Welcome to author William L. Sullivan's favorite Oregon places -- more than 270 places to hike, camp, ski, snowshoe, bike, raft, canoe, kayak, and climb.
To start, simply choose the kind of adventure and the area of Oregon that interests you. Or search for any place name in Oregon by clicking on "Edit" and then "Find" in the menu at the top of your screen.
For maps and more detailed information, check out Sullivan's guidebooks in the Navillus Press catalog. To meet the author in person, check the schedule of his many free slide shows and booksignings. To learn more about the settings used in Sullivan's mystery novel, "The Case of Einstein's Violin," you can also check out his favorite places to go hiking in Europe.
Top recreation destinations Hiking trails Nordic ski trips Snowshoe tours Mountain bike rides Road bike tours Rock climbing sites Whitewater raft trips Kayak runs Canoe trips Browse Sullivan guidebooks about Oregon About William L. Sullivan
Or search for any Oregon destination by clicking "Edit - Find" at the top of your screen.
NOTE: Adventures are divided into the same five regions as Sullivan's guidebooks:
BOARDMAN STATE PARK. This long, shorefront park north of Brookings is a spectacular parade of coastal islands, beaches, coves, and capes. Photo of Boardman State Park (12 Kb).
BULLARDS BEACH. In a forest behind overgrown dunes at Bandon, this park's year-round campground is sheltered from the beach's north winds. Nearby are a lighthouse, the Coquille River estuary, picnic lawns and a popular boat ramp. Photo of Coquille River lighthouse (12 Kb).
CAPE BLANCO. Cape Blanco's plateau juts more than a mile to sea. Nearby is a picturesque 1870 lighthouse, a campground, and a restored 1898 Victorian ranch house museum. Photo of Cape Blanco (17 Kb).
CAPE KIWANDA. Near Pacific City, this beach is best known for its dory fishing fleet, but is a popular destination for beachcombers, hikers, tidepoolers, and kite fliers too. Photo of Cape Kiwanda and Haystack Rock (17 Kb).
CAPE LOOKOUT. Like an unfinished dike to Hawaii, Cape Lookout's narrow, cliff-edged headland juts two miles straight out into the Pacific Ocean. The cape's park, near Tillamook, includes a popular campground and several trails. Photo of Cape Lookout (12 Kb).
CAPE PERPETUA. Cape Perpetua confronts the sea with a 700-foot cliff. Highway 101 clings to a ledge with viewpoints of the rugged lava shore near Yachats. The cape has a visitor center, tidepools, and many trails. Photo of shore at Cape Perpetua (17 Kb).
FLORAS LAKE. Reliable winds make this sandy lake near Bandon the southern Oregon Coast's most popular windsurfing center for beginners. Photo of skunk cabbage (12 Kb).
FORT STEVENS. This former military reservation at the mouth of the Columbia River is home to the largest campground in the Oregon park system. There's lots to do for day visitors too: hike or swim at Coffenbury Lake, explore the nine-mile network of flat, paved bike paths, lounge on a broad beach beside the rusting remains of the a shipwreck, or climb on the Columbia River's south jetty. Photo of shipwreck at Fort Stevens (17 Kb).
HECETA HEAD. Oregon's most photographed lighthouse opened for public tours on its 100th anniversary in 1994. A wondrous, half-mile trail climbs up to the Heceta Head tower from the Devils Elbow, a pocket beach in a dramatic cove. Photo of Heceta Head (12 Kb).
HONEYMAN PARK. Kids slide down sand dunes straight into swimmable Cleawox Lake at Honeyman State Park. The park's 381-site campground is the busiest in the state. Top activities here include hiking through in the sand dunes and paddling in the lakes. Photo of Cleawox Lake (17 Kb).
NEHALEM BAY. On the sandy peninsula below Neahkahnie Mountain's rugged shoulder, this park has a 291-site campground, a separate equestrian camp, a 2400-foot airstrip, a 1.5-mile paved bike loop, and lots of room for beach explorations on foot. Photo of Nehalem Bay (17 Kb).
NEWPORT'S SOUTH BEACH. Construction of the Oregon Coast Aquarium in 1992 woke up this sleepy Newport suburb south of the Yaquina Bay bridge. A cluster of shops beside the South Beach Marina includes the popular Rogue Ale microbrewery. A mile down the road, amid the beachfront's grassy dunes, South Beach State Park offers 254 campsites and a network of trails. Photo of Newport's Yaquina Bay Bridge (17 Kb).
OSWALD WEST PARK. A dozen miles of rugged coves and capes line the Pacific Ocean in this beautiful, densely forested state park. Wheelbarrows are provided at Highway 101 for campers to wheel their tents a quarter mile to 36 campsites in an old-growth rainforest beside Short Sand Beach's dramatic cove, a spot also popular with surfers and picnickers. The Oregon Coast Trail traverses the entire length of Oswald West State Park. Photo of Neahkahnie Mountain (17 Kb).
SHORE ACRES / SUNSET BAY / CAPE ARAGO. Three state parks drape the scenic coast southwest of Coos Bay. The first park you'll pass, Sunset Bay, has a campground and a picnic area beside a sheltered beach. The second park, Shore Acres, offers formal gardens and a hiking trail along dramatic oceanfront cliffs. The third, Cape Arago, has secluded coves with tidepools and rare elephant seals. Photo of Shore Acres State Park (17 Kb).
YAQUINA HEAD. Oregon's tallest lighthouse, built in 1873, is the star attraction at Yaquina Head. But there's lots to do here besides climb the tower's spiral stairs. A modern interpretive center explains the natural history and history of the area. A deck and a marvelous viewpoint beside the lighthouse overlook islands with cormorants, murres, tufted puffins, and seagulls. Photo of Newport's Yaquina Bay Bridge (17 Kb).
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BADGER CREEK WILDERNESS. Draped across the eastern foothills of Mt. Hood, this 12-mile-long wilderness stretches from the snowy ridgecrests of the High Cascades to the arid canyonlands of the Columbia Plateau steppe. Photo of Mt. Hood from Lookout Mountain in the Badger Creek Wilderness (17 Kb).
LOST LAKE. An old-growth forest circles Lost Lake, the classic setting for picture postcards of Mt. Hood. The picturesque mountain lake is also home to a campground, picnic area, ancient resort, and a network of trails. Photo of Mt. Hood from Lost Lake (15 Kb).
ROOSTER ROCK PARK. It's a great quick escape from Portland on a hot summer day: a sandy swimming beach along the Columbia River at the convenient west end of the scenic Columbia Gorge. Photo of Columbia Gorge from Crown Point above Rooster Rock Park (17 Kb).
TABLE ROCK WILDERNESS. Table Rock's fortress-shaped plateau, centerpiece of a pocket Wilderness near Molalla, offers a formidable panorama of ten Cascade snowpeaks and the Coast Range. Photo of Rooster Rock and Mt. Jefferson from Table Rock Wilderness (12 Kb).
TIMBERLINE LODGE. Mt. Hood's Timberline Lodge began as a Depression-era make-work program, but by the time President Roosevelt dedicated this elegantly rustic hotel in 1937 it had become a grand expression of Northwest art. Photo of Mt. Hood from Timberline Lodge (17 Kb).
TRYON CREEK PARK. Quiet footpaths and scenic footbridges highlight this densely forested canyon, a pocket wilderness tucked between Portland and Lake Oswego. Photo of trillium (12 Kb).
WASHINGTON PARK. Just a short ride from downtown Portland on the MAX light-rail line, Washington Park is packed with trails and cultural diversions -- including the Oregon Zoo, the World Forestry Center, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the 27-mile hiker-only Wildwood Trail. Photo of Vietnam Memorial in Washington Park (12 Kb).
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CASCADIA PARK. The broad, bedrock banks of the South Santiam River in Cascadia State Park are a great place to catch some rays and let the kids wade on a summer day. Photo of trillium (12 Kb).
HIGH DESERT MUSEUM. Otters, porcupines, and a log cabin homestead highlight this world-class interpretive center just south of Bend. To round out the day, visit a mile-long lava cave, a cinder cone, and a lava cast forest nearby. Photo of Indian paintbrush (17 Kb).
LITTLE NORTH FORK. When the weather gets hot in Salem, kids start clamoring to head for the swimming holes of the "Little North Fork," a branch of the North Santiam River. Photo of Little North Fork Santiam River (17 Kb).
McCREDIE HOT SPRINGS. Perhaps Oregon's most convenient natural hot springs, this large, steamy riverside pool is just a 200-yard walk from Highway 58 between Eugene and Willamette Pass. Photo of fog on Mt. June (17 Kb).
PAULINA LAKE. This remarkable lake, well over a mile above sea level, is walled from the outside world by the forested rim of a collapsed volcano. If all this fails to pique your curiosity, how about submarine hot springs, a gigantic flow of obsidian glass, and a miniature cinder cone crater? All these attractions are part of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, southeast of Bend. Photo of Paulina Lake (17 Kb).
TERWILLIGER (COUGAR) HOT SPRINGS. A level, half-mile path leads through the a mossy Douglas fir forest from Cougar Reservoir to Terwilliger Hot Springs. Also known as Cougar Hot Springs, the half dozen natural, steamy pools at the end of this trail are clustered in a small woodsy glen. Photo of trillium (12 Kb).
TIMPANOGAS LAKE. Source of the Willamette River, Timpanogas Lake nestles against two of the Central Oregon Cascades least visited peaks, Cowhorn Mountain and Sawtooth Mountain. A network of trails lets hikers circle the lake, visit both peaks, hike 40 miles down the Willamette River, or merely amble 1.9 miles to Indigo Lake. Photo of Sawtooth Mountain from Indigo Lake (12 Kb).
WALDO LAKE. Oregon's second largest lake, Waldo covers ten square miles to a depth of 417 feet. Despite its size the lake has no inlet, leaving its waters so pure and clear they are virtually devoid of plant life. Boaters can watch fish swimming 100 feet deep. Photo of Waldo Lake (12 Kb).
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CRATER LAKE. Oregon's only national park, Crater Lake draws half a million visitors a year. A 33-mile Rim Drive tours the lip of this collapsed volcano, offering views across the astonishingly blue lake to Wizard Island. A variety of hiking trails and a commercial boat tour provide even better views. Photo of Crater Lake in winter (17 Kb).
DIAMOND LAKE. Crater Lake may be a dramatic draw for out-of-staters, but Oregonians visit neighboring Diamond Lake five times as often. This popular getaway is surrounded by mountain views, over 400 campsites, five boat ramps, a resort lodge, and a paved 11.5-mile loop trail that provides an route around the lake for hikers or mountain bikers. Photo of Mt. Thielsen from Diamond Lake (17 Kb).
FOURMILE LAKE. Southern Oregon's tallest peak, Mt. McLoughlin rises like an Egyptian pyramid above the driftwood-jammed shores of Fourmile Lake. Photo of Fourmile Lake from Mt. McLoughlin (17 Kb).
OREGON CAVES. Poet Joaquin Miller's praise of the "great Marble Halls of Oregon" helped win National Monument status for Oregon Caves in 1909. Visitors today can join a guided tour for about $6. Hikes in the nearby woods are free. Photo of the Chateau at the Oregon Caves (17 Kb).
UMPQUA HOT SPRINGS. Unmarked but deservedly popular, this 0.3-mile path leads to a rustic shelter with a spa-sized 105-degree F hot springs pool overlooking the North Umpqua River. Photo of Umpqua Hot Springs (12 Kb).
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ALVORD DESERT. Spread below the stark east face of Steens Mountain's colossal cliffs, the Alvord Desert is Oregon's driest place, with just seven inches of rain a year. The cracked, alkali surface of this seven-mile-wide playa is strangely inspiring. Nearby are three different hot springs. Photo of Steens Mountain from the Alvord Desert (12 Kb).
EAGLE CAP. The Wallowa Mountains' Eagle Cap Wilderness resembles a misplaced portion of the high Sierras, with glacially-carved granite peaks and alpine lake basins. In this huge Wilderness -- 35-miles long and 15-miles wide -- it is possible to backpack for a week or more among the high lakes and river canyons. Photo of Indian paintbrush (17 Kb).
FORT ROCK. The high desert here is a closet full of curiosities: Fort Rock's sudden cliffs, an area of sand dunes, the huge crater of Hole In The Ground, a long fissure at Crack In The Ground, a "lost" forest of ponderosa pine, and a collection of lava caves. Photo of Fort Rock (17 Kb).
HART MOUNTAIN. Relax beneath the stars in a five-foot-deep natural rock pool with 104-degree-Fahrenheit water in the high desert country of the Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge. The nation's tallest fault-scarp cliffs slice this dramatic wildlife refuge in half. To the west are the vast wetlands of the Warner Lakes, teeming with bird life in spring. Photo of the Warner Lakes from Hart Mountain's Poker Jim Ridge (17 Kb).
HELLS CANYON. The deepest river gorge in the country, Hells Canyon is more than a vertical mile from the snow-banked alpine wildflower meadows of the rim down to the cactus of the Snake River's shore at the bottom. Activities include camping, hiking, and whitewater rafting. Photo of Hells Canyon (17 Kb).
LESLIE GULCH. Colorful rock pinnacles and cave-riddled cliffs line the winding canyonlands above the Owyhee Reservoir in the remote southeastern corner of Oregon. Drive a gravel road to a campground at Succor Creek -- an oasis popular with rockhounds -- or continue down a narrower gorge to a campground at Leslie Gulch, with its hiking trail and reservoir boat launch site. Photo of Owyhee River (12 Kb).
MALHEUR WILDLIFE REFUGE. Oregon's premiere birdwatching site, this40-mile-long refuge stretches from the foot of Steens Mountain along the marshy banks of the Donner Und Blitzen River to a pair of vast desert lakes. Photo of snowy egret wading (17 Kb).
NORTH FORK JOHN DAY. The craggy granite peaks of the 9,000-foot-tall Elkhorn Range jut abruptly from the gentle hayfields and sagebrush surrounding Eastern Oregon's historic Baker City. Scores of alpine lakes and glacier-carved valleys give the Elkhorns the feel of the Wallowas or even the North Cascades. Photo of the Elkhorns from the Hoffer Lakes, near Anthony Lake (12 Kb).
SNIVELY HOT SPRINGS. In the rimrock-lined desert canyon of the lower Owyhee River, this 20-foot-wide hot springs pool is wedged between the rushing river and a grove of tall cottonwood trees. Photo of the Owyhee River (17 Kb).
STEENS MOUNTAIN. Fifty miles long, immense Steens Mountain looms snowy and sudden a vertical mile above the barren alkali flats of the Alvord Desert. Five U-shaped gorges slice into the western slope of Steens Mountain's 9733-foot-tall plateau. Photo of Steens Mountain from the east (17 Kb).
STRAWBERRY MOUNTAIN. The alpine peaks, lakes, and waterfalls of the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness are all the more astonishing because this island of high country is surrounded by the arid sagebrush landscape of Eastern Oregon. Photo of Strawberry Lake (17 Kb).
THREE FORKS. In the remote high desert where Oregon, Idaho, and Nevada meet, the wild Owyhee River cuts a dramatic, 1000-foot-deep slot through the sagebrush tablelands. Much of the river is only accessible by whitewater raft or kayak, but the riverbank here makes a good base for cross-country exploration of this canyonland. Photo of the Owyhee River (12 Kb).
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Hiking TrailsChoose an Area:
CASCADE HEAD. Cascade Head's panoramic, blufftop wildflower meadows were threatened by commercial development in the 1960s, but fans of the wild headland rallied to purchase the fragile area and donate it to the non-profit Nature Conservancy for preservation.. Distance of basic recommended hike: 5.4 miles round-trip, with 900 feet elevation gain on the return trip. Photo of the Salmon River estuary from Cascade Head (17 Kb).
GWYNN CREEK. Some of the most spectacular old-growth Sitka spruce forests on the Coast drape the wild canyons south of Cape Perpetua. Distance of basic recommended hike: 5.8-mile loop with 1100 feet elevation gain. Photo of chanterelle mushroom found at Gwynn Creek (17 Kb).
HARRIS RANCH TRAIL. Overhung with mossy bigleaf maples, Drift Creek meanders through the densely forested canyons of the Coast Range's largest wilderness area. Distance of basic recommended hike: 4.4 miles round-trip, with 1200 feet of elevation gain on the return trip. Photo of Drift Creek (12 Kb)http://
HARTS COVE. The trail down to Harts Cove leads to a viewpoint of a dramatic waterfall that pours straight into the ocean. But the path also features an old-growth spruce forest, a flower-filled blufftop meadow, and a rocky shore where sea lions bellow. Distance of basic recommended hike: 5.4 miles round-trip, with 900 feet elevation gain on the return trip. Photo of Harts Cove (12 Kb).
HUMBUG MOUNTAIN. Like a misplaced mountain, this forested peak juts straight out of the beach, forcing Highway 101 to detour around it inland. The protected vale behind the strange mountain shelters a handy, all-year campground, a picnic area, and the trailhead for a loop path that scales the peak itself, offering glimpses up and down the coast for miles. Distance of basic recommended hike: 5.5-mile loop with 710 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Humbug Mountain (17 Kb).
ILLINOIS RIVER TRAIL. The Illinois River is even wilder than its famous neighbor, the Rogue. In fact, the canyon here is so rugged that the Illinois River Trail never actually reaches the riverbank. Instead the path dips deeply into the canyons of several side creeks and finally climbs over 3747-foot Bald Mountain. Distance of basic recommended hike: 17.2 miles round-trip, with 2900 feet of cumulative elevation gain. Photo of Illinois River (12 Kb).
KENTUCKY FALLS. Three of the Coast Range's most spectacular waterfalls tumble through the jungly rainforest of this remote Coast Range canyon. Distance of basic recommended hike: 4.4 miles round-trip, with 800 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Lower Kentucky Falls (12 Kb).
KINGS MOUNTAIN. A steep, rugged trail climbs to a sweeping Coast Range viewpoint atop Kings. In May and June, wildflowers brighten the upper ridges. Below, ancient snags and regrowing forests recall the Tillamook Burn fires of the 1930s and '40s. Distance of basic recommended hike: 5.4 miles round-trip, with 2780 feet elevation gain. Photo of Tillamook State Forest from Kings Mountain (17 Kb).
LOEB STATE PARK. Although redwoods are better known from California, 12-foot-thick Sequoia sempervirens giants also thrive along the Chetco River. Distance of basic recommended hike: 2.6-mile loop with 400 feet of elevation gain. Photo of redwood trees (12 Kb).
MARYS PEAK. Highest spot in the Coast Range, Marys Peak's wildflower-dotted summit meadows command views from the ocean to the Cascades. Distance of basic recommended hike: 2.2-mile loop with 500 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Marys Peak (12 Kb).
NEAHKAHNIE MOUNTAIN. Neahkahnie Mountain juts 1600 feet above the beach, providing aerial views of Nehalem Bay and the Pacific shore south to Cape Lookout. Distance of basic recommended hike: 3 miles round-trip, with 900 feet elevation gain. Photo of Neahkahnie Mountain (17 Kb). Photo of view from Neahkahnie Mountain (17 Kb).
OREGON DUNES. Visitors who simply photograph the view from the Oregon Dunes Overlook are missing the best scenery in this seafront Sahara. Distance of basic recommended hike: 4.8-mile loop, with 250 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Tahkenitch Creek in the Oregon Dunes (12 Kb).
ROGUE RIVER TRAIL. The irascible Rogue River cuts through a spectacular wilderness canyon, most of it accessible only by whitewater boats or by a world-class, 40-mile-long hiking trail. Distance of basic recommended hike: 40 miles one-way, with 3700 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Mule Creek Canyon on the Rogue River (12 Kb).
SADDLE MOUNTAIN. Highest point in northwest Oregon, this saddle-shaped peak commands a panorama from the ocean to the truncated cone of Mt. St. Helens. Distance of basic recommended hike: 5.2 miles round-trip, with 1620 feet elevation gain. Photo of Saddle Mountain trail (17 Kb).
SOUTH SLOUGH. The nation's first Estuarine Research Reserve was established near Coos Bay in 1974. Displays in a modern interpretive center help explain the research, but a network of easy trails nearby allows you to investigate the reserve first hand. Distance of basic recommended hike: 2-mile loop with 300 feet of elevation gain on the return trip. Photo of South Slough estuary (17 Kb).
SUTTON CREEK. Sand dunes and rhododendron-filled forests line the banks of this meandering creek between Sutton Lake and the ocean. Distance of basic recommended hike: 4.3-mile loop with 100 feet of elevation gain. Photo of beach at Sutton Creek (12 Kb).
SWEET CREEK FALLS. A dramatic new trail follows cascading Sweet Creek to a 20-foot waterfall in this woodsy Coast Range valley near Mapleton. Distance of basic recommended hike: 2.2 miles round-trip with 350 feet elevation gain. Photo of Sweet Creek Falls (12 Kb).
TAHKENITCH CREEK. A new trail network follows lovely, lazy Tahkenitch Creek's meanders through the dunes to a wild, driftwood-strewn estuary. Distance of basic recommended hike: 4.2 miles round-trip, with 80 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Tahkenitch Creek (12 Kb).
TAHKENITCH DUNES. In addition to huge sand dunes and a secluded ocean beach, this loop hike includes a return route through the forest, passing a remote, 3-mile-long lake. Distance of basic recommended hike: 6.5-mile loop with 650 feet elevation gain. Photo of Threemile Lake (12 Kb).
TILLAMOOK HEAD. Postcards of the Oregon Coast often wear photos of Ecola State Park, a scenic park atop the cliffy capes of Tillamook Head, where waves roll in against craggy islands and secluded beaches. Distance of basic recommended hike: 3.9-mile loop (to headland tip), with 900 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Tillamook Head (12 Kb).
VULCAN LAKE. Stark red ridges, shimmering green lakes, and the strange plants of the Klamath Mountains highlight this remote but popular area. Distance of basic recommended hike: 3.7-mile loop, with 650 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Vulcan Lake (12 Kb).
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ANGELS REST. Angels Rest juts like a balcony above the western Columbia Gorge. Distance of basic recommended hike: 4.4 miles round-trip, with 1600 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Angels Rest (17 Kb).
BAGBY HOT SPRINGS. Hollowed-out cedar logs form the bathtubs at this rustic, free hot springs. Even if you don't plan to soak, the trail here is a delight, leading through a towering old-growth forest. Distance of basic recommended hike: 3 miles round-trip, with an elevation gain of 200 feet. Photo of Bagby Hot Springs cedar tub (12 Kb).
CENTRAL SALMON RIVER. This popular portion of the Salmon River Trail begins with a riverside stroll among huge old-growth trees. Distance of basic recommended hike: 7.2 miles round-trip with 900 feet elevation gain. Photo of Salmon River (17 Kb).
COOPER SPUR. The highest hiking trail on Mt. Hood switchbacks up Cooper Spur's cindery shoulder, passing a historic stone shelter at timberline. Distance of basic recommended hike: 8.2 miles round-trip, with 2800 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Mt. Hood from Cooper Spur (12 Kb).
EAGLE CREEK. Built in the 1910s to accompany the opening of the Columbia River Highway, the Eagle Creek Trail is one of Oregon's most spectacular paths, passing half a dozen major waterfalls. Distance of basic recommended hike: 12 miles round-trip, with 1200 feet elevation gain. Photo of Punchbowl Falls (17 Kb).
JEFFERSON PARK VIA BREITENBUSH LAKE. Mt. Jefferson fills half the sky from the green alpine meadows and sparkling lakes of Jefferson Park. Distance of basic recommended hike: 11.2 miles round-trip with 2400 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Jefferson Park (17 Kb).
LARCH MOUNTAIN CRATER. The panoramic viewpoint atop the 4055-foot volcano at the west end of the Columbia Gorge is justly famous. Distance of basic recommended hike: 6-mile loop with 1300 feet elevation gain. Photo of avalanche lilies (17 Kb).
McNEIL POINT. Wildflowers, tumbling brooks, and craggy mountain vistas lend alpine splendor to this ridge on Mt. Hood's northwest shoulder. Distance of basic recommended hike: 7 miles round-trip with 1500 feet elevation gain. Photo of Mt. Hood from McNeil Point (17 Kb).
MEMALOOSE LAKE. This popular path is only 20 miles from Estacada, yet has the feel of the High Cascades. Distance of basic recommended hike: 2.6 miles round-trip with 700 feet of elevation gain. Photo of trail in ancient forest (12 Kb).
MIRROR LAKE. This extremely popular and relatively easy path starts at a waterfall and climbs to a subalpine lake mirroring Mt. Hood. Distance of basic recommended hike: 3.2 miles round-trip, with 700 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Indian paintbrush (17 Kb).
MOUNT DEFIANCE. One of the most physically demanding paths in Oregon, the Mount Defiance Trail gains nearly 5000 feet of elevation on its way to the highest point in the Columbia Gorge. Distance of basic recommended hike: 11.8-mile loop, with 4800 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Columbia Gorge (17 Kb).
MULTNOMAH & WAHKEENA FALLS. Multnomah Falls is not only Oregon's tallest waterfall, it's also the most visited tourist site in the state. Distance of basic recommended hike: 2.2 miles round-trip, with 700 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Multnomah Falls (12 Kb).
PANSY LAKE. The romp to this popular mountain lake is easy enough for children. Hardier hikers can continue up to a historic lookout tower in the heart of the Bull of the Woods Wilderness. Distance of basic recommended hike: 2.4 miles round-trip with 500 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Bull of the Woods lookout tower (17 Kb).
RAMONA FALLS. Like white lace, 120-foot Ramona Falls drapes across a stair-stepped cliff of columnar basalt. It's understandably one of the most popular hiking goals in the Mount Hood area. Distance of basic recommended hike: 6.9 miles round-trip, with 1000 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Ramona Falls (12 Kb).
ROCK LAKES. During the Ice Age, glaciers gouged high, bowl-shaped valleys into the tableland between the Clackamas and Roaring Rivers. Now mountain lakes fill these forested dales. Distance of basic recommended hike: 7.7-mile loop with 1500 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Mt. Hood from ridge above Serene Lake (17 Kb).
SOUTHERN FOREST PARK. This convenient portion of Portland's 4800-acre wilderness park is just a few minutes from skyscrapers, but a world apart. Distance of basic recommended hike: 8.6-mile loop with 700 feet of elevation gain. Photo of fern-draped path in Portland hills (12 Kb).
TOM McCALL PRESERVE. This cliff-edged plateau of oak grasslands and wildflowers near Hood River is one of the most dramatic nature preserves belonging to the Nature Conservancy. Distance of basic recommended hike: 2.2 miles round-trip, with 300 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Tom McCall Preserve (17 Kb).
TOP LAKE. Half a dozen woodsy lakes and a viewpoint of Mt. Jefferson make this loop on the Pacific Crest Trail fun for children too. A steep side trip climbs up Double Peaks for a panorama of the lake-dotted Olallie Lake Scenic Area. Distance of basic recommended hike: 3.1-mile loop with 500 feet of elevation gain. Mt. Jefferson from Olallie Lake (17 Kb).
WARRIOR ROCK. At the tip of Oregon's largest island, this woodsy hike along the Columbia River leads to a miniature lighthouse and a secluded, sandy beach.. Distance of basic recommended hike: 7 miles round-trip with no elevation gain. Photo of Sauvie Island (17 Kb).
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BENSON LAKE. The hike to this beautifully blue, cliff-rimmed lake near McKenzie Pass is short enough for children, yet can be lengthened if you'd like more exercise. Distance of basic recommended hike: 2.8 miles round-trip, with 400 feet of elevation gain. Photo of beargrass bloom (17 Kb).
BLACK BUTTE. Plunked in the midst of the Central Oregon plateau, Black Butte's unusual placement east of the High Cascades makes it ideal as a fire lookout site. Distance of basic recommended hike: 3.8 miles round-trip, with 1600 feet of elevation gain. Photo of balsamroot bloom (17 Kb).
BLACK CRATER. The steep trail to Black Crater's former lookout site demands stamina, but offers Central Oregon's best view of the Three Sisters and the McKenzie Pass lava flows. Distance of basic recommended hike: 7.2 miles round-trip, with 2500 feet of elevation gain. Photo of North Sister (17 Kb).
BRICE CREEK. The trail along this lovely creek leads past small waterfall s and swimmable pools under the canopy of an old-growth forest. Southeast of Cottage Grove, a paved road unobtrusively parallels this trail on the creek's opposite shore. Distance of basic recommended hike: 5.5 miles one-way, with 600 feet of elevation gain. Photo of trail in ancient forest (12 Kb).
CANYON CREEK MEADOWS. One of the easiest routes to the High Cascades' wildflower meadows, this short loop is ideal for children and amblers. More energetic hikers can continue up a steep glacial moraine to an ice-filled cirque lake and a breathtaking viewpoint beneath Three Fingered Jack's summit pinnacles. Distance of basic recommended hike: 4.3-mile loop with 400 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Three Fingered Jack from Canyon Creek Meadows (12 Kb).
CHAMBERS LAKES. The heather ridges around Camp Lake are an alpine wonderland, set smack between towering South Sister and the glaciers of Middle Sister. Wind-sculpted pines cling to crags in scenic poses. Distance of basic recommended hike: 14.2 miles round-trip, with 1800 feet elevation gain. Photo of South Sister from Camp Lake (17 Kb).
CLEAR LAKE. The stroll around Clear Lake offers lots of variety: huge springs, lava crossings, old-growth forests --even a resort where a cup of coffee costs less than a dollar. Distance of basic recommended hike: 7-mile loop with 200 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Sahalie Falls on the McKenzie River Trail (17 Kb).
CONE PEAK. Iron Mountain's lookout building is one of the Old Cascades' most popular hiking goals, passing wildflower meadows above Tombstone Pass. Distance of basic recommended hike: 6.6-mile loop, with 1900 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Iron Mountain from Cone Peak (17 Kb).
DIVIDE LAKE. Diamond Peak does indeed have the kind of idyllic alpine scenery that draws crowds to more famous Oregon peaks. But here most of the alpine idylls are packed into one miniature cove. Distance of basic recommended hike: 8 miles round-trip, with 1200 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Mt. Yoran from Divide Lake (12 Kb).
ERMA BELL LAKES. Lower and Middle Erma Bell Lakes, separated by a small waterfall, are among the most heavily visited destinations in the high country forests north of Waldo Lake -- perhaps because the trail here is so delightfully level that even small children can manage the hike. Distance of basic recommended hike: 8.2-mile loop with 800 feet of elevation gain. Photo of trillium (12 Kb).
FALL CREEK. The trail along this woodsy, low-elevation creek near Eugene has attractions for each season: fall mushrooms, winter solitude, spring wildflowers, and best of all, summertime swimming holes. Distance of basic recommended hike: 5.8-miles round-trip, with 200 feet of elevation gain. Photo of water ouzel (17 Kb).
FRENCH PETE CREEK. French Pete Creek became a rallying point for environmentalists early in the effort to preserve Oregon's ancient forests, largely because of the sheer grandeur of the mossy jungle along its cascading mountain creek. Distance of basic recommended hike: 6 miles round-trip, with 600 feet of elevation gain. Photo of trail in ancient forest (12 Kb).
GREEN LAKES VIA FALL CREEK. This classic route to the famous alpine basin of the Green Lakes in the Three Sisters Wilderness leads past a string of waterfalls and through a strangely idyllic canyon walled by an enormous lava flow. Distance of basic recommended hike: 8.8 miles round-trip, with 1100 feet of elevation gain. Photo of South Sister from Green Lakes (17 Kb).
JEFFERSON PARK VIA WHITEWATER TRAIL. Oregon's second tallest mountain rises like a wall from the lake-dotted wildflower meadows of Jefferson Park. Distance of basic recommended hike: 10.2miles round-trip, with 1800 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Mt. Jefferson from Scout Lake (17 Kb).
LITTLE NORTH SANTIAM RIVER TRAIL. The Little North Santiam has long been known for its swimmable green pools, so tempting on hot summer days. This trail reveals that the river has other charms as well. Distance of basic recommended hike: 9 miles round-trip, with 900 feet of elevation gain. Photo of the Little North Santiam River (17 Kb).
MATTHIEU LAKES LOOP. The two Matthieu Lakes seem worlds apart -- one in a windswept pass with mountain views and the other in a deep forest sheltered by a craggy lava flow. Distance of basic recommended hike: 6-mile loop with 800 feet of elevation gain. Photo of North Sister from South Matthieu Lake (12 Kb).
MOUNT JUNE. An undesignated wilderness in Eugene's backyard, the Hardesty Mountain area is a popular patch of forested ridges and trails. Distance of basic recommended hike: 2.9 miles round-trip, with 900 feet of elevation gain. Photo of fog on Mt. June (17 Kb).
OBSIDIAN TRAIL. The Obsidian Trail leads to Sunshine, one of the most beautiful alpine areas in Oregon. Brooks meander through the wildflower meadows nestled here between Middle Sister and Little Brother. Distance of basic recommended hike: 12-mile loop with 1800 feet of elevation gain. Photo of North Sister from the trail above Sunshine (17 Kb).
OPAL CREEK. This road/trail leads to Jawbone Flats, a 1930s mining camp that's been converted to an old-growth research center. A new bypass trail follows the creek up to Opal Pool, a green pool in a rock gorge surrounded by huge trees. Distance of basic recommended hike: 7.1-mile loop, with 200 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Sawmill Falls on the trail to Opal Creek (17 Kb).
PAMELIA LAKE. The popular trail to Pamelia Lake has something for everyone: an easy creekside forest stroll for the novice hiker, a lake with a mountain reflection for the meditative, and an optional, strenuous viewpoint climb for the go-getters. Distance of basic recommended hike: 4.4 miles round-trip, with 800 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Mt. Jefferson and Pamelia Lake from Grizzly Peak (12 Kb).
SILVER FALLS. This popular hike through Silver Falls State Park's forested canyons visits 10 spectacular waterfalls, 5 more than 100 feet high. Distance of basic recommended hike: 2.4-mile loop with 250 feet of elevation gain. Photo of South Falls (12 Kb).
SMITH ROCK. Smith Rock juts from the Central Oregon lava plains like an orange-sailed ship in the desert. Hikers can climb a new loop beside Monkey Face's rock tower to views of a string of Cascade snowpeaks. Distance of basic recommended hike: 4.1-mile loop with 800 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Smith Rock (12 Kb).
SOUTH SISTER. Oregon's third tallest peak has a path to its top. Admittedly, the trail up South Sister is exceedingly steep, long, and rugged, but no technical climbing skills are required and the rewards are great. Distance of basic recommended hike: 11 miles round-trip, with 4900 feet of elevation gain. Photo of South Sister from Moraine Lake (17 Kb).
TAM McARTHUR RIM. Surrounded by sheer, 500-foot cliffs, the viewpoint on the edge of Tam McArthur Rim is an almost aerial overlook of the Three Sisters. Distance of basic recommended hike: 5 miles round-trip, with 1200 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Broken Top from Tam McArthur Rim (17 Kb).
TAMOLITCH DRY FALLS. The entire McKenzie River vanishes into the ground along this scenic and remote portion of the McKenzie River Trail. Distance of basic recommended hike: 4.2 miles round-trip, with 200 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Tamolitch Pool on McKenzie River Trail (17 Kb).
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AZALEA LAKE/RED BUTTES WILDERNESS. Showy pink mountain azaleas and white beargrass plumes fringe this lake deep in the Red Buttes Wilderness. Distance of basic recommended hike: 13 miles round-trip, with 2030 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Figurehead Mountain from Azalea Lake (17 Kb).
BABYFOOT LAKE. A sprawling land of rugged canyons, rare plants, and ancient gold mines, the Kalmiopsis Wilderness is so remote that most of it is accessible only to backpackers -- but this lake is an easy day hike. Distance of basic recommended hike: 5.3-mile loop with 800 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Babyfoot Lake (17 Kb).
BOULDER CREEK. One of Oregon's few official wilderness areas that's hikable in winter, the Boulder Creek valley features a plateau forested with stately ponderosa pines -- a rarity west of the Cascades. Distance of basic recommended hike: 8.9 miles round-trip, with 1100 feet of elevation gain. Photo of trillium (17 Kb).
BOUNDARY SPRINGS. Few rivers begin as dramatically as the Rogue. At Boundary Springs, in the dry forests of Crater Lake National Park, the river pours out of the ground 20 feet wide, rushes through a meadow of yellow monkeyflowers, and tumbles over a 15-foot waterfall. Distance of basic recommended hike: 4.8 miles round-trip, with 480 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Boundary Springs (12 Kb).
BUCKEYE LAKE. A monumental landslide crumbled half of Grasshopper Mountain about 1000 years ago, damming the Fish Lake Valley with four square miles of jumbled debris. Surprisingly, the scene of this ancient disaster has become one of the loveliest subalpine landscapes anywhere. Distance of basic recommended hike: 3.4 miles round-trip, with 700 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Buckeye Lake and Grasshopper Mountain (12 Kb).
FALL CREEK FALLS. The shady trail to Fall Creek Falls' plunging double waterfall follows a cascading creek and squeezes through a crack in a house-sized boulder. Distance of basic recommended hike: 1.8 miles round-trip, with 400 feet of elevation gain. Photo of North Umpqua River (12 Kb).
FROG POND. A pond may not sound like a spectacular destination, but the Frog Pond Loop is actually one of the prettiest tours in the Red Buttes Wilderness. Distance of basic recommended hike: 7.9-mile loop with 1800 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Frog Pond (17 Kb).
GARFIELD PEAK. Perhaps the prettiest trail in Crater Lake National Park follows the lake's craggy rim from the historic lodge to the wildflowers and views of Garfield Peak. Distance of basic recommended hike: 3 miles round-trip, with 970 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Mt. Scott and Phantom Ship from Garfield Peak (12 Kb).
GRAYBACK MOUNTAIN. Two historic cabins and a glorious wildflower meadow adorn the slopes of this landmark peak. Distance: 4.8 miles round-trip, with 1800 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Grayback Meadows from Krause Cabin (12 Kb).
MOUNT SCOTT. Mt. Scott's lookout tower is the only place where hikers can fit the whole breathtaking sweep of Crater Lake into an average camera viewfinder. Distance of basic recommended hike: 5 miles round-trip, with 1030 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Mt. Scott from Garfield Peak (12 Kb).
MOUNT THIELSEN. Towering above Diamond Lake, Mt. Thielsen's stony spire commands views from Mt. Shasta to the Three Sisters. Distance of basic recommended hike: 10 miles round-trip, with 3800 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Mt. Thielsen from the summit trail (17 Kb).
MOUNTAIN LAKES. Precisely six miles square, this pocket Wilderness towers above Upper Klamath Lake like a misplaced chunk of the High Cascades. Distance of basic recommended hike: 17.1-mile loop with 2720 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Lake Harriette (17 Kb).
MOUNT ASHLAND MEADOWS. There are few handier spot for a quick stroll through subalpine wildflower meadows than along the Pacific Crest Trail at Mt. Ashland. Distance: 6.8 miles round-trip, with 600 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Mt. Ashland from the Pacific Crest Trail (17 Kb).
MOUNT BAILEY. The demanding trail to the summit of Mt. Bailey is full of surprises: a hidden crater, a rock garden of wildflowers, a double summit, and a rock wall with a window overlooking Diamond Lake. Distance of basic recommended hike: 9.8 miles round-trip, with 3130 feet of elevation gain. Photo of wildflowers near Mt. Bailey's summit (12 Kb).
MOUNT McLOUGHLIN. Mt. McLoughlin overlooks half the state -- and a good share of California, too. Distance of basic recommended hike: 10.6 miles round-trip, with 3915 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Fourmile Lake from Mt. McLoughlin's summit (17 Kb).
NATURAL BRIDGE. The upper Rogue River puts on one of its most spectacular performances in the popular Union Creek resort area: a disappearing act where the river vanishes underground. Distance of basic recommended hike: 2.4-mile loop with 300 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Rogue River from Natural Bridge loop (12 Kb).
SEVEN LAKES BASIN - EAST ROUTE. There are two routes into the popular Seven Lakes Basin in the heart of the lake-dotted Sky Lakes Wilderness. This eastern "back door" route may be a trifle longer than the official Seven Lakes Trail from the west, but a delightful lack of elevation gain makes it seem easier. Distance of basic recommended hike: 11.4 miles round-trip, with 900 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Devils Peak from Grass Lake in the Seven Lakes Basin (12 Kb).
SEVEN LAKES BASIN - WEST ROUTE. This western route into the Sky Lakes Wilderness leads past Alta Lake to swimmable Cliff Lake. A side trip visits Devils Peak's summit. Distance of basic recommended hike: 10.4 miles round-trip, with 2300 feet elevation gain. Photo of Devils Peak from Cliff Lake in the Seven Lakes Basin (12 Kb).
SKY LAKES. By far the easiest route into the famous lake-dotted high country of the Sky Lakes Wilderness, this loop passes half a dozen pools in a nearly level, forested basin.. Distance of basic recommended hike: 6.9-mile loop with 400 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Trapper and Margurette Lakes in the Sky Lakes Basin (17 Kb).
SODA MOUNTAIN. For an easy hike in this miniature wilderness near Ashland, follow the Pacific Crest Trail north to a viewpoint atop cliff-edged Hobart Bluff, on the shoulder of Soda Mountain. For a longer hike, follow the Pacific Crest Trail the other direct to the staffed lookout tower on Soda Mountain's summit. Distance of basic recommended hike: 2.4 miles round-trip, with 340 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Soda Mountain lookout (17 Kb).
STUART FALLS. Waterfalls and huckleberries draw hikers to this canyon between the Sky Lakes Wilderness and Crater Lake National Park. In addition to Stuart Falls -- a 40-foot fan on a columnar basalt cliff -- the route passes Red Blanket Falls and several unnamed cascades. Distance of basic recommended hike: 8.6 miles round-trip, with 1500 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Stuart Falls (17 Kb).
TOKETEE FALLS. An easy 0.4-mile trail leads to one of the North Umpqua's most spectacular waterfalls -- 90-foot Toketee Falls, whose name means "pretty" in the Northwest Indians' Chinook jargon. If you think the hike's too short, drive a couple miles and hike another 0.4 miles to 272-foot Watson Falls, the tallest waterfall in Southern Oregon. Distance of basic recommended hike: 0.8 mile round-trip, with 100 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Toketee Falls (12 Kb).
TWIN LAKES. It's hard to imagine a better family backpacking destination than this pair of gorgeous turquoise lakes. The nearly level, 0.9-mile trail to the lakes ambles through old-growth woods and wildflower meadows. At the lakes themselves you'll find two large shelters. Distance of basic recommended hike: 3.2-mile loop with 400 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Twin Lakes from Twin Lakes Mountain (17 Kb).
UPPER TABLE ROCK. Once a sanctuary for Takelma Indians, today this cliff-edged mesa near Medford is a haven for hikers and endangered wildflowers. Distance of basic recommended hike: 3.7-mile loop with 650 feet elevation gain. Photo of Rogue Valley from Lower Table Rock (17 Kb).
WIZARD ISLAND. The switchbacking trail down to Cleetwood Cove's tour boat dock is the most popular path in Crater Lake National Park -- and the only route to the lakeshore. Distance of basic recommended hike: 2.2 miles round-trip, with 654 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Wizard Island from Cleetwood Cove trail (17 Kb).
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EAGLE CAP'S MIRROR LAKE. High in the alp-like Wallowa Mountains, this heavily used trail leads through a cliff-lined, meadowed valley to a gorgeous lake beneath the massive granite crown of Eagle Cap, centerpiece of the Eagle Cap Wilderness. Distance of basic recommended hike: 15.2 miles round-trip, with 2000 feet of elevation gain. Photo of gentian bloom (17 Kb).
EAGLE LAKE. This hike three-day backpacking trip explores some of the most remote and beautiful high trails of the Wallowa Mountains' Eagle Cap Wilderness. Distance of basic recommended hike: 18.4-mile loop with 4500 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Indian paintbrush (17 Kb).
ELKHORN CREST. Perhaps the most scenic and best maintained single trail in the Blue Mountains' Elkhorn Range, this loop begins at Anthony Lake and circles the entire, craggy massif of Angell Peak and Gunsight Mountain. Distance of basic recommended hike: 6.5-mile loop with 1400 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Van Patten Peak from Elkhorn Crest Trail near Anthony Lake (12 Kb).
EUREKA BAR. One of the few easy trails into the heart of spectacular Hells Canyon, this path traces the raging, 40-foot-wide Imnaha River through a cliff-edged defile for 4.5 miles to the Snake River, at Eureka Bar's mile-long gravel beach. Distance of basic recommended hike: 9 miles round-trip, with 400 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Imnaha River Trail (12 Kb).
GEARHART MOUNTAIN. Craggy cliffs and rock domes top the long, low profile of Gearhart Mountain, an island of subalpine scenery amid the dry forests of south-central Oregon. Distance of basic recommended hike: 11.6 miles round-trip, with 1500 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Indian paintbrush (17 Kb).
ICE LAKE. Ice Lake is a breathtaking timberline pool set in smooth granite bedrock, overtowered by the Matterhorn and Sacajawea, tallest peaks in the Wallowa Mountains' Eagle Cap Wilderness. Distance of basic recommended hike: 15.8 miles round-trip, with 3200 feet of elevation gain. Photo of gentian bloom (17 Kb).
LITTLE STRAWBERRY LAKE. The alpine peaks, lakes, and waterfall on this trail in the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness are all the more astonishing because this island of high country is surrounded by the arid sagebrush landscape of Eastern Oregon. Distance of basic recommended hike: 5.8 miles round-trip, with 1200 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Strawberry Lake (17 Kb).
NINEMILE RIDGE. Climb a grassy ridge amid wildflowers for four miles into the heart of the North Fork Umatilla Wilderness, where a pair of summit knobs provide views across a steep canyonland. Distance of basic recommended hike: 8 miles round-trip, with 2100 feet of elevation gain. Photo of North Fork Umatilla Wilderness (17 Kb).
SNAKE RIVER TRAIL. The path through Hells Canyon along the Oregon shore of the raging Snake River has only two trailheads, Dug Bar and Hat Point. The route between them passes lonely river bars, abandoned homestead shacks, and countless viewpoints. Distance of basic recommended hike: 53.9 miles one-way, with 10,100 feet of cumulative elevation gain. Photo of Snake River in Hells Canyon (12 Kb).
TWIN PILLARS. A pair of 200-foot rock pillars tower above the old-growth ponderosa pine forests of the Mill Creek Wilderness, just an hour's drive east of Bend in the Ochoco Mountains. Distance of basic recommended hike: 10.8 miles round-trip, with 1800 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Mill Creek Wilderness from Twin Pillars (17 Kb).
WENAHA RIVER. Old-growth cottonwoods, fir, and ponderosa pine line the broad, whitewater Wenaha River as it caroms through a dramatic canyonland near the Washington border. Distance of basic recommended hike: 12 miles round-trip, with 400 feet of elevation gain. Photo of the Wenaha River (12 Kb).
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MOUNT HOOD MEADOWS. The largest ski resort on Mt. Hood has a nordic center with groomed trails through the woods, but the most spectacular scenery is on ungroomed, free trails nearby. Photo of Nordic skier (12 Kb).
TRILLIUM LAKE SNO-PARK. Although the Trillium Lake loop is often crowded with cross-country skiers because of the easy terrain and fabulous Mt. Hood views, this large, beautiful area has quiet corners too. Photo of Mt. Hood (17 Kb).
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MAXWELL SNO-PARK. This uncrowded area often has wet snow, but intermediate skiers can reach a spectacular, lodge-like shelter with a sweeping mountain view. Photo of Three Fingered Jack (17 Kb).
MOUNT BACHELOR. Some of the driest, most powdery snow in Oregon -- and the best groomed trails -- are in the gorgeous mountain terrain between Mt. Bachelor and Broken Top. Photo of Broken Top (12 Kb).
SWAMPY LAKES SNO-PARK. A free network of easy and moderate trails explores the rolling forest between Bend and Mt. Bachelor. The star attractions in this area are seven shelters scattered along the Nordic ski trails. Photo of snow-bent trees (17 Kb).
WILLAMETTE PASS/GOLD LAKE SNO-PARK. In addition to groomed trails at the Willamette Pass Ski Area, uncrowded free trails--sometimes with wet snow--lead to half a dozen mountain lakes and half a dozen rustic shelters. Photo of Rosary Lakes and Pulpit Rock (12 Kb).
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CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK. Ungroomed backcountry trails from Crater Lake's restored lodge explore this snowy national park; adventurous skiers can tackle the entire 33-mile circuit of the spectacular, blue volcanic lake. Photo of Nordic skier at Crater Lake (17 Kb).
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ANTHONY LAKE SKI AREA. Arguably the best powder snow in Oregon is hidden away in this little alpine lake basin high in the craggy Elkhorn Range of Eastern Oregon. Photo of Anthony Lake and Gunsight Mountain in winter (12 Kb).
STEENS MOUNTAIN. One of the wildest places in America, this massive peak in the desert has breathtaking views and miles of untouched powder, but only a few backcountry skiers tackle the long trek to the top. Photo of Steens Mountain from the Alvord Desert (17 Kb).
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MAXWELL SNO-PARK. This uncrowded area often has wet snow, but intermediate snowshoers can reach a spectacular, lodge-like shelter with a sweeping mountain view. Photo of Three Fingered Jack (17 Kb).
MOUNT BACHELOR. Some of the driest, most powdery snow in Oregon is here in the gorgeous mountain terrain between Mt. Bachelor and Broken Top. Photo of Broken Top (12 Kb).
GOLD LAKE SNO-PARK. This uncrowded network of trails at Willamette Pass leads to half a dozen mountain lakes and half a dozen rustic shelters. Photo of Rosary Lakes and Pulpit Rock (12 Kb).
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CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK. Ungroomed backcountry trails from Crater Lake's restored lodge explore this snowy national park; adventurous snowshoers can tackle the entire 33-mile circuit of the spectacular, blue volcanic lake. Photo of Crater Lake in winter (17 Kb).
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ANTHONY LAKES. Arguably the best powder snow in Oregon is hidden away in this little alpine lake basin high in the craggy Elkhorn Range of Eastern Oregon. Photo of Anthony Lake and Gunsight Mountain (12 Kb).
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BANKS-VERNONIA RAILROAD. A showpiece of the rails-to-trails movement, Banks-Vernonia Linear State Park consists of 20.7 miles of abandoned railroad converted to a wide. well-graded path through the forested Coast Range foothills. Distance: 41.4 miles round-trip, with an elevation gain of 700 feet. Photo of Buxton trestle (12 Kb).
BAYOCEAN SPIT. The scenic sand peninsula between Tillamook Bay and the Pacific Ocean has an abandoned road that visits the site of a vanished town and a jetty. Distance: 8.8 miles round-trip, with no elevation gain.
CAPE PERPETUA. Some of Oregon's most spectacular coastal forests surround the rugged headland of Cape Perpetua. Distance: 8.9-mile loop, with 1500 feet elevation gain. Photo of stone lookout atop Cape Perpetua (17 Kb).
FORT STEVENS. This 11-square-mile state park between the Columbia River and the Pacific has lots of attractions: the largest campground in Oregon, swimmable Coffenbury Lake, old artillery bunkers, and a broad beach with the rusting remains of a shipwreck. Distance: 9.4-mile loop, with 100 feet of elevation gain. Photo of shipwreck on Fort Stevens beach (17 Kb).
McCULLOUGH PEAK. Draping the hills just outside of Corvallis, the 11-square-mile McDonald Forest is a center for Oregon State University's forestry research. But it's also a convenient getaway for mountain bikers and hikers. Distance: 10-mile loop, with an elevation gain of 1200 feet.
MOUNT HEBO. Views from the three-mile-long, meadowed plateau atop Mt. Hebo stretch from Tillamook Bay and Cape Lookout to Pacific City's Haystack Rock. Distance: 16 miles round-trip, with an elevation gain of 2000 feet. Photo of skunk cabbage (12 Kb).
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CLOUD CAP. Shift to lowest gear for the demanding climb up the forested east face of Mount Hood, gaining 2050 to Cloud Cap and Tilly Jane Campgrounds, nearly at timberline. Distance: 11.8-mile loop, with 2050 feet elevation gain. Photo of Mt. Hood from Cooper Spur (12 Kb).
FOREST PARK. This convenient portion of Portland's 4800-acre Forest Park is just a few minutes from skyscrapers, but a world apart. Distance: 17.4-mile loop, with 900 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Portland from Pittock Mansion (17 Kb).
GUMJUWAC SADDLE. Follow a dramatic ridgecrest east of Mount Hood along the rim of the Badger Creek Wilderness to Gumjuwac Saddle, passing countless viewpoints and natural rock gardens of wildflowers along the way. Distance: 17.8 miles round-trip, with 2200 feet elevation gain. Photo of Mt. Hood from the trail near Gumjuwac Saddle (17 Kb).
PIONEER BRIDLE TRAIL. At the foot of beautiful Mount Hood, this loop climbs along the historic Barlow Trail portion of the old Oregon Trail, tours the town of Government Camp, and returns on a long, downhill gravel road along remote Still Creek. Distance: 27.9-mile loop, with an elevation gain of 2600 feet. Photo of Mt. Hood (17 Kb).
SHINING LAKE. During the Ice Age, glaciers gouged high, bowl-shaped valleys into the tableland between the Clackamas and Roaring Rivers. Now mountain lakes fill these forested dales. Distance: 18.4 miles, with an elevation gain of 1300 feet. Photo of Mt. Hood from ridge above Roaring River (17 Kb).
SURVEYORS RIDGE. From the long crest of Surveyors Ridge, picture-postcard views extend across the Upper Hood River Valley to snowy Mount Hood. The ride up to the viewpoint is breathtaking, too. Distance: 29.3-mile loop, with an elevation gain of 2700 feet. Photo of Mt. Hood from the east (17 Kb).
TIMOTHY LAKE. Follow the Pacific Crest Trail along the forested shore of Timothy Lake on this easy loop around one of the Cascades' larger and more scenic reservoirs. Distance: 10.8-mile loop, with an elevation gain of 200 feet. Photo of Mt. Hood from Timothy Lake (17 Kb).
TRILLIUM LAKE. Some of the most beautiful postcard photographs of Mount Hood are taken from Trillium Lake, a mountain pool with a very popular campground and picnic area.. Distance: 3.9-mile loop, with an elevation gain of 200 feet. Photo of Mt. Hood from the south (17 Kb).
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CHUCKSNEY MOUNTAIN. This invigorating loop climbs along forested ridges to the crest of Chucksney Mountain, where it cruises more than a mile through delightful summit meadows with views of the Three Sisters. Distance: 10.3-mile loop, with 2000 feet of elevation gain. Photo of beargrass bloom (17 Kb).
EUGENE's RIDGELINE. Eugene's skyline is not dominated by buildings, but rather by a long, forested ridge topped with Spencers Butte's haystack-shaped knob. Distance: 7.1-mile loop, with 800 feet of elevation gain. Photo of sword ferns (19 Kb).
EUGENE's WILLAMETTE RIVER. Eugene's famous network of bike paths have not only encouraged thousands of citizens to commute to work by bicycle, but they've also proven to be a recreation destination in their own right. The most beautiful of these paved bicycle routes trace both shores of the Willamette River all the way through the city. Distance: 12.6-mile loop, with 50 feet elevation gain. Photo of Autzen bike bridge over Willamette River (19 Kb).
GREEN RIDGE. The forested scarp of Green Ridge rises like a dark wall along the beautiful Metolius River, splitting the arid lands of Central Oregon from the High Cascades. Distance: 27.3-mile loop, with 2100 feet elevation gain. Photo of beargrass bloom (17 Kb).
LARISON CREEK. The relatively easy Larison Creek Trail, usually open even in winter, starts along a sunny shore of Hills Creek Reservoir and then follows a small creek through a deep, forested canyon. Distance: 18.8-mile loop, with an elevation gain of 1400 feet. Photo of bigleaf maple leaves (19 Kb).
McKENZIE RIVER TRAIL. Ancient Douglas fir and red cedar six feet in diameter tower above the McKenzie's roaring whitewater along this easily accessible trail. Distance: 26 miles round-trip, with an elevation gain of 700 feet. Photo of Sahalie Falls on McKenzie River Trail (17 Kb).
MIDDLE FORK WILLAMETTE RIVER. Though deep in the Cascade Range, this stretch of river is still recognizably the grand old Willamette. Distance: 9.1-mile loop, with an elevation gain of 400 feet. Photo of Willamette River (19 Kb).
PAULINA CREEK. Paulina Creek springs from a caldera lake high in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, tumbles down the volcano's slopes in a series of waterfalls, and meanders across the high desert. Distance: 17.2 miles round-trip, with an elevation gain of 2000 feet. Photo of Paulina Lake (17 Kb).
SHEVLIN PARK. This canyon rim trail along Tumalo Creek begins just 4 miles from downtown Bend, yet feels surprisingly remote. Distance: 5-mile loop, with an elevation gain of 300 feet.
SILVER FALLS PARK. Bicycles aren't allowed on the spectacular hiking trail past Silver Falls State Park's ten impressive waterfalls, but there's a paved bike path loop in the woods nearby. Distance: 3.5-mile loop, with an elevation gain of 200 feet. Photo of South Falls (12 Kb).
SOUTH WILLAMETTE TRAIL. Conveniently near Eugene and Highway 58, this trail traverses the lower flanks of Hardesty Mountain, a forested ridge beside the Lookout Point Reservoir. Distance: 9.2 miles round-trip, with an elevation gain of 700 feet. Photo of fog on Mt. June (17 Kb).
SWAMPY LAKES. This easy dirt trail climbs from the South Fork of Tumalo Creek to a rustic shelter and then switchbacks up to meadows (and another shelter)at Swampy Lake. Distance: 8.4 miles round-trip, with an elevation gain of 1000 feet. Photo of red paintbrush (17 Kb).
TAM McARTHUR RIM. Tam McArthur Rim, an alpine ridge jutting out of the Three Sisters Wilderness, has a front-row view of the most spectacular snowpeaks in Oregon's central Cascades. Distance: 29.5 miles one-way, with an elevation gain of 1050 feet. Photo of Broken Top from Tam McArthur Rim (17 Kb).
WALDO LAKE. This dirt path circles a gigantic, crystal-clear lake at the crest of the Cascade Range. Sandy beaches make for good, but chilly, swimming stops. Distance: 20.2-mile loop, with an elevation gain of 200 feet. Photo of Waldo Lake (12 Kb).
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APPLEGATE LAKE. This reservoir is wreathed not only by the forests of the Siskiyou Mountains, but also by a convenient network of trails. The ride around the lake is two-thirds on trail and one-third on paved roads. Distance: 17.8-mile loop, with an elevation gain of 300 feet.
ASHLAND LOOP. Before settling down to a play at Ashland's Shakespearean Festival, theater-goers often stretch their legs with a stroll through Lithia Park. But if you're on a bike, you can tackle a challenging 28.5-mile loop that circles the entire Ashland Creek watershed to the edge of Mt. Ashland itself. Distance: 28.5-mile loop, with an elevation gain of 3180 feet. Ashland Creek in Lithia Park (17 Kb).
DIAMOND LAKE. Crater Lake may be a dramatic draw for out-of-staters, but Oregonians visit neighboring Diamond Lake five times as often. A paved 11.5-mile loop trail provides an easy ride around the lake for mountain bikers. Distance: 11.5-mile loop, with 100 feet elevation gain. Photo of Mt. Thielsen from Diamond Lake ( 17 Kb).
HIGH LAKES. A new bicycle path links Fish Lake with Lake of the Woods, passing the lava flows of the Cascade summit on the way. Distance: 12.6 miles one-way, elevation gain 570 feet. Photo of North Fork Little Butte Creek at the outlet of Fish Lake (12 Kb).
LOWER ROGUE RIVER. The famous wilderness portion of the Rogue River Trail is only open to hikers, but this path along a lower portion of the rugged river canyon is open to bicyclists. Distance: 24.4 miles round-trip, with an elevation gain of 1900 feet. Photo of Rogue River (12 Kb).
NORTH UMPQUA RIVER TRAIL. In all, the North Umpqua Trail follows this whitewater river 79 miles to its headwaters in the High Cascades. If that seems too long a bike ride, try the 5.5-mile segment featured here from Wright Creek to the settlement of Steamboat. Distance: 11.1-mile loop, with an elevation gain of 400 feet. Photo of North Umpqua River (12 Kb).
SOUTH FORK ROGUE RIVER. A well-built trail follows the brawling, bouldery South Fork Rogue River through old-growth woods with huge sugarpine trees. Distance: 12.2-mile loop, with an elevation gain of 550 feet. Photo of bunchberry (17 Kb).
STERLING MINE DITCH. In 1877, Chinese laborers dug a 26.5-mile ditch around the upper Applegate Valley's hills to carry water to a gold mine. Today the Sterling Mine ditch lives on as a 17.1-mile recreation trail winding across hillsides of the oak grasslands and pine forests. Distance: 17.1 miles one way, with an elevation gain of 700 feet.
TAYLOR CREEK. Conveniently near Grants Pass and open all year, this trail traces Taylor Creek up to a forested pass and then descends past Big Pine Campground, home of the world's tallest ponderosa pine tree. Distance: 9.7 miles one-way, with an elevation gain of 1700 feet.
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IMNAHA RIVER. Here's a challenge: ride a mountain bike to the bottom of the deepest river gorge on earth. The trek follows a dirt backroad and a cliff-hugging trail down the dramatic Imnaha River gorge to the Snake River's Eureka Bar at the bottom of Hells Canyon. Distance: 37 miles round-trip, with an elevation gain of 2100 feet. Photo of Imnaha River Trail (12 Kb).
LOWER DESCHUTES RIVER. The charms of a desert river are many: bright blue skies, the pungent smell of sage, birdsong across glassy water, and the cool grass of an oasis-like riverbank. You'll find it all on the 12-mile Deschutes River bike path from the state park at the mouth of the river. Distance: 24 miles round-trip, with an elevation gain of 300 feet.
STEENS MOUNTAIN. Landmark for all of southeast Oregon, 50-mile-long Steens Mountain looms snowy and sudden a vertical mile above the Alvord Desert's stark alkali flats. Distance: 67.1-mile loop, with an elevation gain of 6210 feet. Photo of Steens Mountain from the Alvord Desert (17 Kb).
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BOARDMAN STATE PARK. Boardman State Park is a spectacular parade of coastal islands, beaches, coves, and capes. This ride tours the entire length of the park -- arguably the prettiest part of Oregon's coast. Distance: 34-mile loop, with 2000 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Boardman Park (12 Kb).
CORVALLIS-ALPINE-PEORIA. A longish loop through the farms of the Willamette Valley, this ride begins on the Corvallis-Philomath bike path, visits the Finley National Wildlife Refuge, crosses the Willamette River at the quaint old village of Harrisburg, and returns on a country road past a historic Mennonite church.. Distance: 58-mile loop, with 500 feet elevation gain. Photo of Marys Peak (17 Kb).
SALEM-MONMOUTH. In the heart of the Willamette Valley's farmlands, this loop tours along the Willamette River from Oregon's capital to the college town of Monmouth.. Distance: 30.9-mile loop, with 200 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Willamette River (19 Kb).
THREE CAPES. Three of Oregon's most beautiful coastal headlands overlook a quiet stretch of Pacific shore bypassed by busy Highway 101 near Tillamook. Recommended loop distance: 42-mile loop, with 1400 feet elevation gain. Photo of Cape Kiwanda near Pacific City (17 Kb).
YACHATS RIVER ROAD. Cape Perpetua's rugged, forested headland has some of Oregon's finest ocean views. This tour starts at a coastal village, climbs up a sleepy rural valley, and glides down through the woods on a paved, one-lane road to Cape Perpetua. Distance: 22-mile loop, with 1800 feet elevation gain. Photo of lava shore at Cape Perpetua (17 Kb).
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OLD COLUMBIA RIVER HIGHWAY. When the Columbia River Highway opened in 1915, the scenic road was hailed as the "dream of a century." The route amazed visitors with its Columbia Gorge vistas, elaborate stonework railings, graceful hairpin curves, and spectacular roadside waterfalls. Distance: 43 miles round-trip, with 1900 feet elevation gain. Photo of Columbia Gorge from Crown Point (17 Kb).
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AUFDERHEIDE DRIVE. The paved route on this ride passes a natural hot springs and ancient forests on the western edge of the Three Sisters Wilderness. Distance: 51 miles round-trip, with 2600 feet elevation gain. Photo of sword ferns (19 Kb).
MCKENZIE VIEW DRIVE. Along the lovely McKenzie River, this loop from Springfield can be extended if you start from downtown Eugene instead. Distance: 15.9-mile loop, with 200 feet of elevation gain.
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CRATER LAKE RIM. One of the most beautiful alpine roads in the world loops around the rim of the Crater Lake, the astonishingly blue pool in Oregon's only national park. Distance: 33-mile loop, with 2900 feet of elevation gain. Photo of Mt. Scott and Phantom Ship from Crater Lake's rim (12 Kb).
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FRENCHGLEN-MALHEUR. At the foot of snowy Steens Mountain in the deserts of far eastern Oregon, the surprising marshes of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge are Oregon's premiere birdwatching site. Distance: 24.6-mile loop, with 100 feet elevation gain. Photo of Steens Mountain from the Alvord Desert (17 Kb).
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Rock Climbing Sites
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BEACON ROCK. The most popular climbing area near Portland, Beacon Rock's 848-foot-tall block of columnar basalt rises like Gibraltar from the Washington shore of the Columbia River. Photo from Beacon Rock's railed hiking trail (12 Kb).
MOUNT HOOD. Oregon's tallest mountain has become one of the world's most climbed snowpeaks. Photo of Mt. Hood from Timberline Lodge (17 Kb).
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MENAGERIE WILDERNESS. The Menagerie Wilderness is named for a cluster of two dozen rock spires that resemble giant stone animals rising above the forested Cascade foothills east of Sweet Home.
MOUNT JEFFERSON. The second tallest peak in Oregon is the hardest to climb. The summit itself is 10,497 feet above sea level. Photo of Mt. Jefferson from the north (17 Kb).
MOUNT WASHINGTON. Surrounded by the forests and lava flows of the Mt. Washington Wilderness, this 7794-foot peak has a thumb-shaped summit lava plug and offers a variety of technical climbs. Photo of Mt. Washington from the Pacific Crest Trail (17 Kb).
SKINNERS BUTTE. Downtown Eugene has one of the most convenient -- and most heavily used -- practice climbing areas in Oregon. The Skinner's Butte Columns are a pocket of 30-foot-tall columnar basalt cliffs.
SMITH ROCK. Oregon's best technical rock climbing is on the orange rock walls and pinnacles of Smith Rock State Park. Here you'll find over 1000 named routes and three miles of reliably solid rock cliffs composed of welded rhyolite ash. Photo of Smith Rock State Park (12 Kb).
THREE SISTERS. The Three Sisters line up like three 10,000-foot-tall scoops in the world's largest ice cream sundae. To the east are the craggy remnants of Broken Top, an exploded volcano with a 9175-foot summit. Photo of North Sister from the east (17 Kb).
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PILOT ROCK. Pioneers once looked to Pilot Rock to find the easiest pass across the Siskiyous from California to Oregon. Today this mountaintop landmark is a popular practice spot for rock climbers, offering 200-foot-tall columnar basalt cliffs and sweeping viewpoints. Photo of Pilot Rock (17 Kb).http://
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STEINS PILLAR. Towering above the ponderosa pine forests of the Ochoco Mountains east of Prineville, this 400-foot rock pillar remained unclimbed until 1950 -- partly because the Ochocos are not well-traveled, and partly because all sides of the tower are overhanging.
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Whitewater Raft Trips
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CLACKAMAS RIVER. Cottonwoods and Douglas firs line this relatively ea