Fun in the sun or play in the gray

By Amanda Munro

I am surrounded by trees covered in emerald patches of moss, their spindly branches reaching out to the sky. Ferns bunch together next to a creek bubbling nearby, its water dancing gently around the rocks. Everywhere I look, everything is green. Tranquility. There's something whimsical about this place, the miles of trails that snake behind Portland into what seems like endless expanses of forest. At times like these, I feel unbelievably lucky to live in such a beautiful corner of the world.

Hiking. Biking. Camping. Picnicking. With such great trails, countless beautiful parks, and gardens so easily accessible, it's no secret why Portland is home to so many outdoor enthusiasts. No matter what it is you like to do, there is something for everyone in the great outdoors within 20 minutes of campus. While our current, relatively dry weather is the best time to take advantage of the outdoors, Portland's nature is fun year-round and a great way to spend a sunny (or even gray) day. Adventure on!

- Amanda Munro

 

Parks and Picnicking

For those who prefer a more relaxed activity, there are multiple gorgeous parks to walk through or simply sit and enjoy a cool beverage and a picnic.

Waterfront Park

Distance from UP: 13 minutes by car

Bus accessible! Take the 44 or 35

Waterfront Park's green lawns run along the urban length of the Willamette River downtown with great views of prominent Portland bridges. In the springtime, the trees are in bloom with gorgeous pink flowers. The park is also close to Portland's unique Saturday Market!

Lan Su Chinese Gardens

Distance from UP: 13 minutes by car

Bus accessible! Take the 44 or 35

This park is nestled in the heart of downtown, and it is positively stunning. The arrangement of Chinese plants among perfectly placed sculptures is wonderful to walk through, and you can even stop by the tea house for a traditional tea ceremony!

Japanese Gardens

Distance from UP: 16 minutes by car

Bus accessible! Take the 44 or 35 to the MAX Blue Line and switch to 63

Beautiful at every time of year, the Japanese garden is a picturesque haven with a creek spanned by intricate bridges in addition to the lovely plants and sculptures.

International Rose Test Garden

Distance from UP: 16 minutes by car

Bus accessible! Take the 44 or 35 to the MAX Blue Line and switch to 63

Portland's rose garden is a beautiful way to spend an afternoon. Although the flowers bloom most strongly in June, it's still possible to stop and smell the roses all the way through October.

- Amanda Munro

 

Bike rides in and around Portland

In addition to biking at Forest Park, Hoyt Arboretum, or simply from place to place in the city, there are a few especially good bike trails that you should know about.

Eastbank Esplanade

Distance from UP: 13 minutes by car

Bus accessible! Take the 44 or the 35

The Eastbank Esplanade is a gorgeous waterfront bike trail that stretches for 1.5 miles along the Willamette River. A must-do for any biking enthusiast!

Sauvie Island

Distance from UP: 18 minutes by car

Bus accessible! Take the 44 or 75 to St. Johns and switch to 17

Sauvie Island is a popular beach spot for Portland residents, but it's also great for biking! If it's warm enough (or if you're brave enough) you can even jump in the river after your ride.

Marine Drive, East

Distance from UP: 19 minutes by car

Bus accessible! Take the 44, 35, or 75 to the MAX Red Line

This ride is near the airport, so bikers can see planes landing and taking off as they ride. Cool!

- Amanda Munro

 

Hiking Trails within 20 minutes of UP

Forest Park

Distance from UP: 10-15 minutes by car Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Bus accessible! Take the 44 or 75 and transfer to the 16

Forest Park is a huge forest just across St. Johns Bridge with 80 miles of beautiful trails. Though the possibilities are endless, my personal favorites are the Wildwood Trail (from MacLeary Park) and Ridge Trail. Pittock Mansion lies at the top of Wildwood Trail and has a gorgeous view of Portland. While you're there, it's even possible to take a tour of the historical mansion for $8.50.

Hoyt Arboretum

Distance from UP: 16 minutes by car Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Bus accessible! Take the 35 to the MAX Blue Line then bus 63 At Hoyt Arboretum, most of the trees are labeled so you can learn all about local Portland foliage. I recommend the four mile walk, which travels through each area of the park from shady pine trees to sunny hills (which are great for picnics, by the way!)

Tryon Creek State Park

Distance from UP: 22 minutes by car

Difficulty: Easy

Bus accessible! Take the 35

This is a beautiful little park with a lovely creek, perfect for a shady and less strenuous nature walk close to the city. Maple Ridge Trail is gorgeous, especially in October when the trees are on fire with color. In winter, it's possible to see steelhead trout spawning in the creek!

Council Crest

Distance from UP: 18 minutes by car

Bus accessible! Take the 44 or 35 and transfer to the 51

Difficulty: Moderate

This trail leads to the highest point in Portland, Council Crest. On a clear day standing at the top, it's possible to see the whole city framed by all four volcanoes.

- Amanda Munro