32 Hikes Near Portland (For Every Level)

When you think of Portland, you probably imagine beautiful green forests, the mighty Columbia and Willamette Rivers, and the looming, snow-capped Mount Hood. Needless to say, there are tons of hikes near Portland where you can explore all of the above.

I’m an avid hiker and traveler who has explored many of Portland’s best trails. I’ve devised this guide to help you find the perfect hikes for you. Many of these hikes are also close to the top Portland attractions, so you can do them even with limited time in the city.

Let’s dive in!

32 Best Hikes Near Portland

Mount Hood

Oregon’s highest mountain peak is also one of the hardest hikes in the state, but it has incredible views of the Cascade Mountains.

A hiker walking along the snow covered Mt. Hood — *Hiking Mt. Hood during a storm*

View of the Mt. Hood and the beautiful landscape seen from the distance — *A view of Mt. Hood dominates the landscape just outside Portland*

Stand on the roof of Oregon, at the summit of the 11,249-foot Mount Hood. This is by far the most intense of all hikes in Oregon, requiring climbers to know basic mountaineering skills and how to use winter equipment.

The trail climbs 5,249 feet from its start at Timberline Lodge in only 3.2 miles on the ascent. This is by no means an easy or beginner trail, but it offers the most rewarding views in the state.

Fill out a free permit at the trailhead before you embark on your adventure. Hikers who lack technical skills can have fun snowshoeing and skiing around the mountain.

Powell Butte Loop Trail

This dormant volcano just outside of downtown is the best place for a morning hike with your four-legged friend.

You’ll wander through tall grasslands and shady forests, up mossy stairs, and along well-maintained paths at the Powell Butte Nature Park just outside of downtown. The loop trail is one of the best hiking trails within the city for a morning walk with your dog. Just make sure they stay on a leash.

The butte itself is a million-year-old dormant volcano. At the top, you can even see some of the iconic mountains of Washington state! Get a cool glimpse of Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, and Mount Rainier on clear days.

Multnomah Falls

Oregon’s most popular waterfall is just 45 minutes outside of Portland and plummets hundreds of feet between cliffside ferns and mossy foliage.

Oregon’s most famous waterfall, Multnomah Falls, spills 680 feet down mossy cliffs to crystal pools below. A viewing bridge in front of the waterfall gives the illusion of two separate waterfalls and provides a postcard view of the natural wonder.

Multnomah Falls is only 30-45 minutes outside of Portland and is free to visit outside of the peak summer months. Visitor permits are required in the summer to mitigate huge crowds. They cost $2 per person and can be purchased at Recreation.gov.

Multnomah Falls permits often sell out in the summertime due to high demand. , so it may be a good idea to see it on a Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Hiking Tour, which includes hikes to a few hidden gem waterfalls in the area.

Wahclella Falls Trail

Cold plunge beneath this 350-foot cascade, a permit-free alternative to nearby Multnomah Falls.

Friends swimming at The Wahclella Falls — *Take an icy dip beneath Wahclella Falls*

Unable to snag a Multnomah Falls permit? Head to the nearby Wahclella Falls Trail instead. This is exactly what my friends and I did on a recent road trip, and wow, what a worthwhile stop. Wahclella Falls cascades 350 feet into an icy pool. Take a cold plunge like we did to feel immediately refreshed!

This lollipop loop is less than two miles in length with just a few steep ascents. However, note that there are some exposed sections, so perhaps reconsider if you have a serious fear of heights. The trail is always wide enough for going and oncoming traffic, but it can be busy on a summer afternoon.

We initially struggled to find parking in our big RV, then found a large lot next to the Bonneville Fish Hatchery near the trailhead. I highly recommend adding this stop to see the massive white sturgeon that call the Columbia River home!

– Abigail Bliss

Trail of Ten Falls Loop

This multiple waterfall trail is the ideal hike spot during a hot summer.

View of the South Falls from the South Loop Trail — *South Falls*

Hike past forest ferns and rushing creeks at the Trail of Ten Falls in Silver Falls State Park. Start at the South Lodge Falls Trailhead and make your way past waterfalls ranging from 27 to 178 feet.

This trail is best hiked in the summer, as you can walk behind some of the falls and feel a refreshing mist or take a dip in the waterfall pools. Be sure to bring a bathing suit if you’re doing the latter! And carefully read regulations regarding dogs — not every trail here is pet-friendly.

Angel’s Rest Lookout

Views of the Columbia River Gorge extend for as far as the eye can see from this lookout area.

You’ll want to spend some time in the Columbia River Gorge for a classic Oregon experience. Angel’s Rest Lookout winds past a waterfall, leads to a footpath over a creek, and finally brings hikers to one of the best views of the Columbia River.

With only 1,476 feet of elevation gain, Angel’s Rest isn’t too hard but still gives trekkers a good workout. Be sure to arrive at the trailhead before noon to snag a parking spot at this popular hike.

Beacon Rock

A windy way up the scenic Beacon Rock viewpoint is one of the best ways to see the entirety of the Columbia River Gorge.

Cross the Columbia River into Washington to arrive at Beacon Rock State Park. This is the perfect place for hiking, rock climbing, sailing, and picnicking — and experiencing the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge.

The zig-zagging trail up Beacon Rock is the park’s biggest draw, but waterfall hikes and granite rock climbing routes also appeal to adventurers. The viewpoint up the 848-foot Beacon Rock delivers 360-degree views of the Columbia River Gorge and Portland beyond. The park is open year-round and is a great place to camp as well.

Mount Tabor

One of the easiest hikes near Portland offers a view of the entire city.

Hike to the top of an extinct volcano just minutes from downtown. Mount Tabor requires minimal effort, but the top promises 360-degree views. Only a short hike is required from the Lincoln Street Trailhead, which winds past historic reservoirs, picnic areas, and a dog park.

Multiple benches are along the route for hikers who need a rest. Mount Tabor is an excellent option when you need to escape and find a bit of peace within the city without venturing too far.

Hoyt Arboretum Trails

Choose between a variety of hikes in this massive arboretum.

Fall foliage at the forest trail in Hoyt Arboretum — *Fall is the best time to visit this forested oasis*

Washington Park’s Hoyt Arboretum offers many tree canopy-covered hiking trails. Pick up a map at the visitor center and choose the best long or short trail to suit your abilities.

One recommended trail is the Fir Trail, a 0.5-mile path through a dark spruce forest. The Maple, Hawthorn, and Walnut Loop Trails are longer and great for hikers who want more of a challenge.

Wildwood Trail

Modify this huge Forest Park trail to fit your hiking needs, whether that’s a quick walk or an all-day adventure.

View of the wooden foot bridge in the middle of the forest in Wildwood Recreation Area — *The enchanted forest of the Wildwood Trail*

The Wildwood Trail in Forest Park is 30.2 miles in total but hikers tend to break it up into smaller, more doable segments. Some of the most popular segments are from the Vietnam Memorial to Lower Macleay Park (6 miles), Lower Macleay Park to Firelane 1 (6 miles), and from the Trillium Trail to Springville Road (8 miles).

Washington Park Loop

Portland’s top attraction has an easy trail with little elevation gain, making it suitable for families.

One of the easier hikes near Portland, the Washington Park Loop Trail starts at the Sacajawea Statue Trailhead and takes hikers through spruce forests to the Hoyt Arboretum Trailhead.

It has only 585 feet of elevation gain, so this hike is great for families. Toddlers and grandparents alike can enjoy it! The Washington Park Loop is open from 5 am-10 pm daily and allows dogs on leashes.

Lost Lake Trail

Hike around the perimeter of Lost Lake in Mt. Hood National Forest, admiring views of the glaciated mountain the entire way.

Renting a car? Consider driving out to Mount Hood National Forest to do the Lost Lake Trail, which will bring you to a beautiful lake not far from Oregon’s highest mountain.

Skirt around the perimeter of Lost Lake on this easy national forest trail, stopping at a picnic table along the way for a quick snack or to relax with a good book as Mt. Hood looms in the distance. On a clear day, you may even spot mountaineers trudging their way up to the summit.

Dry Creek Falls

Dense forest gives way to a crashing cascade, roaring with thunderous falls despite its name.

Visit Dry Creek Falls in the late spring or early summer for a chance to witness its crashing waters — yes, its name is a misnomer! This 74-foot waterfall plunges over a basalt cliff wall.

To reach it, you’ll take a short 2.2-mile hike, starting at the Bridge of the Gods Trailhead. Dry Creek is a hotspot in the summer months. The Dry Creek Falls trail is suitable for beginners and experiences a fair share of swimmers in its pools.

Tryon Creek

A short ride outside of the city brings hikers, bikers, and equestrians to a forest canyon trail bursting with wildflowers in the springtime.

The Tyron Creek State Natural Area is in South Portland and boasts 8 miles of hiking trails, including 3.5 miles of equestrian trails and a 3-mile bicycle path. This area is the perfect place to escape from the big city on a lunch break or for a sunrise hike.

I recommend visiting in the springtime, which is when the Trillium Festival occurs. During this time, the trails become even more beautiful with the blooming of thousands of these pink and white-hued flowers.

Tom, Dick, and Harry Mountain

This hard training hike is perfect for visitors hoping to try their luck on the neighboring Mt. Hood peak.

Scenic view of the Mt. Hood and Mirror Lake from the mountain summit — *Views of Mt. Hood and Mirror Lake as seen from the summit*

Venture only 1 hour outside Portland and enter a realm of alpine mountain forests and glassy turquoise lakes. Tom, Dick, and Harry Mountain via the Mirror Lake Trailhead is a 9-mile out-and-back trail at the foot of Mount Hood.

It has less than 2,000 feet of elevation gain, so this mountain trail isn’t the hardest in the area, but you’ll still work up a sweat on it. At the top, you’ll have a birds-eye view of the high-altitude Washington Cascades, which is one of the main reasons to hike this mountain.

Lower Macleay Park to Pittock Mansion

Visit Washington Park’s famous mansion on foot via a steep climb with incredible views of the city.

Overlooking view of the Portland skyline and Mount Hood from the trail — *A view of the downtown skyline along the trail*

Take the scenic route to one of the most popular landmarks in Portland, Pittock Mansion. The Lower Macleay Trail is a challenging but doable climb through a shaded forest. It can be done year-round. Along the way, you’ll see scenic mossy bridges and even the graffiti-covered Witch’s Castle.

Forest Park Ridge Trail

A moderate trail with only a slight elevation gain, this hike is the best place to photograph St. John’s Bridge.

View of the iconic green St. John’s Bridge — *The iconic green St. John’s Bridge*

Hike the Forest Park Ridge Trail to find a picturesque view of St. John’s Bridge. This is one of the most scenic ways to view the famous bridge. The pedestrian-only trail begins at Bridge Avenue and follows a steep stair bridge to the viewpoint. If it’s clear out, you might even spot Mount Hood.

Warrior Point

A coastal trail along Sauvie Island to a landmark lighthouse.

Aerial view of Sauvie Island and the Tilikum Crossing Bridge at sunset — *An aerial view of Sauvie Island*

🥾 Easy | 6 miles | Google Maps | Distance from Portland: 40 minutes | Cost: $10 daily parking

An easy, relatively flat trail brings hikers to the northern tip of Sauvie Island. The coastal trail leads right past the Warrior Rock Lighthouse, right on the Columbia River.

This wildlife refuge is usually devoid of crowds. Head over to Warrior Point Beach afterward, where you can let your pup run wild or enjoy watching the smooth sailing of passing boats on the Columbia River.

Cape Horn

Hike a moderate trail to one of the best views of the Columbia River Gorge.

Overlooking view of the Columbia river gorge from the trail — *A view of the Columbia River from the hike*

Cape Horn takes hikers to a breathtaking viewpoint of the Columbia River Gorge and the Cape Horn Falls. With only 1,300 feet of elevation gain, the Cape Horn hike is suited for intermediate to advanced-level hikers.

The upper portion of the loop can be done in either 2.6 or 5.2 miles. The lower section is 4 miles long. Play with the distance according to your mood and enjoy the river views.

Kings Mountain

A trail best suited for hikers who like a challenge with rewarding summit views of both the snow-capped Cascades and the Pacific Ocean.

This relatively quick trek leads to a 3,226-foot peak known as Kings Mountain. You can see views of the towering Mount Hood to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west from the summit.

Go during spring to see blooming mountain lupine, Indian thistle, Columbia lily, and other vibrant wildflowers on the way up. Swimming holes along the Wilson River are also great places to cool off during summer hikes along the trail.

The 4T Trail

This most unusual hike involves four different modes of transportation, giving hikers a unique Portland sightseeing experience.

View of the city skyline from Portland’s aerial tram — *Portland’s aerial tram, one of the modes of transportation on the trail*

Mix things up with four different modes of transportation on the 4T Trail. The four ‘Ts’ stand for trail, tram, trolley, and train, and you’ll use them all on this multi-mode adventure.

First, hike from the Oregon Zoo to Council Crest Park, then head downhill to the Portland Aerial Tram. After a brisk descent with amazing views of the city, board the Portland Streetcar trolley to downtown Portland. Then hop on the MAX light rail train back to the start of the hike loop.

The 4T Trail is an all-day adventure, so pack a big enough water bottle and plenty of snacks before your trip!

Council Crest via Marquam Trail

An urban trail with a panoramic view of the skyline.

A park bench facing the fall foliage and scenic overlooking view in Portland

Trek through Portland’s West Hills from the Marquam Nature Park to Council Crest Park on this city trail. Views of the downtown skyline and the snow-capped Cascade Mountains are visible on a clear day.

This urban trail winds through dense forest, up steep dirt trails, and past beautiful blooming trees in the spring. Birding is also popular in this area, so make sure to pack your binoculars and keep an eye out for owls and birds of prey.

Springwater Corridor Trail

This paved trail in the middle of town is perfect for trail runners and dog walkers.

View of the signage at Springwater Corridor Trail — *The trail starting point*

The Springwater Corridor Trail is part of a 40-mile network of paved trails that runs throughout Portland. It’s a hotspot for trail runners, dog walkers, and locals who need a break from the office.

Start at either the Sellwood Riverfront Park Trailhead or SE Market & Water Avenue and walk for however long you’d like — that’s the beauty of the Springwater Corridor Trail. There are multiple street crossings required on this trail, however, so keep that in mind if hiking (or walking) with your four-legged friends.

Bird Alliance of Portland Trails

Get acquainted with native birds on these easy trails.

Closeup view of the Pygmy Owls on a branch of a tree — *One of the Northern Pygmy Owls in the sanctuary*

Find four miles of trails within the 174-acre Bird Alliance of Portland Wildlife Sanctuary. Hikers pass forested wildlife habitats, bird nests, ponds, and wild creeks along this trail before checking out the wildlife interpretive center.

This is one of the most informative hikes near Portland, thanks to the center where visitors can meet injured and healing birds and learn more about them. Keep in mind that dogs are not allowed on the trails to keep the birds safe.

Cannon Trail

One of the shortest hikes near Portland with few crowds and no elevation gain.

A small creek in the middle of mossy forest

🥾 Easy | 0.7 miles | Google Maps | Distance from Portland: 17 minutes | Cost: free

The Cannon Trail is perfect for hikers who don’t have a lot of time but are still itching to get outside of Portland. Just a few minutes from the city center, this trail typically takes only 20 minutes to complete.

It’s one of the less crowded Portland hikes. This Forest Park trail is also great for kids and dogs. Park at the Leif Erickson Germantown Trailhead to get started on your short trek.

Eastbank Esplanade Loop Trail

A paved, wheelchair-accessible trail that follows the Willamette River.

A bridge over the Willamette River with Portland skyline view — *The trail crosses several bridges along the river*

The paved Eastbank Esplanade Loop Trail is a great way to get to know metropolitan Portland. Follow the Willamette River on this trail of many bridges, including scenic viewpoints of the Hawthorn Bridge, Morrison Bridge, Burnside Bridge, and the Steel Bridge.

This waterfront loop trail is relatively flat and wheelchair-accessible. One of my favorite ways to explore the trail is by renting a bike downtown and cruising down the trail on a sunny afternoon.

Smith and Bybee Wetlands Trail

One of the largest urban wetlands in Portland is teeming with wildlife.

View of the beautiful landscape from Rickety Wooden Bridge

Hike through wetland territory next to the Columbia River on the Smith and Bybee Wetlands Trail. This huge urban wetland area spans more than 2,000 acres and encompasses wildlife habitats of hundreds of native birds, so be sure to bring your bird-identifying chart!

The Smith and Bybee Wetlands Trail is in North Portland and is a quiet trail off the beaten tourist path. This wetlands trail is another great one for bird enthusiasts and hikers who prefer easier hikes over those with more elevation gain.

Salmon River Trail

Challenge yourself to a long multi-day hike or stop at the first camp to fish for salmon from the aptly named Salmon River.

View of the Salmon River surrounded by fall foliage — *Oregon’s Salmon River*

Travel through a neon green moss forest alongside the Salmon River on this multi-day adventure. Hikers with strong trail legs love the challenge of tackling all 25.9 miles of the trail in a single day, but camping overnight on the Salmon River Trail is more enjoyable for novice hikers.

Most trail visitors bring their fishing gear, set up camp at the first campsite just east of Wolf Creek, and spend the day catching Chinook and Coho salmon.

Elk Rock Island

This quick hike in Portland is accessible during low tide.

Portland is full of surprises, including floating islands just outside of the city center. Elk Rock Island is one of the best hikes to do in a time crunch or on a lunch break, thanks to its central location and short trail.

Accessible via SE 19th Avenue and Sparrow Street during low tide, this hidden gem includes great views of the Willamette River, but it’s notoriously muddy. Be sure to include shoes you don’t mind getting dirty on your Oregon packing list!

👉 Pro Tip: There have been reports of poison oak on the trail. Remember the saying “leaves of three, let them be” to avoid stepping in the itchy mess.

Latourell Falls

One of the best hikes near Portland on a hot summer day.

A popular hike through Guy W. Talbot State Park to Upper Latourell Falls leads to the third-highest waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge. It’s easily accessible, especially because it’s right off the Historic Columbia River Highway. The trail is one of the best waterfall hikes on a hot summer day, thanks to its refreshing mist and shady trees along the way.

Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge

An easy hike of just over a mile each way with plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities.

Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge is Oregon’s first Migratory Bird Park. It houses a diverse array of ecosystems ranging from marsh, meadow, wetland, and riparian forest.

The Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge is another hotspot for birdwatching that rewards hikers with opportunities for spotting nesting ospreys and woodpeckers. The easy, 3.1-mile trail here is one of Portland’s best for anyone who wants to view over 200 species of birds and wildlife like mule deer, beavers, and raccoons.

Dogwood Wild Cherry Loop Trail

Local transportation can take you right to the trailhead of this loop trail, saving you time and money.

View of the trail in the middle of the rainforest

Oregon’s Forest Park is one of the best places to find easy hiking trails within city limits. The Dogwood Wild Cherry Loop Trail is 2.6 miles round-trip, and can be completed in a little more than an hour. Expect to see lots of bright green ferns and moss-covered evergreens on this beautiful trail.

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Thanks for reading my guide on the best hikes near Portland! Can’t get enough of the outdoors in this beautiful state? Up next, check out my guide to the top national parks and monuments in Oregon.