If all this cold weather and indoor time has you feeling a little stir-crazy, head out to one of these gorgeous spots around town for a winter hike. Beyond just stretching your legs, winter hiking is a great way to see things from a different perspective. Get all bundled up and head out to one of these great hiking spots in and around the city for a great experience and fun afternoon.
- Herman Creek Trail
Brittany / Flickr This mossy trail in the Columbia Gorge is perfect for a wintertime trek. You can go up to 10 miles or simply turn back after you have seen enough creek crossings for the day. Either way, it showcases the Gorge at its finest.
- Multnomah Falls
Mako / Flickr Hiking Multnomah Falls does not need to be reserved for a beautiful summer day. In fact, it is pretty amazing when half frozen too. Dress warmly for this popular hike, and make it at least to Benson Bridge for some great views. If you’re ambitious, climb all the way to the top!
- Mt Tabor
Michelle / Flickr If you are going to stay in town, Mt. Tabor is a great place to head for winter hike. The extinct volcano has three lovely hiking trails made plush with evergreens, a playground for kids to burn off some steam, and if you are up for a challenge, a real serious staircase on its SE Yamhill and 69th Street entrance.
- Macleay Park
Brad Reber / Flickr This section of Forest Park is perfect for a winter hike with Balch Creek flowing through it to set the scene. Travel to the Witch’s Castle, the Audubon Society, or into the greater Forest Park from trails here and enjoy the scenic wonderland.
- Hoyt Arboretum
Stacy Kizer / Flickr With over 1,000 trees, Hoyt Arboretum is as fascinating in the winter as it is in the summer. 12 miles of trails await you here, and trail maps, available at the visitor’s center, can help guide you on your way.
- Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge
J. Maughn / Flickr This wetland sanctuary to the southwest of Portland is teeming with waterfowl, which makes it a lively and noisy place to hike. However, the gravel trails are accommodating and you can always warm up, view the displays, and use the bathroom at the visitor’s center, making this a win-win hiking location.
- Salmon River Trail
Mt. Hood Territory / Flickr If you want to venture into the Mt. Hood National Forest, this is the trail to hit. Featuring a swath of Douglas firs which are often dusted with snow come winter, the trail is typically free of snow much of the winter. Hike the full 7.9-mile trail or just do a portion and head back. Either way, be sure to bring chains for the drive just in case you need them.
- Mirror Lake
Lydia Brooks / Flickr If you want to go full-fledged winter hike, head to Mirror Lake with a pair of snowshoes and enjoy this spectacular scenery. Take the 2.9-mile round-trip hike to the lake for a wonderful winter adventure in the snow.
Do you have a favorite winter hiking spot not covered here? Let us know in the comments below!
Brittany / Flickr
This mossy trail in the Columbia Gorge is perfect for a wintertime trek. You can go up to 10 miles or simply turn back after you have seen enough creek crossings for the day. Either way, it showcases the Gorge at its finest.
Mako / Flickr
Hiking Multnomah Falls does not need to be reserved for a beautiful summer day. In fact, it is pretty amazing when half frozen too. Dress warmly for this popular hike, and make it at least to Benson Bridge for some great views. If you’re ambitious, climb all the way to the top!
Michelle / Flickr
If you are going to stay in town, Mt. Tabor is a great place to head for winter hike. The extinct volcano has three lovely hiking trails made plush with evergreens, a playground for kids to burn off some steam, and if you are up for a challenge, a real serious staircase on its SE Yamhill and 69th Street entrance.
Brad Reber / Flickr
This section of Forest Park is perfect for a winter hike with Balch Creek flowing through it to set the scene. Travel to the Witch’s Castle, the Audubon Society, or into the greater Forest Park from trails here and enjoy the scenic wonderland.
Stacy Kizer / Flickr
With over 1,000 trees, Hoyt Arboretum is as fascinating in the winter as it is in the summer. 12 miles of trails await you here, and trail maps, available at the visitor’s center, can help guide you on your way.
J. Maughn / Flickr
This wetland sanctuary to the southwest of Portland is teeming with waterfowl, which makes it a lively and noisy place to hike. However, the gravel trails are accommodating and you can always warm up, view the displays, and use the bathroom at the visitor’s center, making this a win-win hiking location.
Mt. Hood Territory / Flickr
If you want to venture into the Mt. Hood National Forest, this is the trail to hit. Featuring a swath of Douglas firs which are often dusted with snow come winter, the trail is typically free of snow much of the winter. Hike the full 7.9-mile trail or just do a portion and head back. Either way, be sure to bring chains for the drive just in case you need them.
Lydia Brooks / Flickr
If you want to go full-fledged winter hike, head to Mirror Lake with a pair of snowshoes and enjoy this spectacular scenery. Take the 2.9-mile round-trip hike to the lake for a wonderful winter adventure in the snow.
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