Portland area hiking offers some of the most scenic and diverse trails in the Pacific Northwest, from lush urban parks to rugged mountain peaks and coastal cliffs. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual walker, the region’s variety of trails ensures that there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast.
Portland Area Hiking
For newcomers and those moving to Portland, exploring the area’s incredible hiking spots is a perfect way to connect with nature and experience the beauty that makes Oregon so special.
Pacific Crest Trail
Oregon boasts 460 miles of the famous Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail (PCT), part of the 2,650-mile route stretching from the Mexican border to Canada. This iconic trail was made even more famous by Cheryl Strayed’s memoir Wild and its subsequent film adaptation. The PCT showcases Oregon’s breathtaking Cascade Range and is a dream destination for long-distance hikers.
For more information, visit: www.fs.usda.gov/pct
Columbia River Gorge & Multnomah Falls
Just 25 minutes from Portland, the Columbia River Gorge is an 85-mile-long canyon created by Ice Age floods and volcanic eruptions. This natural wonder is home to the largest concentration of waterfalls in North America, making it one of the most scenic hiking areas near Portland.
A must-visit is Multnomah Falls, the most famous waterfall in Oregon. Towering at 620 feet, this two-tiered cascade is a favorite spot for hikers and photographers alike. The Multnomah Falls Lodge offers stunning views and delicious pancakes—an insider’s tip for hungry adventurers!
Plan your visit with Friends of the Columbia Gorge: www.gorgefriends.org
Forest Park
Located just west of downtown Portland, Forest Park is one of the largest urban forest reserves in the U.S., covering 5,100 acres and featuring over 70 miles of hiking and biking trails. The Wildwood Trail, a 27-mile stretch winding through old-growth forests, is a favorite among locals looking for an escape into nature without leaving the city.
For maps and more information: www.forestparkconservancy.org
Other Top Hiking Destinations Near Portland
Sauvie Island
13901 NW Howell Park Road
Portland, OR 97231
www.sauvieisland.org
With flat, scenic trails, Sauvie Island is an ideal location for birdwatching, picnicking, and leisurely hikes.
Tryon Creek State Park
11321 SW Terwilliger Boulevard
Portland, OR 97219
www.tryonfriends.org
A 653-acre forested oasis with eight miles of trails, perfect for hiking, trail running, and wildlife viewing.
Silver Falls State Park
Silverton, OR 97381
800-551-6949
www.oregonstateparks.org
Home to the Trail of Ten Falls, a 7.2-mile loop where hikers can walk behind a 177-foot waterfall.
Oregon Coast Trail (OCT)
www.coasttrails.org
A scenic coastal trail offering majestic ocean views and a mix of rugged terrain and sandy beaches.
The Watchman Peak Trail – Crater Lake National Park
www.craterlakeinstitute.com
This short but rewarding hike leads to breathtaking panoramic views of Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the U.S.
McKenzie River Trail (MRT)
www.mckenzierivertrail.com
A favorite for both hikers and mountain bikers, featuring lush forests, waterfalls, and clear blue pools.
Wildlife Preserves and Nature Areas
Audubon Society of Portland
A 143-acre wildlife sanctuary with 4.5 miles of trails, featuring native forests, streams, and ponds. The Audubon House includes an interpretive center and a nature store with locally made products.
www.theintertwine.org/node/5721
Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge
Portland’s first official wildlife refuge, this 140-acre wetland in Sellwood is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to the city’s official bird, the great blue heron.
www.portlandoregon.gov/parks
Jackson Bottom Wetland Preserve
A 650-acre wetland in Hillsboro, Oregon, featuring wildlife-viewing platforms, interpretive displays, and accessible trails.
www.theintertwine.org/node/6446
Sauvie Island Wildlife Area
Known for seasonal fruit picking, farmers’ markets, and diverse wildlife, this area attracts nature lovers and families alike.
www.theintertwine.org/node/6967
Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge
A crucial stop on the Pacific Flyway, where thousands of migrating birds rest, refuel, and nest throughout the seasons.
www.theintertwine.org/node/7142
Smith and Bybee Wetlands Natural Area
The largest protected wetlands within a U.S. city, this 205-acre park is home to beavers, black-tailed deer, and bald eagles.
www.theintertwine.org/node/7014
Why Portland Area Hiking Is a Must-Do Experience
For newcomers and those moving to Portland, exploring the area’s vast network of hiking trails is one of the best ways to experience the city’s natural beauty. Whether trekking through lush forests in Forest Park, marveling at Multnomah Falls, or taking on the challenge of the Pacific Crest Trail, the hiking opportunities in and around Portland are endless.
With easy access to urban trails, state parks, and world-renowned scenic areas like the Columbia River Gorge, Portland area hiking is an adventure waiting to happen. Lace-up your boots and discover why Portland is one of the best hiking destinations in the Pacific Northwest!
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