Portland, Oregon, has long been known for its vibrant arts scene, delicious food, and craft beer culture, but what truly sets this Pacific Northwest city apart is its access to an abundance of natural beauty. Nestled between the Cascade Range and the Columbia River Gorge, Portland is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream.
I’m going to take you through three of my personal favorite hikes in and around Portland, share some unforgettable outdoor activities, and provide you with all the essential details on how to make the most of your own outdoor adventures here. From rugged mountain trails to tranquil lakesides, Portland’s outdoors offer something for every kind of adventurer—whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner looking to explore.
1. Forest Park: A Hidden Gem for Local Hikers
When you think of Portland, you might not immediately think of urban hiking, but Forest Park—the largest urban forest reserve in the U.S.—is a rare gem that allows you to escape into nature without ever leaving the city limits. As a local resident and avid hiker, Forest Park has become my go-to spot for a quick outdoor getaway, offering over 80 miles of trails through lush, dense forest, and providing some of the best opportunities to see wildlife without venturing far from downtown Portland.
My Experience:
On one of my recent visits to Forest Park, I chose to hike the Wildwood Trail, a 30-mile stretch that runs from the park’s south entrance all the way to its northern end. While I didn’t cover the entire trail in one day, I hiked a portion from the NW 29th Ave trailhead to the Washington Park area, which took me about three hours to complete. Along the way, I encountered moss-covered trees, creeks that babbled through the forest, and even a few curious deer. The trail is well-marked, with varying levels of difficulty—perfect for both beginners and seasoned hikers.
One thing that always impresses me about Forest Park is its incredible accessibility. Despite being nestled in a bustling city, the forest provides a serene atmosphere where you feel as though you’ve stepped into another world. The trails are often shaded, so they’re perfect for hiking on sunny days when you need to escape the heat. Plus, the park has a range of different trails, from easy, flat paths to steeper, more challenging hikes.
Things to Do:
- Hiking: As mentioned, the Wildwood Trail is the park’s flagship trail, but there are several other short hikes worth checking out. The Leif Erikson Drive is a gravel road that’s popular for biking, jogging, and walking, offering beautiful views of the surrounding forest and city.
- Wildlife Watching: Forest Park is home to a wide variety of animals, including deer, raccoons, and birds like the Pacific Wren. Bring your camera if you’re into wildlife photography!
- Nature Walks: If you’re new to hiking, you can opt for shorter, easier trails within the park, which provide just as much of a connection with nature without the strain of more difficult terrain.
Location & How to Get There:
- Address: 4033 SW Canyon Rd, Portland, OR 97221
- Getting There: The park is located just a few miles from downtown Portland, and you can access it via TriMet bus services, including the #63 and #20 bus routes. If you’re driving, there’s plenty of parking at various trailheads, but expect a bit of a walk to the more popular spots.
Tips:
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you’re planning to hike the longer trails like Wildwood.
- Wear appropriate hiking shoes, as the trails can be muddy, particularly after rain.
- Forest Park is very large, so it can be easy to lose track of your surroundings. If you’re unfamiliar with the area, consider using a trail map or GPS app.
2. Columbia River Gorge: Waterfalls, Views, and Jaw-Dropping Scenery
While Portland offers ample hiking opportunities, some of the region’s most iconic trails are located just outside the city in the Columbia River Gorge—one of the most visually stunning landscapes in the U.S. The Gorge is known for its impressive waterfalls, sweeping canyon views, and lush forests. I’ve spent countless weekends exploring the trails here, and the experience never gets old.
My Experience:
On my most recent visit to the Columbia River Gorge, I decided to take on the Multnomah Falls Trail. This 2.4-mile trail takes you to one of the most famous waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest—Multnomah Falls, a 620-foot waterfall that plunges dramatically into the lush gorge below. The trail was a bit crowded, especially during the summer months, but the view of the falls was absolutely worth it.
The trail is relatively short and easy, making it suitable for beginners or those with limited time. For those who are up for more of a challenge, you can continue past the falls to the Larch Mountain Trail, which provides incredible panoramic views of the Gorge and Mount Hood. This part of the trail is steeper and more strenuous, but the views from the top are worth every step.
Things to Do:
- Visit Multnomah Falls: This is the iconic stop for anyone visiting the Columbia River Gorge. If you’re short on time, just visiting the falls will give you an incredible experience.
- Hike to Larch Mountain: For more experienced hikers, the Larch Mountain Trail is a great way to see the Gorge from above. The summit offers spectacular views of Mount Hood, Mount Adams, and Mount St. Helens.
- Picnicking: There are several picnic areas in the Gorge, and I’ve found these spots to be perfect for relaxing after a hike. You can enjoy a peaceful lunch while gazing out at the waterfalls and mountains.
Location & How to Get There:
- Address: 50000 E Historic Columbia River Hwy, Corbett, OR 97019
- Getting There: The Gorge is about a 30-45 minute drive from Portland, and you can reach it via I-84 East. There’s plenty of parking near the trailheads, but it can get crowded, so be prepared to wait for a spot, especially on weekends.
Tips:
- Multnomah Falls can be particularly busy during the summer, so try to go early in the morning or during weekdays to avoid the crowds.
- Bring waterproof clothing or gear, especially if you’re hiking close to waterfalls—mist from the falls can get you wet.
- If you’re hiking in the winter or spring, be prepared for muddy and slippery conditions.
3. Mount Tabor Park: Urban Oasis with Scenic Views
For a more accessible hike with stunning views of Portland, I highly recommend Mount Tabor Park. This extinct volcanic cinder cone sits right in the middle of the city and offers a relatively easy hike with spectacular views of Portland and beyond. Unlike the more rugged Forest Park or Columbia River Gorge, Mount Tabor provides a gentler, family-friendly experience while still offering the sense of being immersed in nature.
My Experience:
I recently visited Mount Tabor on a sunny afternoon and hiked the 1.5-mile loop that goes around the summit. The park is beautifully designed, with open meadows, serene reservoirs, and a variety of walking and biking paths. As you reach the summit, the views of downtown Portland, Mount Hood, and the surrounding landscape are incredible. The park’s peaceful atmosphere makes it the perfect place for a picnic or a relaxing afternoon walk.
The trail around the summit is easy, with only a few gentle inclines, and it’s perfect for families or those looking for a quick, low-key outdoor experience. If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, you can explore the park’s steeper trails, which lead you to hidden viewpoints and more secluded areas.
Things to Do:
- Enjoy the Viewpoints: The summit of Mount Tabor offers some of the best views in the city. It’s a perfect spot for photography or simply relaxing and soaking in the landscape.
- Jogging & Cycling: The park has an extensive network of jogging and cycling paths, making it a great spot for those looking to get in some exercise while enjoying nature.
- Picnicking: There are several open grassy areas that are ideal for picnicking, with beautiful views of the city and Mount Hood.
Location & How to Get There:
- Address: 6400 SE 45th Ave, Portland, OR 97215
- Getting There: Mount Tabor is located about 10 minutes from downtown Portland. You can get there by car, bike, or public transportation. The TriMet bus routes #15 and #71 stop near the park entrance.
Tips:
- Bring a blanket and some snacks for a leisurely picnic in the park.
- Be aware that the park can get busy during weekends, especially on nice weather days, so consider visiting on weekdays for a quieter experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there are some areas with uneven terrain.
4. Suggested Outdoor Activities for Portland Hikers
In addition to these three beloved hikes, there are many other outdoor adventures worth exploring in and around Portland. Here are some additional activities I highly recommend for nature lovers:
- Try the Timberline Trail at Mount Hood: For experienced hikers, this 41-mile loop around Mount Hood is a breathtaking adventure. The trail provides stunning views of glaciers, alpine lakes, and forests.
- Go for a Kayak Adventure at Tryon Creek State Natural Area: Rent a kayak or canoe to paddle along the serene waterways of Tryon Creek.
- Visit the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden: Known for its colorful rhododendrons and tranquil lakes, this 9-acre garden is perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Exploring Portland’s Outdoor Beauty
Portland is a city that thrives on its outdoor offerings. Whether you’re looking for challenging hikes with panoramic views or easy walks that allow you to enjoy the serenity of the landscape, Portland’s parks and trails have it all. From the urban wilderness of Forest Park to the majestic waterfalls of the Columbia River Gorge, this city provides endless opportunities to get out and enjoy nature.
With so many outdoor adventures to choose from, I can confidently say that Portland is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. So lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and head out to explore these beautiful green spaces for yourself. I promise, you won’t regret it.