Alright, let’s talk about some day trips you can actually take from Portland, Oregon. I recently went on a few, and I’m gonna spill the beans on how they went.
First Up: Cannon Beach
Okay, so Cannon Beach is a classic. Everyone tells you to go, and there’s a reason for that. First, I grabbed my keys, hopped in the car, and punched Cannon Beach into the GPS. It’s about an hour and a half drive, mostly on pretty easy roads. Got there around mid-morning. Parking can be a pain, especially on weekends, so be prepared to circle a bit. I walked right onto the beach and saw Haystack Rock. You can’t miss it; it’s HUGE. Spent a couple of hours just walking around, taking photos, and watching the waves crash. The little shops in town are cute. I got some saltwater taffy (touristy, I know) and had a decent lunch at a pub. Headed back to Portland in the late afternoon. No regrets.
Next: Multnomah Falls (and the Gorge!)
Multnomah Falls is another must-see. It’s super close, only like 30-40 minutes from Portland, which is great. Drove out there early to beat the crowds. Parked at the base of the falls (you might need a permit now, so check that beforehand!). I hiked up to the Benson Bridge for the classic photo op. Then, I went further up the trail – way less crowded up there, and the views are even better. I then drove along the Historic Columbia River Highway. Stopped at a few other viewpoints, like Vista House at Crown Point. That place is wild! You can see forever. I grabbed a quick burger at a roadside diner somewhere along the way. Easy peasy, and back in Portland before dinner.
A Little Further Out: Mount Hood
Okay, Mount Hood is a bit more of a commitment, but totally worth it. Drove out there on a Saturday morning, took about an hour and a half. Aimed for Timberline Lodge. The lodge itself is amazing. It’s like stepping back in time. Walked around inside, checked out the views. Then, I did a short hike on one of the trails nearby. There are trails for all skill levels, so you can find something that suits you. Even in the summer, there’s usually some snow up there. Stopped in Government Camp on the way back down for some food. Had some surprisingly good pizza. Mount Hood is beautiful. It makes for an awesome day trip.
Things I Learned:
- Check the weather: Oregon weather can be unpredictable. Always check the forecast before you go and pack accordingly.
- Bring snacks and water: You never know when you’ll get hungry or thirsty, especially if you’re hiking.
- Be prepared for crowds: Popular spots can get crowded, especially on weekends. Try to go early or during the week.
- Have fun! Day trips are all about exploring and enjoying yourself. Relax and take it all in.
So, there you have it – a few ideas for day trips from Portland. Get out there and explore! You won’t regret it. These are just my personal experiences and I think you will enjoy these day trips!
