Top 8 Hiking Trails in Oregon

Oregon's natural landscapes are a hiker's paradise.

You can spend a lifetime exploring a realm of forests, waterfalls, mountain peaks, beaches, and arid desert canyons. More importantly, Oregon’s trails embrace the diverse range of hikers. From thrilling ascents in Crater Lake National Park to a wheelchair-friendly walkway by the Pacific Ocean, everyone is welcome to enjoy the outdoors in the Beaver State.

Are you ready for an adventure? The finest hiking trails in Oregon are waiting for you.

1. Trail of Ten Falls

Top Hike for Waterfalls 8-mile loop, moderate difficulty, approximately hours

The Trail of Ten Falls boasts over 10 stunning cascades, named for the impressive waterfalls along its path. Situated in Silver Falls State Park, this hike allows you to walk behind four of the falls, creating a truly enchanting experience. It's easy to split this hike into segments, starting at three different trailheads that lead down to various 100-foot waterfalls. The North Canyon Day-Use Area was updated in 2023 to feature a ½ mile wheelchair-accessible trail with views of North Falls.

Insider Tip: As one of Oregon's most sought-after trails, it can get busy on weekends. For a more enjoyable experience, aim to arrive early in the morning. The Trail of Ten Falls is often wet, so sturdy shoes with good grip are essential.

Planning a trip to Oregon? Discover our essential tips before you go

2. Garfield Peak

Top Hike in a National Park miles round trip, moderate to challenging, approximately 2.5 hours

At Crater Lake National Park, you'll discover over 90 miles of hiking trails surrounding North America's deepest and most vibrant lake. The Garfield Peak trail begins at the historic Crater Lake Lodge. While the path is generally smooth and straightforward, it features steep sections with over 1000 feet of elevation gain. The stunning views make the effort worthwhile. Designed to blend seamlessly into the landscape, the trail highlights the lake's beauty, which becomes increasingly vibrant as you ascend. At the summit, you'll be treated to sweeping views of the lake, Wizard Island, Mt Mazama, and Phantom Ship.

Insider Tip: Crater Lake National Park experiences significant snowfall. Make sure to check the NPS website for any road closures and weather updates if you're planning a visit outside the summer months.

3. Tom McCall Waterfront Park Trail

Best Urban Hike 1.5 miles one way, easy, about ½ hour

Tom McCall Waterfront Park serves as the vibrant center of Portland. This park lines the Willamette River, showcasing stunning views of the city skyline, bridges, and passing boats. The paved trail, which is wheelchair-accessible, meanders along the river and takes you past several attractions, including the Japanese American Historical Plaza, the Oregon Maritime Museum, and the Bill Naito Legacy Fountain, which features a splash pad for children. The park also hosts some of Portland’s most beloved events, such as the Portland Pride Waterfront Festival, the Portland Saturday Market, and the Waterfront Blues Festival.

Insider Tip: Old Town Chinatown and the Pearl District are just a short walk from Tom McCall Waterfront Park, so plan to spend extra time exploring these nearby areas after your walk.

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4. Blue Basin Loop Hike

Best hike for geology enthusiasts 4-mile loop, moderate difficulty, approximately 2.5 hours

Nestled within the Sheep Rock Unit of John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, the Blue Basin Loop hike showcases stunning rock formations layered in soft greens, blues, and tans, remnants of volcanic activity from over 30 million years ago. Evidence suggests this arid desert was once a lush, subtropical haven populated by crocodiles, rhinoceroses, and small three-toed horses. Take your time to appreciate the intriguing fossil casts and informative signs along the path. The trail features steep sections with a 760ft elevation gain. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the vibrant canyons and the John Day River valley. Be mindful of the heat in summer and bring plenty of water.

5. Elk Mountain to King Mountain Loop

Best hike for those seeking a challenge 10-mile loop, challenging, approximately 6.5 hours

The Elk Mountain–King Mountain Loop stands out as one of Oregon's toughest hikes, featuring nearly 4000ft of elevation gain. The effort leads you to two summits, offering stunning views across the picturesque Tillamook Forest. Solid footwear is essential due to the loose rocky terrain. Expect steep sections where you might need to use your hands for climbing.

Local tip: Be mindful that high elevations can bring snow in winter, creating slippery and hazardous conditions. For a safer and more enjoyable experience, aim to hike from late spring through early fall.

6. Pacific Crest Trail (Oregon)

Top thru-hike for camping and backcountry adventures 430 miles from start to finish, demanding, 3 to 4 weeks

If you’ve enjoyed Cheryl Strayed’s memoir, Wild (or the 2014 film with Reese Witherspoon), you know the Pacific Crest Trail is no easy trek. The full trail spans 2650 miles, connecting Canada to Mexico, with the Oregon section covering 430 miles from Southern Oregon’s Siskiyou Forest to the Columbia Gorge (or the reverse). This trail offers an unforgettable journey featuring highlights like Crater Lake National Park and secluded wilderness areas filled with hidden lakes and meadows that few get to experience. Expect long forest stretches where you might hike for days without encountering another soul.

Local advice: Camping is generally allowed along the Pacific Crest Trail, although there are designated backcountry campsites. Permits may be required for certain sections.

7. Seaside Promenade

Ideal hike for accessibility 1.5 miles from start to finish, easy, about ½ hour

Known affectionately as “the Prom,” the Seaside Promenade is a cherished destination along the Oregon coast. Established in 1920, this 15-foot wide walkway connects shops, restaurants, and residences on one side with the beach and the Pacific Ocean on the other. The path is paved and fully accessible for wheelchairs. Seaside also provides complimentary wide-tire beach wheelchair rentals to assist visitors with disabilities in enjoying the sand (reservations are advisable). Key attractions along the Prom include the Seaside Aquarium and the Lewis and Clark Salt Works, a historic rock cairn thought to have been utilized by the Corps of Discovery in the early 1800s.

Local insight: Seaside is a fantastic spot for families. Beyond the beach and the Prom, you’ll discover attractions that delight kids, such as a carousel, a classic arcade, and numerous candy shops.

8. Multnomah Falls Trail

Best for stunning views 2.3 miles round trip, moderate, approximately 1.5 hours

At 620 feet high, Multnomah Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oregon. The namesake trail guides you from the base to the summit, offering breathtaking views of the majestic two-tiered falls cascading down the cliffs. While the trail is paved, it features steep, narrow switchbacks on the way up. The area around the lower falls is accessible for wheelchairs. As one of the most sought-after attractions in the Pacific Northwest, it’s best to arrive early in the day to beat the crowds.

Insider tip: Timed entry tickets are necessary for parking between 9 am and 6 pm from late May to early September. If you choose to bike, hike, or use a shuttle, there’s no fee.