Portland, Oregon: Ultimate Guide to 41 Stunning Day Hikes

day hikes near portland oregon

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Are you looking for an amazing outdoor adventure? Portland, Oregon, is a great place to explore the beauty of nature. From lush forest trails and mountain peaks to the scenic ocean cliffs along the coast, there are plenty of incredible hikes near Portland

We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the 41 best hikes near Portland, highlighting some of our favorite hiking trails offering stunning views, interesting wildlife, and other unique features not found anywhere else. These beautiful places provide something for every type of hiker—no matter what level or experience rate they may be at—and all are easily accessible within a day’s hike!

1. Silver Falls State Park Trail of Ten Falls

  • Drive Time: 75 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 7.4 miles
day hikes near portland oregon
South Falls at Silver fall State Park.

Silver Falls State Park Trail of Ten Falls Loop is an absolutely beautiful hike worth taking if you are ever in Oregon. The trail winds through lush green forests, eventually leading to a breathtaking display of ten gushing waterfalls.

What sets this day hike apart from other trails is that you can stand behind some of the falls giving you full access to the magical experience created by these cascading behemoths. Dogs are not allowed on this trail or in the park. Day-use parking permits are required and can be purchased at the entrance booth.

2. Dog Mountain Trail

  • Drive Time: 60 min
  • Hike Difficulty: Challenging
  • Hike Distance: 6.5 miles

Located near Stevenson, Washington, is Dog Mountain Trail, an enjoyable loop hike leading to staggering views of the Gorge. Despite its short length, the steep path requires some endurance from hikers – but rewards them with an eye-catching combination of wildflowers and birdsong during the spring months.

Hikers flock to this trail once the wildflowers bloom, although crowds are limited by requiring weekend permits from April 29- June 19. The best months to visit are March through November.

3. Angel’s Rest Trail

  • Drive Time: 30 min
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 4.5 miles
day hikes near portland oregon
Angel’s Rest

This an incredible hike for adventurers of all levels. It winds through thickly wooded forests with a few waterfalls and a creek crossing in the first few miles. The second half of the hike is more challenging with steeper rocky terrain and finally opens up to the stunning 360-degree vista of the Gorge. This trailhead is located along the Historic Columbia River Highway. There are a handful of waterfall hikes along the road here.

4. Tom McCall Point Trail

  • Drive Time: 80 min
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 4.8 miles

Located within the Tom McCall Nature Preserve, this trail is a must-visit for a peaceful and refreshing hiking experience. You’ll find yourself under a dense canopy of Douglas fir trees at some points that open up to magnificent vistas and carpets of wildflowers.

The Tom McCall Point Trail terrain is straightforward but steep in some parts, so wear your best hiking boots for rugged traction, and it can be muddy during the rainy season. This preserve is rich in wildlife, with plenty of opportunities for viewing bald eagles, woodpeckers, and other feathered friends from afar! Since it is located within the nature preserve – no dogs are allowed.

5. Wahclella Falls Trail

  • Drive Time: 45 min
  • Hike Difficulty: Easy
  • Hike Distance: 1.9 miles

Nestled in a quiet corner of the Columbia River Gorge, this roundtrip trail takes visitors along rushing streams, through old-growth forests, and to breathtaking views at Upper and Lower Falls. Aside from the impressive views and lush greenery along the way, visitors love the unique rock formations at Upper Falls.

6. Tunnel Falls via Eagle Creek Trail

  • Drive Time: 45 min
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
  • Hike Distance: 11.9 mile
day hikes near portland oregon
Eagle Creek

This majestic trail will find lush forests, wildfire-burned areas, boulder fields, wild rivers, and tall waterfalls. It is considered a moderately strenuous hike with elevation change; beware of a few narrow spots on the trail along some extremely high cliffs. This may not be the hike for you if you fear heights.

7. Mount Tabor Loop Trail

  • Drive Time: 16 min
  • Hike Difficulty: Easy
  • Hike Distance: 1.9 mile

The Mount Tabor Loop Trail is a great way to explore the natural beauty within the city limits of Portland, Oregon. The trail boasts spectacular views from Mount Tabor, an extinct cinder cone volcano, the surrounding cityscape, and rolling green hills. It is an excellent spot for beginner hikers looking for a training hike or testing gear.

9. Cape Lookout Trail

  • Drive Time: 95 min
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 4.7 miles
day hikes near portland oregon
Cape Lookout

The Cape Lookout Trail is an absolute must-see for anyone visiting the Oregon Coast and under 2 hours for downtown Portland. The hike boasts captivating views of beautiful ocean cliffs and sandy beaches. Various routes depend on your fitness level, and each one offers stunning views of tide pools, surf crashing on rocky outcroppings, and wildlife galore.

10. Salmon River Trail

  • Drive Time: 70 min
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 25.9-mile loop or 7.6-mile out-and-back option

The Salmon River Trail is a wonderfully scenic route with abundant wildlife that runs more than 26 miles along the Salmon River. Meandering through thick forests, wildflower meadows, and majestic mountains, this trail provides an easy yet rewarding experience in Oregon’s stunningly beautiful outdoors. The best time to visit is after the spring thaw between April through October.

11. Leif Erikson Trail

  • Drive Time: 16 min
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 12 miles

The Leif Erikson Trail in Forest Park is a popular scenic hiking trail just minutes from downtown Portland. It offers a peaceful escape into the city’s lush and verdant forests. The trail is named after Leif Erikson, a Norse explorer believed to have been the first European to set foot on North American soil.

The trail is well-maintained and accessible to hikers of all levels, providing stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains. Along the way, visitors can learn about the history and ecology of the area through informative markers and signs.

12. Mirror Lake Trail

  • Drive Time: 70 miles
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 4.2 miles
day hikes near portland oregon
Mirror Lake, Mount Hood

Mirror Lake Trail is arguably one of the most breathtaking hikes in the country. This trail is located in the Mount Hood National Forest and is 4.6 miles out and back. Stunning views of the reflective Mirror Lake and Mount Hood will be in the background. This is a moderate hike; expect to cross a few small creeks along a dirt trail before reaching the lake.

There will be countless photo opportunities, and visiting on a clear day when the mountain is visible is highly recommended.

13. Hamilton Mountain Trail

  • Drive Time: 50 min
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 6.4 miles

The Hamilton Mountain Trail is a picturesque hiking trail located near Beacon Rock. It’s a moderate out-and-back trail with an elevation gain of over 2,000 feet. Along the way, hikers are treated to stunning views, including the iconic Beacon Rock and the Bonneville Dam.

The trail is also known for its variety of wildflowers and wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. The hike’s highlight is reaching the summit of Hamilton Mountain, where hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Gorge and the surrounding mountains.

14. Angel’s Rest to Devil’s Rest Trail

  • Drive Time: 30 min
  • Hike Difficulty: Challenging
  • Hike Distance: 10 miles

Angel’s Rest to Devil’s Rest Trail is a loop trail that meanders along the Columbia River Gorge, with dramatic views of steep cliffs and lush green meadows. Some of Oregon’s highest mountain peaks can be seen in the distance while beautiful streams gurgle along the route.

However, after a strenuous but rewarding climb, the final destinations – Angel’s and Devil’s Rest – make this trail special. A perfect spot for a picnic lunch or break with incomparable 360-degree panoramic views from each vista.

15. Ramona Falls Trail

  • Drive Time: 70 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 8.1 miles
day hikes near portland oregon
Ramona Falls

Ramona Falls Trail is a must-see “waterfall hikes” destination for anyone looking to explore the majestic beauty of nature. Nestled in the heart of Mt. Hood National Forest, this picturesque trail winds through lush vegetation and otherworldly rock formations, leading up to the cascading waterfall stair-stepping down 120 feet of a black basalt wall.

Those who make the trek need to know you must cross the Sandy River, which can be dangerous when the water is high. The best time to go is late summer or early fall when the river is at its lowest level.

16. Larch Mountain Trail

  • Drive Time: 55 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Challenging
  • Hike Distance: 15 miles

This demanding trek starts near Multnomah Falls, winding along the Gorge and traversing the slopes of Oregon’s highest peak – Mount Hood. Along the journey, hikers have plenty of time to absorb beautiful green forests, river, and waterfall views. With nearly 4000 feet of elevation gain and spectacular panoramas, it’s no wonder this trail has been rated one of Oregon’s best hiking trails!

17. Old Salmon River Trail

  • Drive Time: 65 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Easy
  • Hike Distance: 2.7 miles

The Old Salmon River Trail is a beautiful hiking trail on the slopes of Mount Hood. The trail is a moderate out-and-back hike that takes hikers through a lush old-growth forest alongside the Salmon River. Along the way, hikers will encounter several stunning waterfalls, including the 30-foot and 65-foot Lower Salmon River Falls.

The trail is well-maintained and offers hikers plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery, including several benches and picnic tables.

18. Timothy Lake Loop Trail

  • Drive Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 13.4 miles
day hikes near portland oregon
Timothy Lake and Mount Hood

The Timothy Lake Loop Trail is a popular Mount Hood National Forest hiking trail. This mostly flat trail takes hikers on a scenic journey around the Timothy Lake reservoir. The trail is well-marked and maintained, making it an excellent option for hikers of all experience levels.

Hikers will encounter stunning views of the Cascade Mountains and opportunities to see wildlife, such as bald eagles, osprey, and otters. The trail converges with the Pacific Crest Trail at a point and features several campsites, making it an excellent option for those looking to backpack or spend a night in the great outdoors.

19. Dry Creek Falls Trail

  • Drive Time: 50 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 3 miles

The Dry Creek Falls Trail winds through a lush forest, follows alongside Dry Creek, and ends at a stunning 74-foot waterfall. The trail features several wooden bridges that cross over the creek, allowing hikers to observe the creek’s crystal-clear waters and several small cascades along the way. The waterfall is breathtaking and surrounded by a lush forest of Douglas fir, cedar, and Western hemlock trees.

20. Buck Peak Trail

  • Drive Time: 1 hour 50 min
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 13.7 miles

The Buck Peak Trail via Huckleberry Mountain trail follows a ridge through a dense forest of Douglas fir and Western hemlock trees. It features several switchbacks that provide hikers with a challenging but enjoyable ascent.

At the summit, hikers will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, including the Cascade Range and the Hood River Valley. The summit is also an excellent spot for a picnic or to relax and take in the scenery.

21. Wahkeena Falls Trail

  • Drive Time: 35 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 5.1 miles
day hikes near portland oregon
Wahkeena Falls

The Wahkeena Falls to Multnomah Falls Trail is a picturesque Gorge National Scenic Area hiking trail. The loop takes hikers through lush forests and past several scenic waterfalls. The trail begins at the base of the Wahkeena Falls, a beautiful 242-foot waterfall that cascades over basalt cliffs.

From there, hikers will climb a series of switchbacks through the forest, eventually reaching the famous Multnomah Falls. This 620-foot waterfall is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Oregon. Along the way, hikers will encounter several other waterfalls, including Fairy Falls, Dutchman Falls, and Weisendanger Falls, each with their own unique beauty.

22. Silver Star Mountain Trail

  • Drive Time: 90 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Challenging
  • Hike Distance: 6.3 miles

The Silver Star Mountain Trail is a popular Gifford Pinchot National Forest hiking trail. The trail is a challenging out-and-back hike that climbs over 2,000 feet of elevation gain to the summit of Silver Star Mountain.

Here hikers will have stunning panoramic views of the Cascade Range, including Mount St. Helens, Mount Hood, and Mount Adams. The trail is well-maintained, but its steep incline and rocky terrain make it a challenging hike. An old fire lookout tower marks the summit of Silver Star Mountain.

23. Cape Horn Trail

  • Drive Time: 35 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 6.4 miles

The trail is a moderate round-trip hike that offers hikers stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge and the surrounding mountains. The trail features several switchbacks and steep inclines, making it best suited for experienced hikers. Hikers will encounter several waterfalls, streams, and beautiful forests.

At the top of the trail, hikers will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the river, the Bonneville Dam, and the surrounding mountains. The summit is also an excellent spot for a picnic or to relax and take in the scenery.

24. Trillium Lake Loop Trail

  • Drive Time: 75 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Easy
  • Hike Distance: 1.9 miles
day hikes near portland oregon
Trillium Lake Loop Trail

This trail is an easy loop hike that circles around the picturesque Trillium Lake, offering hikers stunning views and the reflection of Mount Hood in the lake’s calm waters. The trail is well-maintained and accessible for all skill levels, making it a popular destination for families and casual hikers.

25. Nesmith Point Trail

  • Drive Time: 40 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Challenging
  • Hike Distance: 10.2 miles

The trail is a strenuous round-trip hike that leads to the summit of Nesmith Point, offering hikers spectacular views of the Columbia River Gorge and the surrounding mountains. The trail features a steep incline through a beautiful forest of Douglas fir and Western hemlock trees, with several switchbacks and rocky sections.

Hikers will also encounter several streams, waterfalls, and wildflower meadows. At the top of the trail, hikers will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the river, including the Bonneville Dam, Beacon Rock, and Mount Adams in the distance. The summit is also an excellent spot for a picnic or to relax and take in the scenery.

26. Tamanawas Falls Trail

  • Drive Time: 1 hour 45 min
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 3.4 miles

Tamanawas Falls Trail is a local’s favorite Mount Hood National Forest hike. The trail is a 3.4-mile round trip suitable for hikers of all skill levels. The trail’s highlight is the stunning Tamanawas Falls, which is a 100-foot-tall waterfall that cascades into a serene pool.

Hikers can enjoy views of the forested landscape, moss-covered rocks, and rushing streams along the trail. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, with a gradual incline that makes it accessible for families with children or those looking for a leisurely hike.

27. Latourell Falls Trail

  • Drive Time: 34 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 2.0 miles
day hikes near portland oregon
Latourell Falls

The trail is a moderate loop hike that takes hikers through a lush forest and past several stunning waterfalls, including the 249-foot Upper Latourell Falls, which cascades over a striking basalt cliff. The trail is well-maintained and offers hikers several viewing platforms and benches to stop and take in the scenery of the Gorge.

28. Herman Creek Pinnacles Trail

  • Drive Time: 50 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Challenging
  • Hike Distance: 4.6 miles

The trail is a strenuous round-trip hike that leads hikers through a rugged and rocky landscape to a series of impressive rock formations known as the Herman Creek Pinnacles. The trail starts in a lush forest, following Herman Creek through a narrow canyon with several waterfalls.

As hikers climb higher up the trail, the terrain becomes more rugged and rocky, with several steep switchbacks and scrambling sections. The Herman Creek Pinnacles are a series of towering rock formations that offer impressive views of the surrounding wilderness.

The pinnacles are particularly impressive in the winter when covered in snow and ice, creating a striking contrast with the dark basalt rock.

29. Tom, Dick, and Harry Mountain Trail

  • Drive Time: 70 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Challenging
  • Hike Distance: 9.0 miles

The Tom, Dick, and Harry Mountain Trail is a popular hiking trail near Government Camp, Oregon, starting at the Mirror Lake Trailhead. The trail is a moderate to strenuous 4.4-mile round trip hike that leads hikers to the summit, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

The trail starts in a dense forest of fir and hemlock trees, gradually climbing in elevation as it winds up the mountain and past Mirror Lake. The final section of the trail requires hikers to scramble up a rocky slope to reach the summit, where they are rewarded with breathtaking views of Mount Hood, the Salmon-Huckleberry Wilderness, and the surrounding area.

30. Eagle Creek Trail to Wahtum Lake

  • Drive Time: 45 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Challenging
  • Hike Distance: 25.8 miles
day hikes near portland oregon
Eagle Creek

The Eagle Creek Trail to Wahtum Lake is on the slopes of Mount Hood. The strenuous hike follows the Eagle Creek Trail before ascending to Wahtum Lake, offering hikers stunning views of the Gorge and the surrounding mountains. The trail is well-maintained, but its steep incline and rocky terrain make it a challenging hike best suited for experienced hikers.

Along the way, hikers will encounter several stunning waterfalls, including Punchbowl Falls and Tunnel Falls. The trail passes through a beautiful old-growth forest and a recent wildfire burn area. At the top of the trail, hikers will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Wahtum Lake and the surrounding mountain peaks. The parking lot can fill up quickly, so get to the trailhead early on the weekends.

31. Maple Trail at Rooster Rock

  • Drive Time: 30 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Easy
  • Hike Distance: 3.2 miles

The Maple Trail is a scenic hiking trail located in Rooster Rock State Park; The trail is an easy 3.2-mile loop hike that offers hikers stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge, Rooster Rock, and the surrounding forested hills. The trail winds through a forest of oak and maple trees, offering shade on hot summer days, and passes by a large meadow home to various wildlife.

The trail’s highlight is Rooster Rock. This large basalt rock formation rises above the surrounding landscape and offers panoramic views of the river and the surrounding mountains.

32. Eagle Fern Park Loop Trail and Eastern Loop

  • Drive Time: 45 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Easy
  • Hike Distance: 1.4 miles

Eagle Fern Park Loop Trail and Eastern Loop Trail are in Eagle Fern Park, near Estacada, Oregon. Combined, both loop trails are 3.8-mile hike that takes hikers through a lush forest of Douglas fir and western red cedar trees, along a scenic creek, and past several waterfalls.

The trail offers a variety of terrain, including some steep sections, making it a challenging but rewarding hike for hikers of all skill levels. Along the way, hikers will pass by the park’s namesake, the Eagle Fern, a rare and protected plant species found only in the Pacific Northwest.

33. Beacon Rock Trail

  • Drive Time: 50 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 1.5 miles
day hikes near portland oregon
Beacon Rock

The trail is a moderate 2.8-mile round trip hike that climbs over 700 feet to the top of Beacon Rock, a massive basalt monolith that towers over the Columbia River. The trail is well-maintained and features several switchbacks and a series of handrails and steps to help hikers navigate the steep incline.

At the top of the trail, hikers will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the river and the surrounding mountains. The trail also offers several picnic areas and benches, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.

day hikes near portland oregon
Looking East from the top of Beacon Rock

34. Rowena Plateau Trail

  • Drive Time: 70 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Easy
  • Hike Distance: 2.0 miles

The Rowena Plateau Trail is a picturesque hiking trail located in the Columbia River. The trail features a variety of wildflowers in the spring and summer months, including the vibrant yellow balsamroot and purple lupine.

The plateau is a unique geological formation formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago and features several distinctive basalt columns and formations. The trail also provides hikers with the opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles and mule deer. Dogs are not allowed.

35. Silver Creek Falls Canyon Trail

  • Drive Time: 75 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 5.6 miles

Silver Creek Falls Canyon Trail is a breathtaking hiking trail in Silver Falls State Park. The trail is a moderate 5.6-mile loop hike that takes hikers through a lush forest of Douglas fir and western hemlock trees, past several stunning waterfalls, and along the picturesque Silver Creek. The dirt trails feature waterfalls, including the iconic South Falls, which plummets 177 feet into a pool below.

36. Wildwood Trail

  • Drive Time: 22 min
  • Hike Difficulty: Challenging
  • Hike Distance: 29.5 miles
day hikes near portland oregon
Wildwood Trail, Forest Park

Located within Forest Park (the nation’s largest urban forests)in the West Hills of Portland –it is a nature lover’s paradise! With approximately 5,100 acres of land, it is the largest urban wilderness in the United States and is home to lush vegetation, majestic wildlife, and stunning views.

The trail is a point-to-point trail with many trailheads giving options for section hikes. Dogs are welcome, but they need to be on a leash. While you’re in the area, check out Washington Park and the Oregon Zoo.

37. Tryon Creek Triple Bridge Loop

  • Drive Time: 14 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 3.5 miles

The Tryon Creek Triple Bridge Loop is a scenic hiking trail in Tryon Creek State Park in southwest Portland. The 3.5-mile loop trail takes hikers through dense forests, across three picturesque bridges, and past babbling streams and serene meadows.

The trails’ three bridges – the Redwood Bridge, the Middle Creek Bridge, and the High Bridge – offer stunning views of the surrounding natural beauty and provide a unique hiking experience. The trail is suitable for hikers of all levels and is especially popular among families with young children.

38. Champoeg State Heritage Area Loop

  • Drive Time: 35 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Easy
  • Hike Distance: 8.9 miles

Hiking at Champoeg State Heritage Area offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance and is situated on the banks of the Willamette River. The mostly paved paths wind through various habitats, including oak savannas, prairies, and forests, offering hikers a chance to experience various ecosystems.

The park’s historical significance lies in the fact that it was the site of the first provisional government of Oregon in 1843.

39. Elk Meadow Trail

  • Drive Time: 90 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 6.4 miles
day hikes near portland oregon
Mount Hood view from Elk Meadows

This round-trip hike leads to the beautiful Elk Meadow, offering hikers breathtaking views of Mount Hood and the surrounding wilderness. The trail features a gradual incline through a lush forest of Douglas fir, Western hemlock, and Western red cedar trees.

Hikers will encounter several streams, waterfalls, and wildflower meadows. At the trail’s end, hikers will reach the beautiful Elk Meadow, where they can relax and enjoy the stunning views of Mount Hood and the surrounding wilderness. The meadow is also great for a picnic or enjoying peaceful surroundings.

40. Banks-Vernonia Trail

  • Drive Time: 45 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 22.4 miles

The Banks-Vernonia Trail is a beautiful rail-to-trail hiking path in the heart of northwest Oregon. The trail was once used as a railroad line, but today it offers stunning views of the surrounding forests, streams, and wildlife.

The trail winds through dense forests of Douglas fir, cedar, and maple trees and crosses several streams and bridges. In the fall, the leaves turn brilliant shades of orange, yellow, and red, making for a truly picturesque hiking experience.

Along the trail, you’ll also come across several historic railroad trestles converted into pedestrian bridges. These trestles offer some of the best views on the trail and provide a unique glimpse into the area’s railroad history.

40. Warrior Rock Lighthouse – Sauvie Island

  • Drive Time: 45 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 6 miles

This is a beautiful hiking trail that leads to the Warrior Rock Lighthouse, which is located on the Columbia River in Oregon. This hike is great for those who enjoy the coastal scenery, wildlife, and history. The trail is an out-and-back trip and is considered moderate in difficulty.

The trailhead is located at the end of a gravel road, which adds to the adventure of the hike. As you start the trail, you will be surrounded by trees and will hike along a well-defined trail that offers stunning views of the Columbia River.

You will eventually reach the Warrior Rock Lighthouse along the trail. The lighthouse was built in 1889 to guide ships safely through the Columbia River. The lighthouse was automated in the 1960s, and it is a popular destination for hikers and tourists.

41. Multnomah Falls

  • Drive Time: 30 minutes
  • Hike Difficulty: Moderate
  • Hike Distance: 2.6 miles
day hikes near portland oregon
Multnomah Falls

Multnomah Falls is one of the most iconic Pacific Northwest waterfalls and a popular destination for hikers and tourists. The hike to the top of Multnomah Falls is a quick but steep ascent on a mostly paved 2.6-mile round trail suitable for hikers of all skill levels.

The trail is well-maintained and features stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge and surrounding forests. As you hike the many switchbacks towards the falls, you’ll hear the sound of rushing water getting louder and louder until you finally arrive at the base of the 620-foot waterfall.

The waterfall is truly a sight to behold, and visitors can take in the view from several observation points along the trail. Hiking Multnomah Falls is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the area and is a beloved destination.

Final Thoughts

Portland, Oregon, is the perfect destination for avid hikers who want to explore epic trails and surrounding nature. With so many stunning hikes nearby and some within Portland’s city limits, you have plenty of options when planning your next adventure.

From the majestic crystal-clear waterfalls along the Columbia River Gorge to the breathtaking views in Angel’s Rest Trail, every trail offers something special you will never forget. No matter what type of hiking experience you’re looking for, there’s sure to be a hike near Portland that meets your needs.

Plan ahead and hit the trails – with great hikes near Portland. You’ll explore some of the Northwest’s most stunning areas without traveling too far outside town.

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