In the early 1900s, train tracks slashed through many of Oregon's forests, making it easier to transport lumber out of the wilderness. Today, along the Banks-Vernonia State Trail, the trains are gone, and where once-noisy engines made their way through the landscape, now hikers and cyclists enjoy a quiet, peaceful afternoon.

The Banks-Vernonia State trail stretches for 21 miles between the little towns of Banks and Vernonia in the northwestern part of the state. You'll find the trail just 26 miles west of Portland.

The entire trail is graded, and much of it is paved, making for an easy hike or bike trip. It's separated into five sections along the way, so you can choose a section or two for a quick hike, or explore the entire trail on your bike.

The trail takes you through shady, wooded sections....

..and past some beautiful, pastoral landscapes. If you want to see some of the best country in Oregon, this is it. Breathe in the fresh air, and take a few rest breaks along the way to admire the scenery.

One of the most charming features of this trail is the Buxton Trestle. Built in 1920, it spans Mendenhall Creek, towering 80 feet above it. If you want to hike the section that includes this cool trestle, hop on at the Manning Trailhead.

The Banks-Vernonia State Trail includes a beautiful variety of landscapes, and you'll see 13 old bridges and several train trestles along the way. Watch for both wildlife and farm animals, and enjoy the songs of many bird species as your soundtrack for this trip.

The trail technically ends in Vernonia, but the graded path continues along to Vernonia Lake, which is the perfect spot for a picnic before heading back up the trail. If you're biking the trail, plan on 1.5 to 2 hours each way.

Hikers will want to hop on at one of the six trail heads in Banks, Manning, Buxton, Tophill, Beaver Creek, or Vernonia. Sections range in length from 5.7 miles out and back, to 10.6 miles out and back.

Learn more about the Banks-Vernonia State Trail on the Oregon State Parks and Recreation website, and for a thorough description of each section of the trail, pop over to the trail's page on OregonHikers.org. Have you hiked or biked this trail? We'd love to hear about your adventure!

Looking for another trail that's steeped in history? Check out this hiking trail that features a World War II bunker.