Land Rights

The Fight for Willamette Falls

As tribal communities and local governments imagine a future for the country’s second-largest waterfall, they’ve exposed the long-standing rifts born from the wounds of colonization.

08/18/2025 By Karina Brown Photography by Kari Rowe

Jump In

Columbia River Swim Spots and Beaches Within 90 Minutes of Portland

Postcard perfect? Not always. But the mighty Columbia is big enough for everyone.

08/05/2025 By Katherine Chew Hamilton, Margaret Seiler, and Julia Silverman

Water Ways

How a Jog and a Jump in the Willamette Became My Summer Ritual

I’ve learned to love Portland’s river like a friend.

07/07/2025 By Emily Chenoweth Illustrations by Davide Comai

Water World

The 18 Best Swimming Holes Within 3 Hours of Portland

From hidden gems to trusty stalwarts, here’s where to cool down when the mercury soars.

06/30/2025 By Portland Monthly Staff

Editor’s Note

An Argument for Befriending the Willamette

Our river, ourselves.

06/23/2025 By Brooke Jackson-Glidden

Oar You Ready?

Where to Launch a Paddleboard, Kayak, or Canoe Near Portland

Eight gorgeous destinations, all less than two hours away.

06/20/2025 By Molly Allen and Sam Stites

Paddle to the People

These Kayakers See Climate Justice as Community Work

With a kayak lending library and social paddles, Mosquito Fleet wants to shift how we relate to the Willamette.

06/17/2025 By Rebecca Jacobson

Where to Live Now

Neighborhood Guide: John’s Landing

Find bungalow-lined streets, cozy cafés, a pirate-themed dive, and top-notch river recreation.

04/28/2025 By Rebecca Jacobson

Transit Trip

An Escape to Estacada on TriMet’s Southernmost Bus

A lakeshore stroll, murals galore, doughnuts made with love, and shouts of ‘fore!’

04/02/2025 By Margaret Seiler

Real Estate

Property Watch: Floating Home Known as the Aqua Star Is for Sale

The ’80s icon revels in unobstructed views and curving cool after a two-year makeover and a move north from Sellwood.

03/21/2025 By Melissa Dalton

Near & Far

Our Travel Editor’s Top Moments of 2024

Brilliant birds, beautiful beaches, and decked-the-heck-out tiki bars.

12/30/2024 By Rebecca Jacobson

Travel

9 Grand Lodges of the Pacific Northwest

For every season, there’s a dream destination.

11/07/2024 Edited by Ramona DeNies By Portland Monthly Staff

Heating Up

Oregon’s Sauna Scene Has Never Been Better

Meet the new sauna evangelists changing the way we shvitz.

11/05/2024 By Brooke Jackson-Glidden

Real Estate

Property Watch: A Sellwood Floating Home with a Tiny House, Too

High ceilings, Scandinavian details, and the Willamette River right outside your door.

08/19/2024 By Melissa Dalton

Water World

Hike to These 6 Hidden-Away Swimming Holes near Portland

Working up a bit of a sweat means the water will feel extra delicious.

08/02/2024 By Portland Monthly Staff

Sky's the Limit

This Nonprofit Makes Nature Expeditions Possible for All

Adventures Without Limits brings adaptive equipment and accessible pricing to the outdoors.

07/18/2024 By Dalila Brent

Lake Life

Our 8 Favorite Lake Trips near Portland (Yes, You Can Still Book One)

Gorgeous views and easy water access await at these lakeside campgrounds.

07/10/2024 By Sam Stites

Swimming

Portland Is a Beach Town. It's True.

But which in-the-city Willamette River swim spot is the one for you and your crew?

07/09/2024 By Margaret Seiler, Michelle Harris, and Matthew Trueherz

Splish-Splash

Here’s a Map of the 17 Best Swimming Holes within 3ish Hours of Portland

You're welcome.

07/02/2024 By Portland Monthly Staff

Dive In

Cathedral Park’s New Swim Dock Opens Under the St. Johns Bridge

The beach area has a lot less concrete to trip over, too, thanks to volunteers and the Human Access Project.

06/28/2024 By Margaret Seiler