The 5 Best Hiking Trails in Oregon

There is no doubt that Oregon offers one of the most spectacular views in the U.S. And if not, it has some of the best hiking trails in the country.

It offers the best of all sorts, from foggy peaks to beautiful coastal vistas. In short, the Oregon hiking scene is nothing out of the ordinary.

In this list are the top hiking trails that this region has to offer.

Best Oregon Hiking Trails

The Scening Corridor of Samuel H. Boardman State

The Scening Corridor of Samuel H. Boardman State

If you are looking for an adventurous trail near the Oregon coastline, then the Samuel H. Boardman is the right venue for you. The trail’s scenic viewpoints only take a short walk from the area’s parking lot so make sure that your camera is always ready.

The Samuel H. Boardman corridor is a 12-mile rugged coastline. It features several isolated beaches, peaceful forests, and several massive sea stocks.

Though it might be challenging to navigate many of the trails that is what makes hiking near the corridor an epic adventure. Some paths lead you to a simple walk close to the beach, while others require you to good deep and hunt for some of the hidden gems.

There are natural bridges that are located between the barriers and lush forests. This offers a view of some of the best vistas the corridor has to offer.

Trail of Ten Falls

Trail of Ten Falls

This trail is located in the Silver Falls State Park. It features a very scenic waterfall and is just a thirty-minute drive from Salem. Aside from being one of the state’s famous state parks, it is also home to Oregon’s best campgrounds. Silver Falls is often called the Crown Jewel of the park.

What makes the park stand out from its other features is the Trail of Ten Falls. It is classified as a recreational trail and goes around on a seven-mile loop. This attraction is perfect for recreational hikers and families.

There are several side trails as well, which accommodate shorters trips around the area. The jumpoff point of the course begins at the day-use site of South Falls. It then traverses behind the scenic 177-foot waterfall.

The area near the false is categorized as moderate and consists of a few steep climbs. But do not worry, as there are handrails that would aid the hiker in traversing the area. The entire loop features more than ten waterfalls, and many of them are over 100 feet in height.

Tillamook Head Traverse

Tillamook Head Traverse

Tillamook Head features a traverse that follows the pathway of Lewis and Clark. It leads into a coastal forest environment. Before, the Corps of Discovery members followed the same path along the Oregon coast when they searched for winter supplies and some whale blubber.

Today’s trail is a bit easier to follow and is part of the Ecola State Park. The entire route of Tillamook Head spans across Cannon Beach towards the south and Seaside on the northern side. The jumpoff point begins at Indian beach, which is near Cannon beach.

Though, the recommended trail approach is through taking a seaside streetcar towards the North end of the Tillamook Head.

The north trailhead features a four-mile hike towards the peak and another 2.5 miles towards the Indian beach. It also has several Adirondack shelters in the free backpacker’s campground. One of the most scenic views is the sunset at the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse.

Wildwood Trail

Wildwood Trail

The Wildwood trail is considered as a connector between some of the best hikes near Portland. The entire trail stretches over 30 miles and is one of the best escapes from the city.

The jumpoff area is at the Vietnam Memorial, which is located near the Oregon Zoo. It then passes through several viewpoints in Washington Park. The further you go along the trail, the less populated it becomes. There are multiple access points to this trail, which allows for more comfortable and shorter sections along Wildwood.

McNeil Point Trail

McNeil Point Trail

This trail is one of the best hikes near Hood River. It is a 15.4-kilometer trail and is heavily trafficked. The terrain around Hood River, though, is a bit challenging and is rated as difficult.

The trail is well known for hiking, nature trips, and snowshoeing. The best time to visit this trail is from April to November.

Dogs are allowed to be on this trail but are advised to be always kept on a leash due to the dense population around the area. What makes the trail challenging is its 811-meter total elevation gain from its jumpoff point.

The beginning of the trail lets you explore a scenic forest setting. At higher elevation, your view will be above the treeline, and the terrain is quite steep. This trail offers the best view of Mt. Hood.

Conclusion

The best hikes in Oregon is undeniably one of the best in the country. The region offers trails from the recreational ones up to the technical traverses.

Oregon hiking trails also offer some of the best views, so always keep your camera ready since many viewpoints are scattered almost anywhere along the trail.

Hiking is a healthy activity and is a great way to escape the busy city life. When you are opting to go on a trekking adventure, you should come prepared. Having a hiking travel backpack is a necessity when you are out on long trails.

It is also best that you wear rain hiking pants. This will ensure that you are kept dry and warm even when you are under unpredictable weather. And if you are an adventurous person, having the best hiking compass with you is a must.

Trail maps are available everywhere in the Oregon area. With a few navigational skills, you don’t have to worry about getting lost.

The 5 Best Hiking Trails in Oregon

Scroll to Top