Our Favorite Spring Hikes

By this time of year, we are all tired of the rain and ready for that beautiful Oregon sun (I know I am). But without all that rain, we wouldn’t have the vibrant wildflowers, lush greenery, and cascading waterfalls we all know and love. So whether you wait for the sun to come out or brave an April shower, here are a few of our favorite spring hikes in and around Portland:

1. Dogwood Trail in Forest Park

• Length: 2.5 miles (extendable)
• Location: Forest Park (NW Portland)
• Difficulty: Moderate

This trail offers a moderate challenge with its elevation gains and switchbacks, making it ideal for those looking to enhance cardiovascular health and muscle endurance. As you navigate through towering evergreens, keep an eye out for delicate trilliums and other wildflowers adorning the path. For a longer trek, consider linking up with the Leif Erikson and Wild Cherry trails for an 8-mile loop.

2. Tom McCall Point Trail

• Length: 4.8 miles
• Location: Columbia River Gorge
• Difficulty: Moderate

Just outside of Hood River is Tom McCall Point, a great hiking destination to visit in the springtime. Here, you'll get unparalleled views of the Columbia River Gorge, Mt. St. Helens, and Mt. Adams. The trail is a moderate 4.8-mile hike that offers both flat and moderately steep terrain. With its wildflowers, Douglas firs, and stunning vistas, it's no wonder why this is one of Oregon's most popular hikes.

If you don't want to do the whole hike, the view from Rowena Crest (where the trail head parking lot is) is pretty impressive by itself. 

3. Tamanawas Falls

• Length: 4.2 miles
• Location: Columbia River Gorge
• Difficulty: Easy

Tamanawas Falls is located in the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon, and it's one of the most beautiful hikes you can do in springtime. A relatively easy 4.2-mile roundtrip hike will take you to a stunningly majestic waterfall that drops over 100 feet into a pool below. You'll get an incredible view of the Columbia River Valley and the surrounding mountains. Along the way, you can take in the lush forest of trees and wildflowers that line the trail.

The falls are especially spectacular when spring rains have added extra water to the stream, so be sure to bring your camera for this amazing natural wonder.

4. Silver Falls State Park Loop

• Length: 7.2 miles
• Location: Silver Falls State Park
• Difficulty: Easy-Hard

Silver Falls State Park is located in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains in Oregon. It's a great place to hike and explore in spring. The park features more than 24 miles of trails, ranging from short, easy walks to strenuous day-long hikes. We recommend checking out the loop that's around 7 miles long (moderate).

Popular trails include the Trail of Ten Falls, which offers spectacular views of several cascading waterfalls, as well as the Rim Trail, which follows the canyon rim and offers expansive views of the valley below. While you're there, check out the top sights in Silver Falls State Park, too!

Let us know your favorite hikes on our most recent Instagram post!