Best Backpacking Destinations in Portland, Oregon, United States

1. Forest Park

One of the largest urban forests in the United States with more than 80 miles of hiking trails.

Natural Beauty: Offers a diverse landscape, from dense forest to open meadows.
Urban Convenience: Located just minutes from downtown Portland.
Trail Variety: Catering to both experienced and novice hikers with a variety of trail lengths and difficulties.

An iconic Oregon volcano offering numerous hiking trails for various skill levels.

Scenic Views: Provides breathtaking views of the mountain and surrounding valleys.
Seasonal Activities: Offers hiking, skiing, and snowboarding depending on the season.
Wildlife Encounters: Possibility of spotting wildlife such as deer, elk, and mountain goats.

A scenic gorge with hiking trails, waterfalls, and opportunities for rock climbing.

Waterfall Hikes: Features numerous waterfalls along the hiking trails.
Rock Climbing Opportunities: Offers world-class rock climbing at sites like Multnomah Falls.
Scenic Vistas: Provides panoramic views of the Columbia River and surrounding landscapes.

A rugged coastline offering hiking trails, beaches, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Beach Walks: Features long, sandy beaches perfect for walking.
Wildlife Spotting: Provides chances to see seals, sea lions, and migrating whales.
Historic Lighthouses: Visit iconic lighthouses like Haystack Rock and Yaquina Head.

A site of a famous volcanic eruption offering hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Volcanic Landscape: Features a unique, otherworldly landscape caused by the eruption.
Wildlife Spotting: Provides chances to see elk, bighorn sheep, and various bird species.
Historical Significance: Offers insight into the aftermath of a volcanic eruption and recovery efforts.

A popular hiking trail within Columbia River Gorge with multiple waterfalls and viewpoints.

Waterfall Hikes: Features numerous waterfalls along the hiking trails.
Scenic Vistas: Provides panoramic views of the Columbia River and surrounding landscapes.
Trail Accessibility: Easily accessible from Portland, making it a popular destination.

A historic lodge on Mount Hood offering hiking trails and skiing opportunities.

Historical Significance: Built during the Great Depression, it's a National Historic Landmark.
Seasonal Activities: Offers hiking, skiing, and snowboarding depending on the season.
Scenic Views: Provides breathtaking views of Mount Hood and the surrounding area.

A park with ten waterfalls accessible via hiking trails.

Waterfall Hikes: Features numerous waterfalls along the hiking trails.
Family-Friendly: Offers shorter, easy-to-moderate hiking trails suitable for families.
Camping Opportunities: Features campsites for overnight stays.

A coastal park offering hiking trails, beaches, and camping opportunities.

A park featuring Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the United States.

A pristine wilderness area with old-growth forests and clear streams.

Natural Beauty: Features old-growth forests, clear streams, and diverse wildlife.
Backpacking Opportunities: Offers opportunities for backpacking trips.
Wilderness Experience: Provides a true wilderness experience away from the city.

A remote wilderness area with three volcanic peaks and numerous hiking trails.

Scenic Views: Offers stunning views of the three volcanic peaks.
Backpacking Opportunities: Provides opportunities for multi-day backpacking trips.
Wildlife Encounters: Possibility of spotting wildlife such as elk, deer, and mountain goats.

A park offering hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and scenic views of the Wallowa Mountains.

A canyon offering hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and scenic views.

A remote wilderness area with alpine lakes, high peaks, and diverse wildlife.

Scenic Beauty: Features alpine lakes, high peaks, and diverse landscapes.
Backpacking Opportunities: Offers opportunities for multi-day backpacking trips.
Wildlife Encounters: Possibility of spotting wildlife such as mountain goats, elk, and bears.