Located at the northern tip of Oregon not far from Portland, the Columbia River Gorge is out-of-this-world beautiful. Full of magnificent waterfalls, lush forests, and jaw-dropping vistas, this natural wonderland is an extraordinary place for hiking. Trails of every kind are woven through the dramatic landscape, offering visitors the chance to experience the incredible beauty of Oregon up close. Next time you're in the area, take one of these 11 gorgeous trails for an unforgettable adventure. They're truly some of the best hikes in Oregon!

1. Elowah Falls Trail

This easy, beautiful hike will lead you along a scenic forest path to the enchanting 289-foot Elowah Falls. It's a total hidden gem waterfall in Oregon!

2. Eagle Creek Trail to Tunnel Falls

There are many amazing hiking opportunities on the Eagle Creek Trail, spanning from a 1-mile out-and-back stroll to an epic overnight backpacking trip. One of the most incredible day hikes along the trail takes you to past multiple amazing waterfalls, streams, and forests to the jaw-dropping Tunnel Falls - named for the tunnel that was blasted through the rock, allowing hikers to pass directly behind the roaring falls.

3. McCall Point Trail

This lovely hike at Rowena Crest is absolutely spectacular during the spring and summer months when wildflowers cover the fields with vibrant color. There are thousands and thousands of them!

4. Angel's Rest

This epic hike is a must-do for any adventurous Oregonian. This scenic, uphill trail leads to an exposed rock ledge overlooking the amazing landscape.

5. Latourell Falls Trail

This short trail is easily accessible and leads right up to the base of the magnificent Latourell Falls.

6. Upper McCord Creek Falls Trail

Beginning at the John B Yeon Trailhead, this lovely waterfall hike takes you high above Elowah Falls to the beautiful Upper McCord Creek Falls.

7. Oneonta Gorge

The hike through Oneonta Gorge is short but truly unforgettable. It's inaccessible much of the year due to high water levels, but in the summer you can walk through this narrow, moss-covered canyon to reach a hidden 100-foot waterfall at the end. The way there is gorgeous, but also a bit treacherous; you'll have to scramble over huge piles of fallen trees and even wade through chin-deep ice cold water to get to the end. It's a scene that's straight out of Middle Earth!

8. Multnomah Falls

The stunning Multnomah Falls is the crown jewel of the Columbia River Gorge. Take a short, rather steep hike to the top of the waterfall, passing over the iconic Benson Bridge on the way. Our advice? Book a lunch date for yourself at Multnomah Falls Lodge, and enjoy the views while you dine!

9. Wahkeena Falls Trail

This moderate 1.4-mile hike features amazing views, beautiful streams, and of course, the breathtaking Wahkeena Falls.

10. Horsetail Falls Loop Trail

This Horsetail Falls Loop Trail passes three breathtaking waterfalls. One thing that makes the Horsetail Falls Hike especially unique is that you'll get to walk directly behind the beautiful Ponytail Falls, pictured above. Standing directly behind the majestic 75-foot waterfall as it pours gracefully into the creek is positively enchanting.

11. Wahclella Falls Trail

Wahclella Falls is an easy, spectacular hike that will take you along a beautiful river past lovely little cascades and moss-covered boulders, over wooden bridges and through a lush forest before arriving at the magnificent Wahclella Falls.

Oregon truly is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, and we love nothing more than exploring new trails!

Find out about more of the best and most beautiful hikes in Oregon in this article, which outlines 12 trails to tackle over the span of a year!