BEST Hikes In Oregon Including Smith Rock State Park
The Pacific Northwest is one of the most stunning places to hike in the United States, and Oregon perfectly showcases why. The best hikes in Oregon allow you to experience wilderness in its purest form. Miles of untamed evergreen forests offer glimpses of the gorgeous ecosystem found throughout this state. While there may not be treacherous mountain trails or vastly open vistas carved millions of years ago like in Utah, Oregon hikes show a different view of the planet. A view of what it looks like to live through the evolution of the earth as it takes place all around you.
The best hikes in Oregon take you across all corners of the state, showing exactly what makes Oregon such a hiking paradise. From the moss covered and misty trails of Sahalie Falls and Koosah Falls, to the dry and rocky peak of Misery Ridge Trail in Smith Rock State Park. Oregon hikes aren’t just great ways to explore the region. They’re the only way to truly take in the best and most beautiful sights in the entire country!
So keep scrolling to see all of the BEST HIKES IN OREGON INCLUDING SMITH ROCK STATE PARK!
1.) Discovery Point Trail
Difficulty (1-10): 1
Distance: 2-miles total out and back
Large parking lot on site
Hike along the rim of the gorgeous Crater Lake, where you can find a peaceful woodland trail, sightlines that stretch for miles, and of course, the best view of Crater Lake!
WHAT TO EXPECT
– Some of the most infamous picture opportunities in Oregon
– Many lookout points over the lake
– A smooth and mostly flat trail
– Follow along the ridgeline high above Crater Lake
Pro Tip- Try to go during the summer to avoid the feet of long lasting mountain snow.
2.) River Trail
Difficulty: 2
Distance: 2.4-miles loop trail
Moderately sized parking lot on site
The River Trail is a peaceful trek along the Crooked River that loops through the heart of the varied terrain of Smith Rock State Park.
WHAT TO EXPECT
– A calm and easy hike following the river
– A dry desert like landscape similar to the American Southwest
– Surrounding rocky mountains and fallen boulders
– A slow moving river perfect for sitting and relaxing
Pro Tip- Arrive early, as the parking lot and trails can fill up quickly.
3.) Misery Ridge Trail
Difficulty: 8
Distance: 3.6-miles loop trail
Moderately sized parking lot on site
It’s called Misery Ridge Trail for a reason, the steep slog of switchbacks sure makes for a miserable time on your legs. But getting to the highest point in Smith Rock State Park with a wonderous 360° view makes this Oregon hike worth it!
WHAT TO EXPECT
– A challenging, nonstop steep trail
– The toughest yet most rewarding hike in Smith Rock State Park
– A thin cliffside trail that can be a little slick with gravel
– Large rocky plateau at the peak to walk around and catch your breath
Pro Tip- Climb up the backside of the mountain. It’s still tough, but there are much fewer people.
4.) Painted Hills Overlook
Difficulty: 1
Distance: 0.5-miles total out and back
Large parking lot on site
Hike along the colorfully painted hills as you overlook tie die like hills rolling in every direction. Plus, the diverse landscape also makes this one of the best picture spots in the state!
WHAT TO EXPECT
– A large mostly level path
– The trailhead is off the beaten path
– Open area to explore the beautiful colors
– An awesome spot at sunset
Pro Tip- The nearby fossil fields and trails are well worth checking out.
5.) Sahalie Falls to Koosah Falls
Difficulty: 2
Distance: 2.5-miles total out and back
2 Small parking lots on site
While the waterfalls are the main draw, the real magic is walking between the 2 falls. Following the McKenzie River, this hike takes you through thick forests of stunning green vegetation as the rapids rush by.
WHAT TO EXPECT
– 2 powerful waterfalls to witness
– One of the most beautiful and best hikes in Oregon
– Overgrown roots and bright green moss line the trail
– A riverside walk through the trees
Pro Tip- The earlier you get to this Oregon hike, the better due to the narrow trails and small parking lots.
6.) Tamolitch Falls (Blue Pool)
Difficulty: 3
Distance: 4.5-miles total out and back
Small parking lot on site
Thick, luscious Pacific Northwest forests. An elevated trail overlooking the cascades of the McKenzie River. A vibrant blue pool like a woodland oasis, what more could you ask from an Oregon hike?
WHAT TO EXPECT
– Slight incline in some spots
– Uneven footing through roots and mossy rocks
– Large crowds during peak times
– A peaceful aqua color pool to relax above
Pro Tip- Doing this hike and the nearby Sahalie Falls to Koosah Falls makes for the perfect day of exploring scenic Oregon hikes.
7.) Mirror Lake
Difficulty: 3
Distance: 4.2-miles total out and back
Large parking lot on site
This hike is a calm walk through the woods with occasional inclines and tree roots decorating the trail, leading to a gorgeous view of Mt Hood towering in the distance.
WHAT TO EXPECT
– Great reflections of Mt Hood
– Slight elevation gains not too strenuous
– Areas to sit and enjoy the still waters
– A full loop around the quiet Mirror Lake
Pro Tip- Sunrise from this spot is an unforgettable sight. 🌅
8.) Ramona Falls
Difficulty: 6
Distance: 7-miles total out and back
Large parking lot on site
For all of those looking to take in the raw Oregon outdoors, this spot is for you! Far from the crowds clogging up the trails, the Ramona Falls hike takes you on a journey through the Oregon wilderness in all its glory.
WHAT TO EXPECT
– Various terrains and scenic views of Mt Hood
– Slight inclines through the forests
– An exciting river crossing over the logs of fallen trees
– A rewarding waterfall and place to rest at the end
Pro Tip- A high clearance vehicle or some very cautious driving with a low clearance vehicle is needed to get to the parking lot.
9.) Tamanawas Falls
Difficulty: 4
Distance: 3.8-miles total out and back
Small parking lot on site
The most underrated Oregon hike, the Tamanawas Falls Trail is a can’t miss when exploring the state. With gorgeous areas all along the trail and a breathtaking waterfall waiting at the end, this is what the best hikes in Oregon are all about.
WHAT TO EXPECT
– A forested trail alongside a slow moving river
– Mostly level trail with a section of loose rocks that can be tricky
– Plenty of spots along the river for great pictures
– A misty waterfall that exemplifies Pacific Northwest perfection
Pro Tip- Take your time on the trail as every nook and cranny hides a different incredible view.
10.) Wahkeena Falls and Multnomah Falls Loop
Difficulty: 5
Distance: 5.1-miles total loop trail
Small parking lot on site
The Wahkeena Falls and Multnomah Falls Loop is home to some of the most well known waterfalls in Oregon and is considered one of the best hikes in Oregon. And after experiencing these fantastic falls in person it’s clear to see why.
WHAT TO EXPECT
– Multiple mystical waterfalls
– Views overlooking the Columbia River
– A trail of steep paved switchbacks
– A bit crowded during peak times
Pro Tip- Start from the Multnomah Falls for an easier hike down the Wahkeena side of the trail.
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