Hiking trails span across entire Oregon, boasting plenty of scenic attractions like waterfalls, rocky outcroppings, dense forests, and mountain peaks along the way. Even though some are challenging, the breathtaking views of these natural wonders make the hike well worth it. Some trails run along the Oregon Coast, while others are within state parks and national forests. Each of them has something different to offer that is sure to leave you spellbound at the end of your hike.
The state’s largest, Silver Falls State Park, is home to several campsites and waterfalls. Due to this, it has earned the title of being the crown jewel of Oregon’s state park system. If you are a waterfall lover, you will not want to miss hiking the state park’s Trail of Ten Falls that will take you past ten gorgeous falls. Visitors usually begin their hike from South Falls Lodge Trailhead and head clockwise to complete the loop. You will also be able to walk behind four waterfalls, one of which is the mighty 177-feet South Falls.
Do remember to wear a raincoat to avoid the mist and spray of the gushing cascades soaking you. Also, a pair of waterproof hiking shoes is recommended to cross muddy paths. Dogs are, however, not permissible in the Canyon Trail, which is a part of the Trail of Ten Falls and houses maximum waterfalls.
Length: 9 miles (loop)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: All year long
God’s Thumb is a steep cliff jutting out to the sea resembling a massive thumb and hence the name. To get to its top, you will have to follow the trail leading to The Knoll as there’s no particular route or sign indicating God’s Thumb. As you hike it, you will go past dense spruce trees. The path can be muddy and slippery, especially during the rainy season.
After crossing the forest, you can pause to take in the views of the uniquely shaped cliff before starting to hike the steep section towards its summit. The panoramic vistas of the Oregon Coast and its surroundings from here are indeed breathtaking.
Length: 4.3 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: April to October
Abiqua Falls Trail in Santim National Forest might be short, but the rocky and slippery sections make it a pretty challenging hike. You will find ropes to help you keep your balance while crossing these paths.
Bringing a pair of gloves would come in handy to help you get a grip of the rope. Once you manage to reach the trail’s end, the beauty of the waterfall as it cascades down over 90 feet into the big pool below is sure to mesmerize you.
Length: 0.7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: All year long
The hike along Clatsop Loop Trail begins from the northern part of the Indian Beach at Ecola State Park. You can tread either the clockwise or counterclockwise directions to complete the loop. It runs along an old service road for half the distance with scenic views of old-growth forests.
Once it ascends to the viewpoint overlooking the Tillamook Head Lighthouse, the other half of the trail traverses along the Oregon Coast, offering incredible views of the Pacific Ocean. Since you will come across several muddy sections on the way, putting on a pair of sturdy hiking shoes is advisable. There’s a $5 parking fee per vehicle here.
Length: About 2.8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: All year long
Located on Columbia River Gorge’s western end, Angel Rest is a towering bluff with beautiful landscape views to offer. The trail goes through dense forests with rocky terrains and exposed roots. As you hike towards the summit, you are sure to be spellbound by the 360° vistas of the gorge and the picturesque northern side of Portland.
In addition, you can also get distant views of Mount Baker and Mount St. Helens on a clear day. Since the parking lot gets filled up quickly, it is best to come here before 10:00 am.
Length: About 4.5 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: April to October
Timberline Trail is an iconic trail that circles Mount Hood within Mount Hood National Forest in north-central Oregon. One of the common accessing points is from the Timberline Lodge. You can experience the awe-inspiring views of numerous mountains, waterfalls, scenic lakes, wildflowers, and alpine meadows. Some sections that hikers enjoy exploring for a day-hike include the hike to Bald Mountain, McNeil Point, Ramona Falls, and Zigzag Canyon Overlook. You can accomplish the entire loop after undertaking a tedious hike of four days.
Length: About 41.5 miles (loop)
Difficulty: Hard
Best time to visit: All year long
If you enjoy waterfall hiking, you shouldn’t miss this trail featuring six significant waterfalls and other smaller cascades and rapids on Multnomah Creek. Though it can be completed by either beginning from Wahkeena or Multnomah trailhead, choosing the latter would be the best to get past the crowded sections at first. You will encounter multiple switchbacks and steep points before reaching the Multnomah Falls viewpoint. As you make your way to Wahkeena Falls from here, you will have to traverse along the creek and Wahkeena Valley that boasts impressive views.
Length: About 5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: All year round
If seeking a day-hike around downtown Portland, you can head to the Latourell Falls trail that runs through Guy W. Talbot State Park to reach the upper falls just outside the park premises. You will find the trailhead off the Historic Columbia River Highway. Though there is some elevation gain initially, it can be hiked even by novice hikers and kids. However, do remember to put on appropriate footwear to traverse the muddy parts.
Length: About 3 miles (loop)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: May to October
A short drive from downtown Portland will bring you to Mt. Hood National Forest that offers many hiking trails. Out of these, you can choose the Mirror Lake Loop Trail if planning for a day’s adventure with your family. It meanders through scenic meadows and along streams boasting wildflowers on the way.
Once you reach the lake, you can plunge into the waters for a refreshing dip during the summer months. In winter, visitors enjoy snowshoeing as the path gets covered with snow. If you want to hike further, you can tread along the trail to reach the Tom, Dick, and Harry Mountain. It will be a 9-mile out and back trail running along the lake and provide jaw-dropping views of Mt. Hood.
Another trail worth mentioning is the Tamanawas Falls Trail. It starts near the parking lot, and following the East Fork Trail, it meanders through douglas fir forests. After reaching the waterfall, you can enjoy the views while having your meals here. It is best to wear hiking shoes with good traction if hiking in winter.
Length: Mirror Lake Loop Trail (about 4.2 miles, loop); Tamanawas Falls Trail (about 3.4 miles, out and back)
Difficulty: Mirror Lake Loop Trail (Moderate), Tamanawas Falls Trail (Moderate)
Best time to visit: May to October
To hike the Tillamook Head Traverse, you will have to start from the trailhead at Seaside in northwestern Oregon. It traverses along the Oregon Coast, boasting scenic views of the old-growth forests, beaches, and the Pacific Ocean.
You can even take a side trail at the end of the forest at Hiker’s Camp to get sweeping views of the ocean and the historic Tillamook Rock Lighthouse. You will also pass a WWII bunker in this area where you can pause to explore if you’ve time. Finally, the trail reaches its end as you hike along the coast and get to the Indian Beach section of Ecola State Park.
Length: About 13 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: All year round
Eagle Creek Trail is a beautiful gorge hike near Portland, featuring many stunning waterfalls and rocky outcroppings. It begins from Eagle Creek Campground and ends at Wahtum Lake, where you’ll find numerous camping sites. Among the waterfalls you will encounter, you can swim in some like at the base of Punch Bowl Falls and go behind Tunnel Falls.
It’s pretty challenging as you will have to hike along the steep portions of the canyon and sometimes muddy paths. Also, be prepared to wet your feet as there are several creek crossing points on the way.
Length: About 25.3 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: April to October
Opal Creek Trail is within the Opal Creek Wilderness area of Willamette National Forest. It takes you through an old-growth forest and several river access points. You can enjoy swimming in its cold waters or picnic on its shore. All along the way, you will find many scenic wonders offering a perfect visual retreat. However, do be careful while hiking over exposed roots and rocky terrains. At the end of the trail, you will be greeted with a pristine emerald pool surrounded by lush scenery. Remember to bring $5 for a day pass.
Length: About 7 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: May to October
Table Rock Trail takes you up the summit of Table Rock at an elevation of 4881 feet. It runs through coniferous forests with exposed roots and extremely rugged terrain. Make sure to pause on your way to catch your breath and admire the wildflowers and birds.
Apart from the spectacular views of Old Cascades of which the Table Rock is a remnant, you will also be able to see Mt. Hood and Mt. Jefferson on a clear day.
Length: About 7 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: All year long
You will find the trailhead of Saddle Mountain Trail from the campsite area near the parking lot. It initially starts with a steady incline but becomes steep towards the top. As you tread towards your destination, the colorful wildflowers and lush greenery, including red alder, Douglas fir, and spur trees would be a feast to your eyes.
From the summit, the views encompassing the Pacific Ocean and Mount Hood are indeed breathtaking. As most of the trail’s sections are exposed, it would help if you’d put on sturdy hiking shoes.
Length: About 5 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: April to November
One trail that you definitely must hike in Crater Lake National Park in south-central Oregon is the Watchman’s Peak Trail. It is short but steep, taking you up to the historic fire lookout at The Watchman’s summit.
If lucky, you can enjoy the picturesque 360° vistas of the lake and Wizard Island as sometimes smoke from the wildfires make these views obscure. The overall experience, however, is beautiful and worth the strenuous hike. As the trail lacks much shade, it is better to start early in the morning during the summer months.
Length: About 1.7 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: June to October
Samuel H. State Scenic Corridor stretches 12 miles along the Oregon Coast in southwest Oregon, boasting many short yet scenic trails. Among these, you can hike along the Indian Sands Trail, which offers breathtaking views of cliffs, sand dunes, wildflowers, a rocky arch, and much more scenery all the way. Despite the few steep points, you will not regret hiking it. Make sure to download the trail map beforehand to stay along the right path.
Another trail that you won’t want to miss is the Secret Beach Trail. It takes you to the splendid overlook of Thunder Rock Cove via a narrow, sketchy path and descends steeply to reach the Secret Beach. The views of the waterfall and surrounding cliffs in this secluded area are indeed jaw-dropping. Make it a point to visit the beach in the morning when there’s low tide to get the best vistas.
Length: Indian Sands Trail (about 1.1 miles, loop); Secret Beach Trail (about 1.5 miles, out and back)
Difficulty: Indian Sands Trail (Moderate), Secret Beach Trail (Moderate)
Best time to visit: April to October
Experienced hikers planning a short backpacking adventure can hike the trail to Broken Top and No Name Lake in Central Oregon. You will have to acquire a day-use or overnight permit to access it. As the trail traverses through Three Sisters Wilderness, the picturesque views of wildflowers, pine forests, and many more natural wonders make the hike more enjoyable.
You’ll find many creeks as well to cool off in the hot days, one being the Three Creek. Though the trail gets strenuous towards the end, you will not regret the sweeping view that awaits you. Several campsites are available to spend overnight, and you will be able to complete the entire hike within two days. You can also head to the adjacent Broken Hand summit for more spectacular views.
Length: 25 miles (loop)
Difficulty: Hard
Best time to visit: April to November
To experience the beautiful landscape of Smith Rock State Park in central Oregon, hiking Misery Ridge Trail is a must. The spectacular views all along the way make it worth treading along the steep sections and crossing the several switchbacks as it descends to the base of Monkey Face. As you scramble along the ridge, you will get a clear view of this 350-foot rock formation shaped like a monkey’s face and a favorite rock climbing site for many.
Many prefer hiking the Misery Ridge Trail in the clockwise direction that runs parallel to the river and gradually rises along the ridge’s backside. Though you will encounter some switchbacks on your way to the top, it is much easier and quicker than the counterclockwise route. You can even witness several bird species like the bald eagle and great blue heron towards the end of the loop along the river. A picnic would be ideal while admiring the surroundings once you reach the summit.
Length: About 5.5 miles (loop)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: May to October
Tumalo Falls Trail is a popular hiking trail in Bend’s Deschutes National Forest, taking you to the stunning 97-foot waterfall on Tumalo Creek. It is a short distance from the parking lot. Make sure to head to its top to enjoy the best views and get away from the crowd.
As the trail does not have much elevation gain, hikers of any skill level can easily access it. If you want to extend your hike to explore more scenic cascades, you can continue further along the North Fork Trail.
Length: About 1 mile (out and back)
Difficulty: Easy
Best time to visit: All year round
Three Sisters Loop, located near Bend, is an ideal backpacking trip that takes you along some of the state’s gorgeous peaks and alpine meadows. As it winds around the North, Middle, and South Sister volcanoes, you will be able to enjoy the breathtaking views of the diverse landscapes.
However, with an elevation gain of over 7000 feet, it is quite a challenging hike requiring about 3-5 days to complete the entire loop.
Length: About 45 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Best time to visit: July to October
A short drive from Bend will bring you to this popular trail that starts just off Cascade Lakes Highway. About only half a mile from the trailhead will make you witness Fall Creek Falls as the path meanders along the Fall Creek through dense woods. It further starts gaining elevation combined with a few switchbacks.
As you tread along, the enchanting sight of wildflowers blooming along the creek is sure to mesmerize you. As you hike further, you will reach the first Green Lake reflecting the magnificent Broken Top. If you want to stay overnight to admire the views, you will find plenty of camping sites in the Green Lakes Basin area.
Length: About 9 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time to visit: June to October
This national recreation trail runs parallel to McKenzie River between Eugene and Bend. You can either enjoy hiking a particular section of it for a day hike or plan a backpacking trip to complete the entire trail. The views along the way compensate for the strenuous hike along rough and rocky terrains.
Many hikers enjoy hiking the sections of Tamolitch Pool, also known as the Blue Pool, due to its pristine turquoise waters. Another popular part is the Koosah and Sahalie Falls, two of the gorgeous waterfalls that you wouldn’t want to miss. Besides hikers, the trail is also a favorite route among bikers.
Length: About 25 miles (point to point)
Difficulty: Hard
Best time to visit: All year round
TOP PICKS
Best Waterfall Hikes: Multnomah-Wahkeena Loop Trail, Trail of Ten Falls, Abiqua Falls Trail
Best Dog-Friendly Hikes: McKenzie River Trail, Angel’s Rest Trail, Opal Creek Trail
Best Kid-Friendly Hikes: Opal Creek Trail, Latourell Falls Trail
Best Winter Hikes: Multnomah-Wahkeena Loop Trail, Wildwood Trail, Tumalo Falls
Best Spring Hikes: Opal Creek Trail, Tumalo Falls, Multnomah-Wahkeena Loop Trail
Best Fall Hikes: McKenzie River Trail, Timberline Trail
Best Hikes with Swimming Spots: McKenzie River Trail, Opal Creek Trail, Green Lakes Trail
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