The best hiking trails in Oregon

3075 Hiking Trails

"Discover Oregon's diverse trails, from coastal cliffs to verdant forests, each brimming with adventure."

Oregon is a hiker's paradise, offering diverse landscapes that range from the rugged coastline of the Pacific to the lush, verdant forests of the Cascades. Imagine trekking through the mystical moss-draped trails of the Columbia River Gorge, where waterfalls cascade like liquid silver, or conquering the volcanic peaks of the Three Sisters. Each trail tells a story, from the serene beauty of Crater Lake to the wildflower-strewn meadows of Mount Hood. Oregon invites you to explore its natural wonders and find your own adventure.

Most popular trails

Difficult

Oregon Coast Trail

Clatsop County, Oregon · star 5.0 (10) · 646.3 km · Est. 27 day

Extra Difficult

Pacific Crest Trail - Mount Adams To Mount Rainier

Hood River County, Oregon · star 5.0 (8) · 226.9 km · Est. 11 day

Difficult

Oregon Skyline Trail

Jackson County, Oregon · star 5.0 (6) · 665.6 km · Est. 1 mth 0 day

Medium

Wildwood Trail

Multnomah County, Oregon · star 5.0 (8) · 46.5 km · Est. 2 day

Extra Difficult

Pacific Crest Trail - Washington

Hood River County, Oregon · star 5.0 (6) · 783.3 km · Est. 1 mth 8 day

Extra Difficult

Oregon Desert Trail

Deschutes County, Oregon · star 5.0 (6) · 1230.4 km · Est. 1 mth 24 day

Extra Difficult

American Perimeter Trail - California Primary

Jackson County, Oregon · star 5.0 (1) · 2719.8 km · Est. 4 mth 4 day

Difficult

Wallowa River Loop

Wallowa County, Oregon · star 5.0 (6) · 50.6 km · Est. 2 day

Extra Difficult

Timberline Trail Loop

Clackamas County, Oregon · star 4.0 (7) · 63.8 km · Est. 3 day

Extra Difficult

American Perimeter Trail - Pacific Northwest Primary

Jackson County, Oregon · star 0.0 (0) · 2096.9 km · Est. 3 mth 9 day

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FAQs about hiking in Oregon

What is the climate like for hiking in Oregon?

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Oregon's climate varies by region and season. The coastal areas are mild and wet in winter, offering beautiful, foggy hikes. Inland, winters can be cold with heavy snowfall in the mountains, ideal for snowshoeing. Summers are generally warm and dry, perfect for hiking in forests and along rivers. Visit the Oregon Metro site for local weather updates.

Do I need a permit to hike in Oregon?

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Permits for backcountry hiking or overnight stays in Oregon's wilderness areas can be obtained from the U.S. Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management. Contact them or visit the Recreation.gov website to secure permits ahead of your hike.

Is wild camping allowed in Oregon?

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Wild camping in Oregon is generally permissible on Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service lands, away from developed campgrounds. Always follow Leave No Trace principles and check local regulations on the BLM or USFS websites before setting out.

Are there mountain rescue services in Oregon?

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For mountain rescue in Oregon, hikers should call 911 in an emergency. The Oregon Office of Emergency Management coordinates with various organizations like Mountain Wave Emergency Communications. Always leave your hiking plan with someone. Visit Mountain Wave's website for further information.

Are there dangerous plants in Oregon?

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Oregon's diverse landscape offers a range of flora. Coastal areas flourish with Sitka spruces and salal, while the Cascade Range features Douglas firs and Western Hemlocks. Eastern Oregon's high desert is rich with sagebrush. Check out Oregon Flora Project for more detailed information.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Oregon?

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From the dense forests to the high desert, Oregon's fauna is abundant. Watch for elk, deer, and black bears in woodland areas. Insects such as mosquitoes can be persistent, especially near water. Learn more about local wildlife from https://a-z-animals.com/animals/location/north-america/united-states/oregon/ and https://www.oregon.gov/oda/programs/IPPM/InsectsSpiders/Pages/IdentifyInsect.aspx

More trails in Oregon

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