9 Easy Hikes To Add To Your Outdoor Bucket List In Portland

Hiking in Portland is great because there are just so many choices. So many, in fact, that it is hard to pick just one. If you are looking to get a little exercise, but want to keep things relatively short and sweet, these are nine of the best hikes around town that are easy and under five miles long. Lace up your shoes and head out to one of these scenic destinations for the best hikes in Portland!

1. Hoyt Arboretum

This 1.8-mile loop takes you through a myriad of trees of the northwest and is a pleasant adventure for an afternoon.

2. Eastbank Esplanade to Waterfront Park Loop

This easy loop is 3.7 miles around, or you could just stroll the Eastbank Esplanade's 1.7-mile promenade. To do the whole loop, cross the Hawthorne and Steel Bridges.

3. Mt. Tabor Green Trail

The 1.7-mile green trail is an easy adventure and takes you to the epic views from the top of the park.

4. Oak Island

This 2.9-mile hike along the river at Sauvie Island is a great place to see blue herons and other waterfowl.

5. Powell Butte Loop

Enjoy this easy 3.5-mile hike by another extinct volcano that is fun and scenic.

6. Tryon Creek State Natural Area

Take the 4-mile loop through the park for a quiet, forested tour of the city's only state park.

7. Willamette Mission State Park

Head down near Woodburn to this state park along the Willamette River. The 2.3-mile loop trail here takes you by what is thought to be the world's oldest black cottonwood tree.

8. Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge

See herons and other waterfowl on this 3.6-mile hike through the forest in Southeast Portland. Beavers, muskrats, and nutria call this place home and make for a great sighting on your hike.

9. Council Crest

Get the best view in the city when you take the 3.2-mile trail from Marquam Nature Park to the 1,043-foot summit. Be sure to stop and enjoy the view before heading back.

What are other easy hikes in Portland that you love? Feel free to share!