Ilwaco, Washington

From the North Head parking lot located at the end of N Head Lighthouse Rd, make your way to the lighthouse by following the lighthouse signs at the parking lot. There's a path to the right that you can take that will take you to a view point (the walk to this viewpoint is short and easy). The ...

Cape Disappointment State Park is nearly 2,000 acres of old growth temperate forest located at the mouth of the Columbia River that contains lakes, coves, two lighthouses, and military forts. One of the forts and lighthouses is Fort Canby and Cape Disappointment lighthouse, which date back to the...

Don't let the name fool you, this over 1,700 acre state park offers plenty for the outdoor enthusiast. The cape was named by explorer John Meares after a failed attempt to enter the Columbia River. Lucky for you, maps have been upgraded and the river mouth and cape are no long as challenging to c...

Fort Stevens State Park Trails is a loop trail where you may see local wildlife located near Hammond, Oregon.

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...

Coffenbury Lake Trail is a loop trail that takes you by a lake located near Warrenton, Oregon.

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...

Cathedral Tree to Astoria Column is an out-and-back trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Astoria, Oregon.

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...

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 ...

Youngs River Falls is a scenic 50-foot waterfall on Youngs River, about 15 minutes outside of Astoria. The falls are somewhat unique in that the base is located only about 10 feet above sea level From Astoria. The falls have been featured in several movies, most notably Free Willy 2 and Teenage M...

Located off the beaten path at the northern end of the Long Beach Peninsula, Leadbetter Point State Park is great year around destination to explore in Southwest Washington. Within the park there is ample opportunity to watch huge Pacific Ocean waves crash on shore, beach comb, bird watch, and sp...

Just about an hour west from Portland in Ecola State Park you'll find Indian beach. It's a 5 dollar fee to get into the park, but that fee also keeps the crowds out. Once you get into the park just follow the signs to Indian beach just a little ways down the road. This beach is filled with surfe...

Oregon is full of state parks. Ecola is one of the easiest parks to capture amazing views. The sate park spans 9 miles of Oregon coastline. It's $5 to get in and it's well worth the money (you can also purchase an annual parking pass here).  Many people come to the park to take photos of Hayst...

Head off the 101 to Ecola State Park and drive to the large main car area. From here the trailhead is located just above the restroom facility and is well signed, you can't miss the huge placard. Starting with a few short incline stair sets, you will hit the main roadway; follow the sidewalk for ...

Saddle Mountain is a pretty stellar spot if you are looking for a beginner/intermediate hike with incredible views close to Portland. The trail is a 5.2 mile round trip trail with an elevation gain of 1600 ft that starts at the Saddle Mountain Trailhead. You can actually camp right at the trail...