Oregon is known for its dramatic landscapes, and the hiking trails that run through them are some of the best in the world. From coast to high desert, here are some of my favorite spots to hit up on your next trip.
Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States, and seventh deepest in the world. It’s also a national park, located in southern Oregon. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
If you’re looking for peace and quiet, this is your spot. The park hosts only about 400,000 visitors each year—less than Yosemite National Park and Yellowstone National Park—so you can feel free to enjoy nature without feeling overwhelmed by crowds of tourists. Plus, with only one road around the perimeter of Crater Lake (which makes up only two percent of its total area) there isn’t much traffic to contend with either.
Three Sisters Wilderness
Three Sisters Wilderness is a wilderness area in the Cascade Range of Oregon. It was established in 1964 and comprises about 33,000 acres (13,000 ha). The Three Sisters Wilderness borders on Mount Jefferson Wilderness to the north.
Cape Perpetua Scenic Area
Cape Perpetua Scenic Area is a popular hiking spot that’s located in Oregon’s Coast Range. The park contains two campgrounds, including the Cape Perpetua Campground and the Three Capes Loop Trailhead.
The park offers scenic views of the Pacific Ocean, Native American Indian petroglyphs and even whales during migrations. The most popular trail at Cape Perpetua is called “Devil’s Churn.” This hike takes you to an ocean overlook with breathtaking views of Sea Lion Rock and a natural archway formed from basalt rock formations.
Tumalo Falls
Tumalo Falls is a waterfall on the Deschutes River in central Oregon. Located in Bend, Oregon, Tumalo Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in the state and has become a popular hiking destination.
Lost Lake
- Location: Three miles from the main parking lot, Lost Lake is a secluded and beautiful spot in the Mount Hood National Forest.
- Best time to visit: Summertime, when it’s warm enough for swimming but still cold enough for a bonfire.
- What to bring: A tent or RV, your fishing pole and favorite bait (you won’t be disappointed), and some friends!
- How long it takes: If you drive yourself there (which I highly recommend), it’ll take around 20 minutes from Portland on I-205 northbound until you reach Hwy 26 eastbound towards Hood River. Then it’s another hour or so of winding roads through farmland before you reach The Dalles Dam Road exit onto OR 35 toward Oregon City where you’ll need to turn right onto US 30 at milepost 32 (this last part will take another 40 minutes). When they say “off-road” driving experience is required—they’re not kidding! But if your car can handle dirt roads without getting stuck then this trip should be well within its capabilities; otherwise consider renting a jeep or other vehicle from one of these companies instead. * How difficult it is: Moderate; expect uneven ground along with mud puddles so sturdy shoes are recommended! It takes about an hour each way on foot according * What you can see there: At first glance this body appears tranquil but look closer—there’s actually quite an enticing variety of fish species living within its depths… You may even spot some trout sunning themselves near shoreline rocks! If fishing isn’t really your thing though then don’t worry because there are plenty more reasons why people come here besides just catching dinner! For instance we could also go hiking along one of several trails nearby like….
Eagle Creek Trail
Eagle Creek Trail is a short, but strenuous hike. It’s not for the faint of heart: you’ll have to climb over rocks and logs along some steep ascents, so be sure to wear good footwear and bring plenty of water.
The trail takes about three hours to complete and leads to many impressive sights as well as a waterfall at the end of it all! The lovely scenery makes Eagle Creek Trail one of our favorite hikes in Oregon—though it’s certainly not for everyone.
If you’re looking for a quieter experience that’s less crowded than Multnomah Falls or Bridal Veil Falls, Eagle Creek Trail is an excellent choice. And while this trail isn’t open year-round like other popular hikes around Portland (like Mt Hood), it can still be enjoyed during summer months when most weather conditions are favorable.
Mount Bachelor
- Mount Bachelor is a mountain in central Oregon, United States. It is located about 50 miles (80 km) southeast of Bend, Oregon and is the second highest peak in the state.
- The mountain’s elevation varies from 9,065 feet (2,763 m) to 10,124 feet (3,094 m), depending on which subpeak you are talking about.
Smith Rock State Park
If you’re looking for a hike that will get your blood pumping, look no further than Oregon. With so many spectacular locations to explore, there’s no shortage of options when it comes time to decide which trail is right for you. From the beautiful beaches of Cape Perpetua Scenic Area and Three Sisters Wilderness to the towering cliffs found in Crater Lake National Park or Smith Rock State Park’s world-class rock climbing opportunities, it should come as no surprise that this state offers some pretty amazing scenery!
