use the lodge’s sauna and hot tub to relax.

Do you enjoy outdoor activities?

During the summer, easy walking trails outside Timberline Lodge offer great views of Mount Hood’s south side.

What’s more?

There is also a great network of downhill mountain biking trails ranging from easy to complex.

And if you buy a Mountain Hood Fusion Bike Park Pass, you can take your bike up the ski lifts as many times as you want

Then, you can thrillingly ride down the mountain.

Related: Best Weekend Getaways From Portland

7. Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

3029 Spirit Lake Hwy Castle Rock, WA 98611 (360) 449-7800 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Mount St. Helens is a living testament to Mother Nature’s raw power.

When you step foot here, you’re stepping into a science lesson with a view.

The eruption in 1980 reshaped the landscape, and today, it’s a playground for hikers, photographers, and families alike.

The visitor centers are a hit with the kids, offering interactive exhibits that make learning fun.

And let’s talk trails.

From easy loops to challenging treks, there’s something for every fitness level.

Recommended Hotel: Timberland Inn & Suites

8. Smith Rock

Terrebonne, OR 97760 (800) 551-6949 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

From Portland, it takes 3 hours to drive to Smith Rock on US-26 East.

Smith Rock State Park, one of Oregon’s Seven Wonders, looks like someone dumped red rocks from the Southwest of Oregon.

When you come, one of the first things you’ll notice is how crowded the park is with climbers.

On almost every rock face, you’ll see individuals climbing with their ropes, boots, and other gear.

It is a beautiful spot to attempt sport climbing if you’ve never done it outside.

If you are worried about your skill level, there are over 2000 routes.

Find a route that will suit your experience and preference.

But if you prefer hiking over rock climbing, Smith Rock has 12 official trails for hikers of all skill levels.

And the Misery Ridge Loop is the most famous hike because you can walk by Monkey Face and find the Crooked River from above.

Aside from hiking and rock climbing, you can also enjoy a quiet ride along the river on horseback.

Only certain parts of the Canyon River, Wolf Tree, and Homestead trails are open to horses, but this is a big part of the park.

If you want to add more miles, you can keep going into the BLM land around you.

What else can you do for a day trip here?

Do you love biking?

Then, go mountain biking at Smith Rock’s many trails.

Most of the trails aren’t suitable for beginners, but since you can also bike along the river and on the road, there’s something for everyone.

Summit Trail is the most famous mountain bike path, and nearby BLM properties let you add miles.

Recommended Hotel: Sleep Inn & Suites Redmond

9. The Fruit Loop

Hood River, OR Visit Website Social Media

Hood River Fruit Loop is one of the best day trips from Portland for couples, with its romantic atmosphere and proximity to the city.

By car, the trip takes just approximately an hour.

Most people go from one place to the other on Interstate 84, which goes straight between the two.

The Fruit Loop is a collection of local farms, vineyards, wineries, and orchards that produce fruit.

Though there are around 30 stations on the Fruit Loop, it’s important to plan your visit to maximize your date trip here.

So what are the favorite or top stops in the loop to try for a romantic date experience?

First, visit their lavender farm.

This magnificent farm in Lavender Valley is one of the Fruit Loop’s most picturesque and entertaining destinations.

When the lavender is in flower, you can cut your bundle for a price in the summer.

At any time of year, the gift store offers an extensive assortment of lavender items, including oil candles, lotions, and more.

Besides cutting your bundle, the vibrant purple blossoms against Mount Hood are stunning.

And for a romantic dinner, head to Stave & Stone Winery.

Even though Hood River has several excellent wineries, this one shines out.

The views and world-class wines are fantastic.

The food tastes great and goes well with the wine, and the atmosphere is very laid-back.

Try their famous Cabernet, Pinot Noir, and Riesling to choose your favorite.

And to end your romantic trip, head to Apple Valley Country Store for desserts.

This store has been using locally grown fruits and vegetables to make delicious fruit-based foods for 30 years.

There are all the classic flavors, but the cherry almond pear and peach habanero pepper are the ones that stand out.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Plus Hood River Inn

Related: Beaches Near Portland

10. Eugene, Oregon

Eugene, OR Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Eugene I-5 South takes you from Portland to Eugene in roughly 2 hours.

This place is the second largest city in Oregon, and a weekend trip there gives you a wide range of things to see and do.

It has a great art scene, some of the best restaurants in the country, busy breweries, loud festivals, miles of paths along the river, and several beautiful parks.

With so many things to do on a day trip here, where can you start for a fantastic experience?

You can start with Alton Baker Park.

Alton Baker Park, the biggest park in the city, has bike trails and other fun things for people to do along its banks.

And if you included Eugene as one of your day trips from Portland for families, you’re on the right route.

For a family trip, head to the Eugene Science Center.

It is a science-themed museum offering engaging exhibits for kids and adults.

After that, why not try Cascades Raptor Center for wildlife sightseeing?

Eagles, hawks, and falcons are just a few of the majestic winged inhabitants at the Cascades Raptor Center.

Aside from its on-site and off-site education programs, the Cascades Raptor Center also offers handler-led demonstrations, private tours, and kid-friendly creative workshops.

Eugene has it if you are looking for world-class restaurants and stores for a food and shopping experience for a day trip.

Head to the 5th St. Public Market.

It is a favorite among locals, giving you many unique shops, outstanding dining establishments, and tasting rooms.

Did we mention that Eugene is also home to some of the best wineries in the world?

Visit Wildcraft Cider Works to sample some of the most incredible cider in the Pacific Northwest.

Recommended Hotel: Graduate Eugene

11. Tillamook

Tillamook, OR (503) 842-2034 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

You can reach Tillamook in less than an hour and a half by taking OR-6 West and US-26 West.

You can also take the five bus from Union and get out at the Tillamook Transit Center, extending your journey by around 30 minutes.

Tillamook is best known for its large cheese industry.

If you want to eat some dairy, it’s the best place to go for a day trip.

Every year, almost a million people visit the famous Tillamook Creamery, which makes 171,000 pounds of cheese daily.

What else does this cheese factory have to offer?

At their tourist center and production site, they provide free self-guided tours where you can discover all about how they produce their goods from scratch.

Visit on a weekday to see the cheese factory in operation and learn about the dairy business via their interactive displays.

After the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase locally-produced goods like cheese and ice cream.

Recommended Hotel: The Hotel Garibaldi

12. Bend, Oregon

Bend, OR (541) 382-8048 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Taking US-26 East from Portland to Bend will take you over 3 hours.

However, traffic congestion may occur when you drive through Smith Rock State Park.

I-5 South to Salem and OR-22 East over the Cascades to Bend in 3.5 hours is another alternative.

Bend is less picturesque than the adjacent Smith Rock.

But outdoor lovers in this rapidly growing Bend population enjoy numerous exciting activities.

How can you join them in fun?

Go skiing in the morning, kayak in the afternoon, and have a beer in the evening at several nearby bars and pubs.

What about stand-up paddleboarding, mountain biking, fly fishing, rock climbing, hiking, or mountaineering?

Those are also feasible at the adjacent Lava River Cave, Three Sisters Wilderness, and Newberry National Volcanic Monument.

What’s more to enjoy?

The town’s center even has a river wave for all surfers.out there.

Moreover, Bend has over 300 days of sunlight, an ideal escape from Portland’s gloomy weather.

What about the food?

Are there excellent options?

Of course, there are.

Don’t miss lunch at Spork and brunch at McKay Cottage throughout your trip.

Both establishments are excellent for a delectable food experience.

Recommended Hotel: Oxford Hotel Bend

Related: Restaurants in Bend, OR

13. Bagby Hot Springs

Mount Hood National Forest (503) 668-1700 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

From Portland, you have a few options for traveling south, and they all meet up in Shady Dell.

Whichever route you choose, it will take 11 miles to get to the trailhead parking area on forest service road NF-7010.

Bagby Hot Springs is a 30-minute stroll away from there.

The historic Bagby Hot Springs is a well-known hot spring in Oregon.

A 1.5-mile hike through Mount Hood National Forest and old-growth trees leads to the Hotsprings’ three soak locations.

What are these “soak locations”?

In Bagby Hot Springs, there are three soaking pools where you can unwind while taking a warm water bath.

The Private Deck, which has five hollowed-out logs, is the best place to soak first since each has its area.

Part of the Private Deck is covered, so you can see the sky and keep your things dry.

The Public Deck is the second pool, and it has a whiskey barrel tub and three wood bathtubs recovered from a fire.

Lastly, the third pool is the Upper Deck, built by the Friends of Bagby and close to the Public Deck.

But there’s one more.

Another soaking tub on the whiskey barrel deck can hold eight people, which is excellent for family relaxation.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Mt. Hood Inn

Related: Fun Weekend Getaways in Oregon

14. Trillium Lake

National Forest Development Road 2612 Government Camp, OR 97028 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Trillium Lake is roughly an hour and a half away from US-26 East.

When you get to Government Camp, you’ll use the forest service road NF-2656 to get to the campground.

Portlanders love going to Trillium Lake for the day more than anything else.

It is the best day trip for a SUP ride, floating on an inflatable, or relaxing on the beach.

But if you want to spend the night, you can plan it too.

This popular spot features a campground and boardwalk excursions through floral meadows when the season is right.

Aside from those, you can expect more activities here for a great trip.

Hood Outfitters offers boat ramps, fishing piers, and kayak rentals.

The 63-acre lake’s trout and ducks attract kids, and it’s a popular fishing spot.

Lastly, strolling the two-mile Trillium Lake Loop Trail is another excellent option for those looking to exercise and take in the scenery.

The route is mainly flat and has fantastic views of Mt. Hood and the nearby wetlands.

Recommended Hotel: Whispering Woods Resort, a VRI resort

15. Astoria

Astoria, OR (503) 325-5824 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Following US-26 West from Portland, the trip to Astoria takes under 2 hours.

Astoria has a lot to keep people returning for day trips all year.

For example, the Festival of the Dark Arts and the Fisher Poets Gathering are just two of the offbeat celebrations that take place here.

But what if it’s your first time here?

On your first trip, the finest things to do are to experience breweries on the water and go up to Washington to view Cape Disappointment.

There are two fantastic breweries on the water, and you should check them out.

The pub food at Buoy Beer Co. is not gluten-free, but they provide gluten-free beer cans for those with celiac disease.

While craft beer is Fort George Brewing’s bread and butter, they also provide cider and wine for those who like such beverages.

Finally, you won’t be disappointed by the sights of Cape Disappointment (despite its intriguing name).

It faces the Pacific Ocean and looks into the mouth of the Columbia River.

If you are a camper, you’ll enjoy its cabins, yurts, and historic vacation homes, which are all different from each other.

Recommended Hotel: Selina Commodore Astoria

16. McMenamins Edgefield

2126 SW Halsey St Troutdale, OR 97060 (503) 669-8610 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

McMenamins Edgefield is a short day trip and is a popular summer weekend getaway.

Twenty minutes from downtown Portland, you’ll find McMenamins Edgefield.

McMenamins is a 74-acre resort perched on farmland close to the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area.

If you love history, McMenamins Edgefield is the ideal day excursion.

The structure on the property was built in 1911 and formerly served as the county’s poor farm.

It had been abandoned and neglected.

Until the McMenamin brothers, renowned for revitalizing historic houses in Oregon and Washington, purchased the property in the 1990s.

They undertook the laborious job of restoring it into a whimsical setting for the enjoyment of Portlanders.

Thus, it became one of the top day trips from Portland solely because of its historical significance.

What else can you enjoy here?

If you’re traveling during the summer, try to catch a concert on the vast lawn.

The great lawn often hosts concerts with well-known artists.

You can have a great day exploring the vast grounds with friends while grilling burgers and sipping beer there.

After a few drinks, the artwork truly explodes as you wander the estate with wine or beer.

17. Hood River

Hood River, OR (541) 386-2000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

You must drive 1 hour and 15 minutes from Portland to Hood River.

Just go east on I-84 until you reach Hood River.

It’s probably one of the best places to see near Portland because it’s easy to get to, and you drive right through the Columbia River Gorge.

What are the best Hood River excursions?

Hood River became well-known for its wine tastings, delicious cider, and outdoor activities.

You can start your adventure through water sports if you know one.

On a breezy, bright day, you’ll see hundreds of windsurfers on the river as you enter the town.

Did we mention that a day trip to the Columbia River Gorge will become more fantastic if you include Hood River?

With the combination, you can start your day with a trek to one of the numerous waterfalls in the Gorge along I-84, then stop in Hood River for lunch and a drink or cider.

There are many apple orchards in the Hood River Valley, so there is a ton of regional cider to sample.

For the best cider-tasting locations, head to either Slopeswell or Crush Cider Cafe.

You can experience the flavor of ciders from the Old World right in Slopeswell Cider Co.

But if you want to choose from many local and regional ciders, Crush Cider Cafe is your best bet.

And to top off the perfect day, don’t leave the area without wine tasting.

Since Hood River has many top-notched wineries, you’ll never get lost in trying.

But make sure the Cathedral Ridge Winery is your top priority.

It offers award-winning Oregon wines in a beautiful tasting area with lots of outdoor space to unwind on a sunny day.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Hood River

18. Waterfall Alley, Columbia River Gorge

Waterfall Alley Columbia River Gorge, OR 97031 (541) 308-1700 Open in Google Maps

The Columbia River Gorge is less than an hour’s drive from the city and makes for one of the excellent Portland trips, even if you only have half a day.

Everyone who likes being outside can find something to do on this site.

There are, to name a few, dreamy waterfalls, jaw-dropping views, challenging hikes, and water activities.

Its magnificent waterfalls will wow you and your out-of-town visitors.

But the best ways to explore the Columbia Gorge are by car and on walking trails.

In Columbia River Gorge, you can take simple walks from a parking lot or spend a whole day exploring the wild.

Another option is the Historic Columbia River Highway, the U.S. first scenic National Historic Landmark highway.

The cliffs are full of evergreen trees, making them great spots to look at.

What to expect in this scenery?

In this temperate rainforest, the leaves are golden-red in the fall, snowflakes in the winter, wildflowers in the spring, and mosses all year.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Plus Columbia River Inn

19. Willamette Valley Wine Country

Turner, OR 97392 Open in Google Maps

Dundee in the north end of the Willamette Valley is just 40 minutes from downtown Portland, whereas Eugene at the south end is 100 miles away.

Oregon is famous for being a paradise for outdoor lovers.

With miles of hiking routes and expansive panoramas, the dramatic natural landscapes can keep anybody captivated for years.

But why bother hiking if there isn’t a good reward at the end?

Fortunately, Oregon is the fourth most prolific state in wine production, so you’re set there, too.

And with more than 500 wineries, the Willamette Valley is the most well-known in all of Oregon’s wine regions.

It is famous for making award-winning Pinot Noirs that compete with the world’s best.

And it is on the same latitude as France’s famous wine regions.

Try their products before you leave for an unforgettable wine experience.

Sip a cold glass of Chardonnay in summer or a robust glass of award-winning red in fall while admiring the rolling hills of thriving vines.

Recommended Hotel: The Hotel Salem

20. McMinnville

McMinnville, OR (503) 857-0182 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

You can reach McMinnville by traveling south on I-5 until you get OR-99W, then continuing on that road until it meets OR-233.

The McMinnville trip from Portland will consume a 55-minute drive.

McMinnville is a cute tiny town that makes a lot of things locally, like coffee and gluten-free beer, and has a lot of small shops.

If you’re a real coffee enthusiast, start your McMinnville trip to Flag & Wire Coffee.

Aside from coffee, of course, there’s more to enjoy in this place.

The charming independent bookstore Third Street Books is on McMinnville’s main street.

Before visiting the shops and cafes on Third Street, take a break and look through some books.

If you can get to McMinnville between Friday and Sunday, you can go to Bierly Brewing for a gluten-free craft beer tasting.

Another option for 100% gluten-free beer is Evasion Brewing.

Perhaps you’re worried about the food, but you have many great alternatives here.

And one of the top restaurants for high-quality food is the Community Plate.

It serves delicious food made with ingredients from local farmers in the Willamette Valley.

There is also great Coava coffee, which we highly recommend.

Afterward, you can go to Xicha Brewing for lunch and a cold craft beer.

There are some gluten-free food options, but the beer is not gluten-free.

Recommended Hotel: Atticus Hotel

21. Sauvie Island

Sauvie Island, OR Open in Google Maps

You can drive to Sauvie Island from Portland in about 40 minutes by taking I-5 South, US-30 East, or US-26 East.

Sauvie Island is a Manhattan-sized island located 10 miles northwest of downtown Portland at the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia rivers.

It’s a utopia for bird-watchers, beachgoers, bikers, and kayakers and a great place to buy fruits and vegetables.

There are fruit farms to select your fruit in the summer, corn mazes and hay rides in the fall, and beaches, trails, and waterways to explore all year.

Also, on Sauvie Island, finding peace with nature is easy.

You can take the Wapato Access Greenway State Park Trail, a simple 2-mile loop around a lake, for a quick greenery trip.

The Oak Island Nature Trail is another brisk walk that takes you away from the main roads and into the tall grasses of the island.

Another upside?

Sauvie Island is fun for both kids and adults.

Between the mammoth bigleaf maples and Douglas firs, you’re likely to see at least six different kinds of birds, including bald eagles.

At the island’s northeast end, the Warrior Rock Lighthouse Trail leads to a sandy beach where you can view Oregon’s smallest lighthouse.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Portland – Jantzen Beach, an IHG Hotel

22. Mt. Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier, WA (360) 569-2211 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The fastest route takes 3 hours to go to Mountain Rainier National Park from Portland.

However, that varies depending on which side of the mountain you choose to see.

If you love hiking, you must include Mt. Rainier National Park on your Portland day trips.

You can enjoy over 260 miles of well-kept trails in this national park.

These trails provide access to forests, lakes, streams, wildflowers fields, and a network of glaciers.

However, note that the size of Mt. Rainier National Park is big.

Unlike smaller national parks, you must prepare ahead to see as much as possible, particularly if you’re short on time.

So how can you make your trip here efficient?

You can start your hike with Sunrise Nature Trail.

The Sunrise Trail is a beautiful, simple trail starting at the Sunrise parking area.

In the summer, you can appreciate stunning wildflower displays and get breathtaking views of Mount Rainier.

If you prefer a more challenging one, opt for the Burroughs Mountain Trail.

The moderate Burroughs Mountain Trail leads to Mount Rainier and the best view of the surrounding valleys.

After your journey here, you will never forget this hike as the most unforgettable experience.

Lastly, for experienced hikers, try the Skyline Trail Loop.

This loop is a fantastic alpine walk in Mount Rainier National Park.

Although the hike is challenging, we recommend beginners try it since it is perhaps the park’s most famous and iconic trail.

Recommended Hotel: Alexander’s Lodge

23. Wahkeena and Multnomah Falls Loop Trail

Wahkeena Trail #420 Corbett, OR 97019 (541) 308-1700 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

To get to Wahkeena and Multnomah Falls Loop Trail, you must drive more than 30 minutes from Portland.

If you want more activities near Columbia River Gorge, hike this moderate 4.7-mile Wahkeena and Multnomah Falls Loop Trail.

Is this hike worth it to include in my hiking list for a one day trip from Portland?

Despite many hikes on your list, don’t neglect this one.

It is one of the scenic places near Portland where you can enjoy the breathtaking vistas and the rushing waters of the falls.

Multnomah Falls is not just one of the most magnificent waterfalls in the Gorge but also one of Oregon’s top attractions.

Although the waterfall is a must-see, this looping climb also leads to several other outstanding cascades.

What’s more to expect?

Before reaching Multnomah Falls on this circular trail, you’ll go through Wahkeena Falls, Ecola Falls, Fairy Falls, and other waterfalls.

Enjoy the more tranquil portion of the loop while listening to the serene stream as it approaches each waterfall next to the trail.

Before emerging at the top of Oregon’s highest waterfall, the trail steadily gains a height of more than 1,500 feet.

24. Bridal Veil Falls

E Crown Point Hwy Bridal Veil, OR 97010 (503) 695-2261 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

It takes less than 30 minutes of driving time from Portland to the Bridal Veil Falls.

The thimbleberry-lined trail is only 0.66 miles long, perfect for all skill levels.

It is a terrific addition to your list of places to visit near Portland because of its 120-foot waterfalls.

This waterfall is just one of many spectacular sights along the Historic Columbia River Highway.

Just go down the concrete route to get a great perspective of the Pillars of Hercules.

You can also take the stairs, but be ready for a series of challenging declines as you make your way to the foot of the falls.

Most of the time, the trail is in good condition.

However, it becomes perilous after rain.

The Bridal Veil Falls hike is available all year, but the ideal time to go is between March and October when the trees still have their foliage.

If you want to avoid the trail’s throngs of weekend and holiday visitors, your best bet is to get there early or during the week.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Plus Port of Camas-Washougal Convention Center

25. Dry Creek Falls

Cascade Locks, OR Visit Website Open in Google Maps

It will need less than an hour of drive via I-84 E from Portland to reach Dry Creek Falls.

Dry Creek Falls cascades into a pool at the foot of a basalt amphitheater in the woods with a significant plunge of 74 feet.

It is a popular hiking destination, but compared to the other amazing views in the Columbia Gorge, it may still seem like a hidden treasure.

The hike is relatively simple, with just a few uphill stretches and no significant obstacles.

This mystical waterfall is not only one of the best day trips from Portland, but it is also conveniently accessible via the Pacific Crest Trail.

Hike along the stream through the beautiful forest from the trailhead at Bridge of the Gods.

If you go on a walk in the spring, you’ll see Douglas firs, hemlocks, and all kinds of wildflowers.

You’ll find a fascinating sequence of lava boulders that mix with the woods before you reach the falls.

Observe how the land surrounding Dry Creek Falls takes on the form of a natural amphitheater.

Relax in the refreshing spray as you see the majesty of the basalt column wall surrounding the falls.

Lastly, Dry Creek Falls complements Cascade Locks’ restaurants and pubs for fresh fish, craft beer, burgers, and milkshakes.

Day Trip Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

At Mount Hood National Forest, I was captivated by towering trees and the whisper of nature. 

I hiked with my kids, our boots crunching on fallen leaves. 

Then, we enjoyed roasting marshmallows over a campfire after a day of hiking. 

It’s the perfect spot if you’re after solitude and family bonding.

Switching gears, the Oregon Coast offers a dramatically different experience. 

Salty sea air, rugged cliffs, and waves crashing against the rocks — it’s an outdoor theater of nature’s majesty. 

We built sandcastles, surfed, and even glimpsed seals lounging. 

It’s more touristy than Mount Hood, but the ocean’s lullaby is irresistible.

Then there’s Seattle — the urban adventure. 

Fresh off a ferry ride from Bainbridge Island, we explored Pike Place Market and caught flying fish. 

Space Needle’s panoramic views? 

A hit with the kids. 

It’s bustling and packed with attractions, a stark contrast to the laid-back atmosphere of the other spots.

If you crave variety, go from Mount Hood to the coast and finish with a Seattle city sprint. 

Each offers its own flavor of Pacific Northwest charm, tailored to your mood. 

How I Picked The Destinations

You can trust this guide because I’ve got my boots dirty exploring these spots myself. 

Yep, I live in Oregon and adore its versatility. 

My hands-on analysis involved not just online research but also striking up conversations with locals and fellow travelers. 

Whether it’s the hush of Mount Hood’s forests or the hustle of Seattle’s streets, I’ve been there, done that, and can’t wait for you to do the same.

Our Rating Method

I rate these destinations based on the following criteria.

• Family friendliness: This criterion assesses the family-friendly appeal of every destination. Does it offer attractions suited for the whole family? Does it have facilities and services that entertain and engage all age groups? I use these questions to evaluate family friendliness. 
• Safety: I use this to evaluate safety and security. Does the area have a low crime rate? Is public transportation secure? Are local authorities reliable and helpful? I ask myself these questions when evaluating safety. 
• Affordability: This is used to assess affordability. Will visitors get a lot of bang for their buck? Is it cheaper compared to the other options? I consider these factors when rating affordability. I consider these factors when rating affordability.
• Accessibility: This criterion evaluates the accessibility of every location. Is it easily accessible by public transportation? How walkable is the area? How far is it from the base? These are the questions I ask myself when assessing accessibility. 
• Fun factor: I use this to evaluate how enjoyable the day trip is for visitors. Will it create positive and memorable experiences? Does it offer attractions that promise fun experiences for the whole family? Are there theme parks, beaches, and hiking trails? I use these questions to evaluate this criterion.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Where can i find a family-friendly day trip near portland.

The Oregon Zoo in Washington Park is a fantastic choice. It not only offers an opportunity for an educational experience but also an enjoyable and exciting adventure for both children and adults. You’ll get a chance to learn about a wide variety of animals from all over the world, including rare and endangered species. 

Which Coastal Town Is The Best Day Trip From Portland For A Beach Experience?

Cannon Beach is a picturesque town that boasts stunning natural beauty and a laid-back atmosphere. With its iconic Haystack Rock towering over the shoreline and long stretches of pristine sandy beaches, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely day by the ocean.

Are There Any Historic Day Trips Near Portland Worth Exploring?

For a place with a rich history, head to Oregon City. Once there, visit the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, where you can completely immerse yourself in the pioneer era. This center is the perfect place to learn about the early settlers who braved the Oregon Trail. 

Conclusion 

If you’re still wondering what tops the list of best day trips from Portland, let me clear the fog for you.

Mount Hood National Forest in Sandy takes the cake. 

It’s got everything—towering trees, serene lakes, and activities that’ll make both kiddos and adults grin ear to ear. 

Whether you’re hiking through lush forests or capturing that perfect family photo against a snow-capped mountain backdrop, the memories you make here will stick. 

Grab your favorite travel mug, fill it with some quality brew, and hit the road. 

Your next adventure in the Pacific Northwest is just a drive away.

Voyages with Val

Scenic Day Trips from Portland, Oregon

Looking for scenic and adventurous day trips from Portland, Oregon ? Road trip to one of these 10 gorgeous day trips in Oregon and Washington to spend a day away from the city. There are so many amazing hikes, towns, and coastal sites to see nearby!

The Pacific Northwest has some of the most beautiful destinations in the United States. From the Columbia River to Mount Rainier National Park. Anyone who visits or lives in Portland should make it a priority to take each of these trips at least once!

If you have more time, you can also camp or book a hotel room and extend any of these day trips to weekend trips from Portland .

How Far is a Day Trip from Portland?

Everyone will have their own definition of what consists of a day trip from Portland. For the purpose of this, I am considering it a trip that is less than a four-hour drive from the city. However, most of these day trips are less than 2 hours from Portland.

Two hours or less is the perfect amount of time to leave early and still have the whole day to explore your destination. Most of these destinations are fairly well known, so by leaving early you can also beat the crowds and enjoy your trip in solitude.

The Columbia River Gorge

• Distance from Portland: 30 miles
• Drive Time from Portland: 33 minutes

You can’t visit Portland without taking a day trip to the Columbia River Gorge . Well, you can but it would be a waste! The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is one of the most beautiful places near Portland and in all of Oregon. The canyon is over 80 miles long, with hundreds of waterfalls, giving you plenty to explore.

Head East from Portland on I-84. You can take this road through all of the canyon or turn off onto the Historic Columbia River Highway for a slower, drive. For a quick day adventure stop by the Vista House , for unparalleled views of the gorge, and then continue onto Multnomah Falls.

Multnomah Falls is Oregon’s tallest waterfall, at 620 feet, and has a bridge going between the tiers of the falls. Grab a coffee or even lunch at the lodge at the base of the Falls or hike up to the top of Multnomah Falls. If Multnomah Falls is too crowded, continue onto one of the other many great waterfall hikes near Portland in the Columbia River Gorge.

Read More: Must-See Waterfall Hikes Near Portland

Best Hikes in the Columbia River Gorge

• Latourell Falls –  3.0 miles, 728 feet, Moderate – Latourell Falls is a short loop hike in the Columbia River Gorge that leads to two impressive Oregon waterfalls.
• Beacon Rock Trail – 1.5 miles, 574 feet, Moderate – This is a quick hike on the Washington side of the gorge up to the top of an ancient volcano core. The trail mostly takes place on boardwalks with a railing.
• Wahclella Falls –  1.9 miles, 223 feet, Easy – Wahclella Falls is another great hike in the gorge that leads to an impressive waterfall. This goes into a canyon and past several other smaller waterfalls in the winter.

Mount Hood National Forest

• Distance from Portland: 44 miles
• Drive Time from Portland: 53 minutes

Mount Hood stands tall above Portland, visible far and wide on a sunny day. It is hard to see it without wanting to travel even closer and hike around the shadow of the volcano! Take a day trip from Portland to Mount Hood National Forest to get up close with the mountain and see some of the best views in Oregon.

Pass through Sandy in the morning and grab some donuts at Joe’s Donut Shop before continuing to your morning hike (or grab some after for a post-hike snack)! There are many amazing hikes around Mount Hood including the Timberline Trail , which is a multiday hike encircling the mountain, but you can also hike just a portion for a day trip. Below are a few more amazing hikes near Mount Hood that lead to waterfalls and views of the mountain!

Of course, Mount Hood National Forest is not limited to just hiking. Bring a kayak or paddleboard to Trillium Lake and have a fun day in the water with a view of Mount Hood! In the winter ski or snowboard at several spots around the mountain, including the Timberline Lodge . The Timberline Lodge is a historic 1930s lodge that has been featured in movies like The Shining.

Best Hikes in Mount Hood National Forest

• Tamanawas Falls – 3.4 miles, 580 feet, Moderate – This trail is open year-round to hike or snowshoe to a magnificent waterfall.
• Ramona Falls –  7.1 miles, 1066 feet, Moderate – This is another waterfall hike in Mount Hood National Forest. This is a longer hike to one of the best waterfalls in Oregon.
• Lolo Pass – 6.7 miles, 1489 feet, Moderate – Drive on Lolo Pass Road to reach this trailhead. If coming from Portland, you will see amazing views even on the drive, as well as the hike.

• Distance from Portland: 62 miles
• Drive Time from Portland: 1 hour 3 minutes

Hood River is only a little more than an hour from Portland , making it the perfect one-day getaway from the city. There are plenty of great hikes around Hood River , as well as wineries, orchards, and breweries to visit!

Begin your visit with a trip to Panorama Point . I found this overlook entirely by accident, and I’m so glad I did! It is only a 10-minute detour from the center of town and well worth the trip. This viewpoint has a magnificent view of Mount Hood and the surrounding countryside, no hiking required!

Afterward, make a trip to one of the dozens of wineries and orchards that make their home in Hood River, due to the ideal fruit-growing climate. The Gorge White House is a popular family-owned spot that serves fresh fruit, wine, and cider out of a historic 1906 house. If beer is more your thing, Hood River has no shortage including pFriem Family Brewers and Ferment Brewing Company .

More Things to Do Near Hood River

• Fruit Picking – There are many farms and stands in the summer and fall that have a variety of fruit for sale or to pick straight off the trees. There are many great options, but one of the best is Kiyokawa Family Orchards , with over 150 varieties of fruit.
• Lavender Farms – From June to September, visit Hood River Lavender Farms to pick your own lavender, or just wander the fields and gaze at the magnificent view of Hood from the farm.
• Rowena Crest – For even more hiking, and great views of the Columbia River Gorge, head to Rowena Crest Viewpoint on the Rowena Plateau. There are several hikes here, and in the spring this area is coated in a super bloom of yellow and purple flowers.

Silver Falls State Park

• Distance from Portland: 54 miles
• Drive Time from Portland: 1 hour 10 minutes

On a quest for waterfalls? Take a day trip from Portland to Silver Falls State Park . This state park is unlike any other and hosts 10 magnificent waterfalls , all visible from a single trail. If you want to extend your day trip, book a campsite inside the park for a fun weekend camping trip.

The Trail of Ten Falls is a moderate, 9-mile hike that reaches all ten of the waterfalls in Silver Falls State Park. Of course, if you don’t have the time to hike all 9 miles, there are several ways to shorten the hike as well, and still get your fill of waterfalls. In fact, two of the best waterfalls, North and South Falls , are less than half a mile from the trailheads and you can even walk behind them !

It is important to know that dogs are not allowed on the majority of the Trail of Ten Falls, but they are allowed in other areas of the park. Also, there is a $5 fee per car, payable at most trailheads.

Read More: Hiking & Camping in Silver Falls State Park

Best Hikes in Silver Falls State Park

• Trail of Ten Falls – 9 miles, 1404 feet, Moderate – The Trail of Ten Falls will take you to all 10 waterfalls in the park.
• North Falls- .5 mile, 26 feet, Easy – North Falls is only a quarter of a mile from North Falls Trailhead and you can walk behind it!
• South Falls- 1 mile, 193 feet, Easy – South Falls is 0.5 miles from the South Falls Trailhead. There is both a lookout and a trail leading behind the falls.
• Upper North Falls- .6 miles, 62 feet, Easy – Upper North Falls is a short side trail from the North Falls Trailhead.

Cannon Beach

• Distance from Portland: 79 miles
• Drive Time from Portland: 1 hour 26 minutes

If you are visiting Oregon for the first (or hundredth) time, you need to make a trip to the coast! Cannon Beach is one of the closest coastal towns to Portland , about an hour and a half away. It is also one of the prettiest coastal towns in Oregon!

Take a walk on Cannon Beach and gaze at the magnificent Haystack Rock . While your walking, you can also look for and explore the many tide pools that can be found around the base of the Haystack Rock. The beach is wide and miles long so there is a lot of room to hike, have a picnic, or bring your dog!

After having your fill of the beach, head into the town to grab some seafood or check out a brewery. Ecola Seafood Restaurant and Market has some delicious seafood you can eat at the restaurant or take to go. If you are visiting in the right season, and willing to splurge try Oregon’s famous Dungeness Crab !

Read More: Things to Do on the Oregon Coast

Things to Do Near Cannon Beach

• Ecola State Park – Just North of Cannon Beach is even more scenic coastline. Ecola State Park has 9 more miles of beautiful coast with rocks and sea stacks jutting into the ocean.
• Wildlife Watching – The Oregon Coast is a great place for  wildlife viewing . Along the coast, you can find  Grey Whales, Roosevelt Elk,  and  Tufted Puffins  which like to nest on Haystack Rock.
• Oswald West State Park – To the South of Cannon Beach is Oswald West State Park. There are many great hiking trails here, one of which leads to a small cove, Short Sand Beach .

Willamette National Forest

• Distance from Portland: 136 miles
• Drive Time from Portland: 2 hours 24 minutes

The Willamette National Forest in Oregon is one of the more underrated destinations near Portland in my opinion. Sitting in the mountains between Portland and Bend the many trails and views in this area often get passed over on the drive to the city.

One of the best trails in this area is Tamolitch Blue Pool from the McKenzie River Trail. This trail leads to the most striking blue pool in Oregon! Nearby is another amazing trail to Koosah and Sahalie Falls on a 3-mile loop. Next to this trail is a campground you can stay at to make a weekend trip, Ice Cap Creek Campground .

There are several other campgrounds in this area including Cold Water Cove and Limberlost Campground . Like many National Forests, there is also dispersed camping inside the National Forest outside of the main campgrounds. If you decide to camp in dispersed areas, obey any signs, leave no trace and be respectful to your fellow campers.

Other Trails in Willamette National Forest

• Clear Lake – 4.9 miles, 239 feet, Easy – Similar to Blue Pool, Clear Lake has strikingly blue (although not quite as blue) water. However, it is much larger than Blue Pool and closer to the road.
• Proxy Falls – 1.6 miles, 147 feet, Easy – This short loop goes by 2 waterfalls, Upper and Lower Proxy Falls.
• Salt Creek Falls – 1 mile, 223 feet, Easy – This trail leads to an overlook of the falls, but there is also an accessible viewpoint near the trailhead.

• Distance from Portland: 175 miles
• Drive Time from Portland: 2 hours 40 minutes

If you want to enjoy big-city attractions on your day trip, head to Portland’s bigger sibling city, Seattle. The drive from Portland to Seattle may take anywhere from 2 and a half hours to over 3 hours depending on the traffic and time of day.

Take a stroll down Pike’s Place Market , one of the oldest continuous Farmer’s Markets in the country! Here you will find fresh flowers, seafood, and delicious local eats. If you want to make sure you see the best of the market, tours like Show Me Seattle will take you to both the famous spots and hidden gems. Pike’s Place is also where you will find the famous Gum Wall and the first Starbucks!

Save time and reserve your spot online if you want to ride up the Space Needle ! This 1960s Worlds Fair icon is the most iconic landmark in Seattle. Ride to the top of the 520-foot tall tower and see Seattle in a one-of-a-kind way! You can even eat at the restaurant in the lookout tower if it is within your budget.

Things to Do in Seattle

• Sky View Observatory – For a view even better than the Space Needle’s, the Sky View Observatory is on the 73rd floor of the Columbia Center, with views over the whole city.
• Gas Works Park – Gas Works Park is a 19-acre park, near Capitol Hill with leftover equipment from a coal plant and sweeping views of Lake Union.
• Chihuly Garden and Glass – This museum is only steps from the Space Needle and you can even get tickets for both at the same time. Admire Washington native, Chihuly’s brilliant glass art, and the surrounding gardens

Sand Dunes Recreation Area

• Drive Time from Portland: 3 hours

The Oregon Sand Dunes Recreational Area is another one of my favorite less visited places in Oregon. Heading to the Oregon Dunes from Portland you can even make a whole mini road trip out of the drive!

On your way to the dunes, check out some of the coast’s roadside stops such as the Devil’s Punchbowl . This first stop is a little South of Lincoln City, 100 miles from Portland. The Devil’s Punchbowl is a natural arch that formed on the coast, where large waves wash into the bowl at high tide.

Next head to Thor’s Well and watch the water be sucked into this hole at high tide, looking like a drain in the Ocean. Also on the way to the sand dunes is Heceta Head Lighthouse. You can get close to the lighthouse, or view it from a roadside viewpoint. Sea lions also frequent this area!

Below see a list of some of the best attractions and things to do once you reach the Oregon Dunes.

What to Do at the Sand Dunes

• Hike – There are a few designated hikes around the sand dunes, along with miles and miles of sand dunes to walk on. John Dellenback Trail and Three Mile Lake Trail are just two of the trails in the area.
• Rent an ATV- Renting an ATV has to be one of the most popular things to do on the dunes. There are several rental companies between North Bend and Florence.
• Camp – There are a few campgrounds on and near the sand dunes if you want a weekend getaway. If you have 4WD you can even drive your camper or van onto the sand in many places.

Mount Rainier National Park

• Distance from Portland: 156 miles
• Drive Time from Portland: 2 hours 59 minutes (to Paradise)

It’s hard to make a list of places to take a day trip in the Pacific Northwest without mentioning the most striking feature in the area. Mount Rainier National Park is my favorite place to take a day trip from Portland. Yes, it is not as close as some of the other destinations on here, but at 3 to 4 hours, it is a close enough drive for the occasional visit.

Mount Rainier National Park is full of amazing hiking trails and scenic viewpoints. However, my number one trail recommendation for one day is Skyline Trail. The Skyline Trail is 6 miles long with around 1800 feet of elevation gain, making it a moderate hike. The trailhead is located in the Paradise section of the park, which is the side closest to Portland.

You will hike through meadows and past waterfalls with the magnificent Mount Rainier visible almost every step of the way. If you do not have the time, or endurance, to hike the entire trail, there are several destinations on the way that make great turnaround points such as Panorama Point , 2 miles from the trailhead. Myrtle Falls Viewpoint is also a popular destination, less than half a mile from the parking lot.

Read More: Fall Day Hikes in Mount Rainier

Hikes in Mount Rainier National Park

• Mount Fremont Lookout – 5.7 miles, 1118 feet, Moderate- This is one of the most famous hikes in Mount Rainier, near the Sunrise area.
• High Lakes Loop – 3.2 miles, 557 feet, Moderate- This trail starts near Reflection Lake and continues up to even more alpine lakes and meadows
• Naches Peak Loop – 3.3 miles, 636 feet, Moderate- Also near Sunrise, this trail is a little shorter than Skyline but with equally majestic views.

Olympic National Park

• Distance from Portland: 231 miles
• Drive Time from Portland: 4 hours 5 minutes (to Port Angeles)

Last but not least, is Olympic National Park . This is the farthest destination from Portland on this list at 4 hours or more, and better suited for a 2 or 3-day trip to see the entire Olympic Peninsula (which I have a whole guide for below), but I wanted to mention it anyway for people who don’t mind a long drive!

If you want to see some epic mountain views, head for Hurricane Ridge near Port Angeles! The road in the park winds up and up to over 5,000 feet of elevation and is one of the best overlooks in the country. There are several hikes near here, one of the best being Hurricane Hill (3.4 miles).

For rainforests and ocean views, head to the southern part of the Olympic Peninsula, The Hall of Moss (1.1 miles) is one of the most popular hikes in Olympic National Park through the Hoh Rainforest . From the Hoh Rainforest, drive to Rialto Beach to admire the sea stacks and a rugged Pacific Northwest coastline.

Read More: 2 Day Olympic National Park Itinerary

Things to Do Near Olympic National Park

• Whale Watching – The Olympic Peninsula is one of the best places in the US to spot whales.  Island Adventure Whale Watching   is located in Port Angeles, and  Puget Sound Express  takes whale watching tours from Port Townsend. There are also a variety of other whale watching tours all along the Puget Sound that will take you to see the  orcas  and other whales found in the Sound.
• Mount Storm King –  5.3 miles, 2,076 feet, Difficult – This is a hard trail with over 2,000 feet of elevation gain in under 3-miles. This hike is no joke and rated as difficult. It has a scramble at the top with ropes for assistance, so be wary of this trail if you are afraid of heights. If you do ascend Mount Storm King, you will witness one of the  best views  on the Olympic Peninsula.
• Watersports – If you  visit the Olympic National Park  in the summer when the air is warm, you can also rent or bring your own kayaks, paddleboards, and more to spend the day exploring the ocean and lakes of the Olympic Peninsula by water.

Tips for Taking a Day Trip from Portland

• Leave early! A lot of popular hiking trails fill up early at the trailhead, so leave early to beat the crowds and be able to spend the whole day at your day trip from Portland.
• Check if you need a permit . Many trailheads require an America the Beautiful Pass or Northwest Forest Pass. You can buy a day pass online .
• Fill up on gas before you go. Some of the more remote destinations do not have gas stations nearby, so it is best to have a full tank before you go if you aren’t familiar with the area.

You May Also Like

• Can’t Miss Waterfall Hikes Near Portland
• Best Things To Do on the Oregon Coast
• Olympic National Park 2 Day Itinerary

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Oregon (OR) » 15 Best Day Trips from Portland

15 Best Day Trips from Portland

Portland is a happening, thriving city in Oregon. Best known for its coffee and craft beer Portland is fast becoming one of the most popular cities in the United States of America.

With an eco-friendly mindset Portland is modern, open minded and incredibly welcoming. There is a wealth of culture and history to explore. From the Museum of Science and Industry, to Pioneer Courthouse Square to Pittock Mansion there is heaps to discover in Portland. Once you have ticked off every item on your Portland Bucket List it’s time to get exploring further afield.

Let’s take a look at the best day trips from Portland :

1. Mount Hood

Easily one of the most picturesque landscapes in Oregon state, Mount Hood is a beautiful natural wonder to explore.

Known by the native Multnomah tribe as ‘Wy’east’ Mount Hood is in fact an active volcano.

There are a range of gentle walks and more challenging hikes through the foothills, forests and along the rivers of Mount Hood.

The charming town of Hood River is home to dozens of quaint, locally run restaurants from which you can dine and marvel at the magnificence of Mount Hood and too Mount Adams.

It is possible to spend a day tearing up the slopes on the Mount Hood ski fields.

2. Willamette Valley

The Willamette Valley is the first and only destination suitable for budding sommeliers and those with a discerning palate, who are visiting Oregon.

A valley world-renowned for its wineries, a day tour of the Willamette Valley is a real treat.

Spend the day driving along the scenic winding roads and hop from one winery to another.

This area is famed for producing some of the best Pinot Noir in the world.

During a day trip you can not only taste the wines produced in the Willamette Valley but also learn about the cool-climate production processes, the unique volcanic soil of the area and how these together give the wines their distinct flavours.

3. Cannon Beach

Should you be seeking to swap the city smoke for the brisk sea air then Cannon Beach is the place to head.

Loved by locals and international visitors alike, Cannon Beach is best known for its vast, sandy beach and Haystack Rock.

You could easily spend a day relaxing with a book and a picnic on Cannon Beach but if you like to be more active there is plenty to explore.

Head over the headland and walk through Ecola State Park.

Perhaps head south towards Arcadia Beach that features gorgeous, twinkling tide pools.

There are dozens of beachy boutiques to browse in Cannon Beach town itself.

4. Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is probably the most photogenic spot within a days reach of Portland; giving Mount Hood a run for its money for sure.

Multnomah Falls is the most iconic part of the Columbia River Gorge landscape and is in fact the second highest year round waterfall in the United States of America.

Along the hiking trail you’ll also have the chance to marvel and gawp in awe of the Latourell Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and Wahkeena Falls.

It is possible to spend a whole day hiking in Columbia River Gorge but if you want to cram as much in as possible then your best bet is to drive from one scenic spot to the next.

5. Mount St Helens

Having last erupted in 2008, Mount St Helens is still very much an active volcano.

Mount St Helens sits in Washington State but is just 50-miles northeast of Portland, as such it is a very accessible day trip.

At the Mount St Helens Visitor Centre you can find out about the moments that lead up to the volcano’s most prolific eruption in May 1980. You can too learn about the geology of volcanoes and see a functioning seismograph that displays the seismicity of Mount St Helens via a live feed.

From the Johnston Ridge Observatory you can take in amazing views of the smouldering crater.

Artsy and eco-minded the city of Eugene mirrors the atmosphere of Portland but on a smaller scale.

Eugene sits on the banks of the Willamette River and is home to the University of Oregon.

As such there is a thriving community feel and there are always events, music concerts and theatre performances happening throughout the city.

Alton Baker Park is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon, as is Hendricks Park.

If you fancy a touch of shopping, wining and dining then head to Fifth Street Public Market where you’ll find a wonderful selection of organic cafes and boutique stores.

7. Portland’s Microbreweries

Portland is famed for its thriving microbrewery and craft brewery community so it seems only right to dedicate a day to discover them all…or nearly all of them at least.

Visiting the local breweries is not only a great way to widen your knowledge of brews but to get to know the locals too.

Many of the breweries in the area have been established by local people who have a passion for Portland, and pints.

With so many to choose from it is difficult to know where to start.

Full Sail Brewery, Widmer Brothers and Lucky Lab are all rather popular, as is Pyramid Brewery and Chapel Pub Brewery too.

8. Trillium Lake

Sitting at the base of Mount Hood is one of Oregon’s best kept secrets, Trillium Lake.

This idyllic spot is perfect for picnics, romantic strolls or even a casual kayak.

There are plenty of safe BBQ areas on the shores of Trillium Lake so feel free to stock up the cool box and head out with the gang.

Clean and crystal clear, swimming is permitted in Trillium Lake, although it’s more than a little brisk in the winter.

There are no outlets from which to hire kayaks or paddle boards but you can bring your own for sure.

If you’re looking for an outdoor day out for all the family picturesque Trillium Lake is just the ticket.

The city of Seattle is not only the setting for Grey’s Anatomy and Twin Peaks but home to some of the best cafes and bars in all of the United States, and some pretty amazing outdoor activities too.

Organic restaurants like Local 360 are not to be missed, nor should Portage Bay Cafe or Unicorn Bar.

In all fairness you could easily spend a day trip to Seattle hopping from one eatery to another.

Naturally, the Space Needle will be high on your bucket list for Seattle, as should the Pike Place Market.

If you want to get outdoors you can take a boat tour of the Seattle Locks or stroll around Kerry Park.

10. Rowena Crest

If you are seeking a relaxed and somewhat passive day trip then Rowena Crest is the perfect place to head.

Take a steady drive from Portland city centre out to the Rowena Crest Viewpoint.

Here you can pitch up with a picnic table, snacks and a book or if you’re feeling a little more adventurous don the hiking boots and head out on a walking trail.

The walking routes around Rowena Crest are gentle, easy and suitable for all fitness levels.

Everywhere you turn is a breathtaking landscape vista, each more impressive than the last.

11. Yachats

The tiny coastal city of Yachats is a true hidden gem and there is so much rugged coastal landscape to explore.

You can hike across the headlands of Cape Perpetua and look out into the Pacific Ocean and look for whales.

Thor’s Well is one of the most impressive coastal features you will ever encounter, closely followed by Devil’s Churn.

Yachats is home to an incredible selection of fine dining restaurants.

In the city you will find galleries, quaint boutique shops and plenty of coffee shops.

Naturally, being a coastal city Yachats has a great selection of ice cream shops too.

12. Sea Lion Caves

If you are interested in wildlife then the best day trip from Portland for you is surely Sea Lion Caves.

This magical spot is home to dozens of healthy wild sea lions who are a joy to observe.

Famously slow movers, sea lions are the perfect species to muse upon while you improve your photography skills, they are not going anywhere in a hurry.

Along the coastal drive you will see the odd sea lion here or there, but in order to see the bigger colony you must head to the Sea Lions Caves centre and take the elevator down to the caves below to be in with a chance of watching these endearing animals do their thing.

13. Florence

The small, but perfectly formed, city of Florence lies at the mouth of the Siuslaw River.

In Florence you can explore the charming, historic Old Town home to locally run stores and cafes.

You can head out to the windswept Oregon Dunes and simply take in the vast expanse of this ancient dune system.

If you are short on time or wish to make the most of every moment of your day trip from Portland it is possible to visit Yachats and Florence in one busy day, even cram in a visit to the Sea Lion Caves too.

14. Smith Rock State Park

Tucked away in Oregon’s High Desert is Smith Rock State Park, an incredible, rugged and rocky landscape that is just waiting to be explored.

Those who enjoy a challenging hike, bouldering or rock climbing will have their hearts set on visiting Smith Rock State Park for sure.

There are some fantastic mountain biking trails around Smith Rock State Park so if you have your own set of wheels be sure to bring them along.

This little gem is considered to be one of the seven wonders of Oregon and is certainly not to be missed.

15. Bagby Hot Springs

The Bagby Hot Springs are another of Oregon’s hidden gems and lie about 67-miles from the centre of Portland.

These natural hot springs can be found inside the Mount Hood National Forest and there are plenty of choose from.

You have the option to soak in the private deck, the public deck or the upper deck.

Entry is just $5 and will surely be the best $5 you spend all year.

The springs were discovered in 1880 by Bob Bagby and in the 1920 they were opened to the public.

You can access the Bagby Hot Springs by taking the 1.5-mile signposted walk through the national forest.

15 Best Day Trips from Portland:

• Willamette Valley
• Cannon Beach
• Columbia River Gorge
• Mount St Helens
• Portland’s Microbreweries
• Trillium Lake
• Rowena Crest
• Sea Lion Caves
• Smith Rock State Park
• Bagby Hot Springs

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Home » North America » USA » 14 Most EPIC Portland Day Trips | 2024 Guide

14 Most EPIC Portland Day Trips | 2024 Guide

Portland is blessed with a pretty convenient geographical location. Set just inland of the Pacific Ocean on the northern border of Oregon, the city is surrounded by stunning natural sites such as lakes, waterfalls, and rivers.

You can drive an hour west to the ocean, an hour north into the snowcapped mountains, or an hour east into one of the most waterfall-dense gorges in the states. It’s also just a hop and a skip away from Vancouver and Seattle, which makes taking day trips from Portland super exciting.

Although Portland itself has a whole host of attractions worth checking out if you’re looking for somewhere to base yourself while you admire some of the iconic attractions on the West Coast, Portland is the ultimate base.

So if you’re ready to explore nearby towns or venture into the mountains, then take a look at these incredible day trips in Portland Oregon.

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Getting Around Portland and Beyond

Before we jump into the best day trips around the city, let’s look at the best ways to get around Portland and beyond. 

Portland has a well-established, extensive, and affordable public transport system called TriMet . TriMet includes MAX Light Rail, busses, and streetcars and runs throughout the inner city and into Portland’s surrounding suburbs. A trip from the airport on the light rail will take just 40 minutes.

Cycling is another great way to get around the city while getting in some exercise. There are over 315 miles of well-marked bikeways across the city, and Portland is home to the country’s highest percentage of bicycle commuters. Check out BikeTown if you’re interested in exploring the city by bike.

Despite these excellent inner-city options, those planning on taking day trips in Portland will probably need to rent a car. Public transport doesn’t reach far out of the city center, and hiring a car is cheaper than using taxis and rideshare applications.

If you rent a car, try booking a Portland airbnb or hotel with free on-site parking, especially if you’re staying in downtown Portland . This will save you some serious bucks.

Half-Day Trips in Portland

Now that you know how easy and affordable it can be to explore Portland , let’s look at the best half-day trips from Portland. 

Half-day trips are a convenient way to see the surrounding Oregon state when you don’t have too much time to spare or if you don’t want to travel too far.

Multnomah Falls 

Multnomah Falls is the most visited recreation site in the Pacific Northwest, with over two million annual visitors. The falls are open from 9 am to 6 pm and require a ticket to enter the park.

Once you get a glimpse of the incredible views, you’ll quickly understand why this park is so popular with tourists and locals. Best of all, it’s just a 30-minute drive from the city – perfect for a half-day trip in Portland!

Once you arrive, you can enjoy a moderate 2.6-mile hike which will take about an hour and a half to reach the pinnacle of the journey – the Multnomah Falls. This thin waterfall is a spectacular sight to see. It pretty much looks too perfect to be real.

If you enjoy cycling, I recommend renting an E-Bike near the falls and following the scenic road that winds through some of Oregon’s most beautiful state parks. You’ll even catch a glimpse of some other incredible waterfalls along the way.

Because of limited parking at the falls, you must park with a timed entry permit if you choose to bring your own car. You can only purchase these up to two weeks in advance, so don’t leave it too late to get your parking permit!

Suggested trips: Half-Day Multnomah and Columbia River Gorge Tour

Forest Park 

Although technically in the greater Portland area, Forest Park is one of the best half day trips from Portland to take if you need a break from the busy city; it’s large enough to spend half a day exploring and is one of the top things to do in Portland .

This beautiful outdoor space is over 5200 acres large and is home to hundreds of different species of native birds, plants, insects, and wildlife. This means it is six times bigger than Central Park in New York!

Depending on whether you’re looking for a relaxing day trip from Portland or an adventurous one, Forest Park has all the activities you could wish for and more. With over 20 miles of trails, it’s a super popular spot for running, walking, cycling, and horseriding. 

Start at the Wildwood Trail, which follows the park’s entire length. If this seems daunting, there are many loop systems, so you can decide how far you want to walk depending on your fitness level and time.

For a more relaxing park day, pack a picnic and set up camp at one of the several picnic spots along the trails or in the park.

It’s only a 20-minute drive north of the city, which makes it an accessible location for a quick day trip. Parking is free at the forest, but with limited parking (and the environment) in mind, it’s always best to carpool if possible. 

Suggested trips: Forest Park Urban Hiking Tour

Vancouver, WA

A trip to Portland wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the neighboring city of Vancouver. Nope, I’m not talking about the major Canadian city further north, but the smaller city just across the border from Portland in Washington state. 

You could spend a full day exploring this city or just pop across the Oregon-Washington Bridge for a quick lunch. Yup, it’s THAT close to the city and will take you under twenty minutes to get to Vancouver from the heart of Portland.

Downtown Vancouver is flooded with fun things to do and is a very family-friendly city. My favorite time to visit is between March and October when a huge farmers market overtakes the city center. There’s pretty much a fun event or festival held every weekend during the summer months.

While you’re here, wander through Esther Short Park and towards the Vancouver Waterfront, where you can find a cozy restaurant to settle into or pick up a coffee to-go. I recommend strolling along the Columbia River, which is lined with lush green trails and outdoor parks. 

Full-Day Trips in Portland

If you’ve been blessed with a lot of free time to explore Portland, or perhaps you’re on an Oregon road trip , there is no better way to see the greater city and Oregon state than by taking a few day trips from Portland. 

The Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls

There are enough waterfalls around Portland to keep you busy for weeks, but your best way to avoid being overwhelmed is to take a trip to The Columbia River Gorge and Waterfall Alley.

They’re just a short drive along the Columbia River from Portland and provide an oasis of beauty that will surely blow your mind. Unique to the area, the gorge is a temperate rainforest overflowing with flora and fauna.

Visit during spring to experience wildflower blooms as you have never before seen, or during fall when golden foliage overtakes the forests. Even the depths of winter are popular here, with snowcapped trees and frozen-over streams stealing the show.

The main attractions in the region include Multnomah Falls (mentioned earlier as a half-day trip alternative), Hood River, and the Rowena Crest viewpoint. Rowena Crest is the furthest from Portland, yet it is still under an hour and a half drive from the city.

Start your Portland day trip with a morning hike to Multnomah Falls before heading to Hood River for a relaxing midday lunch. Your best bet would be to hit Rowena Crest for some of the most epic views in the state. As with most viewpoints, this view of the horseshoe road bend is particularly spectacular at sunset.

Suggested trip: Columbia Gorge Waterfalls Tour

Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock

If you’re craving some ocean air, Cannon Beach is one of the most popular destinations along the Oregon coastline. The area features colossal sand beaches, incredible rock formations rising from the ground, and beautiful ocean views. 

Cannon Beach is a small beach town packed with character and charm. It gets a lot of attention for being home to Haystack Rock, an imposing 234 ft tall rock jutting from the sand. You can’t miss this massive rock, which is especially beautiful during the golden hours of sunset.

It will take an hour and a half to drive from Portland to this beach, and the drive alone is pretty picturesque. Spend some time relaxing on the beach or walking the length of it, or take the more adventurous route with a visit to Ecola State Park.

Ecola State Park is Cannon Beach’s premier hiking location, where visitors flock for the gorgeous hiking trails overlooking the beach below. Ask your Portland day trip tour guide to take you past the Clatsop Loop, which in my opinion, has the most gorgeous ocean views.

Suggested trip: Oregon Coast Day Tour: Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock

Mount Hood and Timberline Lodge

How about another Oregon waterfall adventure? Mount Hood is the second-highest year-round waterfall in the USA and, as a result, features incredible views of the Columbia River Gorge and surrounding forest. It’s one of the most popular places to visit from Portland on a day trip.

Sometimes following a tour is a more relaxing experience. The tours I’ve linked below will collect you from your Portland accommodation and transport you along the gorgeous forested highway past some of Columbia River Gorges’s best waterfalls, bridges, and viewpoints. 

But the cherry on top will be Mount Hood, which, rising to over 11 thousand feet, is Oregon’s tallest mountain peak.

While in the area, visiting Timberline Lodge is an absolute must. This iconic stone and timber lodge is a tourist attraction in itself, known best for being one of the film sites of the 1980s film, The Shining . 

Besides being a national historic landmark, the lodge is an operating hotel, restaurant, and pub. If you want to grab a bite to eat at this iconic location, I recommend booking a table in advance to avoid disappointment.

On your day trip from Portland, it will take an hour and a half to get to Mount Hood along the US-26 East. There is also a public transport option, but this will take around three hours in each direction, so driving is advised.

Suggested trip: Mount Hood Day Trip from Portland

Willamette Valley 

Easily one of the top day trips in Portland on this list for wine lovers and appreciators of excellent views, Willamette Valley is truly a spectacular place to spend a day. This vineyard-packed valley is just fifty minutes’ drive out of Portland and is home to some of the best pinon noir wineries in the world.

It’s the premier wine region in the Pacific Northwest and can easily be compared to that of Napa Valley, a few states south. The bubbling Willamette river flows through the valley, helping provide the rich nutrients and soil needed to cultivate the grapes.

The entire town is packed with high-end restaurants, boutique shops, fresh flower stalls, and views of rolling vineyard hills. Most of the wineries in the area have been owned by the same families for hundreds of years, which gives the place an authentic and down-to-earth atmosphere. 

Besides everything wine-related, the town is also home to a few distilleries, cheese factories, breweries, and, of course, tons of bike and hiking trails. The area extends for over one hundred miles towards the town of Eugene (to be discussed as its own day trip in Portland).

Join an organized wine-tasting and lunch tour, or make your own itinerary and spend some time exploring the shops and cafes in town. Community Plate is an incredible restaurant with a classic American-inspired menu – you can thank me later!

Suggested trip: Willamette Valley Full-Day Wine Tour

Mount St. Helens, WA

Who wouldn’t be fascinated by an active volcanic crater that last blew its top only 40 years ago in 1980? Mount St. Helens is a magnificent National Volcanic Monument that is the unfortunate site of America’s deadliest and most economically destructive volcanic eruption in history.

It’s located an hour and forty minutes from Portland in the state of Washington. So, you’ll get to tick another state off your bucket list on this day trip.

Although scientists predict that the volcano will erupt again, the mountain has become a popular hiking spot for adventure seekers. There’s something to be said about looking into the eye of an ancient mountain with so much power.

The main hike through the park starts at the Johnston Ridge Observatory, which is also a great place to take in the views and learn a bit more about the volcano’s history. If you aren’t up for a day on your feet, this is an excellent spot to start your day trip in Portland with a view of the volcano.

This state-of-the-art observatory is open from 10 am through 6 pm and displays exhibitions depicting the story of the volcano’s biological, geological, and human impacts.

Suggested trip: Mount St. Helens Adventure Tour from Portland

Silver Falls State Park 

More waterfalls, you say? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Silver Falls State Park is a lush rainforest landscape home to ten of the most picturesque waterfalls in Oregon. The park follows a 7-8 mile hiking loop that passes all ten waterfalls. 

This route is a moderate hike, so just about anyone who considers themselves remotely fit could squeeze all ten waterfall visits into one day. If this sounds a bit daunting, there is a shortcut loop where you can walk 2.8 miles and only miss out on two falls.

While you can’t swim at the waterfall sites, there is a swimming area where you can cool off after a long hike. Believe it or not, Oregon summers can get steamy, so I recommend bringing along a bathing suit if the weather forecast is warm.

Local wildlife such as black bears and panthers roam the park too. Educate yourself on what to do if you run into one of these intimidating creatures by picking up an awareness pamphlet at the park office. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!

If you drive the hour and fifteen-minute journey on your Portland day trip, you’ll have to reserve a day-use parking permit, which will cost only $5 per vehicle.

Suggested trip: Silver Falls Hike and Wine

Less than two hours north of Portland, Astoria is a coastal city that sits at the wide river mouth of the Columbia River. This iconic Oregon coastal town is famous for being the set site of The Goonies, a 1985 film, but its history goes much deeper. 

Founded in 1811, it’s the oldest city in Oregon state and was initially named after the country’s richest man – John Jacob Astor.

Whether a fan of history, nature, or activity and adventure, there are plenty of fun things to do, see, and experience here. Start your day with a walk along the Astoria Riverwalk, which follows about 13 miles of the Columbia River. You can enjoy local shopping and dining and catch incredible views along this developed stretch of river. 

The entire city is surrounded by beautiful foliage, forests, river tributaries, and coastline, making it a hotspot for its natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Sunset Beach, just outside the city, is a gorgeous location for a beach stroll or picnic – if you get it on a warm day. You might even decide to stay a night in this picturesque city.

Sauvie Island

How does picking fresh fruit on a balmy summer’s day sound to you? What about hay rides with your family in the fall? Well, you can do all this and more at Sauvie Island, just a 40-minute hop away from Portland. 

Sauvie Island is the largest island in the Columbia River, with all of its land dedicated to either farming or wildlife conservation. Whatever time of year you choose to visit, Sauvie Island has plenty of family-friendly activities to partake in.

The entire island is pretty much a natural playground, packed with adventures for outdoor lovers, beautiful farms where you can pick your own fruit and veggies, and trails designed for cyclists and hikers. You could also spend your time here soaking up some sun on the river beach, which is also a top spot for kayakers.

If hiking is your sport, follow the Wapato Access Greenway State Park Trail, an easy 2-mile loop through Douglas firs and past seasonal lakes. For a longer trek, the Warrior Rock Lighthouse Trail is 7 miles long and leads to a sandy beach overlooking the state’s smallest lighthouse.

Why not extend your day trip from Portland and spend a night at this unique houseboat in Scappoose , the nearest town to the island? You’ll need to purchase a $10 day-use parking permit if you make your own way to the island.

This day trip is a bit of a drive from the city, but you won’t regret it once you arrive. Unlike the other day trips on this list, which are organized around outdoor adventures, Eugene is a college town home to a young, artistic, and quirky population. 

Home to the University of Oregon, this is arguably Oregon’s largest university city. Naturally, the student population brings to life vibrant energy that can be felt throughout the town.

There are too many things to do and see in Eugene to list, but I’ll give it my best try: Make sure you visit the Fifth Street Public Market, a local spot filled with exciting food stalls, shops, and tasting rooms. If you’re looking for a local gift for family and friends back home, you’ll hit the jackpot here.

If you’re of age, hit one of the local breweries to taste Pacific Northwest Cider on your Portland day trip. After you’ve grabbed a bite to eat at one of the fine restaurants downtown, head to one of the riverside paths to walk off your meal.

There are countless river walks, parks, and outdoor recreation areas, which make spending time outdoors super easy in this college town.

Calling all cheese lovers. Just an hour and twenty minutes from Portland, Tillamook is the heart and soul of the Oregon Coast dairy county. You’ll find a century-old cheese factory here, which tourists can visit for tours and tastings.

The famous Tillamook Creamery has been operating since the 1890s and offers free self-guided tours. Yup, it’s totally FREE to visit this cheesy landmark!

If you aren’t a cheese fan, there are still plenty of things to keep you busy in Tillamook. The city lies at the meeting point of three rivers: The Tillamook, Trask, and Wilson River. This makes it a haven for river sports like kayaking and canoeing, as well as hikers and cyclists.

Spend some time at the Cape Lookout State Park during your day trip from Portland. This state park is on the coastline just south of the city, where you can embark on a hike overlooking beautiful ocean views. If you dare, there are opportunities to go hang gliding or paragliding off the steep coastal cliffs.

History buffs will also be entertained here, especially with a visit to the Tillamook Air Museum. This museum has exhibitions showcasing an impressive collection of World War II aircraft and artifacts. The entire museum is located in a famous airplane hangar – an experience within itself.

North Bonneville, WA

Just across the border in the state of Washington, North Bonneville is a gorgeous riverside town worth a visit. It’s just a fifty-minute drive from Portland, across the famous Bridge of the Gods that connects Oregon with Washington over the Columbia River.

North Bonneville is one of the bigger cities within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, making it a prime spot to stay if you plan to spend some time exploring Oregon’s most famous waterfalls.

The town is small yet packs a real punch when it comes to artisan foods, trendy restaurants, and interesting shops. While in town, don’t skip a visit to Beacon Rock State Park, one of the most exquisite places to view panoramic views of the Columbia Gorge.

This park is a haven for hikers and campers, with an abundance of trails and campsites offering spectacular sunset views. If you’re a fan of ball sports, there is even a nine-hole golf course in the town, perfect for a golfer’s day trip.

The Bonneville Dam is another must-see attraction. In fact, there are ten lakes within three miles of the town, and tons of rivers offering plenty of space to lay out a towel and enjoy the summer sunshine.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

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Don’t Forget your Portland Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Final Thoughts on Day Trips from Portland

And that concludes my list of top day trips to take from Portland, Oregon. Most day trips from this quirky city are outdoor adventures; whether hunting for waterfalls, hiking to the top of volcanic craters, or adventuring through intricate hiking trails.

However, there is also a lot to do for the less adventurous traveler, including a lot of wine and cheese tasting across the lush Oregon valleys. 

If I had to pick one Portland day trip, I would choose to visit the Columbia River Gorge waterfalls, which naturally attract most of the city’s tourists yearly. There aren’t too many cities in America that are pretty much surrounded by world-class waterfalls.

Wherever you decide to spend your extra day or half day, I hope that you have an absolute blast on one of these trips!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aiden Freeborn

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Hello Hiker

The best place to find tips on your upcoming hiking trip!

Top 8 Portland Hiking Groups

Hiking near Portland offers a wide range of wonderful hikes. From hiking in serene state forests, up to towering cascading waterfalls, along the river gorge, and to sweeping panoramic views of the city, Portland hiking has a lot to offer. With so many trails and hiking areas to choose from also means there is a lot of hiking interest in the area. There are many hiking groups in the Portland area where you can meet other hikers, explore new areas, and go on new adventurous hikes.

Here is a quick list of the top 8 Portland hiking groups in the area. Each group has a different focus and goal. Try out various groups and you’ll likely find a group that is a great match for your hikes!

• Mazama Trail Trips – 9,783 members
• NW Wilderness – 8,914 members
• Great Hikes, Epic Eats & Experiences (20s to 40s) – 8,577 members
• The Portland Hiking Meetup Group – 6,993 members
• PDX Wine & Adventure Enthusiasts – 5,845 members
• Contemplative Hiking Society – 5,506 members
• Portland/Vancouver Sierra Club Outings & Events – 4,795 members
• Portland Trail Trekkers: PDX’s Day Hiking and Nature Group – 4,488 members

Mazama Trail Trips

Cost to Join: Free Location: Portland, OR Link: https://www.meetup.com/mazama-hiking/ Description: Mazama Trail Trips focuses on enjoyable hikes, street rambles, backpacking, car camping, snow shoeing, and nordic skiing. This group is incredibly active with over 1,641 events in the past. They meet up very regularly and have events on a weekly basis.

NW Wilderness

Cost to Join: Free Location: Portland, OR Link: https://www.meetup.com/NW-Wilderness/ Description: NW Wilderness focuses on outdoor activities ranging from hiking, backpacking, mountain climbing, kayaking, skiing, and biking. This group is very active with more than 1,034 events in the past. They generally host at least two events a month.

Great Hikes, Epic Eats & Experiences (20s to 40s)

Cost to Join: Free Location: Portland, OR Link: https://www.meetup.com/Great-Hikes-Epic-Eats-20s-to-40s/ Description: Great Hikes, Epic Eats & Experiences (20s to 40s) focuses on going out on hikes and finishing up events with amazing food. They also do other outdoor activities such as kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, snow shoeing, or river tubing. This group has had 139 events in the past with at least one event each month.

The Portland Hiking Meetup Group

Cost to Join: Free Location: Portland, OR Link: https://www.meetup.com/Portland-Hiking-Group/ Description: The Portland Hiking Meetup Group focuses on hikes to explore Oregon and southern Washington hiking trails. They have a wide array of hikers ranging from beginners to the much more experienced hikers. This group is one of the most acti

PDX Wine & Adventure Enthusiasts

Cost to Join: Free Location: Portland, OR Link: https://www.meetup.com/Oregon-Wine-Group/events/past/ Description: PDX Wine & Adventure Enthusiasts focuses on venturing into wine tasting and also outdoor adventures. They host events that have wine tastings, hikes which are followed by a wine picnic, and many other outdoor events to enjoy wine! They have had over 330 events in the past with at least one event each month.

Contemplative Hiking Society

Cost to Join: Free Location: Portland, OR Link: https://www.meetup.com/Contemplative-Hiking-Society/ Description: Contemplative Hiking Society is a group for people who do not hike as if it were a mission and to finish the hike. They enjoy hiking by stopping and smelling the roses. If you enjoy a much more casual and slow pace this is the group for you. They have had over 351 events in the past with one event each week.

Portland/Vancouver Sierra Club Outings & Events

Cost to Join: Free Location : Portland, OR Link: https://www.meetup.com/Portland-Vancouver-Sierra-Club-Outings-Events/ Description: Portland/Vancouver Sierra Club Outings & Events is a group to join local Sierra Club members. In this group you can attend hiking, backpacking, and car camping trips. They also have educational workshops to help increase your knowledge and skills for the outdoors. They had over 924 events in the past with at least two events each month.

Portland Trail Trekkers: PDX’s Day Hiking and Nature Group

Cost to Join: Free Location: Portland, OR Link: https://www.meetup.com/Portland-Trail-Trekker-PDXs-Day-Hiking-and-Nature-Group/ Description: Portland Trail Trekkers: PDX’s Day Hiking and Nature Group is an outdoors club for day hiking, monthly book talks, and other outdoor events. This group has hosted over 558 events in the past with one event each week.

Why should you join a Portland hiking group?

Discover new trails.

If you are new to the area or want to discover new trails, joining a hiking group in Portland is a great way to find new trails. Each group has hikes in different areas and range from very casual hikes to very challenging hikes. Joining a hiking group is a great way to dive straight into new trails.

Challenge Yourself

If you’re looking to challenge yourself then joining a hiking group is a great way to experience new hiking challenges. You can pick from hikes that are rated as challenging or strenuous or work your way up over time to build new hiking skills and have new experiences. There are likely many experienced hikers in these groups that you can learn a lot from and push your boundaries.

Escape Trail Analysis Paralysis

Since Portland has so many hiking trails to choose from it can be a gift and a curse. You can feel like you have so many choices and not enough time so it leads you to making no decision! Joining a hiking group can help with this as they are the ones that pick and choose the hikes, all you need to do is show up!

3 things to consider when joining a Portland hiking group

Where do they meet up.

One of the most important factors is figuring out where the hiking group generally meets up at for their hikes. You do no want to pick a group that meets on the opposite side of the 205 or 84 highway and it takes you an hour in traffic to meet up with them. You can find out where the group meets up by looking at their past events calendar and seeing the hike locations. By choosing a group that meets up in a convenient location then you are more likely to attend more events over time. Some groups also only meet up in out of town locations, so keep this in mind when looking at different groups.

How often do they meet up?

Another key thing to consider is how frequently does the group meet up. If you are looking t build up a consistent hiking habit then you should look for groups that meetup on a weekly basis. Some groups only meet up once or twice a month which could feel too far apart for you. There are even some groups that meetup multiple times a week.

How much hiking experience is needed?

The next thing you want to consider is how much hiking experience is needed for the hikes you are going on. If the group is well organized then they should list the difficulty and experience needed for their hikes. If it is not listed then reach out to the event organizers so that you can match your current experience to the right hikes and have a much better time. There are hiking groups for beginners, casual hikers, and challenging hikes, so keep an eye out for the difference in skill-levels.

Portland hiking offers many alluring hiking trails that are just stunning. You can enjoy the lovely green forests, splendid waterfalls, sweeping river views, grand summits, and more with others in a hiking group.

The enthusiasm and love for the outdoors in all of these groups is wonderful when shared. These groups all offer amazing events and you will have many great experiences and meet many other like-minded hikers. Happy trails!

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DFW Airport taxi rate hike gets thumbs up from city

The airport and dallas love field had previously upped rates related to taxis in june..

By Alexandra Skores

1:03 PM on Apr 10, 2024 CDT

The price to take a taxi from DFW International Airport is rising after the Dallas City Council approved the increase Wednesday, just days after the airport announced changes to prices for its parking rates.

Dallas City Council members passed amendments to DFW Airport’s taxi fares without discussion. These changes include higher minimum charges for terminal changes, previously $7 and now $10; for each trip that requires exiting the airport parking plaza and terminates inside of airport property, previously $14.50 and now $18.50. There is also a change to the minimum charge for each trip that requires exiting the airport parking plaza and terminates outside of airport property, previously $17 and now $22.

The rate increase does not apply to ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft. For app-based ride-hailing service, DFW Airport charges $4 for pick-up and $4 for drop-off, which the customer pays, according to Uber. At Love Field, it’s $2.

Last week, DFW Airport announced plans to raise its parking rates beginning May 1. Rates will increase by $2 to $5 a day, including a $3 increase for drivers passing through the airport.

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Last June , the city upped prices for a trip to or from the central business district which costs $55. It was previously $45. Trips between the airport and the Dallas Market Center also increased by $10 and are now $47. Dallas Love Field also experienced a series of rises in taxi rates last summer.

According to DFW Airport’s website, the airport works with 16 different taxi companies on the lower level of its five terminals. A guest assistant is available between 8 a.m. and midnight for travelers needing assistance.

Alexandra Skores , Aviation Reporter . Alexandra Skores is the aviation writer for The Dallas Morning News, covering airlines, air travel and the aerospace industry. She's a graduate of the University of Iowa. Alexandra has previously worked at the Oregonian in Portland, Oregon and The Gazette in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

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Planning to Combine Business and Leisure Travel? You’re Not Alone.

As employees increasingly add leisure time to their business trips, companies are trying to figure out where their duty of care obligations begin and end.

Credit... Aart-Jan Venema

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By Amy Zipkin

• April 7, 2024

On a Sunday in late January, Melinda Buchmann, who lives in Florida and supervises client relations for RevShoppe, a 30-person remote company advising organizations on sales techniques and strategies, arrived in Banff, Alberta, to help set up a four-day company meeting.

The last day of the event, her husband, Josh, a director of strategic partnerships for the delivery company DoorDash , who also works remotely, joined her. They spent two leisurely days hiking in Banff National Park and visiting Lake Louise.

“I take advantage, because I don’t know when I’m going to return,” Ms. Buchmann said of the decision to combine downtime with a business trip.

As postpandemic work life has changed, and arrangements now include full-time office attendance as well as hybrid and remote work, so, too, has business travel. The phenomenon known as bleisure, or blended business and leisure travel, was initially embraced largely by digital nomads . But such combined travel is now also popular with people outside that group . Allied Market Research, a subsidiary of Allied Analytics, based in Portland, Ore., estimated that the bleisure travel market was $315.3 billion in 2022 and would reach $731.4 billion by 2032.

As employees increasingly add leisure time to their business trips, companies are struggling to determine where their legal obligation to protect employees from harm — their so-called duty of care — begins and ends. And workers may think that because their trip started with business, they will get all the help they need if something goes wrong on the leisure end. Instead, they should generally consider the leisure part of a trip as a regular vacation where they cover all expenses and contingencies.

Companies are responsible for knowing where their employees are during a business trip, covering expenses if an accident or emergency occurs, securing new lodging if a hotel is damaged, even swapping out a broken down rental car. Still, it’s not entirely clear if that coverage ends completely after the conference or the last client meeting.

Companies recognize that threats are increasing, said Robert Cole, senior research analyst focusing on lodging and leisure travel at Phocuswright, a market research company. They are trying to figure out how to take care of a valuable company resource, the employee, without leaving themselves open to financial risk or potential litigation.

“Crafting a comprehensive policy that balances business objectives, employee well-being and legal considerations can be challenging,” Nikolaos Gkolfinopoulos, head of tourism at ICF, a consulting and technology services company in Reston, Va., wrote in an email.

Employees may be on their own without realizing it and may be surprised by out-of-pocket expenses if they require hospital care abroad or evacuation, said Suzanne Morrow, chief executive of InsureMyTrip , an online insurance travel comparison site in Warwick, R.I.

Ms. Morrow said medical coverage provided by a company “is generally only for the dates of the actual business trip abroad.” If travelers are extending the trip for personal travel, she added, “they would want to secure emergency medical coverage for that additional time abroad.”

Employers and employees are left to figure out when the business portion of the trip ends and the leisure segment begins, a significant detail if an employee has a medical emergency. “Where does the corporation liability end?” said Kathy Bedell, senior vice president at BCD Travel, a travel management company.

Companies have varying policies to deal with the new travel amalgam. The chief executive of RevShoppe, Patricia McLaren, based in Austin, Texas, said the company provided flexible travel options and allowed employees to work anywhere they choose.

Even so, there are constraints. The company requires all employees, including executives, to sign liability and insurance waivers when they are on a voluntary company-sponsored trip, such as an off-site meeting. Such waivers typically place responsibility on employees for their own well-being. And if they bring someone, they are responsible for that person’s expenses.

Employees are responsible for requesting the paid time off and notifying their managers of their whereabouts, although that part is not a requirement. Managers have to ensure adequate staffing, Ms. McLaren said.

Elsewhere, employees may not bother to mention the leisure portion of their trip. Eliot Lees, a vice president and managing director at ICF, said he had been on trips as a child with his parents when they combined business and leisure. His parents were academics, who would piggyback vacations onto conferences.

Now he does the same. “I don’t think I ever asked for approval,” he said. (ICF has no formal business-leisure travel policy. It’s allowed as part of personal time off.) After a conference in the Netherlands last year, he spent four days hiking in the northern part of the country.

“I go anywhere, and take more risks than I should,” he said. He said he didn’t carry personal travel or accident insurance.

Any nonchalance may quickly evaporate if a threat emerges. Security experts say even low-risk locations can become high-risk for a few days or weeks of the year.

“Companies are concerned about losing visibility into a traveler’s whereabouts if they booked flights and hotels outside their corporate travel management company,” Benjamin Thorne, senior intelligence manager in London for Crisis24, a subsidiary of GardaWorld, wrote in an email. “The company may think the traveler is in one city when, in reality, they could have booked a holiday package to another nearby city. This lack of visibility by the company makes it difficult to support travelers when a disaster occurs.”

He also raised the possibility that “a traveler with bleisure travel reservations and expectations may find their work trip canceled due to changes in the risk environment or company policy, disrupting their leisure plans.”

Will a company step in off hours if there’s a problem? “That depends on how you are booked,” Mr. Cole, the senior research analyst at Phocuswright, said. A rule of thumb is the further you get from corporate control, the greater the gray area gets.

Half of GoldSpring Consulting’s clients take the responsibility for the entire trip, said Will Tate, a partner at the consultancy based in Cross Roads, Texas, and a certified public accountant. They don’t want the reputational risk. The other half say: “The business trip ended Friday. That’s when we end our duty of care.”

Some companies are trying to define and narrow the gray area. “If you are clearly on personal time, there is no legal requirement for your employer to provide for you,” said Nicole Page, a lawyer whose practice includes employment law at Reavis Page Jump in New York.

Uber provides employees with advisories before a trip, travel assessments, safety tips while traveling and emergency travel assistance, including medical aid, airport travel support, urgent and emergency assistance, and lost or stolen personal property insurance whether they are on business or pleasure travel or a combination.

And at DoorDash, Chris Cherry, head of global safety and security, wrote in an email that “while personal travel is not something we track, we have received requests to extend our travel support capabilities to personal travel.” Mr. Cherry said in those cases, the company has manually added employee leisure itineraries to its travel risk management system and “provided the same level of overwatch that we do for regular business travel.”

The Buchmanns plan to travel this month to Barcelona, Spain, for the McDonald’s Worldwide Convention. DoorDash will have a booth, and Mr. Buchmann will work on the exhibit floor and also entertain clients.

Ms. Buchmann will accompany him. She plans to go sightseeing in the morning, and work in the afternoons and evenings Barcelona time. She will also take three days of paid time off and has shared her plans with Ms. McLaren, the RevShoppe chief executive.

They will stay a day after the conference and plan to visit the Dalí Theater and Museum in Figueres. “I’m sure there will be no shortage of tapas and window shopping along way,” Mr. Buchmann said. He expects to be back at work the next Monday.

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