Travel & Outdoors

In Defense of Skinny Skis

Cross-Country Skiing Is More Joyful Than You Think

It’s serene, affordable, and as strenuous or leisurely as you want it to be—and a balm during dark Northwest winters.

11/19/2024 By Rebecca Jacobson

As Told To

Meet Astrophysicist and Former Elite Cross-Country Ski Racer Alison Crocker

The Reed College professor reflects on racing, working hard, and waffles.

11/18/2024 By Rebecca Jacobson

XC Ski 101

A Beginner's Guide to Cross-Country Skiing

Never clipped into skinny skis? Here's all you need to know. Plus: gear rentals, lessons, and clubs in the Portland area.

11/15/2024 By Rebecca Jacobson

Blades of Glory

Portland’s Downtown Ice Rink Is Back

Get ready to glide.

11/08/2024 By Margaret Seiler

Heat Seeking

Destination Saunas in Oregon and Beyond

Shvitz in a “wine barrel,” cold plunge in a river, or soak up the steam from a bubbling hot spring.

10/30/2024 Edited by Brooke Jackson-Glidden and Rebecca Jacobson

History Tour

Visit These Oregon Ghost Towns This Fall

Once-bustling towns like Bridal Veil, Shaniko, and Golden hold remnants of the state's past.

10/22/2024 By Gabriel Granillo

Wine Country

At Renowned Winery Antica Terra, 'A Very Nice Lunch' Feels Like Art

In a room of witchy luxury at the winery's new Dundee property, winemaker Maggie Harrison and chef Timothy Wastell take visitors on a weird and wonderful journey.

10/18/2024 By Jordan Michelman

Transit Trip

A Day in Forest Grove via TriMet’s Westernmost Bus

College town vibes, a sweet main drag, vegan doughnuts, a historic-home walking tour, and a dash of Avonlea.

10/16/2024 By Margaret Seiler

Getaway

Fly Direct from PDX to Austin for Tacos, Two-Step, and Sunshine

Even as tech money pours in, the capital of Texas retains its swagger.

10/09/2024 By Nadia Chaudhury

Get Lost

Lose Yourself in These 7 Portland-Area Corn Mazes

Work your way through the dead ends and wrong turns, then reward yourself with apple cider doughnuts.

10/07/2024 By Portland Monthly Staff

Oregon Trails

9 Historic Oregon Cemeteries That Offer Clues to Bygone Eras

Find stories of shipwrecks, range wars, and prominent Portlanders.

10/02/2024 Illustrations by Jillian Barthold By Rebecca Jacobson

Squash the Competition

How to Grow a Giant Pumpkin and Paddle It to Regatta Victory

A reigning champion of Tualatin's annual race spills his hard-won tips.

09/20/2024 Illustrations by Sam Island By Rebecca Jacobson

Swifties Unite

The Definitive Guide to Watching the Vaux’s Swifts in Portland

It’s basically our city’s Mardi Gras.

08/27/2024 By Rebecca Jacobson

The Anti-KOA

Snow Peak Opens Luxe Campground and Spa on Washington’s Long Beach Peninsula

Expect a sea of sleek tents, mini cabins by a superstar architect, and a tranquil, Japanese-style spa.

08/23/2024 By Ellee Thalheimer

The Shining

Sleeping with Ghosts at Heceta Head Lighthouse’s Haunted B&B

The old lighthouse keepers' quarters, now a cozy inn, are reportedly home to a ghost named Rue. We paid a visit.

08/21/2024 By Jessi Bunch

Retreat Yourself

You Deserve a DIY Creative Retreat

Regardless of whether you call yourself an artist, a quick getaway offers both respite and play.

08/06/2024 By Erica Berry Illustrations by Mark Wang

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

Farm Life

As Pickathon Grows, Its Music Lineup Doubles Down on Young Talent

The beloved festival runs a venue in Portland and just launched a nonprofit. But its heart remains the annual Happy Valley campout, stacked this year with Gen Zers.

07/26/2024 By Rebecca Jacobson