Angel’s Rest

Sitting within the Columbia Gorge near Multnomah Falls sits the trail of Angel’s Rest. With a 3,000-foot climb of elevation in the span of a 4.5-mile round-trip, this trail is a good challenge to take on. Be warned, this hike can be moderately difficult and winds can make you feel like you’re going to blow away toward the top. But, if you’re looking for a good workout, an amazing view of the gorge, and just a 40-minute drive, Angel’s Rest is for you. 

Cape Falcon

Situated between Cannon Beach and Manzanita, Cape Falcon is a rocky excursion that offers a lush, forested walk. Once you reach the end of the cape, about 2.6 miles in, you’ll be greeted with a beautiful view of the water and the surrounding coastline. It’s moderate length, but with little elevation gain, it’s not too difficult to enjoy the beautiful views. However, be warned of the cliffs that drop down to the beach (don’t worry, they’re marked).

Eagle Creek

Out along the Columbia Gorge Historic Highway is the Eagle Creek trail, sitting in an area of forest that was devastated by an enormous wildfire in 2017. Now, six years later, you can see life beginning to reappear. The trail is punctuated by waterfalls, which offer a 4.2, 6.6, or 12-mile hike depending on which one you stop at. While the trail isn’t as lush as it once was, it still offers plenty of great views and a difficulty that can vary depending on how you’re feeling.

Catherine Creek

Providing a landscape different than the hikes covered so far is Catherine Creek. Located in Washington just past Hood River, Catherine Creek is an extensive landscape filled with pleasantly tall yellow grass and flowers. It’s on the easier side, with just 4.1 miles of minimal elevation gain. Be wary of poison oak and possible windy conditions, but if you like wide-open spaces, Catherine Creek makes a great day trip.

Neahkahnie Mountain

While only about 1.5 miles each way, the Neahkahnie Mountain trail still offers a challenge with its 900-foot elevation gain and rocky trail. Located on the Oregon Coast a few minute drive from Cape Falcon, Neahkahnie Mountain provides one of my favorite hiking views ever. The climb is definitely worth it, but come with a full water bottle.

Mirror Lake

Situated on the west side of Mt. Hood next to Ski Bowl, Mirror Lake is both a popular summer hiking trail and a destination for snowshoeing. For the purposes of this article, I’ll be referring to the snowshoeing experience. You’ll reach the lake after a 1.6-mile winding path through beautiful snow-capped trees and bridges. If you go on a clear day, the result is breathtaking. Take sunglasses, as the sun’s reflection on the snow can be blinding.

Hiking is one of my favorite pastimes and has proved an excellent way to get out of the house. Hopefully, these few hikes have given you some inspiration to get outdoors, but remember that Oregon is a beautiful state with many more trails available, just waiting to be explored!