Hiking Trail Gems Around Portland and Vancouver

Sunrise on Mt. St. Helens looking towards Mt. Adams.

It probably comes as no surprise that the Portland and Vancouver area is home to some of the most beautiful hikes in the Pacific Northwest. After living here for over a decade and exploring countless trails, I’ve gathered a handful of favorite routes that offer scenic views, memorable experiences, and a range of difficulty levels. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking to spend more time outdoors, these trails showcase the best of what Oregon and Washington have to offer.

Oregon Trails

Angel’s Rest

This is one of the most accessible and rewarding Columbia River Gorge hikes. The 4.5-mile out-and-back trail climbs just under 1,500 feet and delivers sweeping views from the summit. Located off the Historic Columbia River Highway, it’s a quieter alternative to nearby Multnomah Falls but just as stunning.

Elowah and Upper McCord Creek Falls

Tucked away on the eastern stretch of the Historic Columbia River Highway, this trail offers a peaceful escape from busier spots. You'll encounter two waterfalls depending on the direction you choose at the fork: the 213-foot Elowah Falls and the 55-foot Upper McCord Creek Falls, which includes a unique cliffside section with railings. It’s a 2.6-mile roundtrip with moderate elevation gain.

Multnomah Falls

Arguably the most iconic of Oregon’s waterfalls, Multnomah Falls is a must-see for visitors and locals alike. The hike to the top is 2.3 miles out and back with just over 800 feet of elevation gain. Of course, you can also enjoy the view from the base without committing to the climb. Weekends can be busy, so plan ahead for parking.

Trail of Ten Falls

Located in Silver Falls State Park near Salem, this trail lives up to its name with multiple waterfalls scattered along a lush forest loop. It’s a 7.4-mile hike with 1,181 feet of elevation gain, making it one of the more rewarding day hikes in the region. Perfect for those wanting a full day immersed in Oregon’s natural beauty.

Mirror Lake & Tom, Dick, and Harry Mountain

For those seeking panoramic views paired with a good workout, this 8.2-mile hike offers both. With 1,715 feet of elevation gain, the trail climbs steadily from the trailhead off Highway 26 (near Ski Bowl) to the summit. It's a great choice for anyone looking to challenge themselves on a day hike with big views.

Washington Trails

Dog Mountain

Dog Mountain is a favorite among hikers training for bigger climbs or just looking for a serious leg workout. At 6.5 miles roundtrip and nearly 3,000 feet of elevation gain, this trail offers expansive views and spectacular wildflowers in late spring. A permit is required during wildflower season, which typically runs from late April through mid-June.

Mount St. Helens Summit

Climbing Mount St. Helens is not for the faint of heart, but the reward of standing on the rim of an active volcano is unforgettable. Two main routes lead to the top: Worm Flows in winter (10 miles roundtrip, 5,500 feet gain) and Climbers Bivouac in summer (8.5 miles roundtrip, 4,655 feet gain). Permits are required from April through October, and they’re worth securing—fines for skipping one are steep.

Overlooking Mt. Adams from the summit of Silver Star on a beautiful summer day.

Silver Star Mountain via Grouse Vista

This is one of the best hikes near Vancouver WA if you're seeking solitude and 360-degree views. The 6.3-mile out-and-back route gains about 2,100 feet in elevation, offering a solid challenge and excellent scenery along the way.

Cape Horn Loop

Visible from Highway 14, Cape Horn is more than just a photo stop. This 6.8-mile loop includes a mix of forested trails and cliffside views, as well as a short tunnel section that adds some variety. You'll gain about 1,400 feet in the early part of the hike before descending back toward the trailhead.

Beacon Rock

Short on time or new to hiking? Beacon Rock is a quick and fun option. This 1.5-mile roundtrip hike gains 574 feet via a series of switchbacks up the rock face, offering impressive views of the Columbia River. It’s a perfect introduction to Gorge hiking or a great add-on to a road trip along Highway 14.

There are so many incredible trails throughout the Portland area and Southwest Washington that it can feel a little overwhelming to decide where to start. These recommendations are just a handful of my personal favorites and a great place to begin your outdoor adventures.

If you’re planning a trip and want a more customized list of hikes or other outdoor activities, be sure to visit the itinerary page for personalized recommendations based on your interests.

Know a trail that should’ve made the list? Or have a favorite hike you think others would enjoy? Feel free to leave a comment with your suggestions or requests—I’d love to feature more reader-recommended hikes in a future post.