Post Overview: A list of the best hikes near Portland, Oregon

If COVID taught me anything, it’s this: nature is not a mere alien-like wonder — it’s a necessity.

Thankfully, I live in a very green city and there’s plenty of stunning hikes near Portland that provide the perfect opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

In fact, one of my favorite things about living in Portland is the abundance of nature.

Portland is home to one of the largest urban forests in the country, and with over 80 miles of trails, you can bet there’s no shortage of phenomenal Portland hikes to choose from.

You don’t have to travel far to find yourself completely immersed in a forest, heck — you can even find redwoods and sequoias within city limits!

So today, we’ll cover the best hikes near Portland, Oregon. I hope you enjoy!

Who am I and why should you trust my list of the best hikes near Portland?

I’m a lifelong Oregonian! I was raised in Portland and spent most of my childhood exploring the natural wonders of Oregon.

Shortly after meeting my husband we embarked on a whirlwind tour of Oregon state — visiting every corner and popping off at every small town we passed.

My husband films national parks and forests for a living (I know, I can’t believe that can be a real job either) and so we hike a lot.

We both thoroughly enjoy hiking (and living in Portland) and took it upon ourselves to find the best hikes near Portland, Oregon to share with anyone interested in planning a trip to our beloved city.

Tips for Hiking Near Portland

You + sunscreen = best friends (forever)

Don’t make the mistake of foregoing sunscreen, even during overcast days. I swear by this sunscreen. I discovered it in France and now purchase it in bulk. You’ll NEVER catch me without it.

Pack your reusable water bottle

We only have one planet, I never leave the house without my trusty HydroFlask.

Wear hiking boots with good traction

Even though (most) trails are well maintained, exposed roots are not uncommon. It’s easy to trip in the woods, so set yourself up for success by wearing proper shoes. These are my hiking boots, and I’d sleep in them if I could.

Hiking with pups

Pups are completely fair game on the trails mentioned below — just make sure to follow the standard rules you probably already know: keep your lovely pooch on a leash and remember to pick up.

Wear layers

Regardless of the forecast, always be prepared for cold temperatures and rain. Plus, you can always remove a layer if need be.

Leave No Trace

If you’re unfamiliar with Leave No Trace, it’s a measure to be a good steward of the land. You can read about the seven principals of Leave No Trace here.

Best Hikes in Portland Oregon

#1. The Wildwood Trail

Hiking distance: 0-30 miles (the distance is up to you)
Elevation gain: 2,700 ft
Difficulty: Easy/moderate (depending on distance you choose)

If you’re looking for a hike near Portland that feels completely removed from the city then the famous Wildwood Trail is right for you.

A mere 10-minute drive from downtown, the Wildwood Trail starts near the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington Park and ends in Forest Park. The trail takes you through a healthy dense forest and crosses the recently built Barbara Walker Crossing, which is especially beautiful in the fall.

The best part about this Portland hike is that the distance is completely up to you. You can hike the entire 30-mile distance if you’re feeling adventurous or simply hike a small portion of it.

The scenery doesn’t change too much, but the hike is iconic for good reason, it’s beautiful!

#2. Hoyt Arboretum’s 30-Minute Loop Trail

Hiking distance: half-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy

Hoyt Arboretum, located a mere 10-minute drive from the downtown core has SO many hiking trails to choose from. But with so many great options, it’s easy to get overwhelmed.

I suggest starting with the lovely Hoyt Arboretum 30-Minute Loop Trail because it’s a great introduction to the expansive healthy forest in this area.

This easy Portland hike starts at Stevens Pavillion and leads into a spruce forest before releasing you into the Red Pine Collection where you’ll stroll through dense hedges of fir trees before looping back to the visitor center.

Stevens Pavillion is located across the street from the Hoyt Arboretum Visitor Center. There’s a small parking lot that fills up fairly quickly on the weekends.

The Visitor Center is worth a visit while you’re in the area. Hoyt Arboretum is home to more than 6,000 trees and encompasses 2,300 species that covers 12 miles of hiking trails — take your time exploring the area!

Note: Bicycles are NOT allowed on the trail, so this is a great hike for those that prefer not to share the trail with bikers.

#3. Lower Macleay to Pittock Mansion

Hike distance: 5-miles
Elevation gain: 920 ft
Difficulty: Easy/moderate

Pittock Mansion is arguably the BEST viewpoint in Portland, so it makes sense that this is a very popular Portland hike.

The popular trail starts at the Lower Macleay Trailhead and takes you past a lovely creek that borders a lush forest full of ancient Douglas-firs and the infamous Witch’s Castle (is it haunted?) before ending at Pittock Mansion (a must-see for visitors and locals alike).

The trail is flat up until you pass Witch’s Castle, at which point prepare for an uphill trek (with switchbacks) but it’s completely worth it because the viewpoint of downtown from Pittock Mansion is breathtaking.

Soak in the views before starting your return hike back, but take note — this is one of the most popular hikes near Portland, so expect crowds.

#4. The 4T Trail

Hike distance: 4-mile hike
Elevation gain: 1,600 ft
Difficulty: Easy

The “4” in the 4T Trail refers to the four modes of transportation this hike is reliant on to complete (train, tram, trail and trolley).

The trail portion of the hike is only 4-miles and the starting point is completely up to you! You can start the 4T Trail from downtown Portland, OHSU, the Oregon Zoo or South Waterfront.

The tram is my favorite leg of the trail because the views of Mt. Hood (on a clear day) are hard to beat. The tram is $5 per person, but you only need to pay for the trip up the hill.

Therefore, if you do this hike counter-clockwise, you won’t need to purchase fare for the tram.

As a Portland local, I decided to hike this trail because it’s such a unique concept and it was so much fun! It’s the perfect way to start a weekend morning — head to the farmers market afterwards and you’ll see why so many folks love calling Portland home.

Note: TriMet fare is $2.50 per person for 2.5 hours, $5 for all day pass.

#5. Marquam Trail Nature Park Loop

Hike distance: 6.2 miles
Elevation gain: 1000 ft
Difficulty: Easy/moderate

This Portland hike is perfect for nature loves fond of native flora. The trail is full of Oregon classics like the western hemlock, western red cedar, vine maple and big-leaf maples.

Hike this trail in the fall to witness the red maples burst with deep color during autumn. But that’s not the only remarkable feature on this trail, make sure to swing by the Marquam Mosaic — it’s so beautiful!

#6. Council Crest

Hike distance: 3.3 miles
Elevation gain: 820 ft
Difficulty: Easy/moderate

This is a great hike near Portland for anyone looking to get their heart pumping because the elevation gain makes this a great workout without needing to cover too much distance!

The trail leads you past an impressive old-growth forest until breaking topping off in a neighborhood of beautiful homes. The icing on the cake is the viewpoint at the end (my second favorite viewpoint in Portland).

At 1,073′, Council Crest is the highest point in Portland, so you can bet the views from this park are glorious (especially during sunset). You’ll see Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams and even Mt. Rainier.

Take your time on the trail and make sure to read the interpretive signs — you’re guaranteed to learn something interesting or new.

#7. Maple-Wildwood Loop Hike

Hike distance: 6.3 mile loop
Elevation gain: 860 ft
Difficulty: Easy

The Maple-Wildwood Loop Trail is beautiful any time of year, but especially so in the fall (Portland in the fall, I tell you). The trails takes you directly into the heart of an old-growth forest, making for a meditative experience.

Heads up: this hike is heavily trafficked, be prepared for crowds.

Note: The trail gets muddy during the fall and winter months, wear proper shoes and watch your step on inclines.

#8. Mount Tabor Blue Loop Trail

Hike distance: 2 miles
Elevation gain: flat
Difficulty: Easy

Did you know that Portland is only one of two American cities with a volcano within city limits?

Fret not, it’s a dormant volcano, but it works to our advantage because the viewpoints from the summit are spectacular! The high elevation makes this an ideal spot to catch sunset over Portland (pack a picnic). Follow the color coded markers along the trees and trail to ensure you don’t stray.

But honestly, straying wouldn’t be so bad! The area is beautiful and fun to explore so if you’re looking for short hikes near Portland, the Mount Tabor Blue Loop Trail definitely fits the bill.

Local’s Tip: Pick up a pizza from Apizza Scholls after your hike. It’s one of my favorite pizza places in Portland.

#9. Forest Park Ridge Trail

Hike distance: 3 miles
Elevation gain: 860 ft
Difficulty: Easy/moderate

The Forest Park Ridge Trail is one of my favorite hikes near Portland because of the stunning views of the St. Johns Bridge within a quarter mile of the hike. The trail is great for getting your heart pounding and leads into the heart of an evergreen forest until ending at a fire road before encouraging you to return.

I suggest parking across the St. Johns Bridge and walking over it to get to the trailhead because the small pull out your GPS will lead you to is not a real parking lot. What’s more, it’s always full and there’s no sidewalk that leads to the trailhead, making it a dangerous walk.

Parking across the St. Johns Bridge makes the adventure all the more fun anyways!

#10. Powell Butte Loop Trail

Hike distance: 4.5 mile loop
Elevation gain: 600 ft
Difficulty: Easy

Powell Butte is best known for its dynamic mountainous views, and it definitely lives up to the hype. The stunning views of Mt. Hood and Mt. St. Helens on a clear day are hard to beat.

There’s many trails to choose from at Powell Butte — paved trails, gravel trails and dirt trails. You can’t go wrong whichever route you choose. I suggest starting with the Powell Butte Loop Trail because it takes you though beautiful parts of the park. Come in the spring to see beautiful blushing trees!

#11. Springwater Corridor Trail

Hike distance: 3 miles
Elevation gain: 220 ft
Difficulty: Easy

The Springwater Trail is a nice stroll along a wetland with ample opportunity for bird watching because it passes through the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge. The path follows the Willamette River and offers some spectacular natural reprieve.

#12. Dogwood Wild Cherry Loop Trail

Hike distance: 2.5 miles
Elevation gain: 500 ft
Difficulty: Easy

A beautiful hike through the dense landscape at Forest Park. The hard-packed dirt trail is wide enough to accommodate passing folks with ease (great during COVID).

Oh, and don’t even get me started on the spring blooms on this trail! Fringe-cups, trilliums, woods violets, Indian plums, Oregon grapes and flower currants! Make sure to pack a picnic with you and use the public table located at the bottom of the trail, you’ll love it.

Heads up, Forest Park gets especially busy on the weekends. Try hiking during the weekday to avoid crowds.

Note: If you’re coming during during the rainy winter months, know that the trail does get slick — you’ll want to wear shoes with good traction.

#13. Redwood Trail Loop

Hike distance: 1 mile loop
Difficulty: Easy

It surprised me to learn that Portland has redwoods and sequoias within city limits. How cool is that?! One of my favorite hikes at Hoyt Arboretum is the Redwood Trail Loop because it takes you along a trail peppered with majestic redwoods.

The best part? The Redwood deck because it provides an interesting vantage over the healthy redwood grove below. Benches are provided for those wanting to rest their legs or enjoy a picnic. This area is popular for weddings, so sometimes the Redwood Deck is reserved and you may not be able to walk on it.

Local’s tip: This is a great spot for bird watching.

#14. Eastbank Esplanade Loop Trail

Hike distance: 2.5 miles
Elevation gain: Flat
Difficulty: Easy

This paved trail is easy to follow and offers some spectacular views of Portland from the waterfront, not to mention you get to see most of the big name bridges. The trail is very popular for good reason – there’s something for everyone so it gets very crowded!

What’s more, you’re bound to see a lot of bikers on the trail (especially during rush hour). Make sure to visit during the spring (March/April) to catch cherry blossoms in full bloom.

#15. Tryon Creek Triple Bridge Loop

Hike distance: 3.5 mile loop
Elevation gain: 500 ft
Difficulty: Easy

This trail leads through a thick-moss forest within Tryon State Park. This local gem of a hike is a mere six miles south of Portland and ripe for exploration full of moss, fungi, ferns and glorious native plants.

This area is no stranger to sightings of coyotes, deer, foxes and rabbits. The loop passes through the outer edges of neighborhood streets before reentering the forest once more. The trail is wide and well marked.

#16. Smith and Bybee Wetlands Trail

Hike distance: 2 miles
Elevation gain: Flat
Difficulty: Easy

This is a very pleasant and easy short hike in Portland. It follows the Smith and Bybee Wetlands — at 200-acres, it’s the largest wetlands in the United States. Visit during the spring months for bird watching opportunities galore.

#17. Warrior Point Hike

Hike distance: 6.5 miles out and back
Elevation gain: Flat
Difficulty: Easy

For a change of scenery, head down to the Warrior Rock Lighthouse Point Trailhead (located at the northern tip of Sauvie Island). Th trail not only offers great wildlife viewing opportunities, but it isn’t as crowded as the more popular trails in Forest Park.

Start at the beach and walk along the sandy riverside until you hit a dirt access road that leads through a charming forest. The trail will lead directly to Warrior Rock Lighthouse, soak in the views or picnic on the shore.

Hikes Near Portland Oregon

If you’d like to stretch your legs further from the city, I suggest driving out to the following areas for endless hiking opportunities:

Multnomah Falls (most popular hike near Portland)

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2.4 miles
Elevation: 800 feet
Distance from Portland: 35 minutes

The Multnomah Falls trail is one of the best hikes near Portland because it gets you up close and personal with the most famous waterfall in Oregon.

The trailhead is located a mere half-hour from downtown Portland and since seeing Multnomah Falls is on everyone’s bucket list when they visit Portland, you can expect crowds on this popular Oregon hike.

Passing by the rushing force that is Multnomah Falls, the paved trail turns into roughly 11 switchbacks that are easy to follow and not too taxing on the knees — making this one of the best family-friendly hikes in Oregon.

Further Reading: 12 WILDLY Beautiful Oregon Waterfalls That Are Completely Worth the Drive

Hiking in Bend, Oregon

If you’ve been reading this blog for a while you know how much I love Bend, Oregon. My husband and I have hiked almost every single trail in Bend (yes, really).

There’s too many epic hikes to name in this small section so I suggest you read this: 15 JAW-DROPPING Hikes in Bend, Oregon, or watch the video below.

https://vimeo.com/552932641

Explore Mt. Hood National Forest

Ask any resident to list the coolest things to do in Oregon and most will undoubtedly mention exploring Mt. Hood National Forest.

Reaching an impressive height of 11,250 feet, Mt. Hood is the tallest volcano in Oregon and the foUrth tallest in the Cascade Range.

As you can imagine, every inch of Mt. Hood National Forest is bound to impress but make a special effort to visit McNeil Point, Paradise Parks and Elk Meadows.

You’ll instantly see why visitors consider this one of the most beautiful places in Oregon.

Make sure to hike the Tom, Dick and Harry Trail while exploring Mt. Hood National Forest, it’s my favorite hike in the area.

Tom Dick and Harry mountain is located near Government Camp, 11 miles from Mount Hood. Due to the hike’s close proximity to Portland, Oregon, crowds are all but guaranteed during the summer months.

Go during a weekday (if your schedule allows) or visit first thing in the morning to avoid the rush.

The trail passes by picture-perfect Mirror Lake and offers breathtaking panoramic vistas and arguably the most iconic views of Mt. Hood. It’s easy to see why folks love this Oregon hike so much.

Fun fact: Mt. Hood is the third most climbed mountain in the world.

Photo Credit Central Oregon Daily

Explore the Columbia Gorge

Few know that the Columbia River Gorge is America’s largest National Scenic Area. And once you drive through this stunning landscape it won’t take long for you to realize that the honor is well deserved.

The Columbia Gorge is a study in contrast. From alpine meadows and jaw-dropping waterfalls to desert landscapes and tepid rain forests, there’s something for everyone.

The best way to explore the Columbia Gorge is by car and trail. Take the Historic Columbia River Highway, known as the “King of Roads” was the first scenic highway in America to be designated as a National Historic Landmark.

Regardless of the area you choose to explore within the Columbia River Gorge, it’s hard to go wrong. Spend an entire weekend exploring the charming town of Hood River or sipping your way through the various wineries at the gorge.

Best Waterfall Hikes Near Portland

Punch Bowl Falls

Located about 2-miles into the epic Eagle Creek Trail in the Columbia River Gorge, Punch Bowl Falls is an aptly-named and iconic Oregon waterfall well worth exploration.

More like a mythical scene than a public treasure, Punch Bowl Falls gets its name from the shape of the massive pool formation the falls plunge into.

This is a very popular watering hole during the summer months so crowds are all but guaranteed at this beautiful Oregon waterfall.

Be careful if you plan to swim here, cliff jumping is prohibited and you may be subject to a $300 fine.

Note: Check trail conditions before hiking to Punch Bowl Falls. The 2017 Eagle Creek Fire impacted this trail and it was closed for 3+ years before re-opening in 2021. Better safe than sorry, check this resource before heading out.

Image courtesy of The Dyrt

Latourell Falls

Being the closest waterfall in the Columbia Gorge to the city of Portland, this is one of the most popular waterfalls in Oregon. Everyone and their dog has seen it, loved it and told the tale.

So believe me when I tell you that this waterfall is crowded, but you simply can’t miss it.

Plunging a jaw-dropping 220 feet over the lip of an impressive amphitheater made of dark columnar basalt, this Oregon waterfall hike feels like a great reward for little effort.

An easy 2.4-mile trail leads visitors directly to the first viewpoint before opening up to a dirt path that heads uphill and gets you closer to one of the most epic waterfalls in Oregon.

From here you can choose to return to the car or hiker further uphill to Upper Latourell Falls, which I recommend you do so that you can enjoy this waterfall in all its glory.

Image from Karina & Maks (the best Oregon wedding photographers)

South Falls (The Trail of Ten Falls)

Of all the breathtaking waterfalls near Portland, no location is more epic than the Trail of Ten Falls.

The best way to explore this area? Hike the epic Trail of Ten Falls where you’ll wander past 10 waterfalls in the span of less 8 miles.

While all 10 waterfalls along the trail are worth exploring, South Falls takes the cake because of its undeniable beauty and the fact that you can walk behind the curtain of water. It’s a rush like no other and an experience you simply can’t forget.

Plunging to striking depths of 175 feet, hikers are allowed to go behind the thundering curtain for a unique waterfall hike that feels like a sacred privileged.

At 9,000 acres, Silver Falls State Park is the largest state park in Oregon. Home to numerous waterfalls, it’s considered the crown jewel of the state park system.

Note: Dogs are prohibited on the Canyon Trail portion of this Oregon hike — which is where the waterfalls are located.

Image courtesy of The Dyrt

Proxy Falls

Jaw-dropping waterfall hikes near Portland Oregon almost seem commonplace but not all of them are as easily accessible as Proxy Falls.

Offering a spectacular treat for very little effort, this scenic waterfall hike in Oregon is one of the best ways to stretch your legs before brunch.

The 1.5-mile loop trail meanders through a healthy forest that loops around two waterfalls. The first waterfall on the hike is Lower Proxy Falls.

When you reach the falls you may notice some folks getting really close to the base, the area is ripe for exploration just make sure you’re wearing proper shoes because it’s very easy to slip.

The massive log in front of the waterfall is a popular spot for folks to take photos but I was too nervous to get on it because it was so slick (ha!) but I saw plenty of other folks having a blast, the adventure is up to you.

The second stop along the trail is Upper Proxy Falls and you would be remiss to skip it!

Both of these waterfalls are incredible and serve as proof that Oregon has some of the best waterfalls in the country.

Best Hikes Near Portland (Post Summary)

In sum, here are the BEST hikes near Portland, Oregon.

The Wildwood Trail
Hoyt Arboretum Trail
Lower Macleay to Pittock Mansion
4T Trail
Council Crest
Marquam Trail
Tyron Creek Triple Bridge Loop
Mount Tabor Blue Loop Trail
Forest Park Ridge Trail
Powell Butte Loop Trail
Springwater on the Willamette
Dogwood Wild Cherry Loop Trail
Redwood Trail Loop
Eastbank Esplanade
Springbrook Iron Mountain Loop Hike
Maple-Wildwood Loop Hike
Warrior Point Hike
Multnomah Falls
Bend, Oregon
Mt. Hood National Forest
Explore the Columbia Gorge
Punchbowl Falls
Latourell Falls
South Falls
Proxy Falls

Map of the best hikes in Portland

Love Portland? Here’s some articles you may find interesting

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Until next time,

Antonina

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