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    • Sellwood-Moreland
    • Williams
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Emma Mannheimer

Emma Mannheimer

Emma Mannheimer is a Seattle-born, Portland-based writer and editor. Read More

Take in a tranquil sunrise at one of these Oregon parks and forests. Take in a tranquil sunrise at one of these Oregon parks and forests.
i
Take in a tranquil sunrise at one of these Oregon parks and forests.
Credit: Oregon Bureau of Land Management
Culture / Outdoors

Sunrise Hikes Near Portland

Get outside early for empty trails and spectacular sights

Updated Apr. 30, 2020 3 min read
Emma Mannheimer

Emma Mannheimer

Emma Mannheimer is a Seattle-born, Portland-based writer and editor. Read More

The secret is out: Oregon’s spectacularly beautiful scenery delivers some of the nation’s best hiking. Beat the onslaught of fellow trekkers by hitting the road extra early to embark on a breathtaking sunrise hike. (Safety tip: If you are hiking before daybreak, arrive prepared with headlamps and any other necessary equipment.)

Powell Butte Nature Park

Witnessing the sunrise from an extinct cinder cone volcano (that lies conveniently within Portland’s city limits) is definitely one for the memory books. The 611 acres (247 hectares)of Powell Butte Nature Park are crisscrossed by several different trails, allowing you to design your perfect hike. Climb 600 feet (183 m) to the butte’s highest point to see Mount Hood and other peaks; the mountain finder on Summit Lane will assist with any identification debates. The park opens at 5 a.m., just in time to catch those first golden rays.

Kelley Point Loop

If a beach towel sounds like your ideal sunrise vantage point, head to Kelley Point Park at the very tip of North Portland, where the Willamette and Columbia Rivers converge. Mount Saint Helens and Mount Hood make cameo appearances at points along the 1.7-mile (2.7 km) loop through a cottonwood grove. Keep your eyes open for seabirds as you settle down by the water’s edge for a front row seat to nature’s morning show. Stay a while to take advantage of the cool water on a scorching summer day.

Saddle Mountain

Head 70 miles (113 km) northwest of Portland for eye-popping 360º views from Saddle Mountain’s 3,290-foot (1,003 m) summit. Although steep at times, the 2.5-mile (4 km) hike to the top promises majestic views of the Pacific Ocean’s blue expanse, Washington’s Mount Rainer and everything in between.

Where to Go

More Local Regions
Crescent Beach is located at Ecola Point on Oregon\'s north coast.

Oregon Coast

From the fishing city of Astoria to the tide pools of Yachats, the Oregon Coast is a rugged, unspoiled treasure that begins 90 minutes from Portland.

The approach to Mount Hood in winter.

Mount Hood

Mount Hood offers scenic recreation ranging from camping, hiking and fishing to nearly year-round skiing.

The historic Vista House at Crown Point serves as both a museum, resting point for travelers and panoramic viewpoint of the incredible scenery.

Columbia River Gorge

Starting just 30 miles east of Portland, the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area offers amazing vistas, trails and more than 90 waterfalls.

Rowena Plateau

Only 90 minutes from Portland by car, Rowena Plateau has it all: flowers, wildlife and gorgeous Columbia River Gorge views. Clocking in at a little over 2 miles (3.2 km) out and back, this plateau hike is ideal for those seeking minimal exertion while reaping maximum sunrise rewards. It’s a doable hike for families, so hustle the whole gang out the door and watch in awe as the sun illuminates the gorge below. Unfortunately, your furry friends will have to stay home for this one.

Dog Mountain

Also 90 minutes east of the city, Dog Mountain is an enduring favorite of Portlanders despite its Washington state locale. While the full length of the hike stretches 7 miles (11 km), for a hike this early, we recommend stopping off at the lower viewpoint 1.5 miles (2.4 km) in to watch the sunrise from an elevation of 1,600 feet (488 m). Marvel at the Columbia River glittering below and the blooms during wildflower season. In addition to the Northwest Forest parking pass required to leave your car near the trailhead, each hiker must purchase a $1.50 permit on the weekends between March 31 and July 1.

Lost Lake Loop

It’s difficult to imagine a better place to watch the sun rise than along the perimeter of Lost Lake Loop. The drive from Portland is just under two hours, leading travelers through the Gorge before dipping into Mt. Hood National Forest’s wooded splendor. Avoid the usual summertime crowds by making the drive to Lost Lake extra early; you’ll be rewarded with front row seats to the rosy rays of dawn creeping over Mount Hood and reflecting on the 245-acre (99 hectare) lake below. This 3.2-mile (5 km) loop is easy enough that even sleepy kiddos will be impressed.

Outdoors, Parks & Gardens

Hiking Around Portland

More Outdoors
Portland\'s pet parents love hitting the trails in Forest Park.

Favorite Hiking Spots in Portland

Put on some comfortable shoes and start walking — you’ll be surprised how easy Portland makes it.

Hoyt Arboretum offers 12 miles of accessible hiking trails.

Accessible Trails in and Near Portland

Portland and the Columbia River Gorge are filled with hiking opportunities, many of which have Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessible portions.

Hikers of all ages enjoy exploring Forest Park.

Kid-Friendly Hikes

Portland has numerous kid-friendly hiking spots with trails under 4 miles (6 km) close to the city and bursting with natural beauty.

Spring Hikes Near Portland

There’s something special about the first spring hike of the year. Enjoy wildflowers, bird watching and breathtaking scenery on these springtime rambles.

Enjoy an autumnal walk along the Banks-Vernonia Trail.

Fall Hikes Near Portland

These fall hikes near Portland prove that autumn is an ideal time to explore Oregon wilderness, admire seasonal flora and fauna, and visit nearby farms.

Oregon\'s famous Multnomah Falls is especially gorgeous when it\'s partially frozen.

Winter Hikes in and Near Portland

Oregon’s great outdoors offers excellent adventures all year-round. Here are six Portland-area paths perfect for all-weather adventures.

Outdoor Events

Full Calendar
Editor's Pick
Oregon Spring Cleanup
Apr. 10–25, 2021

Oregon Spring Cleanup

Various Locations

SOLVE is excited to launch a brand-new statewide event called the Oregon Spring Cleanup, presented by Portland General Electric. For over fifty years, SOLVE has been supporting the efforts of awesome partners and amazing volunteers from around the state who are motivated to take care of their special place in Oregon. There are dozens of…

Editor's Pick
For Kids
Outdoors
Editor's Pick
Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival
Mar. 19–May 2, 2021

Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival

Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm $5-$60

Colorful fields reminiscent of Holland burst with acres of tulips in full bloom at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival in Woodburn.

Editor's Pick
Attractions
Festivals
For Kids
Parks & Gardens
Spring
Editor's Pick
Earth Day Oregon in Forest Park
Saturday, Apr. 24, 2021

Earth Day Oregon in Forest Park

Forest Park Free

Forest Park Conservancy will be celebrating Earth Day Oregon this year on Saturday, April 24, and we’re inviting you to join! We will create small volunteer experiences for small groups spread throughout Forest Park. We will be planting native species and removing invasive species throughout Forest Park. Our goal is to provide fun, helpful ways…

Editor's Pick
Outdoors
Editor's Pick
Hippie Chick Half Marathon
Saturday, May 8, 2021

Hippie Chick Half Marathon

Ron Tonkin Field $15-$89

The Hippie Chick half marathon, quarter marathon, 5k and kid’s half-mile race returns in 2021 for Mother’s Day weekend! This female-focused event is designed to celebrate how amazing women are. Grab your mom, your sister, your friend, or your co-worker and register to run through Oregon’s scenic countryside. The route finishes back at Ron Tonkin…

Editor's Pick
Outdoors
Sports
Editor's Pick
Water Lantern Festival
Saturday, June 12, 2021

Water Lantern Festival

Laurelhurst Park Varies

Portland’s annual Water Lantern Festival is a beautiful experience where you’ll witness the magic of lanterns as they light up the water at Laurelhurst Park. This family-friendly event includes food trucks, pre-made floating lantern kits, markers, ascavenger hunt and more.

Editor's Pick
For Kids
Outdoors
Canceled
Festival of Balloons
June 25–27, 2021

Festival of Balloons

Cook Park Prices Vary

Hot-air balloons take flight mere minutes from downtown Portland every summer.

Canceled
Events
Festivals
Outdoors
Editor's Pick
Oregon Country Fair
July 9–11, 2021

Oregon Country Fair

Virtual Ticket Prices Vary

Oregon Country Fair will be hosting Fair in the Clouds: A Virtual Event from July 9-11, 2021. Please visit the event website for current information. Delight in the Oregon Coutnry Fair’s world class entertainment, handmade crafts, delectable foods, educational displays and magical surprises at every turn of the path. The Oregon Country Fair is nestled…

Editor's Pick
Festival
Outdoors
Editor's Pick
The Big Float
Saturday, July 10, 2021

The Big Float

Tom McCall Waterfront Park $5-$175

Every summer since 2011, thousands of people swim and float in the Willamette River for the annual Big Float event.

Editor's Pick
For Kids
Outdoors
Summer
Canceled
Bridge Pedal
Sunday, Aug. 8, 2021

Bridge Pedal

Multiple locations $35-$70

The Bridge Pedal is scheduled to return Aug. 8, 2021. Please visit the event website for current information. Portland’s annual Bridge Pedal is a community celebration of the city’s iconic bridges and biking culture. Join your friends and neighbors for the one opportunity each year to bike or walk on Portland’s car-free streets and bridges…

Canceled
For Kids
Outdoors
Editor's Pick
Hood to Coast
Aug. 27–28, 2021

Hood to Coast

Timberline Lodge

Hood to Coast is the world’s largest running relay race, stretching 200 miles from the top of Mount Hood to the Pacific Ocean in Seaside. The overnight event culminates in the West Coast’s largest beach party and draws more than 12,000 runners and walkers annually. The race fills up months in advance, but there’s no…

Editor's Pick
Health & Wellness
Outdoors
Kindness Farm Earth Day Celeberation
Saturday, Apr. 24, 2021

Kindness Farm Earth Day Celeberation

Kindness Farm By Donation

Join Kindness Farm to celebrate Earth Day with live music, amazing free gifts, fun farm activities, and more! Kindness Farm is a nonprofit that uses and teaches regenerative farming and gardening practices, donating the produce they grow to the surrounding communities.

Cultural Communities
Festival
For Kids
Health & Wellness
Music
Outdoors
Twilight Run 5K
Ongoing

Twilight Run 5K

Cook Park

The Foundation for Tigard Tualatin Schools presents their Ninth Annual Twilight Run, in partnership with RunSignUp and the Tigard Festival of Balloons. The 5K Twilight Run follows a flat and fast course along the beautiful bike trails. As you race towards the sunset, you will be surrounded by the wonders of the park and excitement…

Outdoors
Lavender Celebration
July 9–11, 2021

Lavender Celebration

Wayward Winds Lavender Farm Free

Experience an abundance of the most fragrant and beautiful lavender in existence. Explore the twists and turns of a Lavender-a-maze. Experience everything lavender you can imagine. Award winning essential oils, plants, and products. If it can be made with this magical herb, Wayward Winds Lavendar Farms do it! Enjoy our Vintage Marketplace and rustic charm.

Festival
Outdoors
Oregon Jamboree
July 30–Aug. 1, 2021

Oregon Jamboree

1331 Main St Sweet Home, Oregon Ticket Prices Vary

The small town of Sweet Home, Oregon, plays host to the Northwest’s premier country music and camping festival, the Oregon Jamboree, held every August. In addition to great entertainment, this family style event hosts RV/tent camping, food booths, beer & wine gardens and kids activities. The mission of the Oregon Jamboree (a 501(c)-3 non-profit) is…

Festival
Music
Outdoors

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