portland oregon day trip

The 16 best day trips from Portland

Feb 25, 2021 • 12 min read

Portland has an abundance of natural beauty just a short drive away, from high desert crags to lush coastal rainforests ©Danielle D. Hughson/Getty Images

Portland is blessed with a pretty prime geographic location – drive two hours in any direction and you might find yourself at the coast, on a snow-capped stratovolcano, in the heart of wine country, at a rock climbing crag, soaking in a hot spring or even closing in on other major cities like Seattle, Washington. If you're itching for a change of scenery, Portland has a wealth of day trip-worthy destinations in arm's reach. We narrowed it down to sixteen of the best, with a little something for everyone from foodies to families to outdoor enthusiasts to oenophiles.

Editor's note: during  COVID-19  there are restrictions on travel. Check the latest guidance before departure, and always follow local health advice.

1. Waterfall Alley, Columbia River Gorge

Steep, evergreen-covered cliffs are striated with so many high, lush waterfalls that it boggles the mind. Walk into this temperate rainforest and you’ll find golden-red foliage in fall, snow sprinkles in winter, wildflowers in spring and flourishing mosses year-round. The lower edge is dominated by the mighty, curving Columbia River. Adventures in Columbia River Gorge range from easy jaunts from a parking lot to full days exploring the wilds.  

How to get to the Gorge:  I-84 East runs the length of the Gorge, and you can easily exit to stop in numerous small towns and trail head parking lots along the way. Traffic can get backed up, though, so give yourself plenty of time. Alternately, you can reach the Gorge by public transit if you take the bus or light rail to the Gateway/NE 99th Avenue Transit Center and transfer to the Columbia Gorge Express. 

2. Willamette Valley Wine Country

The New World’s answer to Burgundy, the bucolic Willamette Valley  excels at producing complex pinot noirs. Small towns chock-full of gourmet restaurants and cute shops are separated by rolling hills covered in grapevines and flowers. Most wineries are family-owned and you’re more likely to be met by a happy dog than an attitude. Beyond wine, check out distilleries, cheese factories, bike trails and more.  

How to get to the Willamette Valley: Towns like Dundee at the north end of the Willamette Valley are only 40 minutes or so from downtown Portland, but the Willamette Valley extends for about a hundred miles to Eugene at the far southern end.

3. Sauvie Island

With pick-your-own fruit farms in summer, corn mazes and hay rides come autumn, and beaches, trails and waterways to explore year-round, Sauvie Island is an easy trip to pastoral bliss. Plus, it’s as fun for kids as it is for adults. As the largest island in Columbia River, any land not dedicated to farming is a protected wildlife area. Expect to see ospreys, herons, bald eagles and maybe even a beaver.   

How to get to Sauvie Island:   Sauvie Island is just 40min from Portland by car and can be reached by US-30 East, I-5 South, or US-26 East. There will be plenty of parking at the farms and other destinations, as well as at the public beaches – just be sure to get there early if it's a sunny summer day.

4. Silver Falls State Park

Silver Falls is quite possibly the most stunning park in the state. The 7.2-mile, not-to-miss Trail of Ten Falls does what it says and more as it winds up a basalt canyon through thick forests. Walk the full loop to see all the waterfalls – and even walk behind a few – in their fern-draped, wildflowered splendor, or park at the Silver Falls Lodge from where it’s a short walk down to South Falls – here the trail leads underneath an unforgettable 177ft cascade curtain. 

How to get to Silver Falls State Park:   Silver Falls State Park is about 26 miles east of Salem on Hwy 214 and 53 miles south of Portland via OR-214 N and I-5 N. It should only take an hour to reach from downtown, depending on traffic.

5. Cannon Beach

The Oregon Coast holds some of the most beautifully grand but lesser-known beaches in the contiguous USA. Cannon Beach is the ideal, easy-to-reach introduction to the region, with miles of white sand, waterfalls tumbling to the beach and the hulking, 72m Haystack Rock which makes for a picture-perfect silhouette. In town, you’ll find art galleries, chic boutiques and incredible dining (hint: try the chowder).

How to get to Cannon Beach: Take US-26 East until it junctions with US 101 – a trip that should be only 1hr 30min by car.

6. Timberline Lodge

Stay, dine, hike, ski or gawk – this iconic Oregon lodge is a destination in itself or a must-stop if you’re exploring Mt Hood. The grand structure was built of local stone and timber to blend in with the surrounding forest and the six-sided central tower is meant to mimic the pyramid-like peak of its glorious mountain location. Timberline Lodge is a National Historic Landmark as well as a hotel, a fine restaurant, a pub, a ski resort and a trailhead for adventurous hiking. You may recognize the exterior from the 1980s horror film, The Shining .

How to get to Timberline Lodge:   Mount Hood is only an hour and a half from Portland by US-26 East. Alternately, you can take public transit to the Gresham Transit Center and transfer to the Sandy Local / Gresham Express to Sandy, Oregon. From there you transfer the Mount Hood Express before getting off in Timberline, but it will extend your journey to about three hours. 

7. Johnston Ridge Observatory, Mt St Helens

Gaze into the awesome crater of Mt St Helens from the state-of-the-art Johnston Ridge Observatory . Whether this is your destination or you’re preparing for a longer hike through the National Volcanic Monument, you’ll learn the science behind the 1500 atomic bomb-force eruption in 1980. Then take the 1-mile Eruption Trail walking loop for even more views, with explanations, of the volcanic destruction.   

How to get to Johnston Ridge Observatory:  Take I-5 N to WA-504 E/Mt St Helens Way NE in Castle Rock. The drive is about two hours long.

8. Smith Rock

Best known for its glorious rock climbing, Smith Rock State Park boasts rust-colored 800ft cliffs that tower over the pretty Crooked River. Nonclimbers have several miles of fine hiking trails, some of which involve a little simple rock scrambling. Nearby Terrebonne has a climbing store, along with some restaurants and grocery stores. The formations in the park are simply spectacular.

How to get to Smith Rock: It's a three hour drive to Smith Rock from Portland via US-26 East. Be sure to get there early – Smith Rock quickly fills up on a sunny day. There's camping right next to the park, or at Skull Hollow (no water; campsites $5), 8 miles east. The nearest motels are a few miles south in Redmond.

9. The Fruit Loop

Covering 35 miles along scenic fertile lands, the Hood River County Fruit Loop takes you by family fruit stands, U-pick orchards, lavender fields, alpaca farms and winery tasting rooms. There are blossoms in spring, berries in summer, and apples and pears in fall – with plenty of festivals and celebrations throughout the seasons (except for winter). It's a good way to sample the area's agricultural bounties while appreciating the local scenery too. For more information and a list of events, check www.hoodriverfruitloop.com.

How to get to the Fruit Loop: State   Highway 35 runs from Government Camp on the slopes of Mount Hood and the city of Hood River in the Columbia River Gorge. It's along this stretch that most of the farms and other destinations on the Fruit Loop are located. You can take either US-26 East or I-84 to reach one end of the Loop or the other, depending on whether you'd like to drive it clockwise or counterclockwise. 

10. Eugene, Oregon

Eugene offers a great art scene, exceptionally fine restaurants , buzzy breweries , boisterous festivals , miles of riverside paths and several lovely parks . Its location at the confluence of the Willamette and McKenzie Rivers, just west of the Cascades, means there's plenty of outdoor recreation on offer – especially around the McKenzie River region, the Three Sisters Wilderness and Willamette Pass. Not only that, Eugene's at the southern end of the Willamette Valley, which boasts several world-class wineries.

How to get to Eugene: It's about a two hour drive on I-5 South from Portland to Eugene. If you don't mind the potential for delays, or want to extend your daytrip into a weekend away, you can also take Amtrak's Coast Starlight or Cascades lines from Portland's Union Station to Eugene, a journey of about 2 hours and 30 minutes if you don't have to wait on a freight train to pass.

11. Tillamook

Best known for its huge cheese industry, Tillamook is a fun destination for a day trip if you're aiming to down some dairy. Cheese production began in Tillamook in the 1890s, when an English cheesemaker brought his cheddar-making techniques to the fledgling dairies along Tillamook Bay. Nearly a million people stop here annually to visit the famed  Tillamook Creamery , which produces 171,000 pounds of cheese every day. South of Tillamook, US 101 loses the beaches and headlands and follows the Nestucca River through pastureland and logged-off mountains. The slower but prettier  Three Capes Scenic Drive  begins in Tillamook and follows the coast.

How to get to Tillamook:  US-26 West and OR-6 West will get you to Tillamook in under an hour and a half. Alternately, you can take the 5 bus from Union and disembark at the Tillamook Transit Center, but that will add a half hour or so to the trip.

12. Bend, Oregon

Not all of Bend is as pretty as nearby Smith Rock – Hight 97 (3rd St) is a long commercial strip of cheap motels, fast-food restaurants and run-of-the-mill services. But something has to support Bend's fast-growing population, which has skyrocketed with outdoor-lovers over the past decade or so. You can ski fine powder in the morning, paddle a kayak in the afternoon and grab a beer  in the evening at a crop of local watering holes . Or would you rather go mountain biking, hiking, mountaineering, stand-up paddle boarding, fly-fishing or rock climbing? All of those are possible at the nearby  Three Sisters Wilderness ,  Lava River Cave  and  Newberry National Volcanic Monument . You can even surf a river wave in the center of town. It's the perfect getaway from cloudy Portland, too, with nearly 300 days of sunshine each year.

How to get to Bend: US-26 East will get you to Bend from Portland in just over three hours, though traffic can sometimes tangle up where you pass through Smith Rock State Park. You can also take I-5 South to Salem and take OR-22 East over the Cascades to Bend – a drive of about three and a half hours.

13. Bagby Hotsprings

A 90-mile drive east of Salem is this rustic, clothing-optional hot spring with various wooden tubs in semi-private bathhouses. Bagby Hot Springs  is accessible via a lovely 1.5-mile hiking trail through lush forest. Be prepared to wait your turn on weekends. The admission fee is collected by an attendant near the trailhead.

How to get to Bagby Hotsprings: There are a couple different routes you can take south from Portland that all converge around Shady Dell. Whichever you take, you'll ultimately end up driving 11 miles on forest service road NF-7010 until you reach the trailhead parking lot. From there it's a 30 minute hike to the springs.

14. Trillium Lake

If there's one thing Portlanders love, it's heading to Trillium Lake for the day. This popular spot offers stunning vistas of Mt. Hood reflected in the lake's shimmering waters, a nice campground, and boardwalk hikes surrounded by wildflowers in season. During the spring and summer, there are opportunities for boating, swimming and fishing, too. The 63-acre lake sits at an elevation of 3,600 feet, though, so by the middle of autumn the access road is closed by the park service, and instead transforms into a cross country ski and snowshoe trail for the winter. A State of Oregon Sno-Park permit is required November 1 through April 30.

How to get to Trillium Lake: US-26 East will get you to Trillium Lake in about an hour and a half. Once you reach Government Camp, you'll use forest service road NF-2656 to reach the campground.

15. Astoria

Named after America's first millionaire, John Jacob Astor, Astoria sits at the 5-mile-wide mouth of the Columbia River and was the first US settlement west of the Mississippi. The city has a long seafaring history and has seen its old harbor, once home to poor artists and writers, attract fancy hotels and restaurants in recent years. Inland are many historical houses, including lovingly restored Victorians – a few converted into romantic B&Bs. With a number of quirky festivals like the Fisher Poets Gathering  and the  Festival of the Dark Arts  beer showcase, Astoria has plenty to keep day trippers coming back throughout the year. 

How to get to Astoria: It takes just under two hours to get to Astoria from Portland on   US-26 West. Alternately, you can take public transit to Union and transfer to the CC bus to Astoria before getting off at the East Columbia River Highway stop. It takes just under three hours by bus from Portland.

16. Seattle

Just three hours away from Portland, its bigger, sleeker sibling sits on Puget Sound. Seattle 's current reputation as the town that spawned Amazon and Starbucks won't give you the full picture of the city's oddball cultural heritage. Crisscross its urban grid and you’ll find all kinds of apparitions: a rocket sticking out of a building; a museum built to resemble a smashed-up electric guitar; glass orbs in wooden canoes; a statue of Lenin; a mural made of used chewing gum; fish-tossing market traders; and a museum dedicated to antique pinball machines (that you can still play). Need help acclimating? The city's still-booming legal weed market will help you embrace your own weird side.

How to get to Seattle: It's under three hours to Seattle from Portland on I-5 North. You can also take the Bolt bus, which departs regularly from the Park Blocks in downtown Portland. Another option is to take the Amtrak Coast Starlight or Cascade train from Portland's Union Station in to Seattle. The later two options will take anywhere from three and a half to four and a half hours, not counting possible delays.

You might also like:

Celebrate spring with lush backpacking trips near Portland, Oregon The 11 best beaches in Oregon The best tasting rooms in Oregon’s Willamette Valley wine country

This article was first published Sep 2, 2020 and updated Feb 25, 2021.

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Our Favorite Day Trips from Portland: A Helpful Planning Guide

One of the best things about the major cities in the Pacific Northwest is that you’re within a short drive of both the Pacific Ocean and the mountains (the Cascades, mostly). In this case, Portland is roughly 90 minutes from both, which we absolutely think is near the top of the list of the best things about living here. 

Within 90 minutes, you can get from Portland to alpine terrain with up-close-and-personal views of Mount Hood, coastal bluffs with never ending vistas of the Oregon Coast, or a barren landscape shaped by a volcanic eruption that changed the surrounding area forever. 

We’re lucky to call Portland home, and we want to share our favorite places within 90 minutes with you so that you can fall head over heels in love with Oregon like we have. Whether you’re just in town for a couple of days, or you live here and are looking for some new ideas, we’re here to help you plan your next outing.

In this guide, we’re going to give you our perspective on the best day trips within 90 minutes of Downtown Portland, whether you’re looking for a charming town to visit, want to see one of Oregon’s incredible waterfalls (or ten of them), or want to go on a hike near Portland . 

We’ll give you our favorite day trip destinations, along with the things you need to know to plan your trip – like how to get there, whether you need a car or not, and some of the best things to do while you’re there. 

Sound good? Let’s do it!

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel and vacation rental links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would absolutely never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

Getting to These Day Trips: Do You Need a Car?

In general, yes, you are going to need a car to reach the vast majority of the places we’ve included below. 

That being said, there are a couple of places you can reach by public transportation or a guided tour, so we wanted to include a section on which of these day trips would be good if you don’t have access to a car. 

Here are a couple of options if you don’t have a car. 

The easiest day trip to reach without a car is going to be the Columbia River Gorge , which is accessible both by shuttle (though you need to get to the first shuttle stop , which will require a long rideshare) and by guided day trip ( this half day tour and this hiking tour are our recommendations). 

There are also guided day trips that will take you out to Cannon Beach and the surrounding area on the Oregon Coast ( this is the one we’d choose ).

While you’re certainly going to have less flexibility in terms of what to do and see, you’re also going to get to spend some time with a local who can give you a little more insight into the places you’re seeing than you might get on your own.

Last, but certainly not least, is the trip to Silver Falls State Park . However, while you can experience the magic of the Trail of Ten Falls (or a portion of it) on a guided day trip from Portland , you’re not going to be able to explore the areas nearby, like Salem and the Willamette Valley, which is a bummer. 

A Complete Guide to Our Favorite Day Trips from Portland, Oregon

In this guide, we’re going to cover our favorite day trips, along with some of the important details you’ll need to know to plan your trip (like how to get there and what to do). 

We’re only including day trip destinations that are within about 90 minutes of Portland here – anything over that is probably better as a weekend trip from Portland to make the drive time worth the journey. 

The Columbia River Gorge

Distance from Portland: 30 Miles  || Drive Time from Portland: 40 Minutes

The Columbia River Gorge is BARELY a day trip from Portland, considering it takes about a half hour to get from the city center to the western end of the Gorge. Which is why it’s first on this list. 

This might be a hot take, but I’m not sure there’s a day trip from any city in the country that rivals the Columbia River Gorge in terms of accessibility from the city center and pure natural beauty. 

The Columbia River is the river that Lewis and Clark followed west to the Pacific Ocean, and it flows east to west across the northern edge of Oregon, marking the border between Oregon and Washington State.

The part we’re talking about here is the stretch between Hood River and Portland, which is a lush paradise that features both some of the best hikes in Oregon and multiple of our favorite waterfalls in Oregon. 

The natural beauty on display in the Gorge is astounding, and it’s our number one recommendation if you’ve never been before. 

Getting to the Columbia River Gorge 

You’ve got a few options in terms of getting out to the Gorge, and we’re going to give you three. But we do want to make it clear that the best way to do a day trip to the Columbia River Gorge is driving yourself, which gives you the most flexibility.

If you’re in town for a few days, it’s worth renting a car (either through Turo or from a major rental agency) for a single day to do this trip. 

Here are your three options. 

Drive Yourself

Like we mentioned above, this is the best way to do the Gorge as a day trip and have the flexibility to do and see what you want.

This is best for people who either live in Portland (and have a car), or people who are driving to Portland for their visit (perhaps as part of an Oregon road trip ?).

However, if you’re just in Portland for a weekend and looking to do a day trip, we wouldn’t recommend renting a car for your entire stay because it will be more of a nuisance than a help.

If you really want to have access to a car, you can either use Turo or rent a car for the day. Better yet, skip the hassle of getting a car and use one of the options below

The Sasquatch Shuttle

The Sasquatch Shuttle is a great option if you’re coming from Portland and don’t have your own car.

It’s a hop on / hop off shuttle that stops at a couple of different places in the Gorge.

The downside is that you’ll have to get to the pickup area yourself, which will require either driving or a somewhat pricey Lyft/Uber.

This means that, depending on your situation (particularly for couples), it might actually be more cost-effective to do a guided day trip if you don’t have a car (more on that below).

The Waterfall Loop stops at most of the stops we’d recommend, including Multnomah Falls, Latourell Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

It costs $15 a person – buy tickets here . 

A Guided Day Trip

If you don’t have a car and don’t want to deal with logistics or the shuttle, then a guided day trip out to the Gorge would be a good option. Plus, you’ll get to connect with a knowledgeable local and learn a little bit about the area while you’re at it.

We’d recommend this half day tour that gets you to three waterfalls at the western end of the Gorge.  

What to Do in the Columbia River Gorge

Here are some of our favorite things to do in the Columbia River Gorge, in no particular order.

See some waterfalls: I mean, this has to be number one. There are an astonishing number of beautiful waterfalls in the Gorge , some of which are basically right off the side of the road, some require a little bit of a hike.

Here are four that we love (this is by no means an exhaustive list, though!):  

• Multnomah Falls: The crown jewel of the Gorge, and also the most popular waterfall in the area. It’s impressive, but the crowds are oppressive. We’d recommend coming here as early as humanly possible and doing the lower viewpoint and the short hike to the upper viewpoint on the bridge, then moving on. Heads up: you need a permit during peak season in 2024 (more information here ).
• Latourell Falls: The lower falls is more impressive, and is basically visible from the parking lot. But you should definitely walk down to the base of the falls, and then do the short loop that takes you up and around to the upper falls.
• Horsetail and Ponytail Falls: A relatively new discovery for us, both waterfalls are spectacular. Horsetail is the lower falls, which is right across the road from the parking area. Ponytail requires a short hike to access – it’s surprisingly tough for how short it is – but is well worth the effort because you can walk behind the falls.
• Dry Creek Falls : A less-visited waterfall that follows part of the PCT on the way to a nice waterfall that sees a tiny fraction of the visitors to the three above. 

Get some epic views of the Gorge: There are two varieties of views of the Gorge. Those that you can see right from the parking lot, and those that you have to put a little sweat in to reach. For great views from the parking area, head to the Women’s Forum Scenic Viewpoint and the Vista House on the western end of the Historic Columbia River Highway. For hikes that end with a view, do Angel’s Rest or Larch Mountain .   

Get over to the Washington side of the Gorge: To this point, we’ve largely covered the Oregon side of the Gorge, but there are absolutely things to see on the other side of the Columbia River, particularly if you’re into hiking and great views. We like the views from the Cape Horn Trail , the wildflowers at Dog Mountain , and the waterfall at Spirit Falls . If you’re willing to go a little further, Panther Creek Falls and Falls Creek Falls are also pretty spectacular. 

READ MORE : 15 Spectacular Hikes in the Columbia River Gorge (for All Levels)

Distance from Portland: 62 miles  || Drive Time from Portland: 1 hour 15 minutes

Hood River is another really easy day trip from Portland. It sits along the Columbia River, about 60 miles up the Gorge from Portland, and sits roughly at the point where the Gorge goes from lush to high desert. 

It’s a great example of the incredible diversity of the landscapes in Oregon (and Washington State), because in every direction you’ll find something slightly different.

To the north, you’re going to be heading into the Cascades, with St. Helens and Mount Adams looming over Hood River.

To the south is the lush Hood River Valley, the fruit basket of northwest Oregon.

To the west is the lush part of the Gorge, and to the east is the high desert, the dry part of the Gorge. 

We’d split your time in Hood River into two parts. The first part should be getting lunch in town (and a local beer, perhaps at the same time) and the second part should be exploring the Hood River Valley, which is just south of Hood River and is one of the most fertile patches in Oregon, with apples and pears growing as far as the eye can see. 

It’s worth noting that these first two (the Gorge and Hood River) make a nice combination , because to get to Hood River, you have to drive through the Columbia River Gorge.

It makes sense to spend the morning exploring the Gorge, land of the countless towering waterfalls, and then spend the afternoon in Hood River, which is a nice town just up the Columbia from Portland with plenty of craft beer, cider, food, and a fertile valley waiting for you to explore. 

If you’re combining the Gorge and Hood River, after a morning in the Gorge head into Hood River, passing by the windsurfers out on the river (this is one of the best spots in the country for windsurfing thanks to the wind that comes whipping down the Gorge). 

Getting to Hood River 

You really need a car to do Hood River right. There’s a shuttle that will take you from east Portland out to Hood River, but that only works if you want to just stay in town, which means you’re missing what are arguably our favorite parts of the area. 

What to Do in Hood River

Here are some things we enjoy in Hood River. 

Hang out in Downtown Hood River: Hood River itself is a fun little town, full of places to eat, drink, and shop. For beer, you have a bunch of classic Oregon craft breweries – we’d head to either Full Sail or pFriem . For cider , head to Crush Cider Cafe . For food , head to Broder Ost for brunch or lunch, Grasslands Barbecue for amazing Texas-style barbecue, or across the river to White Salmon and Pixán Taqueria for great tacos and tequila.  

Drive the Fruit Loop in the Hood River Valley: In the Hood River Valley, here are some can’t-miss stops. A good resource for this part of the world is the Fruit Loop, which is both a delicious breakfast cereal, and also a beautiful drive through the Hood River Valley. 

• Stave and Stone : We like the location of their tasting room at the vineyard.  
• Hood River Lavender : A lavender farm with a view of Mount Hood’s peak? Sounds good to us. U-pick lavender during the summer, from June to September.
• Draper Girls Country Farm : Fruit, cider, and a bunch of fun gifts like local jams and spreads. We always stop here if we’re in the neighborhood, and depending on the season you’ll find apples, cherries, and more. 
• The Gorge White House : A lovely place to spend an afternoon. They have cider, wine, and u-pick fruit in the summer with beautiful grounds that are just begging for a picnic. 

Take a Hike: There are a bunch of great hikes near Hood River , including the ones we already mentioned above in the Gorge that are on the way out to Hood River. You could also head south to Tamanawas Falls on the eastern flank of Mount Hood, or just across the river to Coyote Wall to get up on the ridge line on the Washington side (with great wildflowers in the summer!). 

Get Out on the Water: Hood River is known for water sports. It’s one of the best windsurfing destinations in the country, and even beginners can get in on the action. Head to Big Winds for rentals and lessons. Or, if you’re not so into windsurfing, then get out on a kayak or stand up paddle board instead, which you can rent here .  

READ MORE : 12 Amazing Things to Do in Hood River, Oregon

Distance from Portland: 56 miles || Drive Time from Portland: 1 hour 20 minutes

One of the things we love about living in Portland is the fact that, on any given day, you’re just 90 minutes away from both the coast, and the Cascades.

Given the choice, we’re choosing the mountains over the coast ten times out of ten, and we’ve found that being 90 minutes from Mount Hood is one of our favorite parts about living in Portland. 

In the summer, Mount Hood is one of the best hiking destinations in Oregon, and the broader Pacific Northwest. From various hiking trails around Mount Hood , you’ll be treated to unbeatable views of Hood’s snow capped peak, meadows of blooming wildflowers, beautiful waterfalls, and more. 

It’s essentially paradise for alpine hiking enthusiasts like us. 

If you like hiking that ends with amazing views of a snow capped peak and/or skiing down slopes with an unobstructed mountain view, you’re going to love Mount Hood. 

Getting To Mount Hood 

Driving is the best way to get from Portland to Mount Hood, particularly in the summer when there’s no public transportation option that will take you to trailheads, as far as we know anyway. 

The Mount Hood Express runs from the town of Sandy, which is along Highway 26 on the way up to Hood, to various stops near Government Camp.

However, you have to get yourself to Sandy, which is going to make it a very long, potentially very expensive trip. It’s only $2 each way for the bus, though, which is nice. 

If you’re visiting in the winter, there’s a shuttle run by Mount Hood Meadows that will pick you up in Portland and take you up to the resort for a day of skiing without having to worry about driving and parking. 

There’s also a daily shuttle from Hood River to the resort, which you can learn more about here . 

What to Do at Mount Hood

Summer in Mount Hood – which is essentially July through mid-October for our purposes – is all about hiking. 

Hiking at Mount Hood: There are a bunch of amazing hikes near Mount Hood , and it’s going to be hard to choose just one to tackle on your day trip. Not a bad problem to have, really. Here are our picks: 

• If you want a gorgeous waterfall, hike to Ramona Falls . Rather than being about the huge drop, Ramona Falls cascades down, creating a spider web of running water (that’s also very, very high, to be fair). 
• If you want a moderate hike with outstanding views, do Timberline Lodge to Zigzag Canyon . First of all, you’ll get to check out Timberline Lodge, a historic lodge that’s fun to poke around. Second of all, you’ll hike through the ski lifts, which is fun. Last, the view of Mount Hood from Zigzag Canyon is amazing. 
• If you’re up for a long hike and want our favorite hike at Hood, do McNeil Point . This hike is HARD. So hard that Alysha has a strict “once every five years” policy for it. But the views of Mount Hood on the way up and at the grand finale of the hike are unforgettable. Add in the great views of St. Helens, Adams, and Rainier, and the wildflowers in the early summer, and you’ll understand why it’s one of our favorite hiking trails that we’ve ever done. Again, it’s a hard one. Not for the novice hiker. Bring lots of water, snacks/lunch, and sun protection. 

Other Things to Do Near Mount Hood: Other than hiking, there are a few other stops to make around Government Camp , which for all intents and purposes is the center of all the action.

• For a post-hike beer , head to either Mount Hood Brewing or Ratskeller right in Government Camp. 
• For a picture-perfect view of Mount Hood’s reflection, head over to Trillium Lake and walk along the shore of the lake to the south end of the lake. This is one of our favorite views in the state, and is a good place to bring a beer at sunset to watch Mount Hood’s peak glow pink as the sun dips and the alpenglow sets in. 
• In the winter , Mount Hood becomes a great ski destination, and at 90 minutes from downtown Portland, it’s hard to beat in terms of convenience from the city. We head up to Mount Hood just about every winter now, and we like Mount Hood Meadows the best out of the various resorts. 

READ MORE : 10 Spectacular Hikes at Mount Hood (A Helpful Hiking Guide)

Silver Falls State Park

Distance from Portland: 55 miles || Drive Time from Portland: 1 hour 15 minutes

If you’re in the mood for waterfalls, then there are two places to see in Oregon that you shouldn’t miss. We already covered one of them above – the Columbia River Gorge – and the second one is Silver Falls State Park, which is about an hour south of the city near Salem. 

Silver Falls State Park is the biggest of Oregon’s state parks, and the highlight here is the Trail of Ten Falls .

The concentration of waterfalls along this trail is mind boggling, and while you can see the towering South Falls from the parking lot, we’d highly, highly recommend hitting the trail to see all of them if you can. 

What to Do in Silver Falls State Park (& Around)

There’s really only one thing to do in the park, and that’s the spectacular Trail of Ten Falls , which is near the top of our list of the best hikes in Oregon . It’s going to take you about a half day or so, and is well worth the journey. 

The hike is exactly what it sounds like. A trail. With ten falls.

It’s not a particularly difficult hike in terms of elevation gain, but it is a little bit long. Start at the South Falls, which might be the most impressive waterfall of the bunch, and make your way clockwise, which means you’ll see the vast majority of waterfalls on the first half of the loop. 

Make your way out to North Falls – and don’t miss Upper North Falls – and then take a leisurely walk along the rim back to the parking lot. 

This park gets super busy, so we’d highly recommend getting an early start, particularly on a weekend. Even better is to visit on a weekday, but not everyone has that kind of flexibility. 

After your hike, there are a couple of stops nearby that are worth your time. 

First is Salem , which is the capital of Oregon. It’s about a half hour west of the park, just across I-5. The Willamette Heritage Museum is worth a stop to learn about the history of the region as a whole, and we love Bigwig Donuts (for donut holes) and Xicha Brewing (for tacos and beer). All the flavors!

Second is Abiqua Falls , another waterfall that makes our list of the best in Oregon. Unfortunately, it’s not super convenient to get there from Silver Falls because you have to go out and around to access it from the north, but if you’re already down here, it’s worth the add-on. 

Third are the farms in the eastern Willamette Valley – E.Z. Orchards and Bauman’s , both of which make excellent cider. There’s also u-pick everything (mostly berries) in the summer at Fordyce Farms . 

Distance from Portland: 97 miles || Drive Time from Portland: 1 hour 30 minutes

Astoria is a charming little town at the northwestern corner of the state with a surprising amount of things to do, see, eat, and drink. It’s also full of history, as it’s the point where Lewis and Clark reached the Pacific Ocean and camped for three months.

We always get a kick out of the fact that they arrived in the dead of winter and basically spent three months sopping wet. They must have HATED it out west. 

There’s plenty to earn it a spot on our list of the best weekend trips from Portland (or as a stop on your Oregon Coast road trip ), but it also makes for a nice Portland day trip if your time is limited. 

Similar to the relationship between the Gorge and Hood River, you can do a pretty great day trip that starts in Portland, heads west to Cannon Beach, and loops north to hit Astoria before heading back to Portland.

It’s a lot of driving, but you’ll get to do a really nice loop of the northern Oregon Coast that might be worth it if you’ve got limited time in Oregon (aka you don’t live here). The view from the top of the Astoria Column Is worth the short climb to get up there. 

What to Do in Astoria

We have an entire guide dedicated to the best things to do in Astoria , so you should absolutely read that if you’re planning a trip out there. 

Here are the highlights. 

Lewis and Clark National Historical Park: This is close to the site where Lewis and Clark spent a very dreary Oregon winter before deciding to head back to the Midwest, their mission to find the water passage to the Pacific complete. We laughed when the friendly gentleman (volunteer?) at the visitors center told us how the explorers arrived in the area in November, and spent three rainy months here. They must have thought that Oregon sucks, heading back to Missouri with a smug sense of superiority. Turns out, they were very, very wrong about that. Oregon is the best state in the Union (or at the very least, top three) if you ask us. 

The Fort-to-Sea Trail: This is a long one-way hike that goes from Lewis and Clark National Historical Park out to the Coast, following a similar route that the explorer’s took to get up to Clatsop Head. We’d hike the first 1.5 miles of the Fort-to-Sea Trail , which takes you along the path that the expedition used to get between the coast and the fort. It’s a nice walk through the forest, and while the full 13 mile round trip hike is a little much (especially for a day trip), the first few miles is a nice compromise if you’re short on time.You’ll end at a point that has a nice view, and make your way back to the park from there. 

Fort Stevens State Park: Fort Stevens State Park is the Northwest Corner of Oregon. There are two places here we’d definitely recommend visiting – the shipwreck of the Peter Iredale on the beach, and the batteries in the northern section of the park. 

Enjoy Some of Oregon’s Best Craft Beer: The other thing that Astoria is known for is craft beer . For whatever reason, there’s a huge number of craft breweries in Astoria. Given the size of Astoria, I think the “craft-breweries-per-capita” number has to put it in the top tier of American cities by that particular measure. The two main breweries in Astoria are Fort George , which has a big location just off the main drag in Astoria, and Buoy Beer , which is actually on the water.There are a couple of other ones ( Astoria Brewing Company and Reach Break ), and we’d recommend trying a couple of them (don’t drink and drive, though!).

Learn a Thing or Three at Astoria’s Museums: There are also a couple of cool museums in Astoria that serve as a nice history lesson about Astoria’s important role in Oregon’s history. The two we’d focus on are the Columbia River Maritime Museum , which focuses on Astoria’s role as a main port city at the mouth of the Columbia River, and the Heritage Museum , which is a basically the Astoria history museum, covers the city and area from pre-Lewis-and-Clark through reconstruction and the industrial period.It’s pretty interesting, and talks a lot about the changes the city has gone through as the main imports and exports of the area changed over time (also, I had no idea Astoria played such a pivotal role in the fur trade). 

Climb the Astoria Column for a Great View: Last, but certainly not least, is the Astoria Column , which is perched on the top of the hill overlooking the city and the famous Astoria-Megler Bridge, is also worth a visit. You can either drive up to the parking lot – which costs $5 to park at – or hike from town on the Cathedral Tree Trail . It’s worth climbing to the top of the tower for excellent views (it’s free, minus the parking fee). 

READ MORE : What to Do in Astoria, Oregon: A Complete Guide

Cannon Beach

Distance from Portland: 80 miles || Drive Time from Portland: 1 hour 30 minutes

Is Cannon Beach itself our favorite destination on the Oregon Coast? No, probably not. However, the reason it belongs on this list is the proximity to two of Oregon’s best state parks, which sandwich Cannon Beach between them. They are Ecola State Park and Oswald West State Park . 

It’s worth your time, and there’s plenty to do to fill an entire day. However, you can also absolutely combine a trip out to Cannon Beach with a trip to Astoria, and make one big loop that sees the highlights of the northern Oregon Coast. 

What to Do in Cannon Beach

There are four broad categories of things we think are worth doing in Cannon Beach. We’ll organize them from north to south, and you can do them in that order, or in the reverse.

We’d recommend starting at Ecola though, because it gets pretty busy on weekend mornings. 

Explore the beaches at Ecola State Park: Your first stop just north of Cannon Beach is exploring Ecola State Park, which had been closed for a couple of years until recently because of storm damage. As you drive the forested, ferny, winding road out to the park, you’ll immediately understand why that was the case. We’d stop at the first parking lot for the views and a walk out to Crescent Beach , then head to the second parking lot and hike the Clatsop Loop Trail and take a walk on Indian Beach, which is right below the parking area.   

Wander Around Cannon Beach: The next two stops are in Cannon Beach itself. We’d find parking in town, and stay parked there for the duration of your stay in the downtown area. It can be tough to find parking on weekends around midday, so you may have to wait. For your second stop of the day, explore the town of Cannon Beach . The downtown area isn’t particularly big, and you can basically walk around it in 45 minutes, give or take. In between the somewhat touristy shops and restaurants, there are a few gems that are worth your time. For coffee, go to Insomnia . For local beer and fish and chips, go to Public Coast Brewing . Cannon Beach Book Co. is the local bookstore (that you should support!), and Suzy’s Scoops is a good stop for ice cream. 

Admire Towering Haystack Rock: Your third stop is Haystack Rock , which is probably the most famous landmark on the Oregon Coast and rises 235 feet out of the Pacific Ocean, towering over Cannon Beach. We also really like coming here for sunset, and if you’re around that late, we’d highly recommend heading out there. Don’t miss the puffin colony on the rock – our first trip here, we got to witness a pair of bald eagles stealing puffin eggs, which the puffins were (understandably) not happy about. 

Hiking in Oswald West State Park: After you’re done in Cannon Beach, continue south out of town, stopping at Silver Point for a nice view of the beach, and continue to Oswald West State Park . If you’re up for a hike, head up to the top of Neahkahnie Mountain , a tough hike with excellent views at the end. Then head out to Short Sand Beach , which is accessible by a short easy walk through the woods. 

READ MORE : How to Plan an Incredible Oregon Coast Road Trip

Mount St. Helens

Distance from Portland: 109 miles || Drive Time from Portland: 1 hour 40 minutes

Even though it’s in Washington State, most of the main sights around Mount St. Helens are actually closer to Portland than they are to Seattle, and it’s an excellent day trip to take if you’re looking to blend history (the volcano’s eruption is an important piece of Pacific Northwest history) and cool landscapes. 

I remember reading a book back in 4th grade set at Mount St. Helens, where the protagonist in the story is looking for Bigfoot (and SPOILER eventually finds them in the lava tubes under the volcano).

Ever since reading that, I have been fascinated by both Bigfoot (the main hat I wear hiking says “Believe” across the strap, with a picture of bigfoot on the front) and Mount St. Helens. 

If you visit the west side of St. Helens, you’ll immediately be taken aback by the barren landscape around Johnston Ridge Observatory. It’s arresting, because you’ll have driven for 45 minutes up a steep, windy road surrounded by lush forests, and then BOOM there’s no more of that. 

We think it’s really, really cool, and well worth a visit. Though it’s a little inconvenient, because there are three areas around St. Helens that we like, and you can’t really do a day trip that encompasses more than one because there’s not a good way to get around the mountain. 

What to Do at Mount St. Helens

This one is kind of a two-for-one, because there are actually two day trips embedded here (and you can’t really do them both on the same day, because it would be 8-9 hours of driving to circumnavigate the mountain). 

The two areas that are accessible for a day trip are the west side of the mountain, which is where you’ll find the Johnston Ridge Observatory and is the best area to see the impact of its consequential eruption, and the southern side of the mountain, which is closer to Portland and has a unique cave you can hike down into. 

The northeastern side of the mountain is actually our favorite part, but it’s best saved for a longer trip because it’s a full three hours, one way, from the city. 

Given the choice between the west and south sides of St. Helens, we’d opt for the west side . It’s the best area to see the bare landscape that the eruption left behind, and it has one of our favorite hikes – Harry’s Ridge. 

Here are two ideas for how to spend a day trip to Mount St. Helens. 

The West Side: Start your day on the west side of St. Helens by heading straight up to the Johnston Ridge Observatory , which has a lot of great historical and geological information to help give you some context for what you’re looking at (and what you’re about to hike through). Then, tackle the hike out to Harry’s Ridge , which takes you through the bare landscape out to a bluff with excellent views of the volcano and Spirit Lake, where you’ll see thousands of downed trees sitting on the surface of the lake. It’s a great hike, and is worth doing even if you can’t make it all the way out to the ridge. The ever-evolving views of St. Helens’ oddly shaped crown are worth the effort, even if it’s only a mile or two. End your day at Coldwater Lake , which is just below the Observatory on the drive up. It’s a lovely place for a picnic lunch and a dip in the lake. There’s a trail along the northern side of the lake, and you could hike along that trail until you’ve had your fill of hiking for the day. 

The South Side of St. Helens: On the south side of St. Helens , your number one priority should be the Ape Cave , which is a unique experience where you can hike down into a lava tube, the longest in the continental United States. It’s only open mid-May through October, and requires advance reservations, which you can make here . Bring a headlamp, and proper footwear. There are some other cool hikes on this side of St. Helens, like the short one out to June Lake , and the Ape Canyon Trail , which has some excellent views of the various mountain peaks in southern Washington / northern Oregon. 

The Willamette Valley (Wine Tasting)

Distance from Portland: 50 miles || Drive Time from Portland: 1 hour 10 minutes

I’m going to be honest, I didn’t quite realize just how great the wine coming out of the Willamette Valley was until I was in Burgundy, one of the most prestigious wine regions in the world (in southeastern France). 

Now, my experience abroad with people knowing where Portland, Oregon is has been a little hit and miss. Some people are in on the secret (oddly, a lot of people immediately talk about Dame and the Blazers, Portland’s NBA team), some people don’t have any idea what I’m talking about. 

In Burgundy – and I want to emphasize that this is one of the world’s most prestigious wine regions – I had multiple experiences where I told people I was from Portland, Oregon and saw their face immediately light up and say “oh yes, the Willamette Valley!”

It blew my mind, and it turns out there are multiple layers around why Burgundians might know the Willamette Valley. The climates are similar, which means they grow the same varietals (pinot noir and chardonnay, mostly). And for that reason, several French producers immigrated to the Willamette Valley and began the process of making it one of the best wine regions in the country. 

Now, one of our favorite things to do with visitors that come to Portland is to have them try Willamette Valley chardonnay, which is, as we like to say, not your mom’s friend’s chardonnay. 

We aren’t fans of buttery, oaky chardonnay AT ALL, but the chardonnay coming from the Willamette Valley is often more fresh, light, and crispy, with relatively little new oak being used. 

Now, the Willamette Valley is a big area (that actually encompasses Portland). Which part should you focus on?

If we were you, we’d focus on the area roughly between McMinnville and Dundee on the north end of the valley. The valley continues south, and there are some great tasting rooms down that way (we LOVE Johan Vineyards ), but the best bang-for-your-buck is going to be around those two towns. 

Getting to the Willamette Valley

This is one of the few day trip options where there are options to do it without a car. And because the highlight here is wine tasting, it might actually make sense to do a guided day trip so that your whole party can indulge freely without needing to appoint a designated driver. 

After a few wine tasting trips, Matt has become an expert at spitting into the stainless steel containers they have for designated drivers (after being unbelievably bad at it on the first trip). 

There are several guided tours of the Willamette Valley, and we went through the options to figure out which one we’d actually choose if we were doing it ourselves. 

We landed on this tour , which is run by an Oregon-based company that focuses exclusively on wine tours. 

What to Do in the Willamette Valley

The first and most obvious thing to do in the Willamette Valley is go wine tasting, so that’s what we’ll cover first. 

As we mentioned above, the best area in terms of concentration of wineries is the area around McMinnville and Dundee right along Highway 99. 

Here are a few options in that neck of the woods. 

• Day Wines : One of our favorite wineries, this is a very approachable tasting experience. Day Wines is all about drinkable wines, and I like that they take some of the pomp and circumstance out of wine tasting. 
• Domaine Drouhin : This place is interesting because it was started by one of those French immigrants to the valley, and they actually have a sister winery over in Burgundy. Their tasting room is available by appointment, and their whole thing is “French soul, Oregon soil,” which is a unique approach. They also have tasting experiences that include tasting their Oregon wines next to the French wines, which is cool. 
• Argyle : If you want bubbles – and we almost always do – this is the place to go. They’re known for their bubbles, and they have a nice tasting room in Dundee. 

Explore Downtown McMinnville: The heart of McMinnville is NE 3rd Street, which is where 90% of the action is for your purposes. It’s a 3-4 block stretch that has a nice selection of shops, coffee shops and bars, and restaurants. We always stop into Third Street Books and Alchemist Jam (who makes our favorite jams in the state that are in 90% of our Christmas gifts to friends and family and has a lovely little bakery in McMinnville). Plus, if you’re gluten free (like Matt, who has Celiac Disease), there’s a 100% gluten free brewery and pub – Bierly Brewing – with excellent fresh fried doughnuts on weekends. Flag & Wire is the best coffee spot in McMinnville. 

Head south! As we mentioned above, there is some good stuff as you head south from McMinnville. In particular, we love Art & Science Wine + Cider , which is down in Shipley, and the aforementioned Johan Vineyards . Left Coast Cellars is along the same road as Johan, and is also worth a stop. 

Tillamook and the Three Capes Scenic Route

Distance from Portland: 75 miles || Drive Time from Portland: 1 hour 20 minutes

Cannon Beach is arguably the most famous destination on the Oregon Coast, while Astoria is the most significant in terms of Oregon history. 

Tillamook is most famous for its cheese and ice cream production – everyone who has grown up in the Pacific Northwest has crowded around a tub of their Chocolate Peanut Butter ice cream on a warm summer evening – but there’s a lot more to see in and around Tillamook (mostly around) that warrants a full day excursion out here. 

We’re definitely not saying that you shouldn’t stop in at the TIllamook Creamery – you absolutely should – but we are saying you should spend a little more time exploring the surrounding area. 

It’s also worth noting that you could combine this with Cannon Beach to make a little loop, starting with Cannon Beach in the morning, and making your way south to Tillamook for the afternoon before you make your way back to Portland. 

What to Do Around Tillamook

Here are our favorite things to do near Tillamook.

The Tillamook Creamery : I mean, you kind of have to do it if you’re nearby, right? Alysha LOVES the ice cream here, and they have a scoop shop with more flavors than I’ve ever seen anywhere else. Plus, cheese curds that are only available here at the creamery. Inside the big building, there’s a self-guided tour of the factory, a big gift shop with Tillamook products and other locally made items, and the aforementioned scoop shop. They also have an onsite restaurant, which would be a good lunch stop (the tomato soup + cheese curds is a classic, especially on a drizzly day). 

Blue Heron French Cheese : Just down the road from Tillamook, there’s a smaller, less famous cheese company that’s also worth a visit. They focus on French cheese (lots of brie!), and have a fun shop with other products like charcuterie and jams and jellies to pair with their cheeses. Plus, an onsite deli for lunch. 

Drive the Three Capes Scenic Route: The Three Capes Scenic Route is one of the most scenic drives in Oregon, and it heads south out of Tillamook to hit – you guessed it – three capes along the coast. This is pretty clearly one of our favorite stretches of the Oregon Coast, with spectacular views and wide sandy beaches throughout the entire route. 

• Cape Meares is your first stop, and there are two things to check out. First is the Cape Meares Lighthouse, which is the shortest lighthouse on the Oregon Coast. However, it has an impressive lens that was installed in 1890. The second thing not to miss is the Octopus Tree (it’s a weird looking tree with eight branches, hence the name) and the viewpoint right past it that looks out over the beaches to the south, including Short Beach. It’s a short walk from the main parking lot.
• Cape Lookout is your next stop, and is our personal favorite of the three. The highlight, by far, is the hike out to Cape Lookout . It’s a relatively easy hike that hugs the cape, which narrows as you get further and further out onto it before the trail ends at its western tip, where the views are amazing and you can hear the seals frolicking on the rocks below. It’s also a good place for whale watching in spring, because it’s about as close to the migrating mammals as you can get.
• Cape Kiwanda is the last of the three capes, and it’s a little different. It’s very popular with surfers, and you can drive out onto the beach, which means it’s a slightly different crowd that includes fishermen and boaters. From the parking lot, the main attraction is up and to the right of the beach, where you can hike up onto the cape for some great views in both directions. You’ll be hiking up in deep sand, so it’s harder than it looks. Make sure to catch the hang gliders, if they’re out, who use the northern end of the cape as a jumping off point. 

Hiking in Tillamook State Forest: On your way out to Tillamook, you’ll drive along Highway 6 through Tillamook State Forest. There are a couple of nice hikes right off of the road, like University Falls (on the easier end of the spectrum) and King’s Mountain and Elk Mountain (on the “why did I do this to myself” end of the spectrum).

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15 Best Day Trips From Portland, Oregon (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Looking for the best day trips from Portland? Here are our top recommended Portland day trip adventures!

You could easily spend 3 days or more exploring downtown Portland . This vibrant and eclectic city has an abundance of unique attractions. Portland is absolutely one of the highlights of Northwest USA!

Once you’ve made the most of your time in the city center, consider exploring more of Oregon and Washington with one of these day trips from Portland!

Though the city is incredible, the natural beauty and culture that surrounds Portland is simply magical. These day trips from Portland allow you to experience that magic, whether you’ve got a rental car or you choose to book a guided tour.

Head west to the Oregon Coast and explore tide pools and rock formations around Cannon Beach. Or head north and experience more city life in Tacoma or Seattle.

Drive along the historic Columbia River Highway, or take a day trip up to Mount St. Helens and admire the views from the Johnston Ridge Observatory. Explore scenic hiking trails, meander around a small town, or road trip through gorges and lush green forests.

There is truly so much to do in this area, and any of these Portland day trips are sure to entertain and mesmerize visitors with culture, history, and nature.

Table of Contents

1. Columbia River Gorge

2. mount rainier national park, 4. smith rock state park, 5. silver falls state park, 6. lost lake, 7. cannon beach, 8. mount st. helens, 9. mount hood, 10. hood river valley, 12. cape lookout state park, 13. willamette valley, 14. pacific city, 15. oneonta gorge, 15 amazing day trips from portland, oregon.

From chasing waterfalls in Columbia River Gorge to strolling on the sandy beaches of Cannon Beach on the Oregon Coast, here are the top day trips from Portland, Oregon.

Check out our complete list of the best things to do in Portland !

• Distance from Portland: 30 miles
• Driving time: 30 minutes

The Columbia River Gorge is a breathtaking canyon that stretches for over 80 miles, forming a natural boundary between the U.S. states of Oregon and Washington. It’s definitely one of the most beautiful and most popular day trips from Portland.

Carved over thousands of years by the powerful Columbia River, the gorge is renowned for its stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural history. Towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls are everywhere, with the iconic Multnomah Falls being the crown jewel of the Columbia River Gorge area.

Waterfall tours from Portland are plentiful. Whether you’re on a guided day tour from Portland or you’re self-driving, you can visit countless stunning cascades as you drive through the Columbia River Gorge.

Multnomah Falls is a must-see, but on the way there you can visit Bridal Veil Falls, Shepperd’s Dell Falls, Fairy Falls, Wahkeena Falls, Latourell Falls, and Horsetail Falls. You can even continue further past Multnomah Falls and see Ponytail Falls and Dry Creek Falls.

In addition to waterfalls, Columbia River Gorge is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a myriad of recreational activities such as hiking, windsurfing, and bird-watching. The lush greenery and unique geological formations make the Columbia River Gorge a designated National Scenic Area, preserving its natural beauty for generations to come.

Columbia River Gorge also holds cultural significance for the Native American tribes who have called this area home for thousands of years. The gorge has served as a vital trade route and a source of sustenance, contributing to the rich tapestry of indigenous heritage in the Pacific Northwest.

The Historic Columbia River Highway, an engineering marvel completed in the early 20th century, winds its way through the gorge, offering travelers breathtaking views of the river, waterfalls, and surrounding landscapes. Columbia River Gorge is one of the natural wonders of the Pacific Northwest and an incredible day trip destination.

• Distance from Portland: 138 miles
• Driving time: 2 hours and 20 minutes

Mount Rainier National Park , located in Washington just over 2 hours north of Portland, is a pristine wilderness area dominated by the majestic presence of Mount Rainier, an active stratovolcano and the highest peak in the Cascade Range.

Towering at 14,411 feet, the snow-capped summit of Mount Rainier is a prominent feature visible from miles away. The park encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, from subalpine meadows and old-growth forests to glaciers and alpine landscapes.

Visitors to Mount Rainier National Park can explore over 260 miles of hiking trails, each offering a unique perspective of the mountain and its surrounding beauty. The Wonderland Trail, a challenging 93-mile loop encircling Mount Rainier, provides hikers with an immersive experience through varied terrains, including dense forests, alpine meadows, and high mountain ridges.

In addition to its stunning natural scenery, Mount Rainier National Park is home to a rich array of flora and fauna. The park’s diverse ecosystems support a variety of wildlife, including black bears, marmots, mountain goats, and elk.

During the summer months, the wildflower meadows burst into a vibrant display of colors, creating a spectacular contrast against the snow-covered slopes of Mount Rainier. The park’s visitor centers, such as the Paradise Jackson Visitor Center, offer educational exhibits and information about the geological and ecological significance of the region.

Mount Rainier National Park showcases the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Pacific Northwest and is one of the top adventurous day trips from Portland!

• Distance from Portland: 174 miles
• Driving time: 2 hours and 45 minutes

One of the most prominent cities in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is one of the most exciting Portland day trips for city lovers. Famous for its iconic Space Needle, which offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes, Seattle boasts a skyline dominated by a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic architecture.

Situated between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, the city is known for its maritime influences, with ferries crisscrossing the waters and a bustling waterfront featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Seattle’s cultural scene is diverse and thriving, reflecting the city’s eclectic population. The historic Pike Place Market is a bustling marketplace where visitors can explore an array of fresh produce, artisan crafts, and local delicacies.

The city is also renowned for its rich musical history, being the birthplace of influential artists such as Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana. Seattle’s neighborhoods each offer a unique character, from the trendy boutiques and coffee shops of Capitol Hill to the historic charm of Pioneer Square.

With a reputation for innovation, technology, and a strong commitment to sustainability, Seattle is a vibrant and diverse day trip destination.

Plan to stay longer? Check out our 3 Days In Seattle Itinerary for more ideas!

• Distance from Portland: 142 miles

Smith Rock State Park , located in central Oregon, is a geological marvel and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Renowned for its towering cliffs of tuff and basalt, the park is a popular destination for rock climbers, offering a variety of challenging routes for climbers of all skill levels. The Crooked River winds through the park, adding to the stunning landscape of deep canyons and rugged terrain.

Hiking trails meander through the park, providing breathtaking views of the high desert scenery, the Cascade Range, and the iconic Monkey Face rock formation, a distinctive pinnacle that captivates visitors with its unique shape. The park’s diverse ecosystem, with its juniper forests and sagebrush, is also home to a variety of wildlife, including golden eagles and mule deer.

Beyond its outdoor recreation opportunities, Smith Rock State Park holds a special place in the history of rock climbing. Widely regarded as the birthplace of modern American sport climbing, the park has been a training ground for many legendary climbers.

The sheer cliffs and challenging routes have attracted climbers from around the world since the 1980s, contributing to Smith Rock’s reputation as a premier rock climbing destination.

Whether scaling the cliffs, hiking along the river, or simply enjoying the breathtaking scenery, Smith Rock State Park offers a unique and unforgettable Portland day trip for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

• Distance from Portland: 67 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 12 minutes

Another one of the best day trips from Portland is Silver Falls State Park . Tucked away in the lush forests of western Oregon, the park is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and a unique feature that sets it apart – the Trail of Ten Falls.

The Trail of Ten Falls, often considered one of the crown jewels of the park, winds through a canyon carved by the North and South Forks of Silver Creek, showcasing ten breathtaking waterfalls along its course.

The waterfalls vary in height and character, with the majestic South Falls plummeting 177 feet and allowing hikers to pass behind its cascading curtain of water.

The park’s temperate rainforest environment, with its moss-covered trees and fern-lined trails, adds to the enchanting atmosphere, making it a favorite destination for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers.

Beyond the waterfalls, Silver Falls State Park offers a variety of recreational opportunities. With over 25 miles of hiking and horseback riding trails, visitors can explore the diverse landscapes, from dense forests to open meadows.

The park also provides campgrounds, picnic areas, and opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and wildlife observation. Thrill seekers can even try tree climbing with a professional guide !

Silver Falls State Park is not only a natural playground but also a designated Oregon State Heritage Site, emphasizing the significance of its ecosystems and geological features. As a stunning Portland day trip destination, Silver Falls State Park constantly captivates visitors with its spectacular scenery.

• Distance from Portland: 87 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 50 minutes

Lost Lake , located in the heart of the Cascade Range in Oregon, is a pristine alpine lake surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. Located within the Mount Hood National Forest, Lost Lake sits at the base of the towering Mount Hood, Oregon’s highest peak.

The lake is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, reflecting the snow-capped peak of Mount Hood on calm days. Visitors can enjoy a range of recreational activities, including fishing for rainbow trout, canoeing, and kayaking. The area is also a haven for hikers, with trails leading to viewpoints that offer spectacular panoramas of the lake and the surrounding Cascade Mountains.

One of the unique features of Lost Lake is its seasonal disappearance. In the late spring and early summer, as the snow from Mount Hood melts, the lake’s water drains through a natural lava tube, creating a striking and mysterious sight.

The phenomenon gives Lost Lake its name, as the water seemingly vanishes into the porous volcanic landscape, only to gradually refill throughout the rest of the year.

This seasonal ebb and flow adds an intriguing dimension to the natural beauty of the lake, making it a captivating day trip destination for those seeking both serenity and the wonders of geological marvels in the Pacific Northwest.

Read next: 7 Best Day Trips From Seattle

• Distance from Portland: 79 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Cannon Beach, located on the northern Oregon coast, is also high on the list of most popular day trips from Portland. A charming town renowned for its stunning landscapes, iconic landmarks, and sandy beaches, Cannon Beach is a must-see on the Oregon Coast.

One of the most recognizable features is the famous Haystack Rock. This massive sea stack rises dramatically from the shoreline and is accessible during low tide. In addition to Haystack Rock, the expansive shores of Cannon Beach provide a scenic backdrop for beachcombing, kite flying, and leisurely strolls along the water’s edge.

The town’s charming downtown area is dotted with art galleries, boutiques, and cafes, creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. The annual Sandcastle Contest draws artists and beach enthusiasts who showcase their creativity in the form of intricate sand sculptures against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.

Cannon Beach is not only a natural beauty but also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Ecola State Park, situated just north of the town, offers hiking trails with panoramic views of the coastline, lush forests, and the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can explore the tide pools around Haystack Rock, discovering an array of marine life, including colorful sea stars and anemones.

Whether touring Ecola State Park or admiring the towering Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach offers a perfect blend of coastal charm and scenic tranquility along the Oregon coast.

• Distance from Portland: 74 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 35 minutes

Mount St. Helens, located in the Cascade Range of Washington state, is an active stratovolcano that gained international attention after its catastrophic eruption on May 18, 1980 . The eruption resulted in the collapse of the volcano’s north flank, triggering the largest landslide in recorded history and reducing the mountain’s elevation by over 1,300 feet.

Today, Mount St. Helens stands as a living laboratory for the study of volcanic and ecological processes. It’s also one of the coolest Portland day trips!

Visitors to the area can explore the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, which offers a range of educational and recreational opportunities. The Johnston Ridge Observatory, located just five miles from the crater, provides stunning views of the volcano and insights into the events of the 1980 eruption.

Hiking trails lead through the blast zone, offering a firsthand look at the regrowth of vegetation and the resilience of nature in the wake of such a powerful natural event. Mount St. Helens remains a symbol of the dynamic forces shaping the Earth’s landscape and is one of the most fascinating day trips from Portland.

• Distance from Portland: 62 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 25 minutes

Another geological wonder that you can visit on a day trip from Portland is Mount Hood. This iconic stratovolcano standing proudly in the Cascade Range of northern Oregon is the state’s highest peak and is just over an hour away from downtown Portland.

Towering at 11,250 feet, Mount Hood is not only a favorite among climbers but also a beloved day trip destination for travelers and nature lovers. Mount Hood National Forest, encompassing over a million acres in northern Oregon, is a pristine and diverse wilderness area surrounding the iconic peak.

Mount Hood National Forest offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and skiing, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore its lush landscapes, alpine meadows, and cascading streams while enjoying breathtaking views of the mountain.

Timberline Lodge, a historic mountain retreat located on Mount Hood, offers stunning views of the peak and serves as a base for those seeking adventure, whether it be hiking, skiing, or climbing.

Known for its year-round recreational opportunities, Mount Hood attracts visitors in every season. During the winter months, the mountain becomes a haven for skiers and snowboarders, with several ski resorts offering a variety of slopes for all skill levels.

In the summer, the mountain’s hiking trails provide access to alpine vistas and wildflower-filled meadows. The Timberline Trail, a classic loop around the mountain, offers a challenging but rewarding trek for backpackers.

Mount Hood’s majestic presence, diverse ecosystems, and outdoor activities make it a cherished day trip destination. You can combine this stunning peak with a visit to Columbia River Gorge on a guided day tour from Portland!

• Distance from Portland: 75 miles

Situated between the towering peaks of Mount Hood and Mount Adams in Oregon, Hood River Valley is a picturesque and fertile region celebrated for its orchards, vineyards, and stunning landscapes. The valley is renowned for its fruit production, particularly its vibrant apple, pear, and cherry orchards that blanket the hillsides.

During the spring, the valley comes alive with blossoms, creating a breathtaking display of pink and white flowers against the backdrop of the Cascade Mountains. The Hood River, which flows through the valley, adds to the scenic beauty, offering opportunities for water sports such as windsurfing and kiteboarding.

In addition to its agricultural bounty, Hood River Valley has become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a taste of the Pacific Northwest’s natural wonders.

Visitors can explore the numerous hiking and biking trails that crisscross the valley, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and orchards.

The charming town of Hood River, located at the heart of the valley, is a hub for local breweries, wineries, and farm-to-table dining, providing a delightful experience for those looking to savor the region’s culinary delights amid the stunning backdrop of Hood River Valley.

Try a road trip around the US West Coast with our Ultimate San Francisco To Seattle Road Trip Itinerary.

• Distance from Portland: 144 miles

Another one of the best day trips from Portland is Tacoma, Washington. Located just south of Seattle, the city is known for its stunning waterfront, which offers views of the Commencement Bay and the majestic Mount Rainier.

The Museum District in Tacoma is home to the Museum of Glass , where visitors can witness live glassblowing demonstrations and admire an extensive collection of contemporary glass art.

Additionally, the Washington State History Museum and the LeMay – America’s Car Museum contribute to Tacoma’s cultural tapestry, showcasing the region’s past and its automotive heritage.

Tacoma’s revitalized downtown area is a thriving urban center with a mix of modern architecture, historic buildings, and a lively arts scene. The Theater District hosts a variety of performances at venues like the historic Pantages and Rialto Theaters, while local galleries and studios contribute to the city’s dynamic arts community.

Tacoma’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its parks and green spaces, including the waterfront Point Defiance Park and the serene Japanese Garden.

With its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and a burgeoning culinary scene, Tacoma has become one of the most popular Portland day trips.

• Distance from Portland: 83 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 40 minutes

Cannon Beach may be the most popular day trip destination on the Oregon coast, but there are most gems near the ocean if you head south!

Cape Lookout State Park, situated on a scenic stretch of the Oregon coast, is a pristine coastal haven known for its stunning panoramic views, diverse ecosystems, and outdoor recreational opportunities.

The park features a prominent headland, Cape Lookout, which extends into the Pacific Ocean, offering visitors breathtaking vistas of the ocean, sandy shores, and rugged cliffs.

The Cape Lookout Trail, a popular hiking route, takes adventurers through lush forests and emerges onto the cape’s bluff, providing an unobstructed view of the ocean and the Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge .

The park’s coastal setting makes it a haven for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. Campers can enjoy beachside camping, surrounded by the sound of crashing waves and the fresh sea breeze.

The sandy beach stretches for miles, inviting beachcombing, birdwatching, and even whale watching during migration seasons. The park’s location along the Oregon Coast Trail makes it a stop for hikers exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the area.

Whether it’s the rugged beauty of the coastline, the diverse birdlife, or the tranquility of the ocean, Cape Lookout State Park offers one of the most beautiful day trips from Portland.

Related: Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary

• Distance from Portland: 48 miles
• Driving time: 55 minutes

Wine enthusiasts have to add Willamette Valley to their list of the best day trips from Portland! The Willamette Valley, located in the heart of Oregon, is a lush and fertile region celebrated for its thriving agricultural industry, renowned vineyards, and picturesque landscapes.

Stretching between the Cascade Range to the east and the Coast Range to the west, the valley is home to a diverse array of crops, with its fertile soil supporting the cultivation of berries, hazelnuts, and a variety of vegetables.

However, the region is perhaps best known for its world-class vineyards and wineries that produce some of the finest Pinot Noir wines in the world. The rolling hills of the Willamette Valley, carpeted with vineyards and dotted with charming farmsteads, create a scenic backdrop for wine tasting and guided wine tours .

The Willamette Valley is not only a haven for wine lovers but also a destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. The valley is crisscrossed by numerous hiking and biking trails, providing opportunities to explore its natural beauty, including lush forests, rivers, and meadows.

Cities like Eugene and Salem offer cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, and vibrant farmers’ markets showcasing the region’s agricultural bounty.

As a testament to its ecological significance, the Willamette Valley is also recognized for its commitment to sustainable practices and environmental conservation, making it a well-rounded destination that caters to a variety of interests. This amazing place in the heart of Oregon’s Wine Country is one of the best day trips from Portland!

• Distance from Portland: 95 miles

Pacific City, located along the picturesque Oregon Coast, is a small town renowned for its stunning landscapes, outdoor recreation, and laid-back coastal atmosphere. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Nestucca River, Pacific City boasts a pristine stretch of sandy shoreline and is one of the top day trips from Portland.

This massive sea stack rises dramatically from the ocean, creating a breathtaking backdrop for beachgoers and photographers. The town’s Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area offers not only panoramic views of the coastline but also opportunities for hiking, sandboarding, and exploring the dunes.

In addition to its natural beauty, Pacific City is known for its quaint downtown area, where visitors can explore local shops, galleries, and restaurants. The Pelican Brewing Company, a popular spot among locals and tourists alike, offers craft beer and oceanfront views.

Pacific City is also a haven for water enthusiasts, with the Nestucca River providing opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Whether enjoying the serene beauty of the coastline, indulging in fresh seafood, or partaking in outdoor adventures, Pacific City captures the essence of coastal living and provides one of the best day trips from Portland.

• Distance from Portland: 36 miles
• Driving time: 37 minutes

Last but not least on our list of the best day trips from Portland is Oneonta Gorge. The Oneonta Gorge Trail offers a unique and enchanting hiking experience within the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon.

Known for its narrow and striking gorge, the trail begins with a wade through the cool, crystal-clear waters of Oneonta Creek, immersing hikers in a serene and magical setting.

Towering moss-covered canyon walls create a surreal atmosphere as the trail meanders through the lush, fern-filled gorge, leading adventurers toward the highlight of the hike—a captivating waterfall at the trail’s end.

This waterfall, known as Oneonta Falls, cascades down a mossy basalt amphitheater, creating a spectacular backdrop that complements the scenic beauty of the gorge.

Exploring the Oneonta Gorge Trail requires a sense of adventure, as hikers navigate through shallow pools, clamber over rocks, and sometimes wade through chest-high water. The trail’s unique challenges contribute to its allure, attracting outdoor enthusiasts seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in a setting of unparalleled natural beauty.

It’s important to note that the trail’s accessibility may vary with seasonal water levels, so hikers should be mindful of conditions and be prepared for a refreshing and adventurous trek.

The Oneonta Gorge Trail provides a memorable and immersive adventure, inviting those willing to embrace its challenges into a magical world of moss-covered cliffs, emerald waters, and the soothing sounds of nature. You can visit his location and Columbia River Gorge on the same day trip, or you could just tackle the Oneonta Gorge Trail on its own.

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Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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15 Best Day Trips from Portland Oregon

• In the City / North America / Oregon / Outdoors / Portland / USA

Do you love a good road trip? We do! Portland is a cool city to explore, but there is so much more to explore nearby.

Within a few hours, you can get a variety of amazing landscapes, beautiful beaches, and tons of waterfalls. If you have more time, check out our best weekend trips from Portland, which are over a 3-hour drive.

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: June 19, 2024

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15 popular day trips from portland oregon.

• Map of the Best Things to Do

Best Places to Stay in Portland

Planning checklist, more resources, 1. multnomah falls + columbia river gorge →.

53000 East, Historic Columbia River Hwy, Bridal Veil, OR 97010,  map

Distance:  39 mi / 40 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Multnomah Falls,  Elowah Falls ,  Wahclella Falls What to Eat:  Sugarpine Drive-In ,  Pfriem Family Brewers

Oregon has  over 200 waterfalls  throughout the state. Multnomah Falls is the tallest and easily the most famous in the state.  Elowah Fall s and  Oneonta Falls  are also close to Multnomah. Beyond that, the Columbia River Gorge has beautiful views and many other waterfalls to explore.

See More: 21 Best Hikes in the Columbia River Gorge

2. Willamette Valley

44.7745968,-123.4273769,  map

Distance:  48 mi / 50 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Wine Tasting, Oregon Garden, Marys Peak What to Eat:  Izakaya Meiji Company ,  Santiam Brewing

Portland is technically within the Willamette Valley area that stretches 150 miles and is home to roughly 70 percent of Oregon’s population. In this case, we’re referring to the region where there are over 500 wineries, which makes for a great day trip. Drink responsibly! ;)

3. Silver Falls State Park →

44.8719806,-122.6517783,  map

Distance:  55 mi / 1 hr 10 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Trail of Ten Falls , South Falls, Canyon Trail What to Eat:  Silver Falls Country Store ,  Penezanellie Breadstick Shoppe

This is the largest state park in Oregon and has one of our favorite hikes in the area. It’s a relatively easy hike, and you can see  10+ waterfalls on one hike ! You can even walk behind four of them. After seeing the easy ones in the Columbia River Gorge, we always recommend this hike next.

See More: Trail of Ten Falls Hiking Guide

4. Trillium Lake →

Trillium Lake Rd, Government Camp, OR 97028,  map

Distance:  60 mi / 1 hr 30 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Mirror Lake Trail, Mt Hood Cultural Center and Museum, Timberline Lodge What to Eat:  Mt. Hood Brewing ,  Wraptitude

Trillium Lake is a great spot for fishing and camping, but the highlight is how calm and reflective the lake is. You get a perfect mirror image of Mount Hood, and I almost felt vertigo as if I was going to fall into the sky. If you go in the winter, the lake is completely covered in snow, and it’s a popular beginner snowshoe hike.

See More: Your Complete Guide to Snowshoeing Trillium Lake

5. Bagby Hot Springs

44.9353982,-122.1912111,  map

Distance:  66 mi / 1 hr 45 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Hike to Springs, Soak in the Springs, Enjoy the Springs What to Eat:  Harmony ,  The Grind Coffee House ,  Old Mill Saloon

These natural hot springs have always been a popular spot, and the wait time can vary depending on when you go. They are open for 24-hour use and there are three bath houses at the site. There isn’t a road to the hot springs, so you have to hike 1.5 miles to get there.

See More: 25 Amazing Hot Springs in the US You Must Soak In

6. Rowena Crest →

6500 Historic Columbia River Hwy, Mosier, OR 97040,  map

Distance:  76 mi / 1 hr 20 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Rowena Crest Viewpoint, Rowena Plateau Trail, McCall Point Trail What to Eat:  Mosier Company ,  Twin Peak’s Drive-In Restaurant ,  Riverside

Rowena Crest is one of the most popular photography spots in the state. It has beautiful views, an iconic road photo, and a  couple of easy hikes .

See More: Easy Hikes at Rowena Crest in the Columbia River Gorge

7. Hood River →

45.7097433,-121.5653455,  map

Distance:  63 mi / 1 hr 5 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Hood River Valley Fruit Loop , Hood River Waterfront Park, Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum What to Eat:  Apple Valley BBQ ,  Pfreim Family Brewers ,  Lake Taco

Hood River is a great stop if you’re driving along the gorge or a great destination for a day trip too! There are great restaurants and breweries in town, you can spend time along the waterfront, or take the  Hood River Valley Fruit Loop  for wine tasting and fruit picking.

See More: Apple Picking in the Hood River Fruit Loop

8. Cannon Beach

45.8849166,-123.9774709,  map

Distance:  80 mi / 1 hr 20 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Haystack Rock, Ecola State Park, Hug Point State Park What to Eat:  Public Coast Brewing Co ,  Sleepy Monk Coffee Roasters ,  Castaways

This is one of the most popular beach towns on the coast of Oregon and is best known for Haystack Rock. It’s a popular destination and can get pretty crowded. If possible, try going during the week.

See More: The Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip

9. Cape Lookout State Park

45.3559741,-123.9723747,  map

Distance:  80 mi / 1 hr 35 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Cape Lookout State Park, Jacobsen Salt Co, Tillamook Cheese Factory What to Eat:  Tillamook Creamery ,  Tacos La Providencia ,  Old Oregon Smokehouse

Cape Lookout gives you a great view of the ocean and easy access to the beach. It’s a popular spot for camping, beach combing, and paragliding, and you might even spot a whale or two! You can also enjoy the hiking and walking trails.

10. Astoria →

480 Industry St, Astoria, OR 97103,  map

Distance:  94 mi / 1 hr 45 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Astoria Column, Astoria Riverwalk, Oregon Film Museum What to Eat:  Buoy Beer Company ,  Bowpicker Fish & Chips ,  Public House

Astoria is located near the mouth of the Columbia River and best known as the filming location of The Goonies. We’re going next weekend and I still have yet to see the movie! It was initially a logging and fishing town but has become a larger tourism city. It’s also a port of call for cruise ships.

Fun Fact: Short Circuit, Kindergarten Cop, Free Willy, TMNT III, and Into the Wild are just some of the other films shot in Astoria.

See More: 15 Unique Things to Do in Astoria

11. Mount Hood

45.3625178,-121.7373645,  map

Distance:  98 mi / 2 hrs ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss: Mirror Lake Trail, Mt Hood Cultural Center and Museum, Timberline Lodge What to Eat:  Glacier Public House ,  Mt. Hood Brewing ,  The Ratskeller

Mount Hood is one of those places that remind you how small you are in the grand scheme of things. There are 12 named glaciers, and it’s surrounded by beautiful, green forests. During the winter, there are 6 ski areas near the mountain, and it’s also a popular mountain to summit. If you’re looking for a place to stay, check out Timberline Lodge, which is a National Historic Site.

12. Breitenbush Hot Springs

53000 Breitenbush Rd SE, Detroit, OR 97342,  map

Distance:  105 mi / 1 hr 55 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Mirror Lake Trail, Mt Hood Cultural Center and Museum, Timberline Lodge What to Eat:  McKenzie Station Pub ,  Takoda’s ,  Schmizza Public House

We have yet to visit, but our friend loves this place! These hot springs are located within a retreat and conference center that is a worker-owned cooperative. Besides the hot springs, there are more than 20 miles of trails, a lodge, guest cabins, and more!

13. Mount Rainier

Sunrise Park Rd, Ashford, WA 98304,  map

Distance:  140 mi / 2 hr 15 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Paradise, Grove of the Patriarchs Trail, Silver Falls Trail What to Eat:  Summit House Restaurant ,  Alpine Inn Restaurant ,  The Snorting Elk Cellar

If you love the  National Parks  like us, you should visit Mount Rainier. It offers spectacular mountain views, summertime wildflower meadows, and tons of hiking trails. The peak is often covered in clouds, so if you find a moment where you can see it, take it all in.

See More: 15 Best National Parks to Visit in the Summer

14. Smith Rock State Park →

44.3682459,-121.1427754,  map

Distance:  140 mi / 2 hr 40 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Rock Climb,  Misery Ridge Loop , Kayaking What to Eat:  Pump House Bar & Grill ,  Grace and Hammer ,  Diego’s Spirited Kitchen

If you are a rock climber, you definitely need to make a trip to Smith Rock. There are amazing climbs with picturesque views. Even if you don’t climb, it’s worth visiting just to see the beautiful landscapes.  Misery Ridge Trail  is a popular hike there.

See More: 7 Amazing Things to Do at Smith Rock

15. Bend, Oregon

750 NW Lava Rd #160, Bend, OR 97703,  map

Distance:  175 mi / 3 hrs ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  High Desert Museum, Tumalo Falls, Sparks Lake What to Eat:  Bangers & Brews ,  Spork ,  Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails

A lot of folks who think Portland is growing too big too fast turn to Bend for solace. Bend is a great getaway if you want to be active, but also, if you’re just looking for a spot to relax and have a great beer. You can rock climb, stand up paddle board, hike, or head to a brewery. It’s home to Deschutes Brewery named after the river that runs through the city. If you’re looking for something more local, try Crux Fermentation Project.

Map of the Best Day Trips from Portland

• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Find a great deal on Portland hotels .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Book a tour for your visit.
• Get airport lounge access .
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• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Buy a PNW travel guide .
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• Rand McNally Large Scale Road Atlas
• 60 Hikes within 60 Miles of Portland
• Lonely Planet Pacific Northwest’s Best Trips
• Lonely Planet Washington, Oregon & Pacific Northwest Guide

Have you been to any of these spots? What other day trips from Portland have you done?

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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9 Unforgettable Portland Day Trips: Unleashing the Magic

Exploring the captivating landscapes surrounding Portland has been a delightful adventure, as Jeff and I have embarked on numerous Portland day trips to these picturesque destinations.

Nestled in the heart of Oregon, Portland served as an ideal base camp for discovering the remarkable wonders that lie just beyond its vibrant city limits. From the enchanting Columbia River Gorge and its crown jewel, Multnomah Falls, to the coastal beaches, each excursion has unveiled the natural splendor of this region.

Whether you are a local or a visitor (like we were), we are sure there is a day trip from Portland that is right for you. From beaches to mountains and hiking to wine tasting, we have selected what we believe to be the best Portland day trips.

So, pack your day bag, fill up your gas tank, and get ready for an adventure.

Best Portland day trips

Columbia river gorge / multnomah falls, mount st. helens, cannon beach, willamette valley wine country, silver falls state park, where are all these cool portland day trips.

Click the expand / collapse icon in the upper left corner of the map for the details and interactive options.

The suggested stops in this article are featured on the map in red.

Distance from Portland: 30 miles / 40 minutes

The Columbia River Gorge and Multnomah Falls are undoubtedly the highlight of our Portland day trips.

This breathtaking natural wonder left me awe-inspired. As I stood on the bridge just over a major cascade, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of reverence for the sheer power and beauty of nature. The waters rushing in front and below me, surrounded by lush greenery and towering cliffs, created a scene that felt straight out of a fairy tale.

Then, we headed to the base to bring all the cascading levels into a single view. The resulting photograph became an instant favorite that now proudly hangs on our wall.

If you don’t have a car, it’s easy to take a tour to Multnomah Falls from Portland. We like the looks of this top-rated 4.5-hour coach tour from Portland that follows the route of the Lewis and Clark expedition more than 200 years after the famous explorers. In addition to Multnomah Falls, it visits two other waterfalls. Reserve your Multnomah Falls & Columbia River Gorge Tour from Portland here

Distance from Portland: 75 miles / 110 minutes

Mount St. Helens is a famous volcano that erupted in 1980. Visitors can learn about the eruption and the volcano’s history at the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center .

The area is also popular for hiking and fishing. Personally, I found the views from the Johnston Ridge Observatory to be awe-inspiring.

If you are seeking a bit of adventure, check out this all-day Mt St Helens tour from Portland. Your guide will help you discover lava tube caves, old-growth forests, waterfalls, and more. The tour includes lunch, and headlamps are provided for the caves. Reserve your Mt St Helens adventure from Portland here .

Distance from Portland: 95 miles / 110 minutes

Astoria is a charming coastal town with a rich history. Honestly, I fell in love with this town and wished we had stayed longer than just two nights before we started our Oregon coast road trip .

We spent our time climbing the 164 narrow spiral stairs inside the Astoria Column and then, following tradition, launched balsa wood planes from the top.

We also learned about interesting history at the Columbia River Maritime Museum, discovered the lightship (like a lighthouse), and watched the sea lions on the pier. In retrospect, I am not sure why we opted to skip the Flavel House Museum. You can read our full Astoria adventure here .

Distance from Portland: 79 miles / 90 minutes

Cannon Beach is a charming coastal town that’s famous for its stunning beach and the iconic Haystack Rock. As you can see from the image, it was overcast the day we visited, but still lovely. We strolled along the beach and explored tide pools, but with the weather, we didn’t bother to visit the viewpoint in Ecola State Park.

The town is also home to several art galleries, restaurants, and boutiques. For us, it was the first stop on our Oregon coast road trip that started in Astoria.

If you don’t want to drive yourself, we recommend this 7-hour tour as the perfect solution. Traveling along the scenic coast, the highlights include Cannon Beach, two state parks, and several key landmarks. This delightful journey seamlessly blends picturesque drives with invigorating short hikes, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes. What makes it even more special is the limited group size, accommodating only 12 guests, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Travel in style and comfort aboard a luxurious vehicle as you soak in the beauty of the coast and create lasting memories.  Reserve your Cannon Beach tour from Portland here .

Distance from Portland: 72 miles / 80 minutes

Tillamook is a coastal town known for its dairy farms and cheese factory. We couldn’t resist stopping and taking the self-guided tour of the Tillamook Cheese Factory , which creates 171,000 pounds of cheese daily. At the end of the tour, we got to sample local cheeses, and we learned a bit about the region’s dairy industry.

The town is also home to several beaches and hiking trails, as well as the Tillamook Air Museum. Personally, we enjoyed trying different cheeses, but the highlight was the ice cream we got at the cheese factory.

Rather than a day trip from Portland, we came here from Cannon Beach as we drove down the Oregon coast.

Distance from Portland: 46 miles / 50 minutes

Salem is the capital of Oregon, located about 1 hour south of Portland. This city is home to the historic Oregon State Capitol building, as well as several museums, parks, and restaurants.

One of the most unique features of Salem is the Riverfront Carousel, a beautifully hand-carved carousel with over 40 unique animals to ride. History buffs will enjoy a visit to the Willamette Heritage Center, which preserves and interprets the history of the Mid-Willamette Valley.

Distance from Portland: 49 miles / 60 minutes

The Willamette Valley is Oregon’s premier wine region, known for its Pinot Noir and other award-winning varietals. Visitors can tour local wineries, taste the region’s wines, and enjoy scenic views of the countryside.

Touring from Portland means a designated driver. Check out these options from Portland:

• Wine-Tasting Tour in the Willamette Valley This top-rated 6-hour tour often sells out. It’s a small group tour (maximum 10) that will enjoy wine tastings at three wineries. Reserve your Willamette Valley Wine-Tasting Tour from Portland here .
• Willamette Valley Wine Tour with Lunch This full-day tour will bring you to 3 vineyards sampling pinots, chardonnays, and rieslings. Lunch at a winery is included, but the tasting fees are extra. Reserve your Willamette Valley Wine Tour with Lunch here .

Distance from Portland: 54 miles / 75 minutes

Silver Falls State Park is a scenic park just outside of Salem, Oregon.

It’s home to the Trail of Ten Falls, a popular hiking trail that takes visitors past ten stunning waterfalls. The park also offers camping, picnic areas, and horseback riding. Download a free trail map here .

Better still, get the best of the area by combining Silver Falls and wine tasting with a tour from Portland. This highly-rated tour includes the Trail of Ten Falls as well as two boutique wineries. Reserve your Silver Falls hike and wine tour here .

Distance from Portland: 76 miles / 90 minutes

Mount Hood is another popular day trip destination from Portland. It’s the tallest mountain in Oregon and a great spot for skiing, snowboarding, and hiking.

Visitors can also explore the historic Timberline Lodge, which was built during the Great Depression. Located about 1.5 hours east of Portland on Mount Hood, Timberline Lodge is a historic ski resort with stunning views, hiking trails, and year-round recreational activities.

The lodge was built in the 1930s as part of the Works Progress Administration program and features beautiful handcrafted woodwork and stone masonry throughout. If you want to extend your day trip from Portland, it’s a fun place to spend the night. Reserve your stay at Timberline Lodge here .

Where to stay in Portland

If you’re looking for a comfortable and stylish base for your Portland day trips, look no further than the Kimpton Hotel Vintage Portland. This boutique hotel is located in the heart of downtown Portland, making it an ideal home base for exploring the city and surrounding areas.

We were drawn in by the hotel’s chic and modern decor, combined with its convenient location and top-notch amenities. It was the perfect place to come home to, comfortable and luxurious.

One of the fun features of the Kimpton Hotels, including the Vintage, is the nightly wine tasting, which takes place in the hotel lobby. It allows guests to sample some of the best local wines, in our case from the Willamette Valley, as well as mingle with other travelers.

The hotel also offers a game room with classic games like ping pong, shuffleboard, and foosball. It’s just a fun, vintage place to stay. Reserve your stay at Hotel Vintage here .

Save on your trip with these resources

These are our go-to companies when we travel. We believe this list to be the best in each category. You can’t go wrong using them on your trip too.

• Flights : we use Expedia for the best and cheapest flight options.
• Accommodations: we use Booking.com (hotels), VRBO (self-contained), or Hostelworld (budget).
• Cars (gas or electric): we use RentalCars to search for deals and dealer ratings.
• Motorcycles : we have heard good things about BikesBooking .
• Campervans or Motorhomes : we use Campstar where Albom Adventures readers get a 3% discount.
• Private guides : we often find the best option is to work with a private guide .
• Travel Insurance: while not required, we always opt for travel insurance and start at InsureMyTrip to compare coverage plans.

Check out our travel resources page for more companies that we use when you travel.

Save for later

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What’s your favorite day trip from Portland?

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Photo Credits:

All photos on this page are either shot by our team and watermarked as such or stock images from Depositphotos .

About Rhonda Albom

Capturing the essence of travel through photography, Rhonda Albom is the primary author and photographer at Albom Adventures. She is an American expat based in New Zealand. She travels the world with her husband.

Reader Interactions

September 26, 2023 at 3:36 am

We were lucky enough to visit Portland once and took some of these day trips. We want to go back so bad, especially to the Willamette wine region.

September 25, 2023 at 6:53 pm

These day trips look amazing! Columbia River Gorge / Multnomah Falls would be the first stop on my list followed by Silver Falls State Park. What can I say – I am a desert dweller and the waterfalls look incredible! Next, I would head to Tillamook because I love cheese! I need to visit Portland just to take those day trips. Great post!

September 25, 2023 at 5:23 pm

Astoria and Multnomah Falls are amazing! I haven’t explored the Oregon Wine Country yet, but now I definitely want to check it out!

September 25, 2023 at 5:06 pm

As always, great photos and advice. Thanks so much for inspiring us.

September 24, 2023 at 7:49 pm

Wow! Stunning photos! I’d love to visit the falls and do hikes nearby. Saving your post for future travels!

Gabby Leopard

September 24, 2023 at 7:03 pm

Gorton Creek and Wilamette wine Valley would be the places I want to visit! Wow.

September 24, 2023 at 5:58 pm

Oregon is so nice! I can’t believe how many waterfalls there are and soooo gorgeous! Great post, pinned for my next trip out there!

September 24, 2023 at 5:01 pm

Gorgeous photos! I didn’t know there were so many picturesque places around Portland. I’d love to try some of these day trips one day. The waterfall looks absolutely stunning! Thanks for sharing your recommendations.

Lisa | Waves and Cobblestones

September 24, 2023 at 2:56 pm

I spent several months in Portland for business. Multnomah Falls are definitely a must-see!

September 24, 2023 at 8:45 am

I’ve always wanted to visit Portland! Beautiful photography…

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Day Trips From Portland

The Best Day Trips to Take From Portland, Oregon

Portland is filled with plenty to do, but you still might find yourself wanting to get out and explore beyond Oregon’s largest city. And you should. Perched right near the Washington-Oregon border, Portland has a prime location as a launchpad for Northwest day trips. All within a few hours, you can reach the beach, the mountains, and other Northwest cities like Vancouver, Washington . Here are some of the best options.

Cannon Beach and Seaside

TripSavvy / Jamie Ditaranto

The Oregon coast is one of the finest vacation destinations in the Northwest and it’s easy to get to from Portland for a day trip. Highway 26 takes you directly out of Portland to Cannon Beach and Seaside , which are located about seven miles apart from each other on the coast. Visit Cannon Beach to admire towering Haystack Rock, a 235-foot-high rock formation just off the coast that’s surrounded by smaller rocks jutting out of the water. When the tide goes out, peep into tide pools, but don’t try to climb on the rocks.

The town of Cannon Beach is filled with galleries and shops and restaurants to wander. If you’ve got kids, Seaside might be the better town as it’s known for its aquarium, carousel, arcades and watercraft rentals. For adults, there are also shops to explore, restaurants and breweries, and a long, paved boardwalk along the beach.

Just north of Cannon Beach and Seaside is another waterfront town that makes a great complement to the busy city of Portland. Astoria shows another side to Oregon—one that’s historical, quaint and picturesque. Victorian homes dot the city and there are several cool attractions to visit, including the Astoria Column that you can climb (if you like steps) to get a view of the area and the Columbia River below.

Wander the town and duck into the Columbia River Maritime Museum to learn a bit about the city’s past. The house that starred in "The Goonies" is also located in town and many have come to see this home, but be aware that it’s a private residence and the owner does not welcome visitors.

Multnomah Falls

With a 30-minute drive from Portland, you can reach Multnomah Falls—a towering, 611-foot-tall waterfall. The easiest way to get there is by taking I-84 out of Portland. To round out the day trip, visit Multnomah Falls Lodge and enjoy lunch there as well as additional views of the falls. There’s also an information center at the lodge where you can get trail maps, and a little hike makes a fine pairing with visiting this outdoorsy locale.

At 11,249 feet, Mt. Hood towers above the landscape just an hour outside of Portland. There are many ways to visit the mountain that can fit easily into a day. In the winter, a total of six ski areas welcome snow lovers and there are a few sno-parks nearby as well. In the summer, fall and spring, hiking is the perfect way to explore the mountain as there are trails for all kinds of abilities. Trails abound on the base on the mountain and in Mt. Hood National Forest. Search out one that best suits your ability and bust the hiking boots out of the closet!

Willamette Valley Wine Country

About an hour south of Portland is the Willamette Valley — a wine region, one of the top pinot noir producing regions in the world, and an all-around lovely place to spend a day. Towns in the valley include Corvallis, Albany, and Eugene , but life is best if you get a little outside of the towns and spend some time in the countryside.

Visit a farm or winery. Bring your bike along (or rent one) and travel the Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway. Check out some covered bridges. Or spend time in one of the towns and take yourself on a culinary tour… or at least out to a nice dinner.

Seattle lies about three hours north of Portland. Since you’ll spend a fair amount of time driving (and — be warned — traffic can extend that amount of time significantly if you’re not careful to avoid rush hour), this day trip requires an early start, but it’s entirely possible to hit up both of the Northwest’s largest cities in one go. You can even hop onto the Bolt Bus or Amtrak if you don’t want to deal with traffic.

Once you’re in Seattle, it’s best to stick to the downtown core just for the sake of time. Start at Seattle Center. Skip going to the top of the Space Needle if you want to save on line time — explore the Pacific Science Center or MoPop instead. Hop onto the Monorail and take that into the downtown where you can easily walk to Pike Place Market , shop, dine at any number of restaurants both cheap and upscale, go to the Seattle Art Museum, or walk along the waterfront.

If Seattle is too far afoot, Washington State’s third largest city is about an hour closer and much more approachable to get around — as in, much easier to fit into a day trip if you want a more leisurely schedule.

Unlike Seattle, Tacoma is not filled end to end with things to do. Instead, go straight downtown and spend some time at Tacoma’s museums, which are all located close to each other. Tacoma Art Museum  and Museum of Glass are perfect for artsy explorers. Washington State History Museum is ideal for families or history buffs. LeMay – America’s Car Museum is one of the largest car museums in the country.

Mt. St. Helens

TripSavvy / Chris VR

Mt. St. Helens is one of the Northwest’s most unique mountains as it erupted in recent history and visitors can still see the signs of destruction. Charred trees lead the way and offer a peep into just how destructive the 1980 eruption really was. A massive crater is left where the peak of the mountain used to be.

The drive includes a few small visitor centers along the way where you can get progressively closer-up views and tidbits of information and history about the mountain. But the crowning jewel of visiting is a stop at the Johnston Ridge Observatory where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping, wide open views of the volcano as well as some trails to walk. You can also watch a film about the eruption at the observatory.

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26 Best Day Trips From Portland Oregon

If you’re looking for the best day trips from Portland Oregon, this list of our favorites has been compiled over many decades of living in Oregon. 

Portland, Oregon is surrounded by some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. With its close proximity to the Oregon Coast, the Columbia River, the Cascade Mountains, the Willamette Valley, and many other cities in between, Portland is the perfect destination for those wanting both city and nature day trips.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor staying in Portland for a while, make sure to take advantage of the city’s ideal location and explore the diverse beauty of the surrounding areas.

Table of Contents

Best Portland Day Trips: Quick List

Here is a quick rundown of our top day trips from Portland based on different activities and locations:

Best hiking day trip: Silver Falls State Park Best beach day trip: Pacific City, OR Best town day trip: McMinnville, OR Best waterfall day trip: Silver Falls State Park Best winter day trip: Mt. Hood Meadows Snow Park

Read on for more details about each day trip and travel tips.

Best hiking day trips from Portland

Here are the best hiking day trips to discover the great outdoors and natural beauty of Portland’s surroundings.

Top Pick: Silver Falls State Park Trail of 10 Falls

Driving distance from Portland to Silver Falls State Park: 1 hour 15 minutes (54 miles)

Silver Falls State Park is one of our favorite places in Oregon and our personal pick for the best day trips from Portland. It’s Oregon’s largest state park with over 10 waterfalls. The Trail of 10 Falls takes you both behind and around these ten spectacular waterfalls scattered throughout the park.

The trail is a moderate loop with mostly unpaved paths but there are several trails you can take depending on your skill and time. For more information on the different trails, check out our Silver Falls State Park guide.

Multnomah Falls – Most Famous Portland Day Trip

Driving distance from Portland to Multnomah Falls: 30 minutes (30 miles)

Multnomah Falls is located in the Columbia River Gorge just half an hour drive away from Portland. The famous waterfalls stand at a height of over 620 feet, making it the second tallest year-round waterfall in the United States.

The falls are surrounded by hiking trails and a historic lodge with spectacular views of the scenery. There is a nearby bridge that allows you to cross over the lower falls and follow a paved trail to the viewing platform. Inside the lodge you’ll also find a gift shop and restaurant.

Latourell Falls Trail, Columbia Gorge

Driving distance from Portland to Latourell Falls Trailhead: 30 minutes (30 miles)

Latourell Falls Trail is an easy to moderate loop hike that brings you to Latourell Falls, a tall single-plunge waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge. The falls provide a unique sight of the water cascading over columnar basalt formations. There’s also several smaller streams and falls like the Upper Latourell Falls before you get to the main viewpoint.

Angel’s Rest Hike, Columbia Gorge

Driving distance from Portland to Angel’s Rest Trailhead: 30 minutes (27 miles)

The hike to the Angel’s Rest viewpoint rewards you with panoramic views of the Columbia Gorge and other landmarks like Beacon Rock and Silver Star Mountain. It’s a relatively short hike at around only 2.5 miles one way but the trail winds uphill in a series of switchbacks before reaching the crest. Throughout the hike, you’ll see signs of recovery from the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire so make sure to be cautious and stay on the designated trails, especially along the cliff edges.

Wahclella Falls: Short Hike, Columbia Gorge

Driving distance from Portland to Wahclella Falls Trailhead: 33 minutes (30 miles)

Wahclella is another short hike that would be a great spot for family day trips from Portland since it’s considered to be an easy hike. This 2.4-mile out and back hike takes you through a scenic canyon and down a bridge until you reach the waterfalls.

The Wahclella Falls drop from a height of around 350 feet through a narrow gorge and into a plunge pool. Depending on the season, there’s even a second waterfall that becomes visible from the lower level of the trail.

Short Sands Trail (South Trailhead), Oregon Coast

Driving distance from Portland to Short Sands Trail (South Trailhead): 1 hour 35 minutes (88 miles)

The Short Sand Trail leads hikers to Short Sand Beach, one of the most popular Oregon Coast day trips from Portland. This beautiful beach is located in Oswald West State Park and is easily reached by the South Trailhead off the Oregon Coast Highway.

The hike is very straightforward as it just goes through a trail of dense green old-growth forests that runs along the coast of the sandy beach. You’ll get to enjoy views of the jagged coast and the open ocean. It’s a great place to visit during summer for surfing.

Cape Lookout Cape Trail, Oregon Coast

Driving distance from Portland to Cape Lookout Trail: 1 hour 40 minutes (85 miles)

Cape Lookout is another popular destination on the Oregon Coast, known for having some of the best views of the Pacific Ocean. The 5-mile out and back hike is of moderate difficulty with muddy and rocky paths but it’s worth it, especially during December-June when there’s a chance to see migrating whales.

The hike starts at the Cape Lookout Trailhead and brings you through a lush forest of Sitka Spruce trees. Coming out of the forest, you’ll also get a glimpse of other landmarks like Cape Kiwanda and Cascade Head before reaching the end viewpoint of expansive ocean views.

Dog Mountain Trail, Washington

Driving distance from Portland to Dog Mountain Trail, Washington: 1 hour (55 miles)

Dog Mountain Trail is located in Washington state but is part of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. It’s one of the many crowd-favorite hikes because of its easy access. It’s better to go early to avoid crowds and a full parking lot, especially during spring.

The 7-mile loop hike is fairly challenging with rocky paths and steep ascents. The first section begins in a wooded area and leads you to the wildflower meadows, which are blooming with yellow balsamroot. The remaining uphill ascent gets more difficult but you’ll be rewarded with views of Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood on clear days.

Other scenic day trips from Portland

Here are some scenic day trips for those looking to venture out a bit further away from Portland.

Mt. Hood and Timberline Lodge

Driving distance from Portland to Mt. Hood: 1 hour and 35 minutes (70 miles)

If you’re looking for day trips around Portland to iconic Oregon landmarks, then Mt. Hood should be at the top of your list. As the tallest mountain in Oregon, it’s definitely one of the top Oregon road trip destinations. The mountain is surrounded by the Mount Hood National Forest which is home to diverse wilderness, hiking trails, and campgrounds. It’s also the perfect place to visit during winter for its ski and snowboarding areas.

Another highlight of Mt. Hood is the Timberline Lodge. This historic lodge was built during the Great Depression and is now known as a destination for winter recreation sports and breathtaking views of the surrounding alpine scenery.

Historic Columbia River Highway and Cascade Locks

Driving distance from Portland to Historic Columbia River Highway: 36 minutes (35 miles) / Cascade Locks: 45 minutes (43 miles)

For something close by, the Historic Columbia River Highway is just a short drive away from Portland. It’s recognized as both America’s first scenic highway and a National Historic Landmark. Throughout this scenic drive, you can see waterfalls, vistas, and bridges.

Cascade Locks is one of the small towns you can stop by on your drive. This town is located on the banks of the Columbia River and is home to the Bridge of the Gods and the Bonneville Lock and Dam nearby, an important source of hydroelectric power in the region.

Willamette Valley Oregon Wine Country

Driving distance from Portland to Willamette Valley Oregon Wine Country: 50 minutes (45 miles)

The Willamette Valley is one of Oregon’s most beautiful places, home to over 700 wineries and vineyards. The rolling hills surrounding the valleys are the prime location for growing some of the most high quality pinot noir and pinot gris in the world.

If you’re a wine enthusiast or looking for a romantic getaway, staying in the wine region for a few days is a great option. You can take guided tours of the wineries or go wine tasting in world-class vineyards. There’s also so much more hidden gems in the Willamette Valley that don’t involve wine like charming historic towns, waterfall hikes, urban parks, and restaurants.

For more information read our guide on where to stay and what to do in Willamette Valley.

Detroit Lake, Oregon

Driving distance from Portland to Detroit Lake: 1 hour and 55 minutes (104 miles)

Detroit Lake is a reservoir in the Cascade Mountains surrounded by lush forests and mountain peak views of Mt. Jefferson in the distance. The lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, swimming, water skiing, wakeboarding and other water sports.

The surrounding area also has plenty of opportunities for other outdoor activities like hiking and camping. Whether you’re camping or just visiting, make sure to check out our guide to Portland packing essentials.

Mt. Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument

Driving distance from Portland to Mount St Helens National Volcanic Mountain: 2 hours and 10 minutes (116 miles)

Mount St. Helens is an active volcano located west of Mount Adams, in the western part of the Cascade Range. Following the eruption of 1980, the National Volcanic Monument was established for the purposes of research and recreation. Visitors can go on hiking trails, scenic drives, and interpretive walks to learn more about the natural history of the area. Mountain climbing the summit is also an option for the brave and adventurous.

Sisters and Central Oregon’s High Desert

Driving distance from Portland to Sisters: 3 hours (153 miles) / Central Oregon’s High Desert: 4 hours and 30 minutes (215 miles)

For those with more time to go on weekend trips from Portland Oregon, head on to Sisters , a city nearby the Three Sisters mountains. The city has a charming Western vibe where you’ll find art galleries, specialty boutiques, and local restaurants.

The Three Sisters Wilderness area also offers tons of outdoor activities like hiking, climbing, and camping.

Sisters is a gateway to Central Oregon’s High Desert, a vast landscape known for its relatively drier terrain and climate. The region boasts of a unique natural beauty with rock formations, canyon rivers, sagebrush steppe, and natural hot springs.

Some must-see destinations include the Smith Rock State Park and the High Desert Museum.

Best Oregon Coast Day Trips from Portland

Here are some beautiful coastal towns you can explore on day trips along the Oregon Coast.

Pacific City, Oregon

Driving distance from Portland to Pacific City: 1 hour 55 minutes (96 miles)

Pacific City is a coastal town worth visiting for its beautiful beaches with some main attractions being the iconic Haystack Rock and Cape Kiwanda. This natural area is home to unique sand dunes, scenic cliffs, caves, and tide pools.

Read our guide on the best things to do in Pacific City.

Tillamook, Oregon

Driving distance from Portland to Tillamook: 1 hour 20 minutes (73 miles)

Tillamook is located on the northern part of Oregon Coast and is known for its delicious cheese and dairy products and its natural beauty. Visitors can tour the Tillamook Creamery to not only taste their cheese and ice cream but to also see how they’re made. Other must-do activities are hiking the nearby forests and beaches and visiting the Tillamook Forest Center.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Driving distance from Portland to Cannon Beach: 1 hour 30 minutes (80 miles)

Cannon Beach is another one of Oregon Coast’s beautiful beaches. The beach is home to another impressive Haystack Rock (different from the one in Pacific City!). It’s also near the Ecola State Park which has many hiking trails with incredible views of the Pacific Coast.

Manzanita, Oregon

Driving distance from Portland to Manzanita: 1 hour 45 minutes (85 miles)

Manzanita boasts of a pristine seven-mile beach perfect for a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. Another main local attraction is the nearby Neahkahnie Mountain which has plenty of hiking trails. Manzanita also has a quaint downtown area with local shops and eateries.

Astoria, Oregon

Driving distance from Portland to Manzanita: 1 hour 55 minutes (95 miles)

Astoria is a charming town located in the mouth of the Columbia River. Some of its must-see attractions include the Astoria Column, a tower with an interior spiral staircase leading to an observation deck with views of the river. The historic downtown district is also home to the Maritime Museum.

Best City Day Trips to Visit from Portland Oregon

Here are the best nearby cities to visit from Portland, each offering unique experiences and sights.

McMinnville, Oregon: Heart of Oregon Wine Country

Driving distance from Portland to McMinnville: 1 hour 15 minutes (40 miles)

Located in the heart of Oregon Wine Country, McMinnville is surrounded by amazing vineyards and wineries for visitors to go on wine tastings and tours. McMinnville’s historic downtown is also worth a visit for its restaurants, boutique shops, galleries and the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum.

Hood River, Oregon: Windsurfing Capital

Driving distance from Portland to McMinnville: 1 hour 12 minutes (61 miles)

Hood River is located in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, making it a popular destination for wind and water activities. The Hood River Waterfront is packed during summer months with people windsurfing, kayaking, kitesurfing. For those looking for more laidback activities, award-winning craft breweries and wineries are worth checking out.

Salem, Oregon: State Capitol

Driving distance from Portland to Salem: 1 hour 15 minutes (48 miles)

There’s plenty of things to do and see in Salem , the capital city of Oregon. It’s known for its historic downtown landmarks, like the Oregon State Capitol and its city parks like Salem Riverfront Park. Downtown Salem is also filled with delicious coffee shops and restaurants. Some of our favorite outdoor activities in Salem include going on hikes and floating down the Willamette River.

For more information read our guide on where to stay and what to do in Salem .

Olympia, Washington: Oregon Capitol

Driving distance from Portland to Olympia, Washington: 2 hours 20 minutes (115 miles)

Olympia, the capital city of Washington, is known for its rich history, beautiful parks, and arts scene. Some must-see places include the historic Washington State Capitol and Percival Landing Park with its waterfront and view of Puget Sound. The outdoor Olympia Farmers Market is also worth checking out for food and local products.

Vancouver, Washington

Driving distance from Portland to Vancouver, Washington: 45 minutes (10 miles)

Located right across the river from Portland, Vancouver is an ideal and quick day trip destination. Its location is perfect for riverside strolls along the downtown area and the Vancouver Waterfront. Another main tourist spot is the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, a well-preserved fort from the 1800s that played a significant role in the early history of the Pacific Northwest.

Independence, Oregon

Driving distance from Portland to Independence: 1 hour 35 minutes (58 miles)

Independence is another hidden gem located in the Mid Willamette Valley. This town boasts of historic buildings and a riverside park in its downtown area filled with charming cafes and nearby wineries and vineyards.

Corvallis, Oregon

Driving distance from Portland to Corvallis: 1 hour 50 minutes (84 miles)

Corvallis is a vibrant college town in the Willamette Valley, surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. The city is known for being home to Oregon State University and for its urban greenery given that there are at least 47 public parks within and adjacent to the city limits.

What is your favorite day trip from Portland? Let us know in the comments!

You might also like … Best Oregon Road Trip Destinations & Itineraries A Local’s Guide to Portland Oregon Where to Stay in Portland Portland packing checklist Places We Love Best in Oregon

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The TOP 15 Adventurous (And Unique!) Day Trips From Portland, Oregon

Post Summary: The Best Day Trips From Portland, Oregon

Do you have a free day to spend in Portland, Oregon? There is so much to do in the city of roses, but sometimes you just want to spice it up with a little outdoor adventure!

It doesn’t matter if you are a local or just a visitor – this guide is for YOU! We’re showing you epic day trips from Portland to discover giant waterfalls, gorgeous PNW hiking trails , and some of the best stops along the Oregon coast just a quick drive from the city. 

Scroll to the bottom to find our map of Portland day trips (you can save it, too!) and read through the post to discover some amazing spots to plan an adventurous day.

Let’s get started!

First Of All, What Qualifies As A Day Trip From Portland?

Basically, any destination you can reach and still return to sleep in your own bed at night is a Portland day trip in our books.

Berty and I have definitely had our fair share of huge driving days – waking up at 4:00 am and arriving back in Portland well after dinner time. However, for the sake of your sanity, we’re keeping these day trips from Portland very doable – no more than around a 2-hours-ish drive out .

This way, you can spend a lot of time exploring and less time in the car , which is all that we want from a good day trip, right? 

Coming during the fall season? Take a tour of the most haunted places in Oregon!

Now without further ado…

15 Incredible Day Trips From Portland, Oregon

Day Trips From Portland To The Columbia River Gorge

The Columbia River Gorge is the most popular area for day trips from Portland, for its proximity, numerous outdoor options, and amazing scenery. Along I-84, you can experience some rewarding hikes, gorgeous waterfalls, and amazing water and land activities along the river.

Some of the most popular things to do here are visiting the Columbia Gorge waterfalls , and you can even take a leisure tour of several of them on the Columbia River Gorge Historic Highway .

Multnomah Falls is by far the most popular to visit (and the tallest waterfall in Oregon), but here are some others to consider for your day trip from Portland to the Columbia River Gorge:

• Latourell Falls (2 miles round trip to Upper Falls)
• Wahkeena Falls (4.7-mile loop to see Multnomah and Fairy Falls)
• Bridal Veil Falls (0.5 miles round trip)
• Dry Creek Falls (3.6 miles out and back)
• Ponytail Falls (0.8 miles round trip)

Note: The Eagle Creek Fire of 2017 devastated much of this area and some hikes/waterfall trails are still closed for restoration. Click here to be updated on real-time trail openings in the Columbia River Gorge . 

Finally, take some challenging hikes in the Columbia River Gorge like Mount Defiance, Dog Mountain , Indian Points Loop, or Munra Point for incredible views of the river, and across it to Washington state!

Silver Falls State Park

Silver Falls State Park is the perfect place to take a day trip from Portland if you love waterfalls! One of the park’s most famous trails is called the “ Trail of Ten Falls “ which connects ten Oregon waterfalls in a 7.6-mile loop.

This is a can’t-miss opportunity to see some of Oregon’s prettiest waterfalls , which include the popular Double Falls, Middle North Falls, and South Falls. 

Now, waterfalls aren’t the only things to see at Silver Falls State Park – you can mountain bike the exciting  Catamount Trail or even swim at the  South Falls Day Use Area.  There is something to do for the entire family here!

Portland Day Trips To Mount Hood

Mount Hood is a great option for a Portland day trip if you are seeking calm lakes, gorgeous wildflowers, and forest hikes.

Just a 1.5-hour drive east from Portland will bring you to the shores of Trillium Lake . On a clear day, you will be able to see the reflection of the picturesque Mount Hood beautifully framed in the distance! Other lakes in Mount Hood include Frog Lake,  Lost Lake,  and Mirror Lake –  each with their own unique reflection of the mountain. 

For a longer Portland day trip in the mountains, consider the 7.1-mile hike to Ramona Falls . This gorgeous horsetail falls is hidden deep in the forest, but the payoff is huge once you see it with your own eyes. Care for a short waterfall hike for your Portland day trip? Consider Tamanawas Falls , an easy 3.3-mile trail with a gorgeous view!

Want to challenge yourself? Here are some fun things to do in Mount Hood for a full-day trip from Portland:

• Hike Tom Dick and Harry (9 miles out and back)
• Hike Bald Mountain (6 miles out and back)
• McNeil Point Trail (9.6 miles out and back)

The Willamette Valley Wineries

The Willamette Valley is one of the closest day trips in Oregon, but it’s also a trip that feels like you are visiting an entirely new country at the same time!

The beautiful Willamette Valley is popular for its agricultural ventures and many local farming communities. One of the easiest ways to experience this area is to come for a day for a wine tasting with your friends!

Commonly referred to as “Oregon Wine County” this area hosts more than 500 wineries , each with their own unique take on Oregon grown grapes and flavors (but you’ve really got to try their Pinot Noir!). Spend some time exploring amazing wineries like Penner-Ash Cellars , Trisaetum , and Styring . Go even farther south to stay in Eugene , and experience King Estate Winery ‘ s award-winning pinot noir.

Abiqua Falls

Abiqua Falls is one of the most stunning demonstrations of basalt cliffs on Oregon waterfalls in the entire state! It’s also one of the closest and most adventurous day trips in Portland if you like waterfalls and hiking together (besides the Columbia River Gorge ones, of course)!

The trail to Abiqua Falls is reserved only for the truest of adventurers. Parking is located in small pullouts scattered along CF 3000 Road, just off of Crooked Finger Road NE.

Park anywhere along this road to start your journey, but if you have a high-clearance vehicle/SUV, you can risk going down the road further to cut your trail time down. Be warned – the road gets significantly worse the farther you go, and many cars have gotten stuck without rescue here!

The 5.3-mile out-and-back trail is rated difficult, with steep slopes and wet conditions nearly the entire way. However, all the hard work and effort to get here will pay off – it’s one of the most stunning waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest! Stay awhile to enjoy the 92-foot-tall drop, incredible natural scenery, and the ambiance of the Oregon forest. 

Rowena Crest

Want more activities to do for Portland day trips to the Columbia River Gorge? There are plenty of breathtaking places to see that don’t require a lot of effort . Consider taking a visit to the Vista House  or the Bridge of the Gods in Cascade Locks.

But do you want to know the real star of the CRG?  Rowena Crest.

Rowena Crest is a super easy 1-hour 20-minute drive from Portland on I-84, with a high up view of an iconic windy road near the river. This place is popular for photographers for many different reasons.

Some want to catch the sunrise as the road is lighting up, others want to catch tiny car driving on the road, and others want to visit at night and take long-exposure shots of car lights streaming across the path. No matter the reason you visit, come with your camera!

Falls Creek Falls

Falls Creek Falls trail is an excellent day trip from Portland if you love hiking! The journey to Falls Creek Falls is actually a Washington hiking trail , just across the Columbia River. Between lush green forests , bridges, and winding rivers , this trail provides excellent opportunities for forest bathing and escaping the busy-ness of everyday life.

The trail to this Washington waterfall is a 5-mile out-and-back trek , ending at a three-tiered (but only the bottom two are visible!) falls, plunging a total of 335 feet into the creek below. You can get close enough to feel the mist of the falls and it’s a perfect Washington photo spot if you are into photography! 

Come in the spring season to see the full power of the water, but really, any time of the year is perfect for a Portland day trip to Falls Creek Falls!

Cannon Beach Is One Of The Most Iconic Day Trips From Portland

A trip to Cannon Beach is probably the most popular Oregon coast day trip from Portland out there! The picturesque beach town, massive sandy shores, and the iconic Haystack Rock make it a welcome oasis for people who are tired of city life.

Staying around Cannon Beach and Seaside are great options if you love long walks on the beach  and incredible backdrops for sunsets along the ocean. Dogs are allowed to roam the shores of Cannon Beach, so bring your pup for a fun day at the beach!

If you want to explore a little deeper, consider driving to the nearby Ecola State Park . Here, there are several miles of hiking trails with incredible overlooks, secret shorelines, and dramatic cliff edges. Venture south of Cannon Beach to Neahkahnie Mountain for even more vistas and viewpoints of the Pacific Ocean. 

Read More: The 25 best beaches in Oregon (from North to South!)

Astoria, Oregon

Astoria is a town in the most northwest corner of Oregon, sitting at the mouth of the Columbia River. Astoria holds a wonderful combination of eclectic antique stores, delicious eateries & cafes, and lots of opportunities to get outside. Some local hikes include the trail to Cathedral Tree , and a lookout view to the Astoria Column .

Fishing is one of the main attractions for day trips from Portland out on the water. Salmon is a popular fish to catch here, and Buoy 10 fishery is the most popular place to catch them. If fishing isn’t your thing but EATING fish is, go ahead and try Buoy Beer Company or Hanthorn Crab Company for some of the freshest seafood in Oregon. 

Read More: The Perfect Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Cape Kiwanda in Pacific City

Between iconic Oregon Coast views to stunning sand dunes, Cape Kiwanda in Pacific City is the perfect day trip from Portland, OR if you’re looking for an ocean breeze and crashing waves .

The coast is a little wilder here , with brave surfers and dory boaters launching themselves into the wild waves. It’s fun to sit and watch them awhile, and if you need a refresh we suggest popping into Pelican Brewing Company right off the water to continue your ocean views, but indoors. 

Sit awhile and enjoy the view of Pacific City’s Haystack Rock (yes, it’s got the same name as its neighbor to the north!), or venture up to explore the sand dunes at Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area . This is a steep hike and can be dangerous near the edges, so take caution!

Read More: 25 Photos To Inspire You To Visit Cape Kiwanda

God’s Thumb (Lincoln City)

Lincoln City is the perfect sleepy beach town for people who want to unwind along the ocean’s edge. Stay in town at Road’s End State Park or Nelscott Beach , or venture out onto the water at Siletz Bay for some kayaking opportunities. 

Some of our favorite Oregon Coast hikes are located here, specifically God’s Thumb Trail , a unique cliffside vista that’s wrapped in a green mossy field. Drive just 45 minutes inland to Drift Creek Falls trail , if you are a fan of Oregon waterfalls!

Mount St. Helens

Mount St. Helens is in the neighboring state, Washington, but it’s an awesome Portland, Oregon day trip if you like nature and history!

Drive all the way east on Highway 504 to the Johnston Ridge Observatory . Here, you can see Mount St. Helens up close, and learn about the history of the recent eruption in 1980. If you want to learn more about the area, make sure to stop by the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center and The Forest Learning Center, too.

Take the Hummocks Trail during the summer to see some incredible wildflowers and stroll the boardwalk at Coldwater Lake for distant views of the mountains. There are plenty of hiking trails around the area, and you can even summit the mountain in a Portland day trip with proper permits and preparation!

Washington State Waterfalls

We mentioned this day trip from Portland above with the trek to Falls Creek Falls, but that is just one of several Washington waterfalls that you can see on a Portland day trip! They aren’t all just on the Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge!

Panther Creek Falls is a long (but worth it!) hike to one of Washington’s coolest falls. For a little bit of a closer adventure, consider driving to see Lewis River Falls . There is a lower, middle, and upper falls, all with varying degrees of distance so you can choose your own adventure!

The McKenzie River Highway

If waterfalls, lush green forests, and natural Oregon hot springs are your jam, consider taking the long day trip from Portland to explore the McKenzie River Highway. 

Along this route, there are so many amazing stops practically right off the highway! Start off with a quick trip to see the Lost Lake Lava tubes , and then head south to your first Oregon waterfall stop. Sahalie and Koosah Falls trail is an easy loop hike, and it’s a 2-for-1 waterfall stop, too!

Further south, you will find Tamolitch Falls (The Blue Pool) , Bigelow Hot Springs, Belknap Hot Springs, and Cougar Hot Springs (also called Terwilliger Hot Springs). Take your pick on a dip that suits you best!

Before you leave, consider taking a detour on the Old Highway 242 to stop by and visit Proxy Falls ! Proxy Falls trail is an easy hike, and one of the most beautiful places in Oregon.

One the way back to Portland, drive to Eugene and take Interstate-5 North all the way back home!

Climbing at Smith Rock State Park

This is likely the farthest you can get from the city and still call it a day trip from Portland! Almost 3-hours away from the city, Smith Rock State Park is a climber’s playground, with plenty of routes and adventures to be had!

There are more than 2000 climbing routes to choose from, with most of the popular routes able to be finished in just one pitch. One of the coolest routes is called Monkey Face , a 350-foot spire that looks seriously epic (and kind of scary!) to climb. 

Not a climber? No problem. This is one of the most iconic Oregon photography locations , especially during sunrise and sunset. Set up your camera to capture the rocks with the Crooked River winding gracefully through. 

The area around Smith Rock is perfect for boondocking (aka free camping ) if you decide you want to spend more time exploring . Download the app The Dyrt before you head out, so you can find campsites nearby! We’re obsessed with the pro membership because we are able to use the features offline, and get access to cool features like BLM and National Forests map too! Try their pro membership free for 30-days when using our code MANDAGIES !

Map of Day Trips From Portland, Oregon

Below, we’ve included a map of day trips from Portland, Oregon so that you can decide which one is best for you. You can also click the top left corner of this map to save it on your own phone and refer back to it for more adventures in the future! We hope you have a fantastic time!

What are some of your favorite day trips from Portland, Oregon? Did we miss any of your favorite stops? Tell us about it in the comments below!

How To Do an Oregon Coast Day Trip From Portland

Waves of the dramatic Pacific ocean? Check.

Viewpoints from tall cliffs? Check.

Gorgeous golden beaches? Check.

Surfing spots? Check!

The Oregon coastline near Portland has it all!

With incredible scenery and fun coastal towns with a great vibe, it’s well worth doing an Oregon coast day trip from Portland or the surrounding area.

Like any day trip, it’s essential to research the place before you go thoroughly, so you can be sure to not miss the highlights and decide whether to drive independently or do a tour. 

Luckily, we’ve done all the hard work for you and have detailed everything you need to know about an Oregon Coast day trip in this post! 

Table of Contents

How To Get To the Oregon Coast From Portland 

Astoria , ecola state park, cannon beach (the most popular oregon coast day trip from portland), oswald west state park, neahkahnie mountain, tillamook (the last spot for an oregon coast day trip), oregon coast tour from portland option #1, oregon coast day trip from portland option #2, so an oregon coast tours or oregon coast day trip, 15 adventurous things to do in lincoln city, 11 adventurous things to do in astoria, oregon, 11 adventurous things to do in pacific city, 13 adventurous things to do around seaside, oregon, 13 adventurous things to do in newport, oregon, 11 most scenic oregon coast towns (and what to do there).

It’s generally around a one-and-a-half-hour drive to the coast from Portland, and it’s a fairly easy drive along main roads. However, the exact timing can vary depending on where you’re going. 

• To get to Ecola State Park, you’ll need to take the US 26-E for around 80 miles; it’ll take you one and a half hours. 
• Oswald West State Park, on the other hand, is a little further south; to reach it, you’ll drive to the end of the US 26-E and turn south when you get to the end of the road. 
• Astoria, however, is further north and takes just under two hours to drive; the best route is up the I-5 S and US 30-E.
• Tillamook is the southernmost part of this section of the Oregon coastline, and it’s around an hour and twenty minutes from Portland, via the US-26 E and OR-6 E. 

If you don’t have your car, plenty of car hire companies are available in downtown Portland. 

Here are our most recommended:

✋ HOLD UP! Don’t Forget…

You need some wheels! It’s nearly impossible to get around the USA and check out the best adventures without a car! Here are our top recommendations…

🚗 Rent a car

If you don’t have your own, renting a car is your best bet!

👉 Find Deals on Cars and SUVs

🚐 Rent a home on wheels

For the more adventurous, rent a van or RV and ditch the hotel.

👉 Find The Best Van For Your Trip

Or, if you don’t want to drive, the other option is to take a tour. We’ll detail these later on! 

Don’t want to wait and want to see the top tour options now? Check these two out:

The Main Areas to Visit on The Oregon Coast on a Day Trip if You’re Driving

There are quite a few destinations to visit within easy reach of Portland. You won’t have time to see all of these spots in a day, but read through the following and see which one you’re feeling the most! 

You’d really only get to truly see one to two of these areas with just a day, so choose wisely or stay the night on the coast.

Astoria is a classic coastal town, sitting just over the border from Washington. It’s super close to places like the historical Fort Stevens State Park or the beautiful Cape Disappointment State Park , which is actually over the bridge in Washington.

It’s popular with anglers, as the rivers and sea have some of the finest fishing in the country. It’s the oldest city west of the Rockies, with beautiful surrounding forests and an almost Scandinavian feel.

READ MORE: 11 Adventurous Things To Do in Astoria, Oregon

The appropriately-named Seaside is a unique town to visit along the Oregon coast. Enjoy wide sweeping beaches and lush evergreen forests here; it’s also an incredible place to catch the sunset.

It doesn’t have the dramatic cliffs that you’ll find in other areas of the coastline, but it’s worth visiting for seeing a different side of the beachfront area.

READ MORE: 13 Adventurous Things to Do Around Seaside, Oregon

Gaze at lovely vistas of the blue ocean, craggy rocks, and lush vegetation as you hike through Ecola State Park, which occupies nine miles of coastline and winds around Tillamook Head. Enjoy Ecola Point, which views the Tillamook Lighthouse and the ever-popular Indian Beach, a much-loved surf spot.

Although Ecola State Park is famous for beaches and surfing, there are plenty of hikes here that will lead you through its beautiful nature and to gorgeous viewpoints where you can enjoy the sea and sand vistas.

READ MORE: Your Guide to Ecola State Park on the Oregon Coast

Cannon Beach is one of the best spots on the Oregon coastline. While it’s famous for the dramatic Haystack Rock, this isn’t a hidden gem – it’s one of the most popular beaches near Portland ! However, there’s plenty of room in the sand, so you should have space to roll out your towel.

Cannon Beach is the name for both the town and the actual beach, and it’s famous for its extensive sands and dramatic waves. Visit to enjoy the gorgeous monoliths, sunbathe or surf at the beach, or go birdwatching!

Come by Haystack Rock around low tide to see which creature your spot in the tidepools and if you’re here in summer keep your eyes peeled for Tuft Puffins!

READ MORE: 14 Adventurous Things To Do in Cannon Beach

Oswald West State Park has an incredible secluded beach called Short Sands Beach , nicknamed ‘Shorty’s’ by the locals. It’s one of the most popular surfing destinations in the state.

The coastal park is also covered in temperate rainforest, making it ideal for hiking (especially during the summer when you need some shade!). Some hikes will come out to glorious viewpoints with incredible vistas!

Our favorite hike in the area is the Cape Falcon Trail which takes you right up to Short Sand Beach before you head up the cliffs for some epic views.

READ MORE: Your Guide to Oswald West State Park

Manzanita is a gorgeous beach that’s not visited as much as other beaches, like Cannon Beach. It’s ideal for those who want to get away from the crowds. 

The bay area has excellent fishing opportunities; if you’re an angler, you can find steelhead trout, sturgeon, and Chinook salmon here.

With turquoise waters and golden sands, landmarked by craggy rocks, and the looming Neahkahnie Mountain, this glorious beach is well worth a spot on your day trip itinerary.

RELATED: 17 Most Scenic Oregon Coast Towns (And What to Do There!)

Neahkahnie Mountain stands at the end of Manzanita Beach, and it’s a popular hike in the area where you can admire an incredible view! The hike up Neahkahnie Mountain starts at the southern trailhead and is a 2.6-mile out and back trail.

It’s moderately difficult going up and can be a bit complicated going down with lots of roots to navigate, but the trail is well maintained, and the views make it all worthwhile!

RELATED: 37 of The Best Oregon Hikes You’ve Got to Check Out

Tillamook Bay is the furthest south beach town viable as a day trip from Portland. It’s most famous for the Tillamook Creamery Visitor Center, making delicious cheese and ice cream products. It’s worth visiting while you’re in town!

However, there’s much more to Tillamook than its creamery. In this town, you can explore coastal wetlands at the Sitka Sedge State Park, hike around the Three Capes Scenic Loop , take in this part of the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad, and much more! This will all of course take you beyond a day though, so you’ll have to pick and choose your favorite spots.

RELATED: 7 Tillamook State Forest Hikes to Tackle

Not Driving? Don’t Want to Rent A Car? Do an Oregon Coast Tour Day Trip!

If you don’t have your own car, the only real way to see the coastline near Portland is by doing a guided tour . The best part of these tours is that they are easily booked, pick you up and drop you off from Portland, and will save you time and cash on renting a vehicle!

They will also squeeze in a ton more places than you’d get to see yourself as well since they know exactly where to go and have organized everything to a T.

Here are two of the best Oregon coast tours: 

This tour takes around seven and a half hours and will take you from central Portland to the coastline (and back again!). 

Visit Ecola State Park, admire Haystack Rock, take lunch by Cannon Beach, hike up Neahkahnie Mountain and check out the view and explore Oswald West State Park. 

This tour is relatively similar but stops in different places from the other tour. Before deciding which tour to opt for, you could research each destination and see which one you’re most interested in! 

The first stop on this tour is the Camp 18 Museum, with vintage logging machines and a self-propelled steam crane. It’s a great stop if you want to learn a little about the region’s history while visiting the Oregon coastline.

You’ll also visit Ecola State Park, Cannon Beach, and Neahkahnie Mountain and check out the lesser-known Manzanita Beach and the lovely Short Sands Beach in Oswald State Park.

This could be one of the best Oregon beach tours if you want your visit to include some history as well as some beaches.

RELATED: 13 Portland Tours for The Adventurous!

Doing an Oregon Coast day trip from Portland will help you see some of the best of the west coast, with broad sandy beaches and a dramatic rocky coastline.

There are state parks, cute seaside towns, hiking trails making their way to epic viewpoints, and some of the best surf spots in the USA. But which one is best in your situation?

We think it totally depends on you and really if you have a car or are willing to rent one!

Here’s where to check on some rental vehicles. If you do an Outdoorsy rental, you can stay along the coast for LONGER without hotel expenses! If not, just rent a regular car for the day.

If you want the easiest option and don’t have a car or want to rent, grabbing a tour is your best bet. These are the most recommended tours in the area, they pack in the most, will save you on car rental expenses, and do literally all the work for you! All you need to do is choose which one of the two?

It’ll be hard to fit it into a day, but if you’re just in Portland for a vacation or don’t have the time for a longer trip, it’s worth heading out just for a day trip to the Oregon coast.

More Oregon Coast Towns

We hope this post helped you plan your Oregon coast tour! Before you go, check out other things you can do on the Oregon coast and more adventures near Portland .

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Oregon native and explorer at heart. Loves tackling expeditions around the world and drinking a good beer at the end of the day. PNW obsessed, VW nerd, and surf or snow riding fanatic.

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12 Best Day trips from Portland, Oregon (2023)

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Within easy reach of some amazing nature, wineries, and beach towns, there are some fantastic options for day trips from Portland. It’s so much fun getting out of the city and exploring the stunning Oregon Coast, the beautiful Columbia River Gorge and even an airplane in the woods! We love using Portland as our Pacific North West base and have put together this list of the 12 best day trips from Portland.

Table of Contents

Portland Day Trips: How to get around

Renting a car is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to explore Portland and its surrounds. Having your own car gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and make stops at all the wonderful sights around Portland.

We’re huge fans of road trips and have driven rental cars in almost 50 countries so we have a lot of experience renting cars in foreign countries. We recommend using RentalCars.com  to reserve your car. They have the best selection and prices that we’ve found –  check prices here!

Book your car now with RentalCars.com

1 | Columbia River Gorge

Drive time from Portland: 30 minutes

The Columbia River Gorge, a canyon stretching over 80 miles through the Cascades mountain range, is one of the best day trips from Portland. There are lots of beautiful waterfalls in Oregon and this area is home to many of its finest.

Day trips from Portland tip: There is lots to see and do in the Columbia River Gorge so allow up to full day for the trip to the area. The waterfalls are easily accessible and are located relatively close to each other making it possible to visit a few of them in a single day. There are lots of viewpoints and stops along the route and it’s a lovely drive from Portland.

The waterfalls are dotted along the Historic Columbia River Highway which weaves alongside the gorge. The most famous is the spectacular Multnomah Falls, which is only a 5-minute walk from the parking lot just off the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Highway.

Multnomah Falls is Oregon’s highest waterfall and the view of the two waterfall tiers and Benson Bridge is an iconic Oregon sight. A visit to Multnomah Falls is one of our favorite things to do in Portland .

July 2021 update: if you wish to visit Multnomah Falls between now and September 19 2021 you will need to book a timed reservation ticket in advance. The tickets are available at 7am 14 days in advance of the visit date. A limited number of additional tickets may become available at 7am 48 hours in advance. Tickets cost $1 and can be reserved here

Beacon Rock makes for a fun hike along the drive. It starts with an easy one-mile trail which is quickly followed by 52 switchbacks to the top!

There are lots of other waterfalls as well as scenic viewpoints along the highway. Latourell Falls, Horsetail Falls and Bridal Veil Falls all make for great stops alongside Multnomah Falls.

There are also some stunning viewpoints and one of our favorites is Vista House. There are sweeping views of the gorge from up here, just make sure to be careful as it can get extremely windy and we’ve seen people lose their hats!

2 | Astoria (and the Goonies filming locations!)

Drive time from Portland: 1 hour 45 minutes

Astoria is a quiet seaside town located at the mouth of the Columbia River around 2 hours west of Portland. There are lots of awesome things to see in Astoria that make it worthy of a day trip from Portland. The main sights include the views from the Astoria Column, the shipwreck at the nearby Fort Stevens State Park, and the nostalgic Goonies filming locations dotted around the town.

Astoria is packed Goonies filming locations and it’s one of the big reasons visitors flock to the area – there’s the Jailhouse and the Goonies House and even the bowling alley where Chunk, holidng his pizza and milkshake, watches the car chase through the window! We spent a day exploring all the Goonies filming locations and it’s a lot of fun! Kindergarten Cop and Free Willy were also filmed in Astoria.

3 | Seaside and Cannon Beach

Drive time from Portland: 1.5 hours

Cannon Beach is a popular seaside town around 2 hours west of Portland and is home to the famous Haystack Rock, one of Oregon’s most recognizable landmarks.

Visitors can explore the galleries, shops and restaurants in Cannon Beach town, stroll on the beach or explore some of the scenic trails in the nearby Ecola State Park. There is something for everyone in Cannon Beach and it’s a great day trip from Portland.

For more on Cannon, check out our guide to the best things to do in Cannon Beach

If you a couple of hours then stop by Seaside, a small town just north of Cannon Beach with a beautiful beach and promenade. The town has a real retro vibe and there are lots of fun things to do in Seaside if you are in the mood for retro beach vibes! Our favorite is walking on the Prom and enjoying the Seaside beach and its beautiful views. Sunsets here are spectacular.

4 | Airplane in the Woods

The Airplane in the Woods, a retired Boeing 727 sitting deep in the woods, is certainly a unique day trip from Portland. It came about in 2003 when Bruce Campbell purchased an old Boeing 727-400 and had it shipped to Portland where he now lives in the airplane.

The best part is that Bruce is only too happy to show visitors around his airplane home and encourages anyone interested to contact him ahead of time to arrange a visit through his website . Bruce also hosts many live concerts throughout the year at his airplane home and permits drone flights over the aircraft if you want to check out the airplane from above.

5 | Mount Hood

Drive time from Portland: 90 minutes

There are various places to visit at Mount Hood, Oregon’s tallest peak, but the most popular is the historic Timberline Lodge. Located on the slopes of Mount Hood, Timberline Lodge is an alpine resort that offers skiing and snowboarding year-round. Mountain biking is also very popular.

A popular activity for non-sporty visitors is the Magic Mile Chair Lift which takes visitors up to 7,000 feet during the summer months.

6 | Sauvie Island

Sauvie Island is a 24,000 acre natural river island a short drive north of Portland and is a fun day trip from Portland. The island boasts hiking trails, self-pick fruit farms and beaches which line the Columbia River. Sauvie Island is perfect for a family day out and kids will love the fruit picking and wading in the shallow waters while watching the boats pass by.

Day trips from Portland tip: visitors to Sauvie Island will need a parking permit at all non-commercial spots on the island. Day-use permits are $10 per vehicle

Fall is one of the best times to visit Sauvie Island and we were lucky enough to visit when the Pumpkin Patch was in season. Our kids loved the hayrides, the animal barn, and the corn maze.

7 | Willamette Valley Wineries

Drive time from Portland: 50 minutes

A short drive south of Portland is the Willamette Valley which is home to some of the best wineries in the USA. Willamette Valley has over 500 wineries and many have tasting rooms open to the public to visit and sample the wines on offer.

Daytrips from Portland tip: Willamette Valley is a great day trip from Portland and we highly recommend taking a tour for the day so you can enjoy some wines and not worry about transport! You’ll get taken to the best vineyards and be able to enjoy the day without having to worry about driving back to Portland.

The Willamette Valley Wine Tour is one of the most popular wine tours from Portland and also includes stops at 3 to 5 wineries with lunch at one of the wineries. Overall it’s a great day trip and a great opportunity to learn about (and sample!) all the wines in the region- check prices now!

The Willamette Valley Wine Tasting Tour is another popular tour option that includes wine tastings – check prices now!

Book your wine your from Portland

8 | Newport

Drive time from Portland: 2 hours 30 minutes / 3 hours via the Coast

Located on the Oregon coast, Newport is home to beautiful beaches, stunning state parks, and the renowned Oregon Coast Aquarium. If you head west to the Oregon Coast and the 101 after leaving Portland there are some amazing stops along the way.

The Old Oregon Smokehouse  and the  Tillamook Creamery are great food stops. You can drive the Three Capes Scenic Route , a 40 mile journey that takes in  Cape Meares, Cape Lookout  and  Cape Kiwand a. Other great stops include the views at Cape Foulweather , witness the power of nature at Devils Punchbowl and the towering Yaquina Head Lighthouse just north of Newport.

Newport is around 2.5/3 hours drive from Portland and there is so much to see along the coast and in Newport that it will be a busy action-packed day trip.

9 | Seattle

Drive time: 3 hours

It’s possible to check out some of the most popular sights in Seattle on a day trip from Portland. The drive north to Seattle is very scenic and you will see great views of Mount Saint Helens.

One day in Seattle will allow time to explore the Seattle Center with a trip up the Space Needle and the adjacent Chihuly Gardens with the stunning glass sculptures.

Head to Pike Place Market to enjoy the atmosphere and the incredible food on offer and finish the day on the waterfront before heading back to Portland.

Day trip from Portland tip: An alternative way to get to Seattle is is to take the train. There is a direct Amtrak service from Portland to Seattle daily. While it’s a little slower than driving, its a lot easier as you can relax on the journey.

10 | Smith Rock State Park

Drive time from Portland: around 2 hours 45 minutes

Smith Rock State Park is an amazing state park located close to Bend in Oregon. Due to its relatively small size, one day is the perfect amount of time for exploring the park. Smith Rock is home to many beautiful hikes with Misery Ridge and Rim Rock being the most popular. Smith Rock Smith Rock also draws climbers from all over the US with its variety of climbs and over a thousand bolted routes.

Day trips from Portland tip: Smith Rock State Park can get extremely hot during the summer months so make sure to plan ahead and pack lots of water and sunscreen.

11 | Silver Falls State Park

Drive time from Portland: around 1 hour

Silver Falls State Park is a beautiful park just south of the city and an awesome place for a day trip from Portland. The park, which is the largest State Park in Oregon, is packed with trails and has 10 beautiful waterfalls, all of which are easily visited via a 7-mile moderate looped hike known as the Trail of Ten Falls.

The most popular waterfall in the park is South Falls, a 177 feet high waterfall with an incredible path that goes behind the falls.

12 | Mount St Helens

Drive time from Portland: 2 hours

Mount St Helens, an active volcano that spewed the deadliest eruption in US history, sits just 50 miles north of Portland and is considered one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the US. Mount St Helens is a popular day trip from Portland and offers the chance to watch the powerful volcano and learn about its deadly history.

Castle Rock is the first stop on the way to Mount St. Helens and is home to its Visitors Center. Take some time to explore the exhibits and admire the views from the trail.

Continue on to the Johnston Ridge Observatory which is located 5 miles north of Mt St Helens at the heart of 1980 blast zone. There are movies with eyewitness accounts, exhibits, ranger talks, and incredible views of the surrounding landscape where the lava flowed through during the 1980 eruption. You can walk along the Eruption Trail and, if you visit in summer, it will be surrounded by beautiful wildflowers.

If you have time on the way there or back then make the detour to Ape Cave, the largest lava tube in the continental US. You need to reserve a ticket in advance to descend beneath the forest floor and take a self-guided tour of the cavern.

2 thoughts on “12 Best Day trips from Portland, Oregon (2023)”

Which loop should I make? From.Portland going towards Columbia river gorge or from Portland towards the coastal towns like Astoria and cannon beach?

I’d go towards Columbia River Gorge first as it can get really busy towards the afternoon.

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25 Best Day Trips From Portland — Places Nearby!

By: Author James Sullivan

Posted on Published: December 24, 2022  - Last updated: September 29, 2023

Portland is a treasure trove of natural wonders and urban charms. 

We’re talking cascading waterfalls, vineyards, and mountain vistas that’ll have you reaching for your camera faster than you can say “Pacific Northwest.”

Worried about the clock? 

Don’t be. 

Most adventures are just a 2 to 3-hour drive from Portland, max. 

No need for endless Googling or pulling your hair out trying to pick the perfect spot because I’ve done the legwork for you. 

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or just need a break from city life, your next unforgettable day trip starts right here.

Buckle up, and you’re on your way to discover the best day trips from Portland.

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Best Day Trips From Portland Compared

Discover the hidden gems around Portland with our top picks for unforgettable day trips. 

From scenic coastlines to charming towns, these adventures are perfect for families seeking a taste of Oregon’s beauty.

Editor’s Choice

Mount Hood National Forest

With the same travel time (1.5-hour) as the Timberline Lodge, Mount Hood National Forest offers more activities for a fantastic day trip from Portland all year.

• Family Friendliness: 5/5
• Safety: 4/5
• Affordability: 3/5
• Accessibility: 4/5
• Fun Factor: 5/5

#2nd Best Choice

The Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast is one of the most beautiful parts of the Pacific Northwest. From Portland, the sea is just a 1.5-hour drive through beautiful scenery.

#3rd Best Choice

It takes 2 hours and 47 minutes to go directly from Portland to Seattle across 174 miles.

• Family Friendliness: 4/5
• Safety: 5/5

Here are top 25 day trips from Portland.

1. Mount Hood National Forest (Editor’s Choice)

Sandy, OR 97055 (503) 668-1700 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Scenic beauty: Mount Hood National Forest offers breathtaking natural beauty with its snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and pristine lakes.
• Outdoor activities: You’ll find a plethora of outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to skiing and snowboarding in the winter.
• Weather variability: It’s essential to be prepared for sudden shifts in weather, especially if you’re planning outdoor activities.
• Crowds: During peak tourist seasons, Mount Hood can get crowded, which might detract from the serenity of the natural surroundings.

Is there anything more recognizable than the Timberline Lodge in Mount Hood?

Have we specified in Timberline Lodge that Mount Hood also offers trails for skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking, aside from mountain biking?

Several ski resorts in this national forest are ideal for your winter activities.

One is the Meadows.

It provides a variety of snowboarding and skiing terrain.

Most of the courses are intermediate or advanced, and 11 lifts, including five high-speed quads, provide access to all of them.

If you want to ski above the greatest lift-served elevation of 7,300 feet, hike the Heather Canyon Super Bowl.

During the season, Meadow hosts concerts, clinics, and guided tours.

Hotels and other places in the area also offer exceptional Stay & Play packages.

But if you don’t feel the Meadows, go to Skibowl.

Skibowl has four double chair lifts and five tows, making it feel like a winter playground.

Most 65 runs are for intermediate and advanced skiers, and the steepest one drops 1,500 feet.

Skibowl has more than half its routes lighted at night so that you can ski there all winter.

The hill also has a terrain park for snowboarders.

Another edge?

Cosmic Tubing at Skibowl involves riding in a tube with laser lights while loud music is playing for a fun day trip experience.

Recommended Hotel: Timberline Lodge

2. The Oregon Coast

Oregon Coast Hwy Dunes City, OR 97439 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Stunning coastal scenery: The Oregon Coast is famous for its rugged coastline, sea stacks, and dramatic cliffs. 
• Whale watching: Depending on the season, you can witness the breathtaking sight of migrating gray whales along the coast, providing a unique and memorable experience.
• Variable weather: The coast can experience cool and rainy weather, even during the summer months. 
• Highway traffic: The highway along the Oregon Coast can get congested, especially during weekends and holidays.

The Oregon Coast is one of the most beautiful parts of the Pacific Northwest.

From Portland, the sea is just a 1.5-hour drive through beautiful scenery.

Oregon’s almost 400-mile coastline is well-known all over the country, and for a good reason.

Massive rock formations, the most prominent coastal dunes, and a dazzling view of the cold Pacific Ocean make up the beautiful shoreline.

But what is so great about the Oregon Coast?

First, the Oregon Beach Bill from 1967 says everyone has free access to every inch of the coast because it belongs to the public.

Another thing is that you can visit 79 state parks and up to 11 historic lighthouses.

Yet, when most people think of the Oregon Coast, the first thing that comes to mind is Cannon Beach’s Haystack Rock.

They don’t know that aside from Haystack Rock, there are many other beautiful places to see along the coast.

Visiting the seaside, something you can do again and over again without getting tired, is already a complete satisfaction.

But where in specific can you go for a memorable Oregon Coast trip?

Old Town Florence and Columbia River Maritime Museum explorations are your two other options to enjoy for a day trip.

Discover them, and you’ll know why they are also the best Oregon Coast trips.

Recommended Hotel: Driftwood Shores Resort

Seattle, WA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Cultural attractions: Seattle boasts a rich cultural scene with world-class museums, theaters, and music venues.
• Food and coffee: Seattle is renowned for its culinary scene, including fresh seafood and a thriving coffee culture.
• Traffic congestion: Consider using public transportation or planning your activities to avoid peak traffic times.
• Cost of living: Seattle can be relatively expensive, from accommodation to dining out.

What initially comes to mind when you think of Seattle as one of the things to do outside Portland ?

It may be grunge, coffee, or even the loudest North American sports fans.

All true, but there are different levels to the Pacific Northwest’s cultural center that you must believe and experience.

Seattle has several notable museums and parks, and its coffee culture is much more than just a mermaid on every cup (Starbucks).

And to have the best Seattle trip, your activities must include cutting-edge food.

Since there are many attractions, we’ll make it simple.

Make sure to visit Pike’s Place Market and eat dinner at Serious Pie.

The first farmers market in Seattle, Pike Place Market, is where you can get locally produced, handcrafted, and specialty food.

Serious Pie is a pizzeria with a spirit of a bread artisan located in Downtown Seattle.

Its pizza delivers pies with crusts that are light in texture and crisp with the ideal amount of structure for a satisfying meal.

Lastly, for coffee lovers, don’t forget to explore the Starbucks Reserve Room for a complete Seattle experience.

Recommended Hotel: Lotte Hotel Seattle

4. Silver Falls State Park

20024 Silver Falls Hwy SE Sublimity, OR 97385 (800) 551-6949 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

On OR-214 N and I-5 N, Silver Falls State Park is located 53 miles south of Portland and around 26 miles east of Salem.

Depending on traffic, it will not take more than an hour to get there from downtown.

But if you are In the Cascade foothills, close to the town of Silverton, it is about a 1.5-hour drive south of Portland.

Why is it necessary to include Silver Falls State Park in your day trips?

One million people visit this gem of a park yearly to see its ten beautiful waterfalls and 30-mile trails through the temperate rainforest.

Most people lack the time or stamina to complete the renowned 8.7-mile Trail of Ten Waterfalls loop hike.

What can you do to maximize the adventure?

A better way to get to the waterfalls is to cut through the South Falls, Winter Falls, and North Falls day-use areas.

If this is your first time at Silver Falls State Park, you should start at the South Falls Day Use Area, which has a cafe and a nature store.

The most impressive waterfall in this location is the 177-foot South Falls, which is close to where you will park.

Walking another mile, you’ll get to the 93-foot-tall Lower South Falls.

It’s a fantastic feeling to walk behind these waterfalls and see how strong the walls of water are.

However, there’s one thing to remember.

Silver Falls State Park is beautiful year-round, but the waterfalls are its best in winter and spring.

Recommended Hotel: Silverton Inn & Suites

5. Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach, OR 97110 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Cannon Beach should take you no more than 1 hour and 30 minutes to drive east on US-26 to where it meets US-101.

Some of the contiguous U.S.’s most stunning but lesser-known beaches are on the Oregon Coast.

With miles of white sand, waterfalls flowing to the shore, and the 72-meter Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach is the perfect introduction to the area.

Cannon Beach is a fantastic spot for a day trip if you want to feel the breeze from the ocean and hear seagulls.

You will see the fantastic beach and ocean views if you walk the Clatsop Loop trail of Ecola State Park.

If you prefer an easy trek, hike to Cape Falcon in Oswald West State Park.

More beautiful views of coastal forests and broad beaches await you there.

If you’re looking for something more strenuous, hike the Neahkahnie Mountain, and you’ll have the chance to view the whole coast.

But how will you make this trip unforgettable?

Watch a stunning sunset at Haystack Rock.

With this, you can’t miss the vast sea stack rising out of the beach water.

It is also home to a group of endangered species where you can spot tufted puffins and bald eagles, which is fantastic.

Recommended Hotel: Inn at Cannon Beach

Related: Restaurants in Cannon Beach, Oregon

Related: Activities in Portland

6. Timberline Lodge

27500 E Timberline Road Government Camp, OR 97028 (503) 272-3311 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Mount Hood is home to Timberline Lodge, which is only an hour and a half by car from Portland via US-26 East.

This rustic lodge has two restaurants, hotel rooms, and a heated outdoor pool perfect for a relaxed indoor daycation.

It offers tidy hotel rooms with handmade furnishings, blazing fires, and Native American-inspired fabrics for a complete trip.

The rooms don’t have TVs, but you can rent DVDs and players at the front desk.

Of course, WIFI is available.

You can also use the games room, fitness room, library, and many board games for your leisure time.

In the winter, people love to swim in the heated outdoor pool surrounded by fresh snow.

They also use the lodge’s sauna and hot tub to relax.

Do you enjoy outdoor activities?

During the summer, easy walking trails outside Timberline Lodge offer great views of Mount Hood’s south side.

What’s more?

There is also a great network of downhill mountain biking trails ranging from easy to complex.

And if you buy a Mountain Hood Fusion Bike Park Pass, you can take your bike up the ski lifts as many times as you want

Then, you can thrillingly ride down the mountain.

Related: Best Weekend Getaways From Portland

7. Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

3029 Spirit Lake Hwy Castle Rock, WA 98611 (360) 449-7800 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Mount St. Helens is a living testament to Mother Nature’s raw power.

When you step foot here, you’re stepping into a science lesson with a view.

The eruption in 1980 reshaped the landscape, and today, it’s a playground for hikers, photographers, and families alike.

The visitor centers are a hit with the kids, offering interactive exhibits that make learning fun.

And let’s talk trails.

From easy loops to challenging treks, there’s something for every fitness level.

Recommended Hotel: Timberland Inn & Suites

8. Smith Rock

Terrebonne, OR 97760 (800) 551-6949 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

From Portland, it takes 3 hours to drive to Smith Rock on US-26 East.

Smith Rock State Park, one of Oregon’s Seven Wonders, looks like someone dumped red rocks from the Southwest of Oregon.

When you come, one of the first things you’ll notice is how crowded the park is with climbers.

On almost every rock face, you’ll see individuals climbing with their ropes, boots, and other gear.

It is a beautiful spot to attempt sport climbing if you’ve never done it outside.

If you are worried about your skill level, there are over 2000 routes.

Find a route that will suit your experience and preference.

But if you prefer hiking over rock climbing, Smith Rock has 12 official trails for hikers of all skill levels.

And the Misery Ridge Loop is the most famous hike because you can walk by Monkey Face and find the Crooked River from above.

Aside from hiking and rock climbing, you can also enjoy a quiet ride along the river on horseback.

Only certain parts of the Canyon River, Wolf Tree, and Homestead trails are open to horses, but this is a big part of the park.

If you want to add more miles, you can keep going into the BLM land around you.

What else can you do for a day trip here?

Do you love biking?

Then, go mountain biking at Smith Rock’s many trails.

Most of the trails aren’t suitable for beginners, but since you can also bike along the river and on the road, there’s something for everyone.

Summit Trail is the most famous mountain bike path, and nearby BLM properties let you add miles.

Recommended Hotel: Sleep Inn & Suites Redmond

9. The Fruit Loop

Hood River, OR Visit Website Social Media

Hood River Fruit Loop is one of the best day trips from Portland for couples, with its romantic atmosphere and proximity to the city.

By car, the trip takes just approximately an hour.

Most people go from one place to the other on Interstate 84, which goes straight between the two.

The Fruit Loop is a collection of local farms, vineyards, wineries, and orchards that produce fruit.

Though there are around 30 stations on the Fruit Loop, it’s important to plan your visit to maximize your date trip here.

So what are the favorite or top stops in the loop to try for a romantic date experience?

First, visit their lavender farm.

This magnificent farm in Lavender Valley is one of the Fruit Loop’s most picturesque and entertaining destinations.

When the lavender is in flower, you can cut your bundle for a price in the summer.

At any time of year, the gift store offers an extensive assortment of lavender items, including oil candles, lotions, and more.

Besides cutting your bundle, the vibrant purple blossoms against Mount Hood are stunning.

And for a romantic dinner, head to Stave & Stone Winery.

Even though Hood River has several excellent wineries, this one shines out.

The views and world-class wines are fantastic.

The food tastes great and goes well with the wine, and the atmosphere is very laid-back.

Try their famous Cabernet, Pinot Noir, and Riesling to choose your favorite.

And to end your romantic trip, head to Apple Valley Country Store for desserts.

This store has been using locally grown fruits and vegetables to make delicious fruit-based foods for 30 years.

There are all the classic flavors, but the cherry almond pear and peach habanero pepper are the ones that stand out.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Plus Hood River Inn

Related: Beaches Near Portland

10. Eugene, Oregon

Eugene, OR Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Eugene I-5 South takes you from Portland to Eugene in roughly 2 hours.

This place is the second largest city in Oregon, and a weekend trip there gives you a wide range of things to see and do.

It has a great art scene, some of the best restaurants in the country, busy breweries, loud festivals, miles of paths along the river, and several beautiful parks.

With so many things to do on a day trip here, where can you start for a fantastic experience?

You can start with Alton Baker Park.

Alton Baker Park, the biggest park in the city, has bike trails and other fun things for people to do along its banks.

And if you included Eugene as one of your day trips from Portland for families, you’re on the right route.

For a family trip, head to the Eugene Science Center.

It is a science-themed museum offering engaging exhibits for kids and adults.

After that, why not try Cascades Raptor Center for wildlife sightseeing?

Eagles, hawks, and falcons are just a few of the majestic winged inhabitants at the Cascades Raptor Center.

Aside from its on-site and off-site education programs, the Cascades Raptor Center also offers handler-led demonstrations, private tours, and kid-friendly creative workshops.

Eugene has it if you are looking for world-class restaurants and stores for a food and shopping experience for a day trip.

Head to the 5th St. Public Market.

It is a favorite among locals, giving you many unique shops, outstanding dining establishments, and tasting rooms.

Did we mention that Eugene is also home to some of the best wineries in the world?

Visit Wildcraft Cider Works to sample some of the most incredible cider in the Pacific Northwest.

Recommended Hotel: Graduate Eugene

11. Tillamook

Tillamook, OR (503) 842-2034 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

You can reach Tillamook in less than an hour and a half by taking OR-6 West and US-26 West.

You can also take the five bus from Union and get out at the Tillamook Transit Center, extending your journey by around 30 minutes.

Tillamook is best known for its large cheese industry.

If you want to eat some dairy, it’s the best place to go for a day trip.

Every year, almost a million people visit the famous Tillamook Creamery, which makes 171,000 pounds of cheese daily.

What else does this cheese factory have to offer?

At their tourist center and production site, they provide free self-guided tours where you can discover all about how they produce their goods from scratch.

Visit on a weekday to see the cheese factory in operation and learn about the dairy business via their interactive displays.

After the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase locally-produced goods like cheese and ice cream.

Recommended Hotel: The Hotel Garibaldi

12. Bend, Oregon

Bend, OR (541) 382-8048 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Taking US-26 East from Portland to Bend will take you over 3 hours.

However, traffic congestion may occur when you drive through Smith Rock State Park.

I-5 South to Salem and OR-22 East over the Cascades to Bend in 3.5 hours is another alternative.

Bend is less picturesque than the adjacent Smith Rock.

But outdoor lovers in this rapidly growing Bend population enjoy numerous exciting activities.

How can you join them in fun?

Go skiing in the morning, kayak in the afternoon, and have a beer in the evening at several nearby bars and pubs.

What about stand-up paddleboarding, mountain biking, fly fishing, rock climbing, hiking, or mountaineering?

Those are also feasible at the adjacent Lava River Cave, Three Sisters Wilderness, and Newberry National Volcanic Monument.

What’s more to enjoy?

The town’s center even has a river wave for all surfers.out there.

Moreover, Bend has over 300 days of sunlight, an ideal escape from Portland’s gloomy weather.

What about the food?

Are there excellent options?

Of course, there are.

Don’t miss lunch at Spork and brunch at McKay Cottage throughout your trip.

Both establishments are excellent for a delectable food experience.

Recommended Hotel: Oxford Hotel Bend

Related: Restaurants in Bend, OR

13. Bagby Hot Springs

Mount Hood National Forest (503) 668-1700 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

From Portland, you have a few options for traveling south, and they all meet up in Shady Dell.

Whichever route you choose, it will take 11 miles to get to the trailhead parking area on forest service road NF-7010.

Bagby Hot Springs is a 30-minute stroll away from there.

The historic Bagby Hot Springs is a well-known hot spring in Oregon.

A 1.5-mile hike through Mount Hood National Forest and old-growth trees leads to the Hotsprings’ three soak locations.

What are these “soak locations”?

In Bagby Hot Springs, there are three soaking pools where you can unwind while taking a warm water bath.

The Private Deck, which has five hollowed-out logs, is the best place to soak first since each has its area.

Part of the Private Deck is covered, so you can see the sky and keep your things dry.

The Public Deck is the second pool, and it has a whiskey barrel tub and three wood bathtubs recovered from a fire.

Lastly, the third pool is the Upper Deck, built by the Friends of Bagby and close to the Public Deck.

But there’s one more.

Another soaking tub on the whiskey barrel deck can hold eight people, which is excellent for family relaxation.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Mt. Hood Inn

Related: Fun Weekend Getaways in Oregon

14. Trillium Lake

National Forest Development Road 2612 Government Camp, OR 97028 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Trillium Lake is roughly an hour and a half away from US-26 East.

When you get to Government Camp, you’ll use the forest service road NF-2656 to get to the campground.

Portlanders love going to Trillium Lake for the day more than anything else.

It is the best day trip for a SUP ride, floating on an inflatable, or relaxing on the beach.

But if you want to spend the night, you can plan it too.

This popular spot features a campground and boardwalk excursions through floral meadows when the season is right.

Aside from those, you can expect more activities here for a great trip.

Hood Outfitters offers boat ramps, fishing piers, and kayak rentals.

The 63-acre lake’s trout and ducks attract kids, and it’s a popular fishing spot.

Lastly, strolling the two-mile Trillium Lake Loop Trail is another excellent option for those looking to exercise and take in the scenery.

The route is mainly flat and has fantastic views of Mt. Hood and the nearby wetlands.

Recommended Hotel: Whispering Woods Resort, a VRI resort

15. Astoria

Astoria, OR (503) 325-5824 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Following US-26 West from Portland, the trip to Astoria takes under 2 hours.

Astoria has a lot to keep people returning for day trips all year.

For example, the Festival of the Dark Arts and the Fisher Poets Gathering are just two of the offbeat celebrations that take place here.

But what if it’s your first time here?

On your first trip, the finest things to do are to experience breweries on the water and go up to Washington to view Cape Disappointment.

There are two fantastic breweries on the water, and you should check them out.

The pub food at Buoy Beer Co. is not gluten-free, but they provide gluten-free beer cans for those with celiac disease.

While craft beer is Fort George Brewing’s bread and butter, they also provide cider and wine for those who like such beverages.

Finally, you won’t be disappointed by the sights of Cape Disappointment (despite its intriguing name).

It faces the Pacific Ocean and looks into the mouth of the Columbia River.

If you are a camper, you’ll enjoy its cabins, yurts, and historic vacation homes, which are all different from each other.

Recommended Hotel: Selina Commodore Astoria

16. McMenamins Edgefield

2126 SW Halsey St Troutdale, OR 97060 (503) 669-8610 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

McMenamins Edgefield is a short day trip and is a popular summer weekend getaway.

Twenty minutes from downtown Portland, you’ll find McMenamins Edgefield.

McMenamins is a 74-acre resort perched on farmland close to the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area.

If you love history, McMenamins Edgefield is the ideal day excursion.

The structure on the property was built in 1911 and formerly served as the county’s poor farm.

It had been abandoned and neglected.

Until the McMenamin brothers, renowned for revitalizing historic houses in Oregon and Washington, purchased the property in the 1990s.

They undertook the laborious job of restoring it into a whimsical setting for the enjoyment of Portlanders.

Thus, it became one of the top day trips from Portland solely because of its historical significance.

What else can you enjoy here?

If you’re traveling during the summer, try to catch a concert on the vast lawn.

The great lawn often hosts concerts with well-known artists.

You can have a great day exploring the vast grounds with friends while grilling burgers and sipping beer there.

After a few drinks, the artwork truly explodes as you wander the estate with wine or beer.

17. Hood River

Hood River, OR (541) 386-2000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

You must drive 1 hour and 15 minutes from Portland to Hood River.

Just go east on I-84 until you reach Hood River.

It’s probably one of the best places to see near Portland because it’s easy to get to, and you drive right through the Columbia River Gorge.

What are the best Hood River excursions?

Hood River became well-known for its wine tastings, delicious cider, and outdoor activities.

You can start your adventure through water sports if you know one.

On a breezy, bright day, you’ll see hundreds of windsurfers on the river as you enter the town.

Did we mention that a day trip to the Columbia River Gorge will become more fantastic if you include Hood River?

With the combination, you can start your day with a trek to one of the numerous waterfalls in the Gorge along I-84, then stop in Hood River for lunch and a drink or cider.

There are many apple orchards in the Hood River Valley, so there is a ton of regional cider to sample.

For the best cider-tasting locations, head to either Slopeswell or Crush Cider Cafe.

You can experience the flavor of ciders from the Old World right in Slopeswell Cider Co.

But if you want to choose from many local and regional ciders, Crush Cider Cafe is your best bet.

And to top off the perfect day, don’t leave the area without wine tasting.

Since Hood River has many top-notched wineries, you’ll never get lost in trying.

But make sure the Cathedral Ridge Winery is your top priority.

It offers award-winning Oregon wines in a beautiful tasting area with lots of outdoor space to unwind on a sunny day.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Hood River

18. Waterfall Alley, Columbia River Gorge

Waterfall Alley Columbia River Gorge, OR 97031 (541) 308-1700 Open in Google Maps

The Columbia River Gorge is less than an hour’s drive from the city and makes for one of the excellent Portland trips, even if you only have half a day.

Everyone who likes being outside can find something to do on this site.

There are, to name a few, dreamy waterfalls, jaw-dropping views, challenging hikes, and water activities.

Its magnificent waterfalls will wow you and your out-of-town visitors.

But the best ways to explore the Columbia Gorge are by car and on walking trails.

In Columbia River Gorge, you can take simple walks from a parking lot or spend a whole day exploring the wild.

Another option is the Historic Columbia River Highway, the U.S. first scenic National Historic Landmark highway.

The cliffs are full of evergreen trees, making them great spots to look at.

What to expect in this scenery?

In this temperate rainforest, the leaves are golden-red in the fall, snowflakes in the winter, wildflowers in the spring, and mosses all year.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Plus Columbia River Inn

19. Willamette Valley Wine Country

Turner, OR 97392 Open in Google Maps

Dundee in the north end of the Willamette Valley is just 40 minutes from downtown Portland, whereas Eugene at the south end is 100 miles away.

Oregon is famous for being a paradise for outdoor lovers.

With miles of hiking routes and expansive panoramas, the dramatic natural landscapes can keep anybody captivated for years.

But why bother hiking if there isn’t a good reward at the end?

Fortunately, Oregon is the fourth most prolific state in wine production, so you’re set there, too.

And with more than 500 wineries, the Willamette Valley is the most well-known in all of Oregon’s wine regions.

It is famous for making award-winning Pinot Noirs that compete with the world’s best.

And it is on the same latitude as France’s famous wine regions.

Try their products before you leave for an unforgettable wine experience.

Sip a cold glass of Chardonnay in summer or a robust glass of award-winning red in fall while admiring the rolling hills of thriving vines.

Recommended Hotel: The Hotel Salem

20. McMinnville

McMinnville, OR (503) 857-0182 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

You can reach McMinnville by traveling south on I-5 until you get OR-99W, then continuing on that road until it meets OR-233.

The McMinnville trip from Portland will consume a 55-minute drive.

McMinnville is a cute tiny town that makes a lot of things locally, like coffee and gluten-free beer, and has a lot of small shops.

If you’re a real coffee enthusiast, start your McMinnville trip to Flag & Wire Coffee.

Aside from coffee, of course, there’s more to enjoy in this place.

The charming independent bookstore Third Street Books is on McMinnville’s main street.

Before visiting the shops and cafes on Third Street, take a break and look through some books.

If you can get to McMinnville between Friday and Sunday, you can go to Bierly Brewing for a gluten-free craft beer tasting.

Another option for 100% gluten-free beer is Evasion Brewing.

Perhaps you’re worried about the food, but you have many great alternatives here.

And one of the top restaurants for high-quality food is the Community Plate.

It serves delicious food made with ingredients from local farmers in the Willamette Valley.

There is also great Coava coffee, which we highly recommend.

Afterward, you can go to Xicha Brewing for lunch and a cold craft beer.

There are some gluten-free food options, but the beer is not gluten-free.

Recommended Hotel: Atticus Hotel

21. Sauvie Island

Sauvie Island, OR Open in Google Maps

You can drive to Sauvie Island from Portland in about 40 minutes by taking I-5 South, US-30 East, or US-26 East.

Sauvie Island is a Manhattan-sized island located 10 miles northwest of downtown Portland at the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia rivers.

It’s a utopia for bird-watchers, beachgoers, bikers, and kayakers and a great place to buy fruits and vegetables.

There are fruit farms to select your fruit in the summer, corn mazes and hay rides in the fall, and beaches, trails, and waterways to explore all year.

Also, on Sauvie Island, finding peace with nature is easy.

You can take the Wapato Access Greenway State Park Trail, a simple 2-mile loop around a lake, for a quick greenery trip.

The Oak Island Nature Trail is another brisk walk that takes you away from the main roads and into the tall grasses of the island.

Another upside?

Sauvie Island is fun for both kids and adults.

Between the mammoth bigleaf maples and Douglas firs, you’re likely to see at least six different kinds of birds, including bald eagles.

At the island’s northeast end, the Warrior Rock Lighthouse Trail leads to a sandy beach where you can view Oregon’s smallest lighthouse.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Portland – Jantzen Beach, an IHG Hotel

22. Mt. Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier, WA (360) 569-2211 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The fastest route takes 3 hours to go to Mountain Rainier National Park from Portland.

However, that varies depending on which side of the mountain you choose to see.

If you love hiking, you must include Mt. Rainier National Park on your Portland day trips.

You can enjoy over 260 miles of well-kept trails in this national park.

These trails provide access to forests, lakes, streams, wildflowers fields, and a network of glaciers.

However, note that the size of Mt. Rainier National Park is big.

Unlike smaller national parks, you must prepare ahead to see as much as possible, particularly if you’re short on time.

So how can you make your trip here efficient?

You can start your hike with Sunrise Nature Trail.

The Sunrise Trail is a beautiful, simple trail starting at the Sunrise parking area.

In the summer, you can appreciate stunning wildflower displays and get breathtaking views of Mount Rainier.

If you prefer a more challenging one, opt for the Burroughs Mountain Trail.

The moderate Burroughs Mountain Trail leads to Mount Rainier and the best view of the surrounding valleys.

After your journey here, you will never forget this hike as the most unforgettable experience.

Lastly, for experienced hikers, try the Skyline Trail Loop.

This loop is a fantastic alpine walk in Mount Rainier National Park.

Although the hike is challenging, we recommend beginners try it since it is perhaps the park’s most famous and iconic trail.

Recommended Hotel: Alexander’s Lodge

23. Wahkeena and Multnomah Falls Loop Trail

Wahkeena Trail #420 Corbett, OR 97019 (541) 308-1700 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

To get to Wahkeena and Multnomah Falls Loop Trail, you must drive more than 30 minutes from Portland.

If you want more activities near Columbia River Gorge, hike this moderate 4.7-mile Wahkeena and Multnomah Falls Loop Trail.

Is this hike worth it to include in my hiking list for a one day trip from Portland?

Despite many hikes on your list, don’t neglect this one.

It is one of the scenic places near Portland where you can enjoy the breathtaking vistas and the rushing waters of the falls.

Multnomah Falls is not just one of the most magnificent waterfalls in the Gorge but also one of Oregon’s top attractions.

Although the waterfall is a must-see, this looping climb also leads to several other outstanding cascades.

What’s more to expect?

Before reaching Multnomah Falls on this circular trail, you’ll go through Wahkeena Falls, Ecola Falls, Fairy Falls, and other waterfalls.

Enjoy the more tranquil portion of the loop while listening to the serene stream as it approaches each waterfall next to the trail.

Before emerging at the top of Oregon’s highest waterfall, the trail steadily gains a height of more than 1,500 feet.

24. Bridal Veil Falls

E Crown Point Hwy Bridal Veil, OR 97010 (503) 695-2261 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

It takes less than 30 minutes of driving time from Portland to the Bridal Veil Falls.

The thimbleberry-lined trail is only 0.66 miles long, perfect for all skill levels.

It is a terrific addition to your list of places to visit near Portland because of its 120-foot waterfalls.

This waterfall is just one of many spectacular sights along the Historic Columbia River Highway.

Just go down the concrete route to get a great perspective of the Pillars of Hercules.

You can also take the stairs, but be ready for a series of challenging declines as you make your way to the foot of the falls.

Most of the time, the trail is in good condition.

However, it becomes perilous after rain.

The Bridal Veil Falls hike is available all year, but the ideal time to go is between March and October when the trees still have their foliage.

If you want to avoid the trail’s throngs of weekend and holiday visitors, your best bet is to get there early or during the week.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Plus Port of Camas-Washougal Convention Center

25. Dry Creek Falls

Cascade Locks, OR Visit Website Open in Google Maps

It will need less than an hour of drive via I-84 E from Portland to reach Dry Creek Falls.

Dry Creek Falls cascades into a pool at the foot of a basalt amphitheater in the woods with a significant plunge of 74 feet.

It is a popular hiking destination, but compared to the other amazing views in the Columbia Gorge, it may still seem like a hidden treasure.

The hike is relatively simple, with just a few uphill stretches and no significant obstacles.

This mystical waterfall is not only one of the best day trips from Portland, but it is also conveniently accessible via the Pacific Crest Trail.

Hike along the stream through the beautiful forest from the trailhead at Bridge of the Gods.

If you go on a walk in the spring, you’ll see Douglas firs, hemlocks, and all kinds of wildflowers.

You’ll find a fascinating sequence of lava boulders that mix with the woods before you reach the falls.

Observe how the land surrounding Dry Creek Falls takes on the form of a natural amphitheater.

Relax in the refreshing spray as you see the majesty of the basalt column wall surrounding the falls.

Lastly, Dry Creek Falls complements Cascade Locks’ restaurants and pubs for fresh fish, craft beer, burgers, and milkshakes.

Day Trip Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

At Mount Hood National Forest, I was captivated by towering trees and the whisper of nature. 

I hiked with my kids, our boots crunching on fallen leaves. 

Then, we enjoyed roasting marshmallows over a campfire after a day of hiking. 

It’s the perfect spot if you’re after solitude and family bonding.

Switching gears, the Oregon Coast offers a dramatically different experience. 

Salty sea air, rugged cliffs, and waves crashing against the rocks — it’s an outdoor theater of nature’s majesty. 

We built sandcastles, surfed, and even glimpsed seals lounging. 

It’s more touristy than Mount Hood, but the ocean’s lullaby is irresistible.

Then there’s Seattle — the urban adventure. 

Fresh off a ferry ride from Bainbridge Island, we explored Pike Place Market and caught flying fish. 

Space Needle’s panoramic views? 

A hit with the kids. 

It’s bustling and packed with attractions, a stark contrast to the laid-back atmosphere of the other spots.

If you crave variety, go from Mount Hood to the coast and finish with a Seattle city sprint. 

Each offers its own flavor of Pacific Northwest charm, tailored to your mood. 

How I Picked The Destinations

You can trust this guide because I’ve got my boots dirty exploring these spots myself. 

Yep, I live in Oregon and adore its versatility. 

My hands-on analysis involved not just online research but also striking up conversations with locals and fellow travelers. 

Whether it’s the hush of Mount Hood’s forests or the hustle of Seattle’s streets, I’ve been there, done that, and can’t wait for you to do the same.

Our Rating Method

I rate these destinations based on the following criteria.

• Family friendliness: This criterion assesses the family-friendly appeal of every destination. Does it offer attractions suited for the whole family? Does it have facilities and services that entertain and engage all age groups? I use these questions to evaluate family friendliness. 
• Safety: I use this to evaluate safety and security. Does the area have a low crime rate? Is public transportation secure? Are local authorities reliable and helpful? I ask myself these questions when evaluating safety. 
• Affordability: This is used to assess affordability. Will visitors get a lot of bang for their buck? Is it cheaper compared to the other options? I consider these factors when rating affordability. I consider these factors when rating affordability.
• Accessibility: This criterion evaluates the accessibility of every location. Is it easily accessible by public transportation? How walkable is the area? How far is it from the base? These are the questions I ask myself when assessing accessibility. 
• Fun factor: I use this to evaluate how enjoyable the day trip is for visitors. Will it create positive and memorable experiences? Does it offer attractions that promise fun experiences for the whole family? Are there theme parks, beaches, and hiking trails? I use these questions to evaluate this criterion.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Where can i find a family-friendly day trip near portland.

The Oregon Zoo in Washington Park is a fantastic choice. It not only offers an opportunity for an educational experience but also an enjoyable and exciting adventure for both children and adults. You’ll get a chance to learn about a wide variety of animals from all over the world, including rare and endangered species. 

Which Coastal Town Is The Best Day Trip From Portland For A Beach Experience?

Cannon Beach is a picturesque town that boasts stunning natural beauty and a laid-back atmosphere. With its iconic Haystack Rock towering over the shoreline and long stretches of pristine sandy beaches, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely day by the ocean.

Are There Any Historic Day Trips Near Portland Worth Exploring?

For a place with a rich history, head to Oregon City. Once there, visit the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, where you can completely immerse yourself in the pioneer era. This center is the perfect place to learn about the early settlers who braved the Oregon Trail. 

Conclusion 

If you’re still wondering what tops the list of best day trips from Portland, let me clear the fog for you.

Mount Hood National Forest in Sandy takes the cake. 

It’s got everything—towering trees, serene lakes, and activities that’ll make both kiddos and adults grin ear to ear. 

Whether you’re hiking through lush forests or capturing that perfect family photo against a snow-capped mountain backdrop, the memories you make here will stick. 

Grab your favorite travel mug, fill it with some quality brew, and hit the road. 

Your next adventure in the Pacific Northwest is just a drive away.

17 Unforgettable Day Trips from Portland, Oregon to explore the PNW

Family travel doesn’t have to be hard. You don’t have to pack overnight bags and research AirBnBs for hours; you can just jaunt for the day. Lately, I’ve been embracing day trips with my kids, and there’s good reason: Oregon has so much to offer that you can go on one—or all!—of these day trips from Portland. 

But don’t wait to have fun until you arrive at these day trip destinations. Enjoy every mile along the way, too, with my book Road Trip Games & Activities for Kids! (You don’t have to be a kid to love these 33 games, I promise!!!) Click the image below to get your copy in e-book or paperback.

Day trips from Portland you’ll absolutely love

These Portland, Oregon, day trips require almost no planning, and they definitely don’t require overnight stays. But last-minute day trips don’t have to feel like a consolation prize. They’re a fun (and budget-friendly) way to explore Oregon.

I selected a few of our favorite day trips from Portland that are all easy to access from the metro area and are perfect for a quick family getaway or a romantic escape. If you leave in the morning, you’ll have time to enjoy your destination and make it back home by bedtime.

So what are you waiting for? Pack a cooler with snacks, make sure your camera is charged and hit the road. These day trips from Portland will make memories you and your family will enjoy all year long.

1. Oregon Coast Day Trip

Weather on the Oregon Coast is hit or miss this time of year, but Oregon-born kids won’t mind a little rain when they’re building sandcastles, chasing seagulls, and tempting the tide. (“Can’t catch me!!!”)

We love Cannon Beach for family day trips from Portland, and the girls love Seaside for its on-the-sand swing sets and carousel, but you pretty much can’t lose wherever you stop.

For help deciding where to go, check out my epic guide to the Oregon Coast .

2. Sisters, Oregon Day Trip

This tiny Central Oregon town is often overlooked en route to Bend, Oregon , but Sisters is quaint and fun to explore, too. You can spot the region’s many mountains in what locals jokingly call the “skyline,” ride horses on a guided trail ride, play disc golf, hike, bike along the Metolius River at Camp Sherman, and of course, pick out some candy at the old-timey shops along Main Street.

If you go to Sisters, Oregon, you’re only a short drive from Skylight Cave , an off-the-beaten-path adventure where you can see sunlight streaming in from holes in the cave ceiling.

3. Hood River Day Trip from Portland

Hood River might be better known for grown-up activities (like wine tastings and brewery hopping), but there’s plenty to entertain the whole family on this fun day trip from Portland, too.

We love the local ice cream joints, hikes in the area, and of course the Fruit Loop when apples, pears, cherries and peaches are in season.

You can also just hang out in Hood River. Watch kitesurfers skim across the water in the Columbia River Gorge, browse cute shops downtown and enjoy al fresco music on a weekend.

4. Columbia River Gorge Day Trip

The lower viewpoint at Multnomah Falls just reopened after recovery from last year’s Eagle Creek Fire, so this is a great resting place to stop on your drive farther out the gorge.

If you need some time indoors, check out the Maryhill Museum on the Washington side of the Gorge. You’ll be able to marvel at Native American weavings, Rodin sculptures, and the museum’s resident peacocks.

Level 10 travel tip: Some of the hikes on the Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge are still closed from the wildfire’s damage. Most hikes on the Washington side escaped severe damage so they’re still open—but they’re significantly busier than they used to be, especially on weekends.

5. Astoria Day Trip

I absolutely adore Astoria. It’s close to the coast but has its own personality, and kids have so much to do in Astoria.

On a Spring Break day trip, you can ride the trolley down the edge of town along the Columbia River, visit any of the many museums (the Maritime Museum is a good place to start), and definitely climb the Astoria Column, which gives 360-degree views. (Kids can also purchase little airplanes at the Column’s gift shop to fly from the tippy top!)

Level 10 travel tip: Stop at Buoy Beer , where you can see sea lions off the pier—and through a glass section of the floor inside! Kids love to watch the behemoths beneath their feet as you wait for a table.

For more on this quaint town, read my post on a romantic weekend getaway in Astoria .

6. Olympia Day Trip

Yes, I know this one’s in Washington, so it’s not technically an Oregon day trip—but you can get there from Portland in two hours.

We love visiting Olympia. Washington’s capital has a bit of the crunchy, progressive personality of Portland, but it’s right on the Sound and so it has its own attractions, too.

Our favorite kid-friendly activity in Olympia is the indoor and outdoor Hands-On Children’s Museum of Olympia . The girls love exploring the many rooms and themes (including a section outside where you can build waterfalls with sand, rocks, and dump trucks), and I appreciate that it incorporates so much science discovery.

For more details about this kid-friendly museum, read my full post on the Hands-On Children’s Museum.

Olympia also has a ton of parks for outdoor fun. Our favorite is Priest Point Park, where you hike through old-growth forest to get to a rocky beach.

7. Tacoma Day Trip

Another Washington day trip—but this one is fun, too, I promise! Seattle’s lesser-known sibling city was named in Sunset Magazine’s 20 Game-Changing Places to Live list, and there are lots of family-friendly attractions.

The Tacoma Children’s Museum has plenty to entertain kids. They have a really cool spot where kids can build with life-sized Lincoln Logs. (Finally, a place where Peeper can satisfy her quest to build a life-size castle!)

Then throw stones into the water at Owens Beach , ride the (free!) light rail, Link , from downtown to the Tacoma Dome, or make engineering, science, and art projects at Tinkertopia .

8. Catalana Cellars Day Trip

A kid-friendly, visually stunning place where parents can taste wine, and kids can explore the grounds? Sign me up! Villa Catalana Cellars , outside Canby and just a half-hour from Portland, is modeled after 12th-century Spanish architecture, so you’ll get a European vacation feel without ever leaving Oregon.

This estate is open on Saturdays and is the perfect choice for your next Portland day trip. The whole family can explore the grounds (including a rare plant nursery, olive groves, and even a bocce court), and the 21+ set can taste their wines ($10 tasting fee).

Want more? Read my whole post on visiting Villa Catalana Cellars .

9. Aurora Day Trip

Ranked as one of the nation’s best antiquing communities, Aurora, Oregon is a quaint town fully in touch with its history. Although the idea of taking kids into an antique store might make you sweat, it can actually be a super-fun way to spend some time with kids—and allow them to be responsible and safe.

They’ll really get into it if you give them each $5 and challenge them to find the weirdest thing in the antique store, and have a tiny prize for the winner—or surprise the whole gang with cupcakes at The White Rabbit Bakery . (Their seasonal cupcake this week is Oatmeal Cream. Yum!)

You could also combine a trip to Aurora with Catalana, as they’re close by. Two for the price of one! This makes for an awesome weekend getaway from Portland if you’re looking for a longer trip.

10. Silver Falls Day Trip

Oregon’s largest state park includes a wealth of hiking trails, including some that go behind waterfalls. (That’ll get kids excited!)

Just know that some of the trails can get steep and slippery and so aren’t ideal for little children. (I wore Max and Edie when they were little.) The state park also has a top-notch playground!

When you get chilly, warm up in the lodge with some hot chocolate. They also have snacks and some food.

11. Mt. St. Helens Day Trip

Just an hour north of Portland is Mt. St. Helens—the volcano that erupted in 1980, covering the region in ash. You and your kids will be able to see just how this habitat has completely changed from that destructive day.

Start at the interpretive center, and explore to your heart’s content.

12. Neskowin Ghost Forest

Just two hours from Portland, the Ghost Forest in Neskowin appears at low tide—then disappears again as the tide moves in. Just beneath the beach lies a petrified forest of Sitka spruce trees, and you can only explore this Oregon hidden gem when the water pulls the sand away.

Plan on arriving in Neskowin an hour before low tide to make your way to the beach in time to give this fun day trip in Oregon its due justice.

For all the details, read my full post on the Neskowin Ghost Forest .

13. Eugene day trip from Portland

Eugene is the second-largest city in the state, but that’s not why it’s one of the best day trips in Oregon. Track Town USA, which also happens to be where I grew up, is home to the University of Oregon Ducks and mecca for Prefontaine-loving runners.

I always recommend a few things for visitors to do in Eugene:

• Walk along the Willamette River—or better yet, float or kayak it!
• Hike Spencer’s Butte—it has a gorgeous 360-degree view of the city and beyond
• Eat from one of the many mini-restaurants in 5th Street Market

If you want even more ideas, click to my post on fun things to do in Eugene and the best family-friendly Eugene restaurants . 

14. Wine country near Portland

The highest concentration of wonderful wineries near Portland is in the Dundee-Newberg-McMinville area. Just an hour from downtown Portland, vineyards sprawl over the rolling hills, and tasting rooms pop up all along Highway 99.

You’ll get to taste oodles of pinot noir, which this wine region is famous for, along with other varietals including pinot gris and Riesling.

My favorite winery near Portland, Stoller , is a great first stop for folks wanting a great day trip in Oregon. They have enormous grounds, including a tire swing and a mini disc golf course. The real stars, though, are the Adirondack chairs to relax in and the sparkling pinot noir rose to sip.

And if you’re taking your kiddos along, make sure to read my post on going wine tasting with kids .

15. Mt. Hood Day Trip

If you’re looking for day trips from Portland, Oregon, you have to consider heading up Mt. Hood. We go up this volcano every chance we get (and don’t worry, it’s not an active volcano!!).

In fact, we go up so often that the mountain frequently appears in my kids’ drawings, and when they pretend a cardboard box is a plane or car, they’re typically heading to Mt. Hood in their imagination.

If you’re wondering what to do on Mt. Hood, I recommend that everyone take at least a short hike. This area is simply full of amazing trails for every comfort level, skill, and age. My girls have been hiking various trails on Mt. Hood since they were babies!

A few of the kid-friendly trails on Mt. Hood I recommend: Old Salmon River Trail near Rhododendron, Oregon; Lost Lake ; and Little Zigzag Falls .

16. Smith Rock State Park

One of the most impressive locations in Oregon, Smith Rock State Park , is a Portland day trip you should definitely make. At about 2 hours 45 minutes from Portland, it’s a bit of a drive for a day—and 100% worth it.

There’s a catch, though. If you’re going to Smith Rock on a weekend, get there as early as humanly possible. On a recent day trip from Portland, my kids and I arrived at 12:30—and there were literally zero places to park. We had to turn around and leave! 

Once you arrive at Smith Rock, take in the views. Then choose which hike you’ll do—from the difficult Misery Ridge trail to the fairly easy River Trail to the very short Homestead Trail. 

No matter how you spend your time at Smith Rock, it’s almost guaranteed to be unforgettable. 

17. Long Beach, Washington

Long Beach, WA is just across the river and border from Astoria but has a totally different feel. For one thing, this Washington beach town is actually on the ocean, while Astoria was built along the Columbia River. 

Photo courtesy Pacific County Tourism Bureau

Stroll down Long Beach’s boardwalk that overlooks the ocean, stop by the town’s kite museum or hike around Cape Disappointment. And if it’s safe, park your beach chair on the sand and watch hundreds of kites fill the sky during August’s International Kite Festival.

No matter what time of year, the two hours’ drive makes this day trip from Portland totally doable—and totally memorable. Check out my post on Seaview and Long Beach, Washington !

Explore Oregon’s family-friendly destinations on your Portland day trip

I am bowled over by the wonderful family-friendly activities and sites the Pacific Northwest has to offer.

My kids, husband, and I live in a state with boundless beauty, appreciation for history, and a dedication to good old fashioned fun—and we couldn’t be more grateful.

Are there any spots on this list you haven’t visited yet—but are excited to see? What Portland day trips do you love that I missed? Please share in the comments!

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Christmas in the Garden: Oregon Garden lights in Silverton Christmas Market

So fun. We always go to Multnomah Falls when we have people visiting us. It’s super close and the falls are so beautiful!

Yes! And it’s such an easy stop off the highway, it’s a no-brainer to stop there to stretch your legs when you’re driving somewhere farther, too.

Fantastic list!! I love all of these and our family can vouch that most of these are amazing day trips! I want to spend more time hiking around Mt St Helens and also Mt Rainier this summer.

My husband and I were just talking about Mt St Helens too! There’s so much to explore around here.

Awesome list. We’re huuuuuge fans of Hood River as a family, and also hiking in the gorge. We’ve still NEVER been to Mt. St. Helens!!! That’s next up on our list.

There are so many family-friendly interpretive aspects of the Mt St Helens interpretive center—I bet your kids would enjoy that!

These are all absolutely wonderful suggestions! I’ve been on all these trips but #8, and I just put it on our calendar for early next month (tentatively, weather permitting). Thanks so much for putting this together!

Ooh, I hope it works out—have fun!!!

I live in Canby and I’ve never heard of Catalana cellars! I better check it out STAT! These are great ideas. We live in such a wonderful place.

It’s super near you! Tastings aren’t even expensive—you should go this weekend!

Oh I love these ideas! We live in Portland and are always looking for a little inspiration…that Catalana Cellars looks awesome!

Ah, I love meeting other Portlanders! Catalana Cellars is only open on Saturdays unfortunately, but it’s such a cool location.

The Maryhill Museum is totally something up our family’s alley! You showcased so many fun things here.

I have such good memories of going to the Maryhill Museum as a kid! I am sure other families would love it too.

Great suggestions! I lived in the Tacoma area for a few years, I need head back and check out some of the spots I missed!

You make a good point: Many of these spots are reachable from the other side of Portland, too – like Tacoma, SeaTac and Olympia.

So much to do! I would love to do a weeklong trip to Oregon since I am too far for a day trip.

There really is! If you’re coming all this way from NJ I’d definitely recommend coming for at least 5 days.

I love Silver Falls. It’s definitely a favorite for our family!

Us too! It’s been a while since we were there (as evidenced by the baby on my back, ha!) – I should plan a trip soon.

Thank you so much for this!! I want to do all of these day trips, now. Lol. Saving this post because I’m for sure doing some of these this summer 😍

Summer’s the best time for these day trips! Even better if you can do ’em during the week, when traffic is more mellow

Catalana Cellars looks like italy! I’m dying to visit more of the West 🙂

It was designed as an Italian estate – isn’t it gorgeous?! It’s the perfect place to sip wine.

Okay, you’ve definitely sold me on wine country!

I don’t have kids but all of these day trips look so much fun for adults too! Lovely post 🙂

Wine country near Portland is so lovely: There are almost too many terrific wineries and excellent wines. 🙂

The trips sound fun and interesting 🙂

They sure are!

This post is a great resource to plan a family trip. Some of the activities you mentioned will be loved by my family. Surely, I am going to come back to this post when I will be planning a trip to Portland. Thank you for sharing the information

You’re very welcome, Rahma! I hope you love Portland and day trips in Oregon as much as I do.

Villa Catala looks like Tuscany. So stunning!

Isn’t this winery gorgeous! It looks like it could be in Europe, not next to Portland, Oregon.

Thank you for these kid friendly suggestions. I hope you have a new list/post to add in 2020? One of my favorite places to bring my 4 year old is Bauman Farms in Woodburn. They have festivals for all holidays. Easter, Halloween and Christmas are our favorites but you can honestly go almost any day of the year ands totally worth it! http://www.baumanfarms.com

Oh, I’ve never been to Bauman Farms – I’m going to have to check it out! And yes I’ll definitely be updating this post in 2020 – so many great day trips from Portland, Oregon!

Silver Falls and Multnomah falls are some of my favorites in Oregon! Such a great list, love it!

With so many amazing waterfalls in Oregon, it’s hard to choose one or even two favorites – but you’re right, Multnomah and Silver Falls are some of the prettiest. 🙂

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TO & FRO FAM

This family travel blog is written for you—a mom who wants quality time and memorable vacations with her kids. I’m one of those moms, so I get that you want to leave your stress at home. I crafted (and tested!) these travel hacks and destination ideas to help the whole crew make the most of your time together. xo, Catherine

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Oregon (OR) » 15 Best Day Trips from Portland

15 Best Day Trips from Portland

Portland is a happening, thriving city in Oregon. Best known for its coffee and craft beer Portland is fast becoming one of the most popular cities in the United States of America.

With an eco-friendly mindset Portland is modern, open minded and incredibly welcoming. There is a wealth of culture and history to explore. From the Museum of Science and Industry, to Pioneer Courthouse Square to Pittock Mansion there is heaps to discover in Portland. Once you have ticked off every item on your Portland Bucket List it’s time to get exploring further afield.

Let’s take a look at the best day trips from Portland :

1. Mount Hood

Easily one of the most picturesque landscapes in Oregon state, Mount Hood is a beautiful natural wonder to explore.

Known by the native Multnomah tribe as ‘Wy’east’ Mount Hood is in fact an active volcano.

There are a range of gentle walks and more challenging hikes through the foothills, forests and along the rivers of Mount Hood.

The charming town of Hood River is home to dozens of quaint, locally run restaurants from which you can dine and marvel at the magnificence of Mount Hood and too Mount Adams.

It is possible to spend a day tearing up the slopes on the Mount Hood ski fields.

2. Willamette Valley

The Willamette Valley is the first and only destination suitable for budding sommeliers and those with a discerning palate, who are visiting Oregon.

A valley world-renowned for its wineries, a day tour of the Willamette Valley is a real treat.

Spend the day driving along the scenic winding roads and hop from one winery to another.

This area is famed for producing some of the best Pinot Noir in the world.

During a day trip you can not only taste the wines produced in the Willamette Valley but also learn about the cool-climate production processes, the unique volcanic soil of the area and how these together give the wines their distinct flavours.

3. Cannon Beach

Should you be seeking to swap the city smoke for the brisk sea air then Cannon Beach is the place to head.

Loved by locals and international visitors alike, Cannon Beach is best known for its vast, sandy beach and Haystack Rock.

You could easily spend a day relaxing with a book and a picnic on Cannon Beach but if you like to be more active there is plenty to explore.

Head over the headland and walk through Ecola State Park.

Perhaps head south towards Arcadia Beach that features gorgeous, twinkling tide pools.

There are dozens of beachy boutiques to browse in Cannon Beach town itself.

4. Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is probably the most photogenic spot within a days reach of Portland; giving Mount Hood a run for its money for sure.

Multnomah Falls is the most iconic part of the Columbia River Gorge landscape and is in fact the second highest year round waterfall in the United States of America.

Along the hiking trail you’ll also have the chance to marvel and gawp in awe of the Latourell Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and Wahkeena Falls.

It is possible to spend a whole day hiking in Columbia River Gorge but if you want to cram as much in as possible then your best bet is to drive from one scenic spot to the next.

5. Mount St Helens

Having last erupted in 2008, Mount St Helens is still very much an active volcano.

Mount St Helens sits in Washington State but is just 50-miles northeast of Portland, as such it is a very accessible day trip.

At the Mount St Helens Visitor Centre you can find out about the moments that lead up to the volcano’s most prolific eruption in May 1980. You can too learn about the geology of volcanoes and see a functioning seismograph that displays the seismicity of Mount St Helens via a live feed.

From the Johnston Ridge Observatory you can take in amazing views of the smouldering crater.

Artsy and eco-minded the city of Eugene mirrors the atmosphere of Portland but on a smaller scale.

Eugene sits on the banks of the Willamette River and is home to the University of Oregon.

As such there is a thriving community feel and there are always events, music concerts and theatre performances happening throughout the city.

Alton Baker Park is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon, as is Hendricks Park.

If you fancy a touch of shopping, wining and dining then head to Fifth Street Public Market where you’ll find a wonderful selection of organic cafes and boutique stores.

7. Portland’s Microbreweries

Portland is famed for its thriving microbrewery and craft brewery community so it seems only right to dedicate a day to discover them all…or nearly all of them at least.

Visiting the local breweries is not only a great way to widen your knowledge of brews but to get to know the locals too.

Many of the breweries in the area have been established by local people who have a passion for Portland, and pints.

With so many to choose from it is difficult to know where to start.

Full Sail Brewery, Widmer Brothers and Lucky Lab are all rather popular, as is Pyramid Brewery and Chapel Pub Brewery too.

8. Trillium Lake

Sitting at the base of Mount Hood is one of Oregon’s best kept secrets, Trillium Lake.

This idyllic spot is perfect for picnics, romantic strolls or even a casual kayak.

There are plenty of safe BBQ areas on the shores of Trillium Lake so feel free to stock up the cool box and head out with the gang.

Clean and crystal clear, swimming is permitted in Trillium Lake, although it’s more than a little brisk in the winter.

There are no outlets from which to hire kayaks or paddle boards but you can bring your own for sure.

If you’re looking for an outdoor day out for all the family picturesque Trillium Lake is just the ticket.

The city of Seattle is not only the setting for Grey’s Anatomy and Twin Peaks but home to some of the best cafes and bars in all of the United States, and some pretty amazing outdoor activities too.

Organic restaurants like Local 360 are not to be missed, nor should Portage Bay Cafe or Unicorn Bar.

In all fairness you could easily spend a day trip to Seattle hopping from one eatery to another.

Naturally, the Space Needle will be high on your bucket list for Seattle, as should the Pike Place Market.

If you want to get outdoors you can take a boat tour of the Seattle Locks or stroll around Kerry Park.

10. Rowena Crest

If you are seeking a relaxed and somewhat passive day trip then Rowena Crest is the perfect place to head.

Take a steady drive from Portland city centre out to the Rowena Crest Viewpoint.

Here you can pitch up with a picnic table, snacks and a book or if you’re feeling a little more adventurous don the hiking boots and head out on a walking trail.

The walking routes around Rowena Crest are gentle, easy and suitable for all fitness levels.

Everywhere you turn is a breathtaking landscape vista, each more impressive than the last.

11. Yachats

The tiny coastal city of Yachats is a true hidden gem and there is so much rugged coastal landscape to explore.

You can hike across the headlands of Cape Perpetua and look out into the Pacific Ocean and look for whales.

Thor’s Well is one of the most impressive coastal features you will ever encounter, closely followed by Devil’s Churn.

Yachats is home to an incredible selection of fine dining restaurants.

In the city you will find galleries, quaint boutique shops and plenty of coffee shops.

Naturally, being a coastal city Yachats has a great selection of ice cream shops too.

12. Sea Lion Caves

If you are interested in wildlife then the best day trip from Portland for you is surely Sea Lion Caves.

This magical spot is home to dozens of healthy wild sea lions who are a joy to observe.

Famously slow movers, sea lions are the perfect species to muse upon while you improve your photography skills, they are not going anywhere in a hurry.

Along the coastal drive you will see the odd sea lion here or there, but in order to see the bigger colony you must head to the Sea Lions Caves centre and take the elevator down to the caves below to be in with a chance of watching these endearing animals do their thing.

13. Florence

The small, but perfectly formed, city of Florence lies at the mouth of the Siuslaw River.

In Florence you can explore the charming, historic Old Town home to locally run stores and cafes.

You can head out to the windswept Oregon Dunes and simply take in the vast expanse of this ancient dune system.

If you are short on time or wish to make the most of every moment of your day trip from Portland it is possible to visit Yachats and Florence in one busy day, even cram in a visit to the Sea Lion Caves too.

14. Smith Rock State Park

Tucked away in Oregon’s High Desert is Smith Rock State Park, an incredible, rugged and rocky landscape that is just waiting to be explored.

Those who enjoy a challenging hike, bouldering or rock climbing will have their hearts set on visiting Smith Rock State Park for sure.

There are some fantastic mountain biking trails around Smith Rock State Park so if you have your own set of wheels be sure to bring them along.

This little gem is considered to be one of the seven wonders of Oregon and is certainly not to be missed.

15. Bagby Hot Springs

The Bagby Hot Springs are another of Oregon’s hidden gems and lie about 67-miles from the centre of Portland.

These natural hot springs can be found inside the Mount Hood National Forest and there are plenty of choose from.

You have the option to soak in the private deck, the public deck or the upper deck.

Entry is just $5 and will surely be the best $5 you spend all year.

The springs were discovered in 1880 by Bob Bagby and in the 1920 they were opened to the public.

You can access the Bagby Hot Springs by taking the 1.5-mile signposted walk through the national forest.

15 Best Day Trips from Portland:

• Willamette Valley
• Cannon Beach
• Columbia River Gorge
• Mount St Helens
• Portland’s Microbreweries
• Trillium Lake
• Rowena Crest
• Sea Lion Caves
• Smith Rock State Park
• Bagby Hot Springs

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Home » North America » USA » 14 Most EPIC Portland Day Trips | 2024 Guide

14 Most EPIC Portland Day Trips | 2024 Guide

Portland is blessed with a pretty convenient geographical location. Set just inland of the Pacific Ocean on the northern border of Oregon, the city is surrounded by stunning natural sites such as lakes, waterfalls, and rivers.

You can drive an hour west to the ocean, an hour north into the snowcapped mountains, or an hour east into one of the most waterfall-dense gorges in the states. It’s also just a hop and a skip away from Vancouver and Seattle, which makes taking day trips from Portland super exciting.

Although Portland itself has a whole host of attractions worth checking out if you’re looking for somewhere to base yourself while you admire some of the iconic attractions on the West Coast, Portland is the ultimate base.

So if you’re ready to explore nearby towns or venture into the mountains, then take a look at these incredible day trips in Portland Oregon.

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Getting Around Portland and Beyond

Before we jump into the best day trips around the city, let’s look at the best ways to get around Portland and beyond. 

Portland has a well-established, extensive, and affordable public transport system called TriMet . TriMet includes MAX Light Rail, busses, and streetcars and runs throughout the inner city and into Portland’s surrounding suburbs. A trip from the airport on the light rail will take just 40 minutes.

Cycling is another great way to get around the city while getting in some exercise. There are over 315 miles of well-marked bikeways across the city, and Portland is home to the country’s highest percentage of bicycle commuters. Check out BikeTown if you’re interested in exploring the city by bike.

Despite these excellent inner-city options, those planning on taking day trips in Portland will probably need to rent a car. Public transport doesn’t reach far out of the city center, and hiring a car is cheaper than using taxis and rideshare applications.

If you rent a car, try booking a Portland airbnb or hotel with free on-site parking, especially if you’re staying in downtown Portland . This will save you some serious bucks.

Half-Day Trips in Portland

Now that you know how easy and affordable it can be to explore Portland , let’s look at the best half-day trips from Portland. 

Half-day trips are a convenient way to see the surrounding Oregon state when you don’t have too much time to spare or if you don’t want to travel too far.

Multnomah Falls 

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Multnomah Falls is the most visited recreation site in the Pacific Northwest, with over two million annual visitors. The falls are open from 9 am to 6 pm and require a ticket to enter the park.

Once you get a glimpse of the incredible views, you’ll quickly understand why this park is so popular with tourists and locals. Best of all, it’s just a 30-minute drive from the city – perfect for a half-day trip in Portland!

Once you arrive, you can enjoy a moderate 2.6-mile hike which will take about an hour and a half to reach the pinnacle of the journey – the Multnomah Falls. This thin waterfall is a spectacular sight to see. It pretty much looks too perfect to be real.

If you enjoy cycling, I recommend renting an E-Bike near the falls and following the scenic road that winds through some of Oregon’s most beautiful state parks. You’ll even catch a glimpse of some other incredible waterfalls along the way.

Because of limited parking at the falls, you must park with a timed entry permit if you choose to bring your own car. You can only purchase these up to two weeks in advance, so don’t leave it too late to get your parking permit!

Suggested trips: Half-Day Multnomah and Columbia River Gorge Tour

Forest Park 

Although technically in the greater Portland area, Forest Park is one of the best half day trips from Portland to take if you need a break from the busy city; it’s large enough to spend half a day exploring and is one of the top things to do in Portland .

This beautiful outdoor space is over 5200 acres large and is home to hundreds of different species of native birds, plants, insects, and wildlife. This means it is six times bigger than Central Park in New York!

Depending on whether you’re looking for a relaxing day trip from Portland or an adventurous one, Forest Park has all the activities you could wish for and more. With over 20 miles of trails, it’s a super popular spot for running, walking, cycling, and horseriding. 

Start at the Wildwood Trail, which follows the park’s entire length. If this seems daunting, there are many loop systems, so you can decide how far you want to walk depending on your fitness level and time.

For a more relaxing park day, pack a picnic and set up camp at one of the several picnic spots along the trails or in the park.

It’s only a 20-minute drive north of the city, which makes it an accessible location for a quick day trip. Parking is free at the forest, but with limited parking (and the environment) in mind, it’s always best to carpool if possible. 

Suggested trips: Forest Park Urban Hiking Tour

Vancouver, WA

A trip to Portland wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the neighboring city of Vancouver. Nope, I’m not talking about the major Canadian city further north, but the smaller city just across the border from Portland in Washington state. 

You could spend a full day exploring this city or just pop across the Oregon-Washington Bridge for a quick lunch. Yup, it’s THAT close to the city and will take you under twenty minutes to get to Vancouver from the heart of Portland.

Downtown Vancouver is flooded with fun things to do and is a very family-friendly city. My favorite time to visit is between March and October when a huge farmers market overtakes the city center. There’s pretty much a fun event or festival held every weekend during the summer months.

While you’re here, wander through Esther Short Park and towards the Vancouver Waterfront, where you can find a cozy restaurant to settle into or pick up a coffee to-go. I recommend strolling along the Columbia River, which is lined with lush green trails and outdoor parks. 

Full-Day Trips in Portland

If you’ve been blessed with a lot of free time to explore Portland, or perhaps you’re on an Oregon road trip , there is no better way to see the greater city and Oregon state than by taking a few day trips from Portland. 

The Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls

There are enough waterfalls around Portland to keep you busy for weeks, but your best way to avoid being overwhelmed is to take a trip to The Columbia River Gorge and Waterfall Alley.

They’re just a short drive along the Columbia River from Portland and provide an oasis of beauty that will surely blow your mind. Unique to the area, the gorge is a temperate rainforest overflowing with flora and fauna.

Visit during spring to experience wildflower blooms as you have never before seen, or during fall when golden foliage overtakes the forests. Even the depths of winter are popular here, with snowcapped trees and frozen-over streams stealing the show.

The main attractions in the region include Multnomah Falls (mentioned earlier as a half-day trip alternative), Hood River, and the Rowena Crest viewpoint. Rowena Crest is the furthest from Portland, yet it is still under an hour and a half drive from the city.

Start your Portland day trip with a morning hike to Multnomah Falls before heading to Hood River for a relaxing midday lunch. Your best bet would be to hit Rowena Crest for some of the most epic views in the state. As with most viewpoints, this view of the horseshoe road bend is particularly spectacular at sunset.

Suggested trip: Columbia Gorge Waterfalls Tour

Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock

If you’re craving some ocean air, Cannon Beach is one of the most popular destinations along the Oregon coastline. The area features colossal sand beaches, incredible rock formations rising from the ground, and beautiful ocean views. 

Cannon Beach is a small beach town packed with character and charm. It gets a lot of attention for being home to Haystack Rock, an imposing 234 ft tall rock jutting from the sand. You can’t miss this massive rock, which is especially beautiful during the golden hours of sunset.

It will take an hour and a half to drive from Portland to this beach, and the drive alone is pretty picturesque. Spend some time relaxing on the beach or walking the length of it, or take the more adventurous route with a visit to Ecola State Park.

Ecola State Park is Cannon Beach’s premier hiking location, where visitors flock for the gorgeous hiking trails overlooking the beach below. Ask your Portland day trip tour guide to take you past the Clatsop Loop, which in my opinion, has the most gorgeous ocean views.

Suggested trip: Oregon Coast Day Tour: Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock

Mount Hood and Timberline Lodge

How about another Oregon waterfall adventure? Mount Hood is the second-highest year-round waterfall in the USA and, as a result, features incredible views of the Columbia River Gorge and surrounding forest. It’s one of the most popular places to visit from Portland on a day trip.

Sometimes following a tour is a more relaxing experience. The tours I’ve linked below will collect you from your Portland accommodation and transport you along the gorgeous forested highway past some of Columbia River Gorges’s best waterfalls, bridges, and viewpoints. 

But the cherry on top will be Mount Hood, which, rising to over 11 thousand feet, is Oregon’s tallest mountain peak.

While in the area, visiting Timberline Lodge is an absolute must. This iconic stone and timber lodge is a tourist attraction in itself, known best for being one of the film sites of the 1980s film, The Shining . 

Besides being a national historic landmark, the lodge is an operating hotel, restaurant, and pub. If you want to grab a bite to eat at this iconic location, I recommend booking a table in advance to avoid disappointment.

On your day trip from Portland, it will take an hour and a half to get to Mount Hood along the US-26 East. There is also a public transport option, but this will take around three hours in each direction, so driving is advised.

Suggested trip: Mount Hood Day Trip from Portland

Willamette Valley 

Easily one of the top day trips in Portland on this list for wine lovers and appreciators of excellent views, Willamette Valley is truly a spectacular place to spend a day. This vineyard-packed valley is just fifty minutes’ drive out of Portland and is home to some of the best pinon noir wineries in the world.

It’s the premier wine region in the Pacific Northwest and can easily be compared to that of Napa Valley, a few states south. The bubbling Willamette river flows through the valley, helping provide the rich nutrients and soil needed to cultivate the grapes.

The entire town is packed with high-end restaurants, boutique shops, fresh flower stalls, and views of rolling vineyard hills. Most of the wineries in the area have been owned by the same families for hundreds of years, which gives the place an authentic and down-to-earth atmosphere. 

Besides everything wine-related, the town is also home to a few distilleries, cheese factories, breweries, and, of course, tons of bike and hiking trails. The area extends for over one hundred miles towards the town of Eugene (to be discussed as its own day trip in Portland).

Join an organized wine-tasting and lunch tour, or make your own itinerary and spend some time exploring the shops and cafes in town. Community Plate is an incredible restaurant with a classic American-inspired menu – you can thank me later!

Suggested trip: Willamette Valley Full-Day Wine Tour

Mount St. Helens, WA

Who wouldn’t be fascinated by an active volcanic crater that last blew its top only 40 years ago in 1980? Mount St. Helens is a magnificent National Volcanic Monument that is the unfortunate site of America’s deadliest and most economically destructive volcanic eruption in history.

It’s located an hour and forty minutes from Portland in the state of Washington. So, you’ll get to tick another state off your bucket list on this day trip.

Although scientists predict that the volcano will erupt again, the mountain has become a popular hiking spot for adventure seekers. There’s something to be said about looking into the eye of an ancient mountain with so much power.

The main hike through the park starts at the Johnston Ridge Observatory, which is also a great place to take in the views and learn a bit more about the volcano’s history. If you aren’t up for a day on your feet, this is an excellent spot to start your day trip in Portland with a view of the volcano.

This state-of-the-art observatory is open from 10 am through 6 pm and displays exhibitions depicting the story of the volcano’s biological, geological, and human impacts.

Suggested trip: Mount St. Helens Adventure Tour from Portland

Silver Falls State Park 

More waterfalls, you say? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Silver Falls State Park is a lush rainforest landscape home to ten of the most picturesque waterfalls in Oregon. The park follows a 7-8 mile hiking loop that passes all ten waterfalls. 

This route is a moderate hike, so just about anyone who considers themselves remotely fit could squeeze all ten waterfall visits into one day. If this sounds a bit daunting, there is a shortcut loop where you can walk 2.8 miles and only miss out on two falls.

While you can’t swim at the waterfall sites, there is a swimming area where you can cool off after a long hike. Believe it or not, Oregon summers can get steamy, so I recommend bringing along a bathing suit if the weather forecast is warm.

Local wildlife such as black bears and panthers roam the park too. Educate yourself on what to do if you run into one of these intimidating creatures by picking up an awareness pamphlet at the park office. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!

If you drive the hour and fifteen-minute journey on your Portland day trip, you’ll have to reserve a day-use parking permit, which will cost only $5 per vehicle.

Suggested trip: Silver Falls Hike and Wine

Less than two hours north of Portland, Astoria is a coastal city that sits at the wide river mouth of the Columbia River. This iconic Oregon coastal town is famous for being the set site of The Goonies, a 1985 film, but its history goes much deeper. 

Founded in 1811, it’s the oldest city in Oregon state and was initially named after the country’s richest man – John Jacob Astor.

Whether a fan of history, nature, or activity and adventure, there are plenty of fun things to do, see, and experience here. Start your day with a walk along the Astoria Riverwalk, which follows about 13 miles of the Columbia River. You can enjoy local shopping and dining and catch incredible views along this developed stretch of river. 

The entire city is surrounded by beautiful foliage, forests, river tributaries, and coastline, making it a hotspot for its natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Sunset Beach, just outside the city, is a gorgeous location for a beach stroll or picnic – if you get it on a warm day. You might even decide to stay a night in this picturesque city.

Sauvie Island

How does picking fresh fruit on a balmy summer’s day sound to you? What about hay rides with your family in the fall? Well, you can do all this and more at Sauvie Island, just a 40-minute hop away from Portland. 

Sauvie Island is the largest island in the Columbia River, with all of its land dedicated to either farming or wildlife conservation. Whatever time of year you choose to visit, Sauvie Island has plenty of family-friendly activities to partake in.

The entire island is pretty much a natural playground, packed with adventures for outdoor lovers, beautiful farms where you can pick your own fruit and veggies, and trails designed for cyclists and hikers. You could also spend your time here soaking up some sun on the river beach, which is also a top spot for kayakers.

If hiking is your sport, follow the Wapato Access Greenway State Park Trail, an easy 2-mile loop through Douglas firs and past seasonal lakes. For a longer trek, the Warrior Rock Lighthouse Trail is 7 miles long and leads to a sandy beach overlooking the state’s smallest lighthouse.

Why not extend your day trip from Portland and spend a night at this unique houseboat in Scappoose , the nearest town to the island? You’ll need to purchase a $10 day-use parking permit if you make your own way to the island.

This day trip is a bit of a drive from the city, but you won’t regret it once you arrive. Unlike the other day trips on this list, which are organized around outdoor adventures, Eugene is a college town home to a young, artistic, and quirky population. 

Home to the University of Oregon, this is arguably Oregon’s largest university city. Naturally, the student population brings to life vibrant energy that can be felt throughout the town.

There are too many things to do and see in Eugene to list, but I’ll give it my best try: Make sure you visit the Fifth Street Public Market, a local spot filled with exciting food stalls, shops, and tasting rooms. If you’re looking for a local gift for family and friends back home, you’ll hit the jackpot here.

If you’re of age, hit one of the local breweries to taste Pacific Northwest Cider on your Portland day trip. After you’ve grabbed a bite to eat at one of the fine restaurants downtown, head to one of the riverside paths to walk off your meal.

There are countless river walks, parks, and outdoor recreation areas, which make spending time outdoors super easy in this college town.

Calling all cheese lovers. Just an hour and twenty minutes from Portland, Tillamook is the heart and soul of the Oregon Coast dairy county. You’ll find a century-old cheese factory here, which tourists can visit for tours and tastings.

The famous Tillamook Creamery has been operating since the 1890s and offers free self-guided tours. Yup, it’s totally FREE to visit this cheesy landmark!

If you aren’t a cheese fan, there are still plenty of things to keep you busy in Tillamook. The city lies at the meeting point of three rivers: The Tillamook, Trask, and Wilson River. This makes it a haven for river sports like kayaking and canoeing, as well as hikers and cyclists.

Spend some time at the Cape Lookout State Park during your day trip from Portland. This state park is on the coastline just south of the city, where you can embark on a hike overlooking beautiful ocean views. If you dare, there are opportunities to go hang gliding or paragliding off the steep coastal cliffs.

History buffs will also be entertained here, especially with a visit to the Tillamook Air Museum. This museum has exhibitions showcasing an impressive collection of World War II aircraft and artifacts. The entire museum is located in a famous airplane hangar – an experience within itself.

North Bonneville, WA

Just across the border in the state of Washington, North Bonneville is a gorgeous riverside town worth a visit. It’s just a fifty-minute drive from Portland, across the famous Bridge of the Gods that connects Oregon with Washington over the Columbia River.

North Bonneville is one of the bigger cities within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, making it a prime spot to stay if you plan to spend some time exploring Oregon’s most famous waterfalls.

The town is small yet packs a real punch when it comes to artisan foods, trendy restaurants, and interesting shops. While in town, don’t skip a visit to Beacon Rock State Park, one of the most exquisite places to view panoramic views of the Columbia Gorge.

This park is a haven for hikers and campers, with an abundance of trails and campsites offering spectacular sunset views. If you’re a fan of ball sports, there is even a nine-hole golf course in the town, perfect for a golfer’s day trip.

The Bonneville Dam is another must-see attraction. In fact, there are ten lakes within three miles of the town, and tons of rivers offering plenty of space to lay out a towel and enjoy the summer sunshine.

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Don’t Forget your Portland Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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Final Thoughts on Day Trips from Portland

And that concludes my list of top day trips to take from Portland, Oregon. Most day trips from this quirky city are outdoor adventures; whether hunting for waterfalls, hiking to the top of volcanic craters, or adventuring through intricate hiking trails.

However, there is also a lot to do for the less adventurous traveler, including a lot of wine and cheese tasting across the lush Oregon valleys. 

If I had to pick one Portland day trip, I would choose to visit the Columbia River Gorge waterfalls, which naturally attract most of the city’s tourists yearly. There aren’t too many cities in America that are pretty much surrounded by world-class waterfalls.

Wherever you decide to spend your extra day or half day, I hope that you have an absolute blast on one of these trips!

Aiden Freeborn

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A Local’s Guide to 10 Fun Day Trips from Portland

Posted: June 27, 2024 | Last updated: June 27, 2024

Surrounded by natural beauty, Portland, Oregon, is perfectly situated for getting out of town and exploring. Within two hours, you can be at the coast, on the slopes of Mt. Hood, hiking behind a waterfall, or sipping your way through the Willamette Valley wineries.

With many of these ideas requiring little to no advanced planning it is easy to just hop in the car on a free weekend and see where the road takes you. With close-in destinations like the Columbia River Gorge and all-day treks into Central Oregon, there is no shortage of options to get you out and exploring this beautiful state.

So, if you’re ready to hit the road, then let’s get going and explore these ten fun day trips from Portland.

Columbia River Gorge

Just down the road from Portland is the outdoor playground of any adventurer’s dreams. Within the Gorge, you’ll find miles of trails leading to stunning vistas and towering waterfalls .

Add in rock climbing at Beacon Rock, windsurfing in Hood River, backpacking along Eagle Creek, and sightseeing at the numerous waterfalls that can be seen directly from the road. You could make a day trip to the gorge every weekend and never run out of things to do.

Best of all, it is less than an hour from Portland, which makes it the perfect afternoon getaway when you’re short on time.

Located just an hour from Portland, Mt. Hood is the ultimate getaway, no matter the season. During the winter months, the mountain is filled with skiers at its numerous ski resorts, snowshoers exploring the wilderness at White River, and Nordic skiers out enjoying some solitude at Teacup.

During the summer months, when the snow has melted and the lakes have warmed up, you can make a day trip up to go hiking at McNeil Ridge, taking in the views at Trillium Lake, or go swimming at Lost Lake.

Willamette Valley Wine Country

It doesn’t take long once you leave the western Portland suburbs to start passing by the vineyards that line the foothills along the Willamette Valley.

It’s no wonder that many of these wineries are constantly busy, as getting to them can take as little as 30 minutes!

Packing a picnic and driving out to your favorite winery to taste their latest Pinot Noirs is a favorite pastime for many Portlanders and is one of the things that makes living here such an incredible experience.

Oregon Coast

When the temperatures in Portland start to hit the 90s, it’s time to join the masses on Highway 26 out to the coast. Here the temperatures will often be 20 – 30 degrees cooler than in the valley.

The drive is less than 90 minutes, which leaves plenty of time to explore spots like Ecola or Oswald West State Parks, taste your way through Cannon Beach at its numerous ice cream shops and cafes, or just kick back on the beach and enjoy the stunning views of Haystack Rock.

If you’re looking to escape the crowds at Cannon Beach , then head south to Manzanita. Here, you’ll get beaches that are just as nice without the crowded, touristy atmosphere.

Silver Falls State Park

Nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains an hour south of Portland, you’ll find a park that is teeming with waterfalls and makes for a perfect spring or fall day trip (the park is great in the summer, too, but there is something special about it during the shoulder seasons.)

Here, you can hike part of or all of the Trail of Ten Falls, which leads you past 10 different waterfalls, with the trail even taking you directly behind some.

During the fall months, the maples that line the trails begin changing colors, creating a vibrant display against the stunning waterfalls.

Hood River is just the place when you need to escape the busy Portland life and trade it in, even if just for a few hours, for a quieter, laid-back vibe dominated by views of Mt. Hood and the orchards, vineyards, and lavender farms that dot the hillsides.

Start at Hood River Waterfront Park, which is filled with local breweries, coffee roasters, and restaurants.

From there, drive up through the famous Fruit Loop, which passes through the orchards that produce much of the state’s pears and apples. Mt. View Orchards is a must visit for their incredible views of Mt. Hood, massive U-pick orchards, and on-site brewery and winery.

One of our favorite towns in all of Oregon, Astoria sits only 90 minutes from Portland which makes it the perfect distance for a day trip.

Here there are plenty of things to do like climb the Astoria Tower (don’t forget to grab a glider before you head up the stairs) for stunning view of the Columbia as it flows out to the Pacific Ocean, walk the waterfront trail, or check out the numerous breweries that call Astoria home.

When you’re ready for a bite to eat head over to the famous Bowpicker which serves tasty fish & chips out of an old fishing boat. Just make sure to bring cash as they don’t accept credit or debit cards.

McMinnville

McMinnville is known for being the unofficial seat of the Willamette Valley and its hundreds of wineries. But wine isn’t the only attraction in this charming Oregon town.

Pay a visit to the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum, where you can check out the largest wooden plane in the world: the Spruce Goose. The museum is also home to numerous other planes, rockets, and displays to explore.

Once you’re done there head next door to the aviation themed water park which features avaiated themed water slides.

Sauvie Island

From berry picking season through pumpkin picking season Savie Island is hopping with Portlanders who want to try their hand at farm life. Even if only for an hour.

Here you can visit farms both large and small and try your hand at harvesting your own produce. If picking your own food isn’t quite your style there are plenty of farm stands where you can get fresh produce without getting your hands dirty.

For family fun, there are attractions like hay rides, corn mazes, and petting zoos.

Breitenbush Hot Springs

Day trippers looking for a day of relaxation should go no further than Breitenbush Hot Springs. This idyllic hot spring and lodge offers up both overnight accommodations and day passes for folks looking to soak in their relaxing tubs for a few hours.

This is a remote location deep in the hills above Detroit, Oregon, so be prepared to be without cell reception during your stay. Odds are you won’t even think about it once you enter one of the property’s soaking pools.

More Articles from Roam the Northwest

• 20 Essential Things To Do in Portland, Oregon
• This Little Known Oregon Coast Town Makes for a Perfect Portland Day Trip

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