Are you a local? Are you just visiting? Do you love the outdoors? Are you looking to hit the trails? Portland, OR has some of the most spectacular hiking trails in the Pacific Northwest. 

Its diverse landscape and vibrant greenery drive people to Oregon. Hiking trails near Portland span anywhere from a mile to a vast 30 miles. Here are some suggested hikes to try out so you can see just why so many people recommend the Portland outdoors.  We’re starting off with one of the most popular trails on the list.

1. Multnomah Falls

Multnomah Falls is one of the most recommended and breathtakingly beautiful hikes near Portland. Rightly so. It’s just a short 30 minute drive outside the city, off highway I-84.

Why is Multnomah Falls one of the most recommended hiking trails for people looking to enjoy the outdoors in Oregon? Well, the initial trail begins with an up close and personal view of the infamous 611 foot waterfall. It’s impossible to miss. You start by walking up to the gate facing the bottom of the waterfall and you instantly feel icy mist spray your face. Make sure to dress for the weather, it might be cooler than you think. Enjoy this 2.6 mile trail, but prepare yourself for the steep 1 mile climb to the top. Don’t worry though, the trip is well worth it once you get to the top. The view of the gorge is a sight you’ll talk about for years to come.

Since this is one of the popular spots for tourists and locals there are seasonal time used permits to visit. Check out recreation.gov for the latest info before planning your trip!

2. Forest Park

Forest Park spans across 5,200 acres, has 40 different access points, 30 miles of seasonal streams, and plenty of hiking trail options to choose from. You cannot go wrong with hiking at Forest Park. It’s perfect for taking your dog, your family/friends, or just going solo. If you want a trail near Portland that doesn’t require a long trip to get to, this is a perfect choice for you. You can take the MAX or even walk depending on where your starting point is. 

When you start at the Lower Macleay Trail along Balch Creek, you’ll find the park’s biggest stream. Hike less than a mile through the dense forest to arrive at Stone House (nicknamed Witch’s Castle). The Stone House was built by the city of Portland as a rest stop for hikers. From there, you can ascend to Pittock Mansion for gorgeous views of Portland or you can loop on a different route to Balch Creek Canyon or Wildwood trail. Forest Park has so many options when it comes to hiking, you can’t go wrong.

3. Tryon Creek

Tryon Creek State Natural Area includes 658 acres of second-growth forests. Located about 15 minutes from downtown Portland, Tryon Creek is Oregon’s only state park within a major metropolitan area. The park features 8 miles of hiking trails, 8 bridges and a boardwalk over a wetland. The .3 mile barrier-free Trillium Trail is designed for people of all abilities. It has paved pathways, resting benches and viewing decks. The park includes horse trails, a bicycle path, and it even hosts educational programs and guided hikes throughout the year. 

4. Hoyt Arboretum

Hoyt Arboretum was founded in 1928 to conserve endangered species and educate the community. It encompasses 190 ridge-top acres and 12 miles of hiking trails just minutes from downtown Portland. It’s home to 2,300 species of trees and shrubs from six continents.

Located in Washington Park, Hoyt Arboretum is two miles from downtown Portland and can be accessed by car, public transit, walking, or biking. It offers plenty to do in all four seasons. There are a couple of trails to choose from at this park. If you were looking for a quick walk, there is a 30-Minute 0.5 mile loop called the Fir Trail. If you’re looking for a slightly longer trail, go with the 1-Hour 0.9 mile Spruce/Wildwood/Redwood Trail loop. If you would prefer to do a longer hike, there is the you can combine the Overlook/ Wildwood /Hawthorn/ Maple/ Wildwood/ Holly trails for a 1.25 mile trail or a 2-Hour Loop. 

This is a great hiking option for those who love the outdoors because of its variety of options. Another great feature of this park includes its proximity to both the Vietnam Memorial and the Portland Zoo. Once you’re done enjoying the trails, you can walk over to either of those locations!

5. Mt. Tabor Park

Mt. Tabor Park is a unique park in the middle of Portland’s Eastside. Mount Tabor itself is a volcanic cinder cone (an extinct volcano). It is 636-feet-tall and sits on a 191 acre park. It has 3 official trails. The Red Trail is 1 mile long, the Green Trail is 1.7 miles long, and Blue trail is 3 miles long. Included in the park are long flights of stairs, gently curving parkways, plenty of walking trails (footpaths and paved roads), and a nursery yard. This park also does a great job of showcasing its native plants. If you are interested in different entertainment options, this park offers a basketball court, horseshoe pit, playground, volleyball and tennis courts, and an outdoor amphitheater. If you want to bring your furry friend, there is a fenced, off-leash dog park located at the base of the hill. This is a great option for kids, friends, family and pets.

6. Marquam Nature Park

Marquam Nature Park is made up of 20 acres of undeveloped land and over 7 miles of hiking trails.  Just minutes from downtown, this is the third largest park in Portland. This is a moderate hiking option and provides great running opportunities. Its scenic views and native habitat make this the perfect escape from city life. This trail offers connection to other trails and natural areas through the Portland metropolitan area. For example, this trail eventually connects to the Wildwood Trail just north of the Oregon Zoo. If you have a furry friend, bring them on your hike as this park allows dogs on leash. The park hours are from 5:00 a.m. to midnight so you can enjoy the forest late into the night. 

7. Silver Falls State Park

Have you ever wanted to walk underneath a roaring waterfall? How about 4 waterfalls? If so, I think I have just the hike for you.  

Silver Falls State Park is a 90 minute drive away from Portland, OR and it’s located just 20 miles outside the city of Silverton, OR. 

This hike spans 7.2 miles, ventures past 10 unique and diverse waterfalls, and has an elevation change of 800 feet. Throughout your hike, you will proceed to walk under a handful of waterfalls. As you pass under roaring water, you are cooled down and refreshed by icy mist coating your face. This magical experience is well worth the long drive. Its popularity makes it a well known trail that is visited daily, but don’t let that scare you away. There are numerous routes that keep your hike interesting and secluded. If you’re looking for more than just a hike, this park offers more than 35 miles of backcountry trails for mountain biking, hiking or horseback riding. It also has overnight options. The main campground has tent sites, RV spots and cabins. If you don’t mind a longer drive, this hiking option will not disappoint.

Have a hike near Portland that you love that didn’t make this list? Drop us a comment so we can check it too!