10 Places Around Portland You Thought Only Existed In Your Imagination

Portland lies in a land of great beauty. All around us there are plush forests, ranging rivers, and snow-capped mountains which all set the scene for some amazing views. Here are 10 places that are so amazing you may have thought they were only a figment of your imagination. Explore these epic spots in and around Portland to be truly taken back by our area's beauty.

1. Forest Park

It doesn't take long in Forest Park to realize that it is something special. With over 5,000 acres of green space and winding trails, this is one of the biggest natural destinations of the city.

2. Portland Japanese Garden

This epic tree at the Portland Japanese Garden is vibrant and spectacular, especially when changing colors in the fall. With little pathways, rivers, pagodas and trails about, this garden is a bit magical in its own right.

3. Fairy Falls

This 20-foot waterfall in the Columbia Gorge looks straight out of a storybook. The fan-shaped waterfall is is tributary of Wahkeena Creek and a destination for lovers of beauty.

4. Punchbowl Falls - Eagle Creek Trail

Deep on the Eagle Creek Trail along the Columbia Gorge, lies this waterfall which was so unique it secured its own type of waterfall classification - punchbowl. Watch it swirl with force in this serene setting.

5. Oneonta Gorge

Carved out between 25-million year old basalt walls, Oneonta Gorge must be seen to be believed. Depending on the season, you may have to wade through some relatively high (and cold) water to get there, so be prepared for a journey to visit this land of beauty.

6. Opal Pool

Hike to this brightly colored pool, and you will not only enjoy the wilderness, but you will pass through a ghost town as well. The mining town of Jawbone Flats is an interesting stop before you get to this opulent pool.

7. Dog Mountain

Right across the border in Washington is this prolific mountain that boasts some epic views. Come in the spring when wildflowers are in full bloom and you will be amazed at the beauty.

8. Sauvie Island

A hike along the beach of Sauvie Island and then to the Warrior Point Trail will secure you a look at the tiny Warrior Rock lighthouse at the tip of Sauvie Island. This idyllic setting is something out of a fairy tale just waiting for you to see.

9. Marquam Nature Park

Nestled in a small enclave in NW Portland, the park connects to Forest Park and was formed after neighbors banded together to prevent a housing development here. While this may seem imaginary, the neighbors successfully fought the development over 40 years ago, and today the park is still going strong.

10. Mills End Park

Finally, we have the park that you may miss if you blink, walk too fast, or get splashed by a car speeding by. Officially registered as the World's Smallest Park by the Guinness World Book of Records, this tiny park on Naito Parkway could be mistaken for a median if you are not observant.

How many of these spots have you visited? There's no better time to make them a priority than now! :-)