Best Day Trips from Portland

One of the best things about Portland is that it’s only a short drive from some of the most beautiful places in Oregon. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or an overnight trip, there are plenty of options.

Portland is a beautiful place to visit, and it doesn’t matter the time of year. It’s a great place to take a road trip, and it is especially nice in the summer when you can get your toes in the sand. The weather is also nice in winter and falls as well!

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Mount Rainier National Park

The Pacific Northwest is home to one of the most beautiful national parks in the country. Portland and Seattle are just 107 miles apart, and Mount Rainier is right in the middle.

This national park is filled with natural wonders and includes seven wilderness areas and three national forests. Nearly ninety percent of the park is wilderness. Depending on your plans, you may enjoy a trip to this spectacular national park in July or October.

There are four main entrances to Mount Rainier National Park. There are hiking trails, old-growth forests, and campgrounds.

Day trips from Portland to Mount Rainier National Park can include a stay at a hotel or campground. While staying at one of these hotels, be sure to enjoy a free breakfast each morning! The park has a large number of lodging options, including the National Park Inn in Paradise. If you prefer to camp, there are dozens of other options, including the nearby Ashford.

A visit to Mount Rainier National Park is an ideal way to start your trip. The park features beautiful mountain vistas, a meadow of wildflowers, and two waterfalls. The park is also home to the Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center, where you can view park movies and learn more about the local ecosystem. You can also enjoy a meal at one of the local hotels, like the Paradise Inn, in Mount Rainier National Park.

When is the ideal time to go to Mount Rainier National Park?

The best season to visit Mount Rainier National Park is from July to August when the subalpine meadows are carpeted with wildflowers and the weather is dry and mild, making for pleasant trekking.

Mount Hood National Forest

One of the best day trips from Portland is a drive through Mount Hood National Forest. The dormant stratovolcano makes for a stunning backdrop for year-round recreation.

A day trip from Portland to Mount Hood National Forest is a great way to experience the mountain and the surrounding area. There are plenty of scenic vistas, including Mount Hood itself.

There are also six ski resorts in the area, so there’s something for everyone. The region also offers a variety of activities, from hiking to mountain biking. Whether you want to spend your day in the forests or explore the alpine peaks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

A day trip from Portland to Mount Hood National Forest is the perfect way to get a taste of Oregon’s natural beauty. This area is rich with natural beauty, including teeming tide pools and the iconic Mount Hood.

You can also spend the day in Portland’s wine country and hot springs. Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape or a full-on activity, day trips from Portland to Mount Hood are ideal for families and groups of friends.

What makes Mount Hood National Forest well-known?

The height of Mount Hood National Forest is 11,239 feet (3,425 meters). Oregon’s tallest peak is also the second most-climbed mountain in the world, after Japan’s sacred Mount Fujiyama. In reality, this so-called mountain is a dormant stratovolcano located along the Cascade Volcanic Arc.

Cannon Beach

One of the most popular spring break destinations in Oregon is Cannon Beach. This gorgeous town is easily accessible by car and is a great day trip from Portland.

To get to Cannon Beach, you can take Highway 30 north. The highway passes through cities such as Scappoose, St. Helens, and Clatskanie, and it crosses the Youngs River, so the southern and northern routes are the best bets.

There are several ways to get to Cannon Beach. The shortest way is Highway 101, which merges with Highway 26 for a short drive to Cannon Beach. This is a great option if you don’t want to spend all day in the car, as you can take a weekend to explore the area. However, if you prefer to avoid the highway, there are alternate routes. These alternate routes will take you to Cannon Beach without much trouble.

If you’re looking for a beach vacation, Cannon Beach is a great destination. There are many activities to enjoy in the town. A walk through the town’s main street and along the river offers a beautiful view of the ocean. There’s also a great beach in Manzanita, and it’s often less crowded than other beaches. Check out local businesses and attractions such as Yolk for brunch, Moxie Fair Trade for clothes, and the Sand Dune Pub for karaoke.

Is it worthwhile to go to Cannon Beach?

The beachside community of Cannon Beach is well-known for its charming ambiance. It’s generally considered to be among Oregon’s finest beaches. The massive Haystack Rock is its claim to fame. Indian Beach in Ecola State Park in Cannon Beach, Oregon, was used for filming scenes from both The Goonies and the Twilight Saga.

Astoria

Day trips from Portland to Astoria can be a great way to see the area. Located at the mouth of the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean, Astoria has many scenic views. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat or an active and exciting adventure, Astoria has something to offer you.

In addition to being a charming town, Astoria is also home to several museums.

If you’re interested in history and culture, you’ll want to make a day trip from Portland to Astoria. The town is home to the Columbia River Maritime Museum and a historic riverfront. Astoria also has a thriving art scene.

Visiting the museum will provide you with a unique perspective on the fishing community. The city also has several attractions, such as the Astoria Column, a replica of the Trajan Column in Rome.

The town also serves as the filming location of the classic ’80s film The Goonies. You can visit the Flavel House Museum, which is located in an old Queen Anne-style house, and the Oregon Film Museum, which is located in the old county jail.

From Portland, you can drive to Astoria in two hours. The drive is scenic and will take you through some breathtaking scenery. From Portland, take Route 26 west towards the coast and then head north to Astoria. The city is also connected by Route 30.

A day trip from Portland to Astoria is a great way to see both the city and the coast. You can also rent a car through Hertz at select locations and sign up for an app to get location alerts.

Rowena Crest Hike

If you are looking for a beautiful, scenic hike to complete your day trip from Portland, Oregon, the Rowena Crest hike is the perfect option. The trail starts at a roadside pullout and offers a stunning view of the Columbia River Gorge, Lake Crescent, and the surrounding cliffs. Several roadside rest areas offer great photo opportunities, and there are also three bathhouses along the hike.

The hike begins at the Rowena Crest, near Mosier, and offers spectacular views of the Columbia River Gorge, rivaling the Horseshoe Bend in Arizona. The trail begins with a flat loop around a picturesque alpine lake and then continues up the mountain. Once you reach the summit, you’ll get an even better view of Mt. Hood. While the Rowena Crest hike is strenuous, the views are well worth it.

The hike can take up to three hours but is well worth the time. You can pack your lunch and picnic lunch, and then start enjoying the breathtaking views of the area. Oregon is home to some of the most beautiful natural areas in the United States. Whether you’re a hiker or mountain climber, there are so many great options for a day trip from Portland. This scenic route will make you feel refreshed and rejuvenated.

Sheep Canyon Loop Hike

The Sheep Canyon trail starts as a narrow, rocky path, meandering through a cemetery of dead grey trees draped in neon green moss. The canyon itself is dotted with views of Mount St. Helens and smells of sulfur, a byproduct of geothermal activity. The trail is easily accessible from Portland by taking Toutle Trail #238. At the end of the loop hike, you’ll be at Crescent Ridge, where you’ll be rewarded with views of South Fork Toutle Canyon.

The trail winds its way through wet meadows and rushing creeks. It is best to hike up during the mid-August season to view the wildflowers. Two of the most beautiful are the pink wild onion and purple monk head. Several interpretive markers provide information about the geology and fossils found on the trail. It’s a fascinating trip back in time and one that is well worth the trip.

From the Visitor Center, you can take an 18-minute park orientation film. There’s also a bookstore and museum displays of over 500 fossil specimens. A short walk from the Visitor Center leads to an overlook where you can see the river valley and a waterfall. The trail is not difficult and is best for people who aren’t too fit.

A Sheep Canyon day trip from Portland will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Abiqua Falls

One of the most popular waterfalls in Oregon is Abiqua Falls. It’s difficult to reach by car, and much more difficult to reach on foot. The trail is steep and difficult for small children, so it’s not recommended to visit without a pack.

If you do visit, make sure to stick to the marked trail, as it’s easy to get off the path and bushwhack. After your trip, you’ll be glad you made the effort.

From Portland, you can drive for 1.5 hours to reach Abiqua Falls, which features a 92-foot cascade of turquoise water. This is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Oregon, and it’s surrounded by verdant mosses and lichen.

You can also take a walk to Silver Falls State Park, another popular destination in the area. Abiqua Falls and Silver Falls are paired with Silver Falls State Park, which offers many other hiking opportunities.

To get to Abiqua Falls from Portland, take the scenic route to a parking area near the trailhead. The road is bumpy and is located next to the shooting range, so make sure you wear comfortable hiking shoes. The trail is wet and slippery, so wear appropriate clothing. The hike itself is only about five miles. Whether you choose to walk or drive to the waterfall, make sure you have proper footwear and clothing.

Cape Kiwanda

One of the most beautiful day trips from Portland is to Cape Kiwanda, located on Oregon’s southern coast. Located just off Highway 101, this state recreation area is a beautiful spot for kiteboarding, paragliding, or boating.

It is also home to Pelican Brewery, which sits right on the beach with unobstructed views of Haystack Rock.

Cape Kiwanda is a two-hour drive from Portland, Oregon, about 95 miles from the city. The drive is part of the adventure, as it winds through a scenic coastal mountain range.

Tillamook

One of the most popular day trips from Portland is a visit to Tillamook. It is the home of Oregon’s famous Tillamook Creamery.

For foodies, there are many different restaurants and breweries in the area. The town is also known for its famous Tillamook cheese.

You can take a tour and taste some of the region’s famous cheeses at the Tillamook Creamery. You can also stop by the Wilson River Highway to see the beautiful Tillamook Forest.

The region is also known for its beautiful beaches. There are many beaches along the coastline in this region, and you can also take a hike through one of them.

Tillamook Bay is also a great place to go fishing. This area also offers some great camping options, so bring your camping gear. If you don’t want to venture far from Portland, you can also visit God’s Thumb, a steep basalt formation that offers panoramic views of the Oregon coast.

While on a day trip from Portland to Tillamook, be sure to stop in at the famous Tillamook Creamery. You’ll be able to sample their delicious cheeses and ice cream, and there’s a restaurant in Tillamook where you can dine and shop for souvenirs. The Tillamook Creamery is open every day except Thanksgiving, so you can visit any time.

Hood River

A day trip from Portland to Hood River is the perfect way to see all the beauty that Oregon has to offer. Multnomah Falls, the state’s tallest waterfall, is within driving distance. A short hike from the parking lot takes you to the base of the waterfall, and you can enjoy its breathtaking beauty while taking in the local history.

You can also take a boat trip on the Columbia River. The Columbia River Gorge is a great day trip from Portland, and this trip is sure to impress.

The Columbia River Gorge is a great place to go kayaking or fishing. You can also take in the incredible wineries. Stave & Stone and Double Mountain are among the best wineries to visit while you’re in the area. Both have excellent wine options and epic views. Besides wine tastings, there are also plenty of breweries to visit, including pFriem and Double Mountain. Both have great food and craft beer.

Hiking is a great way to get to know this scenic region. The Hood River area is only an hour away from Portland, so it’s possible to explore all of its sights in a day. Hiking trails in the area are plentiful, and you can even go to a brewery or winery if you’d like to. It’s easy to see why day trips from Portland to Hood River are so popular.

Is it worthwhile to travel to Hood River?

Hood River has so many things to do. It’s a great place to eat, drink, shop, and relax, as well as to hike to waterfalls, go whitewater rafting, windsurf, and fish for salmon. It’s one of the best day trips from Portland, and you can get there in just over an hour.

Lincoln City

There are several ways you can get to Lincoln City, Oregon. You can get a cheap train ticket from Portland to Lincoln City for as little as $23. The cost of a one-way train ticket is not likely to increase much throughout the year.

If you’re planning to travel within seven days, you’ll want to purchase your ticket at least 48 hours in advance. Alternatively, you can drive yourself to the city.

There are several attractions in Lincoln City, including cute little shops that sell souvenirs and kites. While you’re there, you should try salt water taffy, and fudge. You’ll also want to check out the historic seafood market in Barnacle Bill’s.

A visit to Lincoln City will make for a fun day trip from Portland. Once you’ve visited Lincoln City, make sure to take a few days to explore the city.

Willamette Valley

If you’re visiting Portland and want to take in some of the state’s best wine country, a day trip to the Willamette Valley is a must. This wine country is home to over two-thirds of the state’s wineries and is renowned for its Pinot Noir and other fine wines.

It’s a great place to visit with your loved ones, and you’ll be happy to know you can take a day trip to the Willamette Valley without having to drive too far.

The Willamette Valley offers scenic vistas and gorgeous waterfalls. Visitors can take a 7.1-mile hike to the waterfall at Ramona Falls, a hidden horsetail waterfall in the forest. Another waterfall to visit is Tamanawas Falls, a 3.3-mile hike that leads to a stunning view.

If you want a more strenuous experience, the waterfalls are also within driving distance of Portland.

Sauvie Island

A day trip to Sauvie Island is a great way to get out of the city and explore nature. The island is only 40 minutes away from Portland, and there is plenty of parking available.

The island is also home to numerous farms and pick-your-own-fruit farms. While you’re there, be sure to explore the many open spaces and nature trails. This is the perfect getaway from the busy city. Here, you can explore local artisan and craft markets, and enjoy farm tours and activities.

When visiting the island, bring a picnic and enjoy the beautiful summer weather. The beautiful beaches are great for sunbathing and swimming. You can also hike the Wapato Access Greenway trail, which loops around a small lake. The park is home to several bald eagles and big-leaf maples. During the spring, you can even see them soaring overhead.

Is it free to go to Sauvie Island?

On Sauvie Island, you need a parking permit to park anywhere that isn’t a business. This includes trailheads and the beach. A day-use permit costs $10 and can be bought at the following places. A great place to buy fruits and vegetables and a paradise for people who like to watch birds, go to the beach, ride bikes, or kayak.

Silver Falls State Park

If you are visiting Portland, consider a day trip to Silver Falls State Park. Located just an hour and a half south of Portland, the park offers miles of hiking trails and 800 feet of elevation.

You’ll enjoy the cool waters and views of the waterfalls, and there are many options for activities, including fishing, horseback riding, and camping. In addition to hiking, the park offers picnic facilities and restrooms.

If you’re driving, Highway 213 will take you south, to Highway 214. Take the time to map your route on your mobile phone and enjoy the beautiful scenery of rural Oregon. There’s plenty to see on the way, so plan on a full day! Once you’re there, be sure to stop for a picnic lunch at the park’s South Falls Day Use Area, and explore the surrounding areas on foot or by bike.

During your trip, you’ll have the opportunity to see many types of flowers. During the spring, there’s even a flower festival, so you can take in the sights while the flowers bloom.

Is it worthwhile to visit Silver Falls State Park?

Silver Falls State Park is beautiful year-round, but winter and spring are when the waterfalls truly shine. Silver Falls State Park also has plenty of campsites and quaint cabins and lodge accommodations for overnight guests.

Timberline Lodge

Timberline Lodge is a national historic landmark, hotel, pub, and hiking trailhead. Its exterior resembles the Overlook Hotel from the 1980s horror movie The Shining, and you might be reminded of the lodge after watching the film.

Getting there via public transportation is tricky, and can take more than three hours. Alternatively, you can drive or take a bus. The lodge features several dining options.

Upon arrival at Timberline Lodge, you’ll have time to explore on your own. Day trips from Portland to Timberline Lodge are a great way to see Mount Hood.

There are several ways to get to Timberline Lodge from Portland. By car, the drive is 90 minutes to two hours, depending on traffic, and costs about $15-$20. However, driving in winter may require a four-wheel drive vehicle to stay on the mountain. To avoid getting lost, you can also take public transit to get to Sandy, Oregon. The Sandy Local & Gresham Express buses will get you to Timberline Lodge in about three hours.

Johnston Ridge Observatory

If you’re in the mood for an active and scenic day trip, consider taking a trip to the Johnston Ridge Observatory. Just outside of Portland, you’ll find this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which boasts views of Mt. St. Helens and the surrounding area.

Located about two hours from Portland, this place features a variety of trails and sights. Despite its remote location, you can easily make a day trip out of it without leaving the city.

The visitor center at Johnston Ridge Observatory is a great place to spend the day. There, you can see interactive exhibits and learn about the local geology. You can also take a guided hike and enjoy a light lunch.

As a bonus, if you’re staying at the Johnston Ridge Observatory, you’ll have a chance to take part in the Observatory’s educational programs.

A day trip from Portland to Johnston Ridge Observatory will give you the chance to experience a fascinating geological site.

Smith Rock

When planning a Smith Rock day trip from Portland, Oregon, it’s important to consider the season. The high season is the summer when most people are free and the weather is consistently nice. You’ll find the least crowds during this time, which makes it the best time for climbing. Otherwise, spring or fall are also great times to visit.

If you’re visiting during winter, don’t forget to bring your camera – the park turns off some of its water to prevent it from freezing. Winter is also the slowest time at Smith Rock, with fewer facilities and limited hours.

You can drive three hours northwest from Portland to reach this state park, which is home to the birthplace of American sports climbing. The park offers more than 1,000 bolted rock climbing routes and is a great place for rock climbers of all abilities.

Other outdoor activities include hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Visitors can also enjoy spectacular views of wildlife and take in beautiful surroundings. If you’re planning a day trip to Smith Rock from Portland, you’ll need to budget at least half a day for this adventure.

What makes Smith Rock well-known?

The rock formation known as Smith Rock is widely acknowledged as the original site of modern sport climbing in the United States. Sport climbing, conventional climbing, multi-pitch, and bouldering are all commonplace there.

Eugene

The Oregon coast, Cascade Mountain peaks, and the Willamette Valley are all within three hours of Eugene. You can enjoy the Oregon coast, charming small towns, and majestic waterfalls on a day trip from Portland to Eugene.

Additionally, you may check out Eugene’s thriving art scene. In Eugene, you can choose from a wide variety of exciting pursuits.

There are two ways to get from Portland to Eugene. The most inexpensive way is by car. Ticket prices are around eleven dollars and the trip takes about two and a half hours. However, if you’d prefer to take the train, you can purchase tickets in advance. This option costs around thirty dollars. It also takes about two hours to travel from Portland to Eugene. If you’d like to take a train, consider traveling by Amtrak.

You may want to spend an entire day exploring the Oregon coast. You’ll have the opportunity to visit the beautiful Mount Hood and explore some of the state’s most picturesque scenery.

The trip can be a great way to get away from the city and visit the countryside. You’ll find that there’s plenty of fun to be had in Eugene. You can spend a few hours exploring the city, or you can explore the surrounding region.

Bend

If you want to spend a full day exploring the beautiful state of Oregon, you may be wondering how to get from Portland to Bend. The best way to reach Bend is by taking US-26 or I-84. These roads offer scenic views of Mount Hood, the Columbia River Gorge, and the Hood River Valley.

These two routes are also the fastest ways to reach Bend, Oregon. You should allow up to four hours for the drive, so you can enjoy your trip to Bend without feeling rushed.

If you’d like to see the beauty of Mount Hood, you can take a day trip from Portland to Bend. Just 1.5 hours away, you can see the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. Part of Oregon’s 7 Wonders, this site features layers of fossilized creatures and rocks.

The monument has three separate parts: the Sheep Rock Unit, the Lower Fossil Beds Unit, and the Upper Fossil Unit. The monument is situated within the Cascade Mountains, one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in North America.

Bagby Hot Springs

If you’re looking for a day trip from Portland, Oregon, you might want to consider taking a day trip to Bagby Hotsprings, located about an hour’s drive from Portland.

The town has two public bathhouses, one is private and the other is open to the public. Both offer warm springs, and entry is $5. Bagby Hotsprings is located in the Mount Hood National Forest, so the drive will not be particularly challenging.

The first person to discover the natural hot springs at Bagby was Bob Bagby, a prospector who had moved to the region. A guard cabin was constructed in 1913 and was replaced in 1974 by a private organization called Friends of Bagby.

The hot springs were maintained by the Forest Service until the 1970s when a private group took over. The hot springs have become a popular destination for Portlanders and visitors alike.

To reach the springs, visitors must hike approximately 1.5 miles, so be sure to allow plenty of time. If the weather is bad, it may be best to stay in Portland and take a bus or car rental.

You should also bring a flashlight if you plan to explore the hot springs in the dark. It is best to visit during daylight hours because the weather can be unpredictable. Bagby Hotsprings is located about 60 miles from Portland.

Corvallis

Whether you’re planning a quick weekend trip or you’d like to spend a long weekend exploring this southwestern Oregon city, there are many ways to get there. You can get the bus from Portland Union Station to Corvallis Courtyard Marriott. Getting the train to Corvallis takes about two to three hours.

Taking a day trip from Portland to Corvallis can be as easy or as challenging as you make it. The route between the two cities is a popular one, and buses run every few hours.

Once you’ve figured out how much time you’ll need to get to each destination, book your bus tickets at least three to seven days in advance. After booking, you can select your desired travel date in a calendar, select the number of passengers, and even book tickets for a group of up to ten people.

Roseburg

Whether you’re looking for a short or long day trip, the two cities of Eugene and Roseburg are only a couple of hours away by car or plane. These towns are the perfect place to get out of Portland for a weekend, as they are both within a two-hour drive.

If you’re looking for a longer escape, however, you can head to either city and spend the night.

For those who are interested in wine and savoring a taste of the local cuisine, there are a few places that can be great additions to a day trip from Portland. Those interested in wine will want to spend some time at Cooper Ridge Vineyard, which offers panoramic views of the Garden Valley. You can also stop by Paul O’Brien Winery, a historic brick building located in downtown Roseburg.

For those looking for more outdoor adventures, Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge is a must-see. It offers spectacular scenery and a range of water and land activities, including hiking and rafting. Some of the most popular attractions are the waterfalls. Unfortunately, the Eagle Creek Fire has destroyed much of the gorge, so many trails have been closed. Despite the fire, there are plenty of things to do in the area.

Sisters

If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing the three majestic Sisters, you can now make your dreams come true. A visit to Sisters offers you the opportunity to explore the scenic beauty of the Cascade Mountains and visit the famous Three Creeks Road, as well as Tumalo State Park and nearby ski resorts.

The city of Sisters itself is quaint and charming and has several interesting shops and parks. If you’ve never been to Oregon, this is one of the most perfect days trips from Portland.

The town of Sisters is an ideal base camp for big hiking adventures. The Three Sisters Wilderness is close by, and its top-notch trails include Mt. Bachelor, Broken Top, and the South Sisters.

If you want to try something a little more extreme, you can head a little farther west to the Hoodoo Ski Area. This area is set on Santiam Pass and boasts over 800 acres of varied terrain. The area receives around 450 inches of snow each year.

Newport

While on a day trip from Portland to Newport, Oregon, you may want to see the city’s historical sites and attractions. While in the city, you can visit the Oregon Coast Aquarium and the Hatfield Marine Science Center.

The area also has several lighthouses, and you can spend time spotting wildlife at nearby viewpoints. There are also many restaurants located on the bayfront where you can enjoy the stunning views of the bay and dramatic weather patterns.

The bus to Newport costs approximately 28 USD and takes 4 hours. Ticket prices start at about twenty dollars and include ten stops. Greyhound USA has bus routes to Newport. By car, the route is approximately 133 miles long and takes about 3 hours. Fuel costs approximately 16 USD. For those who prefer to take a rental car, you can save money by driving.

A car trip to Newport will take approximately three hours, depending on your vehicle and your itinerary.

Villa Catalana Cellars

If you are looking for a fun, memorable day trip from Portland, consider a visit to Villa Catalana Cellars. Located in Santa Barbara County, this award-winning winery also boasts an olive grove and a covered picnic area.

If you like wine, you’ll also love this place’s ax throwing. It also offers daily brunch, dinner, cocktails, and a great pizza.

One of the closest wineries to Portland is Villa Catalana Cellars. The winery produces a small amount of wine each year, only 500 cases in total. Owners Cindy and Burl Motul created the estate to incorporate their love of food and wine, and it has since become one of the city’s most popular attractions.

Visit this place for lunch, and enjoy a tour of its picturesque grounds and gardens. You’ll want to try the estate’s award-winning wines, as well as their Cascade Berry Fortified wine liquor. You’ll also want to try their wood-fired pizza and play bocce on the lower dam.

Multnomah Falls

A day trip from Portland to Multnomah Falls is a great way to see Oregon’s most famous waterfall. The 600-foot-high Multnomah Falls is a breathtaking sight.

The waterfall is fed by underground springs in Larch Mountain. You can hike to the base of the waterfall, but be sure to bring appropriate footwear. After your hike, you can see Multnomah Falls and the Columbia Gorge from the air.

The best day trip from Portland to Multnomah Falls includes a scenic loop through the Gorge and a stop at Mt. Hood.

The drive is approximately three hours long and includes multiple stops along the way. You can also stop at Crown Point Vista House and Bridal Veil Falls while you’re on this tour. The Columbia River Gorge is a popular tourist attraction, and day trips to Multnomah Falls are a great way to experience it.

Is there a charge to visit Multnomah Falls?

Multnomah Falls has a restricted number of parking spaces, so those who plan to drive there must obtain a timed entry permit. There is a 14-day window in which permits can be requested. Tickets can be reserved for $2 each. From the parking area off Exit 31 on Interstate 84, visitors can walk to Multnomah Falls and the Historic Lodge.

Columbia River Gorge

Discovering and exploring Oregon’s waterfalls is one of our favorite past times. One of the best day trips from Portland, the 80-mile-long Columbia River Gorge is perfect for those looking to escape the city.
Most people who visit the Columbia River Gorge go to see Multnomah Falls, Oregon’s largest waterfall at 620 feet.

There are more canyons, cliffs, and waterfalls here than anywhere else in the United States because of the Columbia River’s tremendous outpouring into the Pacific Ocean. Many species of wildlife call the Gorge their home, including grizzly bears, bald eagles, bull trout, gray wolves, and the Canada lynx.

Tamolitch Blue Pool

The McKenzie River’s Tamolitch Blue Pool is so dazzling and beautiful that it’s hard to believe it exists. The waterfall only flows a few times a year, making this pool even more unique than it already is due to the underground springs that supply its water.

The 3.6-mile out-and-back McKenzie River Trail leads to the stunning Tamolitch Falls. Hike northward from the right Tamolitch Trailhead to get to the Blue Pool. A more circuitous journey south is required to reach the Carmen Reservoir.

Salem

Being situated in the Willamette River Valley, Salem is arguably one of the most picturesque state capitals in the USA. Numerous exciting activities and educational cultural events are available in the region, making it a great place to take the kids. What’s more, Salem features many excellent restaurants and other wine-related activities.

Within an hour’s drive, you can reach the coastal mountains or the Pacific Ocean from the nation’s capital, and the ensuing environment is as lush and lovely as you’d imagine. It seems like wherever you turn there are blooming cherry trees, flower fields, and luscious vineyards. You can spend time learning about the area’s history at one of the many museums or stroll through one of the many parks.

Trillium Lake

Trillium Lake, at the base of Mount Hood, is a little-known beauty in Oregon. This peaceful spot is perfect for a picnic, a romantic stroll, or a calm kayak outing. Gather the gang and head to one of the safe barbeque areas dotting the banks of Trillium Lake. Although the water in Trillium Lake is a touch cool in the winter, it is clean and clear enough to swim in. There is nowhere to rent kayaks or paddle boards, but you are welcome to bring your own. Beautiful Trillium Lake is a great place to take the kids for a day of fun in the sun.

Seattle

Seattle is home to some of the country’s top cafes and bars, as well as some of the best outdoor recreation opportunities in the country. If you’re looking for organic options in Vancouver, you can’t go wrong with Local 360, Portage Bay Cafe, or Unicorn Bar.

You could indeed spend an entire day in Seattle just sampling the city’s many culinary offerings. There’s little doubt that the Space Needle and Pike Place Market will be at the top of your list of things to do and see in Seattle. Seattle is a great city to visit if you’re looking for some fresh air, as you can do so by taking a boat tour of the Seattle Locks or going for a walk in Kerry Park.

We hope that you’ve enjoyed this list of day trips from Portland. If you’re planning a trip to Oregon and need some inspiration, consider visiting one of these destinations! The state is full of natural beauty, and it has a lot to offer visitors. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or an overnight stay, there’s something for everyone!

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