Portland’s pet parents love hitting the trails in Forest Park.

Hikes in and Near Portland

Hike Portland's neighborhoods and parks, or escape to the nearby gorge and mountains.

Updated July 31, 2024 8 min read

The Pacific Northwest draws visitors from all over, enticed by the scenic coastline, verdant valleys and breathtaking mountains. With easy access to the great outdoors, Portland is a perfect destination for hikers. Enjoy urban walks and hiking trails in forested parks and lush gardens scattered throughout the city, or take a short drive to explore alpine lake hikes near Mount Hood and waterfall trails in the Columbia River Gorge.

Things to Know About Hiking Around Portland

Is Portland good for hiking?

Portland has plentiful urban walking and hiking with over 279 parks and natural areas. Check out OregonLive’s “7 most iconic hikes in Portland.”

What are some easy hikes in Portland?

Tryon Creek State Natural Area, a 15-minute drive from downtown Portland, has a fully staffed nature center and a network of trails winding past trickling streams. This park is a must-see any time of year — it’s also accessible for all ages and abilities.

What are some difficult hikes in Portland?

The Wildwood Traverse Hike is considered the most difficult hike in Portland. The wooded loop trails in Powell Butte Nature Park and Oxbow Regional Park or the hike up the West Hills to Council Crest offer elevation, more mileage and rugged yet well-maintained trails. The Oregon Hikers Forum maintains a comprehensive list of moderate to difficult hikes in Portland, complete with detailed trail notes.

What are the best hikes in Forest Park?

Forest Park covers most of the West Hills in Portland and provides miles of trails, including forested hikes through the Hoyt Arboretum and trails leading to scenic views from Pittock Mansion. Find maps to plot your course and explore Portland’s prized urban forest.

What are the best hikes with a dog in Portland?

Be sure to leash your furry friend, then head out to dog-friendly hikes at Powell Butte Nature Park, the Wildwood Trail in Forest Park or an urban walk with river views in Tom McCall Waterfront Park.

What are the best short hikes near Portland?

Tualatin River Wildlife Refuge southwest of Portland offers a walk along the Tualatin River and close-up views of migratory birds that stop over in the surrounding wetlands.

North of downtown on Sauvie Island, you’ll find many short-but-sweet walks, like Oak Island Nature Trail or Wapato Access Greenway Trail.

What are the best hikes within an hour of Portland?

Head east to the Columbia River Gorge to see Wahclella Falls, follow the Clackamas River to Mount Hood National Forest and find Tamanawas Falls, or drive south along the Cascade Mountains to Silver Falls State Park. For more ideas, check out the Outbound Collective’s “The Best 7 Hikes Within 90 Minutes of Portland.”

What hikes are open?

Before you hit the trails, check these helpful sites to see if there are trail closures (due to inclement weather or improvements):

Where to Hike in Portland

Portland is a walker’s paradise. The wide sidewalks (and short blocks) of downtown make for pleasant strolling. The many trails and natural spaces throughout the city provide a quick escape from the attractions that fill Portland’s neighborhoods. From the stairways hidden in the Alameda neighborhood, to historic homes near Laurelhurst Park, to the walk to the top of Mt. Tabor Park or Council Crest, you’ll be surprised how easy Portland makes it to walk, hike or bird your way around the area.

Forest Park

At 5,100 acres (2,064 ha), Forest Park boasts more than 80 miles (129 km) of paths and is one of the largest urban forests in the United States. On any given day, you’ll find trail runners, dog walkers, families and outdoor enthusiasts enjoying every inch of Forest Park. With clearly marked trails and paths in every direction, you can explore this urban oasis from any of its 40 access points.

two people wearing jackets and hats walking along a path through dense trees — Bundled-up hikers walk a dirt trail in Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the U.S. and a critical refuge for native wildlife and plants.

Wildwood Trail

A National Recreation Trail, Forest Park’s Wildwood Trail stretches for more than 30 miles (48.3 km) through the Tualatin Hills (also known as the West Hills) from the Newberry Road Trailhead to the north and the Wildwood Trailhead near the Oregon Zoo. The Wildwood Trail’s highest point is at the historic Pittock Mansion, and the southern part of the trail passes through Washington Park and Hoyt Arboretum.

On any given day you’ll find trail runners, dog walkers, families and outdoor enthusiasts enjoying every inch of Forest Park.

Macleay Park

From the fields of Macleay Park in Northwest Portland, it’s less than a mile (1.6 km) to the Wildwood Trail. Once you pass the Stone House, known to Portlanders as the “Witch’s House,” you can ascend to Pittock Mansion or explore one of the seven loop trails of varying lengths that will take you into the forest and through neighborhood streets.

stone building covered in green moss and colorful fall leaves

Pittock Mansion

If you start at Macleay Park, the nearly 6-mile (9.6 km) out-and-back hike up to the Pittock Mansion is rated “moderate” and has a 950-foot (290 m) elevation gain. This route follows the Wildwood Trail through the Bird Alliance of Oregon (formerly Portland Audubon). For a shorter trek with no switchbacks, try a 4-mile (6.4 km) out-and-back from Washington Park that offers many undisturbed views of the city and Mount Hood.

Hoyt Arboretum

Hoyt Arboretum showcases 2,000 species of trees and shrubs on 189 acres (76.5 ha) of hilly terrain within Washington Park. An interpretive center at this “living museum” offers restrooms and a gift shop, plus maps and brochures. The arboretum’s 21 trails cover 12 miles (19.3 km); of these, 2 miles (3.2 km) of trail are suitable for wheelchairs, strollers and visitors who appreciate firm footing.

4T Trail

The 4T Trail is a self-guided tour that lets you explore the city — and see some of the best views — without a car. Instead, you’ll rely on the 4 T’s: trail, tram, trolley and train. The tour takes about four hours, five dollars and a bit of leg power. The route is well marked with signs and involves about 2.5 miles (4 km) of walking.

a path leads toward a large observation deck among ferns and towering trees

Hoyt Arboretum: Portland’s Museum of Trees

Hoyt Arboretum is Portland’s “living museum of trees” — and is home to 2,300 species of trees and shrubs, as well as 12 miles (19.3 km) of hiking trails in Washington Park near downtown Portland.

people enjoy a picnic at sunset looking out over a reservoir

Exploring Portland’s Extinct Volcanoes

Portland is home to four extinct volcanoes — some dating back millions of years. Here’s how to enjoy hiking, shooting hoops, picnicking and more on these natural wonders.

Mount Tabor Park

Mount Tabor Park, a century-old public space, is known for its open-air reservoirs, forested hiking trails, sunset picnics, epic city views, its annual Adult Soapbox Derby, and, yes, its volcanic cinder cone.

a small group of adults and children walk down a path in a forest

Tryon Creek State Natural Area

Spend a day walking a lush, flower-filled canyon in Oregon’s only urban state park.

a couple with a dog and another person sit on a park bench

Laurelhurst Park

Just north of Portland's Belmont neighborhood sits Laurelhurst Park, one of the city's most scenic escapes with over 300 trees, a duck pond and an array of free public events.

person walking through a museum exhibition of different trees

World Forestry Center Discovery Museum

Tree- and forest-lovers of all ages can learn about the importance of sustainability and experience a Portland icon at the World Forestry Center Discovery Museum, with exhibits on local and global forests.

Portland Aerial Tram with Mt. Hood is visible in background horizon

4T Trail

The 4T trail is a self-guided tour that lets you explore the city — and see some of the best views — without a car.

mother and child walking through a field of wildflowers

Sauvie Island

Sauvie Island, the Manhattan-size isle is one of the largest river islands in the country just north of Portland, is where families can find an entire day’s worth of adventures with swimming, hiking, birding and local farms.

Mt. Tabor Park

Located east of the shops and restaurants of Southeast Hawthorne, Mt. Tabor Park offers paved and natural-surface trails that wind through evergreen forest and to the top of a 636-foot (194 m) extinct cinder cone volcano, where you’ll enjoy great views of the city skyline. Pack a picnic, challenge yourself with some reps up the stairs near Southeast 69th Avenue or circle the picturesque reservoirs on the park’s west side.

Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge

Minutes from downtown Portland, between the Willamette River and Sellwood-Moreland, Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge is a haven for birds and walkers. The park’s Bluff Trail connects to the Springwater Corridor on the Willamette for a 2.3-mile (3.7 km) loop that offers views of marshland favored by scores of great blue herons, as well as the vintage rides of Oaks Amusement Park.

birds on logs in water on a cloudy day — Waterfowl at Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge

Powell Butte Nature Park

The views from Powell Butte, another extinct cinder cone volcano, will not disappoint. On a clear day, you can see five peaks in the Cascade Range, from Mount Rainier in the north to Mount Jefferson in the south, and is a stunning park for a sunrise hike. These 611 acres (247.3 ha) of meadowland and forest — home to birds of prey, gray foxes, skunks, bats and mule deer — offer over 9 miles (14.5 km) of trails for mountain bikers, hikers and horseback riders as well as a 0.6-mile (1 km), paved accessible trail. This park is gated, so be sure to check the seasonal hours before you hit the trail.

Kelley Point Park

Kelley Point Park is at the very tip of North Portland, where the Willamette and Columbia Rivers converge. For a scenic sunrise, take the Kelley Point Loop trail. Mount Saint Helens and Mount Hood make cameo appearances at points along the 1.7-mile (2.7 km) loop through a cottonwood grove. Keep your eyes open for seabirds, and settle down by the water’s edge.

Tryon Creek State Natural Area

Along Portland’s southwest border lies Tryon Creek State Park, a 670-acre (271.1 ha) forest featuring 8 miles (12.9 km) of hiking trails, a 0.3-mile (0.5 km) accessible trail and a nature center. Tryon Creek wends through the park, with many wooden bridges offering views from above.

Tryon Creek State Natural Area

Located just a few minutes south of the city center by car (and still in Portland), Tryon Creek State Park offers one of the most beautiful hiking opportunities in the region. The many trails make it simple to plan a route suitable for your party, and whatever direction you take, you are sure to be surprised by the richness of the forest.
Hoyt Arboretum

Stop off at the Visitor Center for a map and plan your own route along the many trails around the park. Great signage makes it hard to get lost, and markers on the trees will help improve your ability to identify the many species of trees showcased here.
Macleay Park

The Lower Macleay Trail takes hikers up along Balch Creek into the southeastern corner of Forest Park. Little legs may favor turning around at the Stone House or else looping back along the Wildwood Trail. Those with with more stamina could head to the Audubon Society or even to the Pittock Mansion.
Mt. Tabor Park

This extinct volcano contains many trails running around and up and down its steep slopes. Great city views await you at the summit, and the park also boasts two playgrounds in case you need a rest but your children don’t!
Latourell Falls

The closest waterfall to the city is also one of the prettiest. The looping trail to the upper falls is under 2.5 miles in length; when you return, the bowl of the lower falls awaits with its truly spectacular torrent of water. The falls are one of the most beautiful anywhere, far less trafficked than the popular Multnomah Falls further into the Gorge and only 30 minutes from downtown by car.

Willamette River Walks

For more urban ambles, enjoy the sculptures, fountains and gardens along the riverside Vera Katz Eastbank Esplanade, Tom McCall Waterfront Park, South Waterfront Park, Willamette Park and Sellwood Riverfront Park. Many of these areas include crossings over the bridges of Portland.

pale pink and purple sky reflect on a river surface with a bridge off to the side and a view of downtown in the background — Scenic city views from the Eastbank Esplanade.

Hiking the Columbia River Gorge

If you love hiking, it’s almost impossible to imagine a visit to Portland without a jaunt to the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. The iconic and accessible Multnomah Falls is just the start. The gorge offers multiple trails to some of the most beautiful waterfall hikes near Portland, including Latourell, Wahclella, Shepperd’s Dell, Bridal Veil, Horsetail and Elowah. In some places, the falls can be viewed mere yards from the parking areas. In others, enjoy a hike first — some up to 6 miles (9.6 km) or more. Closer to Portland, the Eagle Creek Trailhead offers trails to more waterfalls, like Tunnel and Punchbowl Falls.

The trails to the waterfalls can often be crowded, but there are plenty of breathtaking views to find. Choose the moderate, nearly 5-mile (8 km) round-trip trek to Angel’s Rest, the over 7 mile (11 km) loop trail at Cape Horn with stunning views of the river, or the 1.8-mile (2.9 km) trail exploring Beacon Rock. Use the Friends of the Columbia Gorge website to help plan your trip.

Rowena Plateau

Rowena Plateau has it all: flowers, wildlife and gorgeous Columbia River Gorge views, and a memorable sunrise for the early risers. Clocking in at a little over 2 miles (3.2 km) out and back, this plateau hike is ideal for those seeking minimal exertion while reaping maximum sunrise rewards. It’s a doable hike for families; unfortunately, your furry friends will have to stay home for this one.

Dog Mountain

Dog Mountain is an enduring favorite of Portlanders despite its Washington state locale. While the full length of the hike stretches 7 miles (11 km), for a hike this early, we recommend stopping off at the lower viewpoint 1.5 miles (2.4 km) in to watch the sunrise from an elevation of 1,600 feet (488 m). Marvel at the Columbia River glittering below and the blooms during wildflower season. In addition to the Northwest Forest parking pass required to leave your car near the trailhead, each hiker must purchase a $1.50 permit on the weekends between March 31 and July 1.

Mount Hood Hikes

The slopes of Mount Hood are famous for great wintertime sports. Mt. Hood National Forest’s wooded splendor makes the mountain a top-notch spot for all-season hikes as well. If your family is looking for some crisp mountain air, try the loop trail around Lost Lake while taking in Mount Hood’s mesmerizing reflection. Avoid the usual summertime crowds by making the extra early; you’ll be rewarded with front row seats to the rosy rays of dawn creeping over Mount Hood and reflecting on the 245-acre (99 hectare) lake below. This 3.2-mile (5 km) loop is easy enough that even sleepy kiddos will be impressed

See some remaining old-growth trees along the Salmon River Trail, with multiple access points allowing for hikes as short as 1 mile (1.6 km) or as long as 8 miles (12.9 km). From more great paths among old-growth forests, try the Wildwood Recreation Area, which is open from spring to fall and connects to several trailheads with hikes from 4 miles (6.4 km) to 10 miles (16 km) in length.

Skyline view of a mountain with snow beyond large pine trees.

What to Do on Mount Hood

Explore Mt. Hood — the tallest peak in Oregon — with this in-depth guide that covers weather, what to pack, where to stay, outdoor recreation and how to have an unforgettable experience.

person sits on top of a rock overlooking the Columbia River as the sun sets

What to Do in the Columbia River Gorge

With an emerald backdrop and riverside paths, outdoor adventure awaits.

Silver Falls State Park

Famous for its abundance of picturesque waterfalls, Silver Falls State Park is the largest state park in Oregon at 9,200 acres (3723 hectares) and one of the most popular.

More Hikes Near Portland

Head 70 miles (113 km) northwest of Portland for eye-popping 360º views from Saddle Mountain’s 3,290-foot (1,003 m) summit. Although steep at times, the 2.5-mile (4 km) hike to the top promises majestic views of the Pacific Ocean’s blue expanse, Washington’s Mount Rainer and everything in between.

Silver Falls State Park is the largest state park in Oregon, located 54 miles (86.9 km) south of Portland. The park includes two day-use areas, a campground and scenic waterfalls. To see them all, hike the Trail of Ten Falls, a moderate 8-mile (13 km) loop. This roughly three-hour hike is a designated National Recreation Trail and allows visitors to walk directly behind four different waterfalls.

Mentioned Elsewhere Online

A regional coalition for parks, trails and nature

The Intertwine

A hub for gorge conservation and hiking info

Friends of Columbia Gorge

person walking among tall evergreen trees in a wooden trail

Soft Hiking in Portland

A collection of accessible soft hikes perfect for leisurely strolls, low-impact exercise and lots of meandering dilly-dallying.

a girl in a wheelchair on nature trail with a man and a dog

Accessible Trails in and Near Portland

Portland and the Columbia River Gorge are filled with hiking opportunities for everybody, many of which have Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessible trails.

Close-up of wildflowers with Mt. Hood in the background

Spring Hikes Near Portland

There’s something special about the first spring hike of the year. Enjoy wildflowers, bird watching and breathtaking scenery on these springtime rambles.

A boy stands in a field of tulips with oak trees and people in the background

Best Spots for Spring Flowers

Find your favorite blooms, from roses to rhododendrons and tulips to trilliums, with our guide to spring flowers in Portland.

a flock of Canadian geese take flight at the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge

Bird-Watching in Portland

Catch sight of 200+ types of birds at the Portland area's dozens of prime bird watching destinations, including sanctuaries, refuges and urban parks.

Fall Hikes Near Portland

These fall hikes near Portland prove that autumn is an ideal time to explore Oregon wilderness, admire seasonal flora and fauna, and visit nearby farms.

a towering waterfall behind a stone bridge surrounded by snow and ice

Winter Hikes in and Near Portland

Oregon is the perfect place for outdoor adventure, any time of year — explore our selection of all-weather paths and hikes in and near Portland.

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