Outdoor Activities

SUNNY HIKES

5 Spring Hikes for Soaking Up the Sun

These exposed treks, all within two hours of downtown Portland, help you replenish your inner reservoir of precious vitamin D.

04/19/2016 By Sylvia Randall-Muñoz

NATIONAL PARK WEEK

Oregon Has Eight National Park Sites—and Next Week, Admission Is Free

For its 100th birthday, the National Park Service is throwing a week-long party. Here’s your guide to keeping it local.

04/05/2016 By Caitlin Collins and Ramona DeNies

RECREATION LEGISLATION

New Oregon-Led Federal Bill Wants More Explorers in America's Backcountry

The proposed Recreation Not Red-Tape Act—spearheaded by Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden—hopes to boost small-town economies with more (hiking) boots on the ground.

03/22/2016 By Caitlin Collins

NORTHWEST GETAWAYS

Ten Once-in-a-Lifetime Cascadian Journeys

From ice cave expeditions to lavish river safaris to nostalgic train trips, here are the Pacific Northwest’s most epic getaways.

02/23/2016 Edited by Rachel Ritchie By Marty Patail, Benjamin Tepler, and Christopher Van Tilberg

GEAR UP

We Tested Out These Swedish Hiking Poles

Dorky? As all get-out. But BungyPump's calorie-burning resistance pole is still kinda cool.

02/19/2016 By Marty Patail

DAY TRIPPER

Hiking Wahclella Falls in Winter

Just 10 miles past Multnomah Falls, an easy two-mile loop offers stunning views of a lesser-known cascade.

01/15/2016 By Alex Keith

SHOP LOCAL

How to Bring Some Portland Style to Your Next Camping Adventure

Level up your camping trip with the newest finds from retro, pattern-happy Poler and sleek, lightweight Snowpeak—plus 6 more outdoor outfitters to get you out in style.

09/21/2015 By Benjamin Tepler

HAPPY TRAILS

A Field Guide to the Best Hiking and Biking Trails in Oregon

34 amazing places to hike, bike, and explore from Hood to the coast—and beyond.

07/21/2015 Edited by Rachel Ritchie

RIDE DESIGN

Will Your Next Road Bike Be Made of Wood?

Southeast Portland's Renovo bikes are road ready—and gorgeous.

07/07/2015 By Mary Stutzman

FIELD NOTES

Trail of the Month: Mosier Plateau

Wildflowers, waterfalls, and panoramic views—what more could you ask for? Plus 3 springtime travel ideas not to miss!

04/02/2015 By Brian Barker

HIKING

Trail of the Month: Indian Heaven Trail No. 33

Packed with glassy lakes, serene meadows, and alpine vistas, Southwest Washington’s Indian Heaven Wilderness is indeed divine.

09/26/2014 By Brian Barker

GET OUT

Your Game Plan For Summitting St. Helens, Hood, and Adams

A trio of nearby peaks beckon—here’s how beginners can start their ascent.

07/21/2014 By Devan Schwartz

GET OUT

8 Great Afternoon Hikes and Rides

Five trails and three bike routes that celebrate Northwest splendor—without the long haul.

07/21/2014

GET OUT

The Ultimate Mount Hood Hiking Route

Circumnavigate our favorite Cascade peak for an unforgettable forest adventure.

07/14/2014 By Christopher Van Tilburg

Slideshow

Slide Show: Mazama Trail to McNeil Point Shelter

07/11/2014

FIELD STUDIES

16 Perfect Trails for Exploring Mount St. Helens

Whether you're scouting for a family-friendly stroll or a three-day backpacking challenge, we've rounded up the best hiking opportunities on the volcano's west, east, and south sides.

06/02/2014 By Rachel Ritchie With Aaron Scott and Maya Seaman