To get to the great outdoors in most places would require a lengthy trip. Numerous outdoor activities and a stunning coastline are nearby Portland, whether you want to go snowboarding or fishing.
The Columbia River contains a 30-pound sturgeon, a large steelhead, and salmon. When you hook a fish, fishing is fantastic for the majority of the year and an unforgettable experience. You might think of this magnificent location while on day trips to the beach or while trekking in the Columbia Gorge.
Few American cities have as much nearby natural beauty as Portland, Oregon. There is something to do for everyone in this region, which is home to the Cascades volcanoes, beautiful waterfalls, a breathtaking shoreline, and pristine woods.
Best Places to Visit Near Portland Oregon
The following places to explore near Portland are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. These ten stand out above the others despite the fact that there are literally dozens of possibilities for Portland excursions, simply because of how clearly beautiful—even unique—they are.
1. National Park Silver Falls
The best place in the country to go if you enjoy hiking to waterfalls is Silver Falls State Park. The Trail of 10 Falls in the park is an excellent afternoon hike that provides quick access to 10 stunning waterfalls.
It is an excellent day trip location and is about an hour south of Portland. The ideal season to travel is in the fall when the waterfalls are at their loudest and the trees burst with color.
2. Park in Mount Rainier
Mount Rainier National Park is one of the natural great attractions in the Pacific Northwest and is the nearest national park to Portland. Beautiful alpine meadows and old-growth woods slowly descend Mount Rainier’s lower slopes, a large volcano covered in glaciers and the area’s focal point.
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Unquestionably one of the most stunning destinations to visit close to Portland, Mount Rainier National Park is deserving of a very long day trip.
3. Washington River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge, the region’s most well-known natural feature, is only 30 minutes drive east of Portland’s downtown. It is an amazing trip, traveling along this stunning gorge that the Columbia River, a powerful river, formed through the Cascade Mountains.
You’ll pass by old-growth forests, several waterfalls, and fantastic hiking trails along the way. This is the most well-known destination among those close to Portland.
4. California Coast
In about one and a half hours from Portland, you can reach the Oregon Coast. The closest place to go is Cannon Beach, a small yet active seaside community located northwest of Portland.
Ecola State Park, a stunning park, and Haystack Rock, a famous landmark, are located here, along with a ton of amusing eateries and shops. Hug Point, Cape Lookout, and Cape Kiwanda, three incredibly beautiful locations further south, are only a few of them.
5. A National Forest called Mount Hood
In the summer, ski rentals are available at the storied Timberline Lodge on Mount Hood, which is roughly 90 minutes from Portland. What’s the reason? Skiing is possible all year thanks to its glaciers. Skinning, or backcountry skiing, up the mountain on backcountry skis, and pack a picnic lunch to relish among the alpine rocks.
Mount Hood, which towers over northern Oregon and is visible from the streets of Portland, is the state’s highest mountain, standing at 11,240 feet. Ski resorts, summer recreational spaces, and landmark tourist attractions are located on this dormant stratovolcano. It is also the focal point of the Mt. Hood National Forest, which encompasses over one million acres.
6. Multnomah Falls
Just a short 30-minute drive to the east of Portland is the breathtaking natural wonder known as Multnomah Falls. Multnomah Falls, one of the most recognizable waterfalls, rises to a towering height of 620 feet, making it the tallest waterfall in Oregon.
The trip is worthwhile just for the waterfall’s breathtaking appearance, but the area around also provides chances for hiking and picnics in a beautiful, natural setting.
For a more challenging trek to the top of the falls for an even more magnificent perspective, visitors can choose between taking a leisurely stroll on the paved trail to the Benson Bridge, which offers a breathtaking view of the falls.
7. Tokyo Garden in Portland
The Portland Japanese Garden, tucked away within the vast Washington Park, is a serene haven that provides visitors with a peaceful getaway from the rush of city life. With every feature painstakingly sculpted to exemplify the traditional Japanese aesthetic, this breathtaking 5 1/2-acre garden is created to offer a tranquil and reflective experience.
Wandering through the winding walkways of the garden, visitors may admire the koi ponds, tea house, sand and stone garden, and breathtaking waterfall. Seasonal activities are also provided by the garden, such as the cherry blossom festival, which in Japanese culture marks the beginning of spring.
8. Gorge of the Columbia
A natural wonder that stretches over 80 miles along the Columbia River, the Columbia River Gorge offers visitors breathtaking views of towering cliffs, lush woods, and magnificent waterfalls.
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This magnificent canyon is a top location for hiking, biking, and scenic drives, and it offers a perfect way to take in the breathtaking natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. More than 90 waterfalls can be found in the gorge, including Multnomah Falls, which cascades down from the cliffs and conjures up an idyllic sight that is almost surreal.
9. Park Forest
One of the greatest urban forests in the United States is Forest Park, a natural marvel with a 5,200-acre footprint in Portland, Oregon. The park has over 80 miles of hiking trails that run through lush forests, bubbling streams, and magnificent waterfalls, making it a favorite destination for hikers and nature lovers.
Over 112 bird species and a variety of mammals, including deer, coyotes, and raccoons, are among the rich flora and fauna that visitors can explore in the park. In addition, there are a number of picnic spots and picturesque viewpoints in the park, making it a wonderful place to enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding natural scenery.
10. Pittock Estate
In Portland’s picturesque West Hills, Pittock Mansion is a historic gem. The home, which was built in 1909, is now a museum showcasing the rich history of Portland and the Pacific Northwest.
The mansion’s gorgeous interiors and priceless furnishings allow visitors to travel back in time while learning about the history of the area and the people who helped to define it. The mansion’s hilltop location also affords tourists beautiful views of the city, providing them with a unique perspective of the area.
Conclusion
Portland provides the ideal fusion of city living and outdoor excitement. The City of Roses is not only home to a wide variety of sights and activities, but it is also surrounded by stunning natural features including towering mountains and charming waterfalls.
There are many beautiful spots to discover in Portland, OR, whether you’re renting an apartment or trying to buy a house. As a new resident, you won’t want to miss some of the most stunning locations in and around Portland that we’ll show you.
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