Timber, Oregon

Joseph Wood Hill Park is another under-the-radar gem right in the heart of the city. It’s located on Rocky Butte, an extinct volcanic cylinder cone, and provides a sweeping panoramic view of Portland and beyond. Accessing the park is easy – you can drive directly there and parking is plentiful. ...

After parking in the lot near the mill, walk across the bridge. This is the first good viewpoint for photography. Next, I recommend walking under the bridge, this is my favorite spot for taking photos. The whole area is free to walk around, you can even walk in the mill and then walk up stream do...

Less than 2 hours from Portland, set the GPS to Gearhart, and drive out onto Del Ray Beach for the sunset with your significant other. This is the only beach in the state of Oregon that you are allowed to drive on. If you have four wheel drive, take a little drive through the incoming waves and ...

Hike: The hike to Pheasant Creek Falls is just short continuation of nearby Niagara Falls. After reaching Niagara Falls, continue on the trail for about another 300 feet and you'll reach the more impressive, Pheasant Creek Falls.For more detailed information including a trail map and directions ...

Tucked in a forest within a few minutes drive of Astoria and along the Columbia River, Lewis and Clark National Historic Park is small in size but rich in history.  If you're a wanderluster who appreciates learning about the early explorers that came before you this is a can't miss spot.  My own...

Leach Botanical Garden is a 17-acre urban sanctuary located in outer Southeast Portland, OR, offering visitors a serene escape into nature.  Established over 40 years ago, the garden is often a surprising discovery for locals and tourists alike. It features a diverse landscape, including a four-...

Parking for this hike can be found at either end of the trail. It starts at the west end of the Lewis & Clark Bridge from a small access road that is used as a parking lot. From here it is a flat walk along an old grassy road that is well maintained. If you forgot to bring along bags to pi...

The house that served as the focal point of the 1985 movie “The Goonies” is perhaps Astoria’s best-known landmark. While this cinematic gem is a must-see, it's essential to remember that it's also a private residence. Respect the neighborhood by parking responsibly, avoiding trespassing, and refr...

Clackamette Park is known for its prime destination right off of the freeway and across from Oregon City's most popular shopping area, but it's frequented for its public boat dock, RV facilities, and handicap-accessible picnic benches. While the rest of Portland's parks freeze over or flood, Clac...

You'll never stumble upon Canemah Park unless you're really looking for it. Tucked away in the hills of Oregon City above the Locks, this residential park has a miniature-sized set of everything you'd expect in a children's park: Playground, picnic benches, bathrooms, and wide, forested trails. D...

Cape Lookout is a two-mile long peninsula that juts into the Pacific Ocean from Oregon's rugged coastline. The park features more than 170 campsites, yurts, rustic cabins, and a day-use area, all located a short walk from the beach. There are roughly 10 miles of trails ranging from easy to mode...

Used often for cross country practice, the Lacamas Heritage Trail is a popular gem in Camas, Washington for all citizens. It is family and dog friendly and comes with endless scenic views of the beautiful Lacamas Lake. Parking is free and there are bathrooms at the entrance.

Lacamas Lake is popular for all types of water activities with easy access because of it’s dock and free public parking. This area is family and dog friendly and has picnic tables for a place to sit down and have a nice lunch after swimming. Rope swings can be found along the beach if you’re the ...

This is on the Round Lake Loop trail and there’s a free parking area. It’s a relatively in and out hike that is family friendly but does have some downhill scrambles. Be careful when jumping as there has been fatalities in the past but as long as you’re practicing safe swimming you’ll be okay. 

At the northwestern-most point of Oregon sits Fort Stevens State Park. Located 3 ½ hrs from Seattle and 2 hrs from Portland, the park sits closest to the city of Astoria. The park itself has over 4300 acres to explore, with day use and camping open year round. However, the most well-known and mos...

From Pacific City, drive into the Pelican Brew Pub parking lot and right out on the beach to park (4x4 recommended, but not required). Suit up, and head out into the water. Sandy, cold water will greet you with occasional perfect swells to catch back to shore! Perfect for surfing, boogie boarding...