12 Small Rural Towns Near Portland That Are Downright Delightful

With just over 3,000 residents, Dundee has all the small town charm it can manage. Located in the Willamette valley, it is a wine country favorite and just 2 miles from Newberg.

Also a main player in the local wine industry, Newberg is home to George Fox University, giving it a larger population of 22,000. However, this quaint town has plenty of small town feel and charm in its walkable downtown area.

The largest city in Yamhill County, McMinnville is home to Linfield College and has a lovely downtown that is perfect for strolling.

Currently home to 1,000 residents, Yamhill was the childhood home of children's book author Beverly Cleary. A player in the wine industry, Yamhill also features several historic buildings and places.

Located on the western edge of the Columbia River Highway, this small town is a scenic stretch and just 12 miles from Portland. The walkable downtown is a picturesque location that makes for a nice day trip.

Northeast of Salem, the town of Silverton enjoys the beauty of the Willamette Valley. Founded in 1854, Silverton is home to the Oregon Garden and Silver Falls State Park, both amazing locations for a day trip.

A farming and timber community, Sheridan has been incorporated since 1880. Sheridan Days and Mud Drags, two events the city throws in June, are a fun time to visit for a taste of local culture.

Located along Oregon Route 212, Boring is an unincorporated community that lies at the start of the Springwater Corridor Trail. Built over a lava field, Boring saw a rise in settlers in the mid-1800s and is sister cities with some other equally lackluster named cities: Dull, Scotland and Bland in New South Wales, Australia.

With just over 2,000 residents, Vernonia is a city built on timber production. It features the 21-mile Banks-Vernonia Trail, a bike, pedestrian and horseback riding trail through the lovely area.

Now the county seat of Columbia County, St. Helens was one of the stops of the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805. Used as a location in several movies, including the wildly popular Twilight series, St. Helens has attracted a stronger tourist following in recent years.

Started as a camp for building a hydroelectric dam, Estacada grew into a hub for the logging industry. Today with just over 2,000 residents, it is a great starting point for fishing and outdoor recreation on the Clackamas River and has a growing arts scene.