Since Oregon is my home, I always look here first when I get the itch for a good hike. If you’re looking for a detailed guide to Oregon hikes, look no further!

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Epic Oregon Hikes

In my 25+ years of living here, these hikes are my ultimate favorites. I’ll share with you the nitty gritty of each hike, where they are located, any park pass information, and whether the hikes are dog-friendly. Oregonians do love their furry friends!

This list is in no particular order of greatness – all of these hikes are simply amazing. If you’re new to hiking, not to worry, read on for hiking tips and tricks!

Whether you are looking for challenging backcountry adventures, family-friendly hikes, or scenic walks with stunning views, you are sure to find a trail that suits your needs. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at some of the best hikes in Oregon that you won’t want to miss.

So pack your hiking boots, grab your backpack, and discover the Oregon hiking trail that speaks to your soul!

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning we make a little bit of money to support this site if you click through and purchase at no additional cost to you.

Tips for Hiking in Oregon

Layering is key! Oregon weather can be unpredictable, even in summer, so having a good base layer, along with waterproof gear such as a warm shell layer, and sturdy (broken in!) hiking boots or shoes is always strongly recommended. One reason why Oregon is so green is because it rains here. A lot.
Hit the trails first thing in the morning during summer! Most of these trails will be packed with fellow hikers. So if you prefer to hike in relative peace and quiet, go as early as your body will allow. 8 am is preferable! The trails always start to get busy around 10 am when its warm. Getting there early is also good for securing a parking spot.
Most trails are dog-friendly (unless otherwise stated.) But ALWAYS keep them on a leash. No matter how well behaved they are. Oregonians love dogs, but some visiting hikers do not.
Always check the official webiste for up-to-date information. Sometimes, largely due to weather or natural events, portions of these trails can close.
Leave No Trace. As more people are becoming aware of sustainability, I’m sure you’ve heard this term often. It is the law of the trail. Never leave anything on the ground (even that apple core). Pick up after yourself, and always stay on designated trail paths. Pack it in – pack it out. And also pick up after your poo-ch!

As they say…leave only footsteps.

Columbia River Gorge

Angel’s Rest Trail – Columbia River Gorge

Length: 8 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,500 ft.
Trail Type: Out and Back
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking Pass: Northwest Forest Pass
Trailhead Location

Located in the town of Corbett a few miles east of Portland, this hike is a popular and scenic trail that offers stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge. With an elevation gain of 1,500 feet, this hike is moderate to difficult, but the views from the top are worth the effort. The trail is covered with wildflowers in spring, and hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the gorge from the summit.

When I hiked this trail I encountered heart-pumping switchbacks and rocky terrain through a diverse landscape of ferns and moss-covered trees. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with breath-taking panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge, the surrounding Cascade Mountains, Mount Adams and Mount Hood on a clear day.

Trail of Ten Falls – Silver Falls State Park

Length: 8.7 miles
Difficulty: Easy / Moderate
Elevation Gain: 800 ft.
Trail Type: Loop
Parking Pass: Oregon State Parks Pass
Trailhead Location

The Trail of Ten Falls located in Silver Falls State Park is one of Oregon’s most popular hiking trails. The trail features ten majestic waterfalls cascading through a lush green forest. The hike is a easy to moderate and you can explore all ten falls in a single-day.

As you traverse the trail, you’ll encounter several suspension bridges that offer splendid views of the falls. The massive South Falls, at 177 feet, is the most popular of the ten, and you’ll be able to walk behind the waterfall. You literally can see the backside of water! (If you’re a fan of Disney’s The Jungle Cruise, you’ll know what I’m referring to!)

This trail is a loop and there is more than one place to start the hike. I recommend going to the South Falls Trailhead. There is a parking lot there. Just be sure to arrive early, as the lot tends to fill up quickly!

This well-maintained trail is suitable for hikers of all levels. Note: Dogs are not allowed on this trail.

Crater Lake National Park

Mount Scott Trail – Crater Lake

Length: 3 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,300 ft.
Trail Type: Out and Back
Difficulty: Moderate
Trailhead Location
National Parks Pass Required. You can obtain one at the main lodge.

Crater Lake National Park is known for its awe-inspiring natural beauty, which makes for some of the most scenic hikes in the state. Read about my first foray to Crater Lake here.

Crater Lake is known for its awe-inspiring natural beauty, which makes for some of the most scenic hikes in the state. The park offers over 90 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes that require a bit of scrambling. The Garfield Peak Trail is one of the most popular hikes in the park, taking you to the top of Garfield Peak for panoramic views of Crater Lake and the surrounding mountains.

But we’re here for the magnificent Mt. Scott Trail. On this hike you’ll ascend to the park’s highest point. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping view of the lake below and the surrounding landscape. On a clear day, you’ll see Mt. Thielsen and Mt. McLoughlin in the distance.

NOTE: Crater Lake is the ONLY National Park in Oregon, so you’ll need the America the Beautiful pass. Much of the park is closed in the winter months, and this trail is no exception, so be sure to do it in summer/early fall. Dogs are not allowed on any trails around Crater Lake.

Best Hikes in Oregon Coast

Clatsop Loop Trail – Ecola State Park

Length: 3 miles
Elevation Gain: 900 ft.
Trail Type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking Pass: Oregon State Parks Pass
Trailhead Location

The Oregon coast is a stunning landscape of rocky shorelines, rugged cliffs, and pristine beaches, and hiking along its trails is an unforgettable experience. Ecola State Park, located between Seaside and Cannon Beach, has a scenic trail that offers fantastic views of the Oregon coastline and the Pacific Ocean.

The trail is surrounded by old-growth forests and an abundance of wildlife. Along the way, you’ll enjoy sweeping vistas overlooking the mighty Pacific. This trail, in particular, sees plenty of moisture year-round, and spots can be muddy, so bring those waterproof hiking shoes!

Begin your adventure at the Indian Beach trailhead where you’ll get most of the ascent out of the way. Once you reach higher ground, you’ll be able to see Tillamook Head Lighthouse in the distance – an amazing sight!

Hiking Eastern Oregon

Steens Mountain Loop – Eastern Oregon

Difficulty:Difficult
Distance:28 miles
Trail Type: Loop
Elevation:5,240 feet
Time needed:2-4 days
Trailhead Location

Located in the rugged wilderness of Eastern Oregon, this nearly 30-mile trail is one of the most spectacular hikes in Oregon. Overlooked by many, the trail covers high desert, alpine meadows, and lush valleys. Hikers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and canyons, and spot wildlife such as bighorn sheep and mountain goats.

I hiked only a small portion of this loop, and what I did witness left me hungry for more. I shall return. I even saw some bighorn sheep, and a pack of wild horses! One of the best things about being way out here is the drive leading up to the loop – the views were beyond amazing.

Because of its remote location and expansiveness, you’ll find very few people on this trail. Great if you want to truly be one with nature! Note that his trail is usually closed during the colder months.

Hiking Near Sisters, Oregon

Three Sisters Loop – Bend

Location: Bend, Oregon
Trail Type: Loop
Difficulty:Difficult
Distance:48 miles
Elevation gain:5,000 feet
Trailhead Location

This must-do loop trail is located near Bend and offers stunning views of the Three Sisters Mountains and other peaks in the Cascade Range. The trail is challenging, but rewarding, and offers hikers a chance to explore alpine meadows, lakes, and forests. It is dotted with wildflowers in spring and early summer, and is a popular spot for backpackers.

If you opt for the multi-day hike you get the wonderful chance to explore the Central Oregon High Cascade Mountains at its finest. Along the way, you’ll traverse through alpine meadows, glaciers, and lava fields and views of the Three Sisters mountains: Mount Washington, Broken Top, and Mount Bachelor. On a clear day, the views are spectacular!

The hike is strenuous, and you need to be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Misery Ridge Trail – Smith Rock State Park

Length: 6 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,700 ft.
Trail Type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate / Hard
Parking Pass: Oregon State Parks Pass
Trailhead Location

Known as the birthplace of American sport climbing, Smith Rock State Park is a mecca for rock climbers and hikers alike. The park offers over 12 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes for experienced hikers.

My highlight of the park was the Misery Ridge Trail, a strenuous 4.5-mile hike that takes you to the top of a rocky outcropping for stunning views of the park and the surrounding mountains.

Misery Ridge, as the name to aptly implies, is a challenge. From the outset, you will be ascending sharply, so put your game face on.

Here in the high desert, the landscapes is very different than what you’ll see west of the Cascades Mountain Range. Smith Rock itself is an amazing sight to behold, so the views throughout this hike will keep you occupied.

Along the way, you’ll encounter Monkey Face – a world-renowned rock-climbing destination. If you care to do some rock climbing yourself, there are lessons available from local experts. If you’re doing this hike in the thick of summer, be sure to start early to beat the heat!

And there you have it!

Oregon has no shortage of beautiful hiking trails, and this list only scratches the surface. With over 2,000 miles of hiking trails, there is no shortage of stunning hikes to explore in this state. From natural wonders and cascading waterfalls to spectacular views of the coastline, here are the seven scenic hikes that you must experience in Oregon.