7 Cool And Calming Hikes To Take In Oregon To Help You Reflect On The Year Ahead
If you made a New Year’s resolution, odds are that it’s already gone by the wayside. No worries! We prefer to find a calm, quiet hiking trail so we can reflect on what’s to come for the year ahead. You can certainly set some goals (like do more hiking!), but mostly it’s just an opportunity to enjoy the fresh air and remember how lucky we are to be surrounded by natural beauty here in Oregon.
*Please note: Winter hiking can be much more dangerous than hiking during summer months. Trails may be muddy and slick, or icy and snowy. Bring appropriate footwear for the challenge, and consider having a pair of traction cleats or snowshoes handy.
1. Misery Ridge and River Trail, Smith Rock State Park
Smith Rock State Park is beautiful year-round, and as a result, it can be crowded, even on a January weekend. For the most calming hike possible, arrive early. The trail is four miles out and back, and has a 1,000-foot elevation climb, so be prepared for a workout.
How does a 97-foot waterfall in a frozen landscape sound to you? Cold? Icy? Downright gorgeous! The 6.5-mile round-trip trail can be snowy and icy this time of year, so bring some traction devices and wear some warm snow boots. And of course...bring your camera.
The Oregon Coast is unpredictable in the winter, and we wouldn't have it any other way. Depending on the day, this 4.7-mile trail might reward you with endless ocean views...or might provide you with a foggy, mystical journey. What better spot to contemplate the meaning of your life?
4. Discovery Point Trail, Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake is incredibly busy during the summer, but winter months are a lot more quiet. It's an easy journey along the trail, which is four miles, round-trip. On a clear day, the lake is absolutely stunning!
In a city with well over 600,000 people, you'd think it would be hard to find a quiet spot. Not so! Forest Park is so large and secluded that you can actually find a little bit of peace and quiet here. Hop on the 29-mile-long trail at any of its entry points, and enjoy!
The 740-foot elevation gain up to Spencer Butte will definitely get your blood pumping, and might even help you lose those five pounds you gained over the holidays. But wait til you see the views! You can see the whole valley below.
Are you up for a winter adventure? The gate to the trail is closed during winter months, so the entire trek is around 12 miles round trip. It's worth it to see the 120-foot falls; just make sure to bundle up in layers and wear snow boots (have some traction cleats with you in case you need 'em). A bunch of snacks won't hurt, either.
As always, please practice Leave No Trace principles when enjoying Oregon’s hiking trails. We want these beautiful places to stay pristine for generations to come.
These seven hiking trails are just the beginning…the Beaver State has hundreds to choose from! Tell our readers some more of your favorites in the comments.
Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
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