Best hikes in Oregon
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31 BEST Hikes in Oregon

 

There’s no doubt that the hikes in Oregon are spectacular. And if you ask us, this state has some of the best hiking in the country (#NotAtAllBiased).

From enchanting coastal vistas to foggy majestic peaks and everything in between, Oregon’s hiking scene is freaking epic! I’ve been hiking the state most of my life, but my bucket list of Oregon hikes is never-ending.

Here’s a list of all my favorite hikes in Oregon!

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Table of Contents

Coastal Hikes in Oregon

1. Natural Bridges Cove: North Island Viewpoint

Distance: .5 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate

If you’re looking for an epic adventure on the Oregon coast, then Samuel H. Boardman has you covered.

The corridor spans 12-miles across the rugged coastline and is decorated with isolated beaches, massive sea stacks, and peaceful forests. There are tons of awesome trails in this area, but one of the most epic is Natural Bridges Cove.

This challenging yet short trek is a bit on the sketchy side, but it’s definitely the most famous in the park, and the view from the end makes it all worth it.

TIP: If you want the viewpoint without the struggle, you can get a great vantage point without having to tackle the hike.

If this borderline dangerous hike scares you, fear not. There are tons of other hikes in the corridor that offer exceptional views without the sketchy trail.


RELATED: Guide to Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Area


2. Indian Beach Park via Ecola State Park

Distance: 3.8 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate

The seaside vistas in Ecola State Park have captured the hearts of explorers for hundreds of years, and its beautiful trails are among the best coastal hikes in Oregon.

For some of the best views in the park, get your hiking boots on Indian Beach Trail.

Hike through pristine forests and poke your head out to glorious views of the Pacific Ocean. The trail offer lots of magical cliff-side views overlooking secluded beaches as the waves crash against the shores.

Ecola State Park - One of the best hikes in Oregon
Indian Beach Trail via Ecola State Park – One of the best hikes in Oregon

Towering rock formations soar out of the water and mesmerizing tide pools add a peaceful allure. Keep your eyes peeled for tons of wildlife on land and sea such as deer, elk, or whales.


RELATED: Your Guide to Ecola State Park on the Oregon Coast


3. Neahkahnie Mountain via Oregon Coast Trail

Distance: 2.8 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate

This relatively short hike rewards you with a dramatic vista overlooking the Pacific Coast. Your head will be in the clouds when reaching the summit and the end provides a challenging rock scramble.

Neahkahnie View Point offers a great view when hiking in Oregon
Neahkahnie

The path is decorated with aromatic salals, coast fawn lilies, and other blooming wildflowers during springtime. As you amble through the switchbacks, you’ll gain miraculous views of the cliffs perched over the Oregon coast.

NOTE: Be advised that the trail often becomes muddy and is littered with roots that can trip you up.

4. God’s Thumb via the Knoll

Distance: 4.4 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate

Sturdy, slip-resistant trekking shoes are a must on this journey to the basalt formation, popularly nicknamed God’s Thumb. Start from the Roads End Trailhead and venture down a grassy path along the ridge.

Woman looking out at view of ocean from God's Thumb hike
View from God’s Thumb hike near Lincoln, Oregon

The route meanders through tranquil forests and meadows while giving you a beautiful vantage of the rocky shore below. Before reaching the top of The Thumb, admire the jagged sea stacks and sheltered coves.

The grassy hillsides offer majestic views of the Salmon River Estuary along the path’s sharp drop-offs.

God's Thumb
God’s Thumb

NOTE: Be careful when on the trail in rainy conditions as it can become quite muddy and extremely steep around The Thumb.


READ MORE: Your Guide to the God’s Thumb Hike in Lincoln City


5. Humbug Mountain Trail

Distance: 5.1 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate

Summit the highest mountain along the lush Oregon coast while being surrounded by beautiful Douglas Firs and wildflowers.

Inexperienced hikers may feel short of breath in the early stages of the looped route, but the bulk of the climb is along the first mile.

View of the beach at Humbug Mountain State Park, Oregon
Humbug Mountain Trail

Benches provide convenient resting places along the well-maintained trail and feature remarkable seaside vistas through the forest.

Recently, the trees have been cleared from the path’s highest point to provide breathtaking views of the coastline. Make sure to bring plenty of water and be prepared to challenge your knees on the steep decline.

6. Black Point Trail

Distance: 4.2 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate

Birding, hiking, a small waterfall plugging into the ocean, a lake, AND a long beach backed by rust-colored cliffs?! This must be a popular Oregon hike, right?

View over the cliffs on the Blacklock Point Trail in Floras Lake State Park
The Blacklock Point Trail is a must-do on your visit to Floras Lake State Park

It’s not! We love the Floras Lake State Natural Area; it’s one of the Oregon Coast’s best-kept secrets. This is one of best hikes to enjoy this area.

7. Heceta Head Lighthouse to Hobbit Beach

Distance: 3.6 miles
Type of Trail: Out and back
Difficulty: Moderate

If you’re looking to glimpse one of the coolest lighthouses in Oregon, this is the one to head to! Wander up to Heceta Lighthouse for epic vistas, and on your descent, you’ll end up on the sandy shores of Hobbit Beach.

View of Oregon coast and Heceta Lighthouse, a popular Oregon Lighthouse
Heceta Head Lighthouse has a stunning setting on the Oregon Coast

Read More About Visiting and Hiking Oregon’s Coast

Where to Stay on the Oregon Coast

Fort Stevens State Park: Located in Astoria in northwest Oregon, Fort Stevens State Park is a converted military space and is now one of the largest Oregon coast campgrounds with 500 spaces.

Sunset Bay State Park: Sunset Bay State Park is a beautiful place to camp, with towering cliffs and sandy beaches. It has sites available by the beach. You can stay in a tent or RV, or for something a little fancier, there are a few yurts available to rent.

Adorable Seaside CottageThis dog-friendly cottage is close to the beach and town in beautiful Cannon Beach. It offers amenities like a gas fireplace and a flat-screen cable TV.

Sounds of the Sea: Located on the southern Oregon Coast in Brookings, this 2-bedroom home is just a short stroll from the harbor. The nautical-themed cottage has a rooftop patio for enjoying views of the ocean, and a large backyard equipped with a barbecue.


RELATED: Southern Oregon Coast: 13 Epic Stops—Bandon to Brookings!


Oregon Trails Near Portland

8. Trail of Ten Falls

Distance: 7.4 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate

Boasting no less than 16 gorgeous hiking paths, Silver Falls State Park is one of the most pristine places to hike in Oregon.

The trails here are lush, with an abundance of plant life, including Douglas firs, cedars, ferns and wildflowers. But the waterfalls are the main attraction in this sliver of paradise.

Your Guide to Silver Falls State Park—The Trail of 10 Falls & More
Silver Falls trail in Oregon

As the name suggests, you’ll literally hit ten different waterfalls along the Trail of Ten Falls loop, making it a must for anyone looking for the best waterfall hikes in Oregon.

If you don’t have access to a vehicle, join this fun day trip from Portland to hike the Trail of Ten Falls Loop at Silver Falls State Park and visit a local winery.

9. Tamanawas Falls Trail

Distance: 3.3 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate

The Tamanawas Falls hike is definitely a favorite hike in Oregon.

The trail forks along a peaceful creek offering a soothing atmosphere until you reach the falls. There is an enchanting view of a cave behind the falls but use caution due to slippery rocks.

NOTE: This relaxing trail tends to fall on the easier side for seasoned hikers, but icy portions during colder months could present a challenge. Bringing along some spiked boots provides a big relief should ice become a factor.


READ MORE: Hiking the Gorgeous Tamanawas Falls Trail


10. Bald Mountain from Lolo Pass Trail

Distance: 6.1 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate

The first couple miles of this trail through Mount Hood National Forest is a steady uphill climb along steep switchbacks. However, once the path flattens out, there are fantastic views of both Mount Hood and Mount Adams.

Bald Mountain Hike in Oregon
Bald Mountain Hike in Oregon

As you approach a befuddling four-way intersection of trails, the route to Bald Mountain is marked by the sign to Muddy Fork off the Timberline Trail.

Hop over the fallen trees and continue to trek upwards through the open woodlands to approach the top of the mountain.

The final ascent gives you a fabulous view overlooking the Muddy Fork Valley as Mount Hood stands front and center.


RELATED: 9 Things To Do at Mount Hood For Adventurers!


11. Abiqua Falls

Distance: 1 mile-5.3 miles depending
Type of Trail: Out and Back
Difficulty: Difficult

There’s no shortage of waterfalls around Portland and this one is one of our favorites.

Abiqua Falls is a stunning Oregon waterfall.
Abiqua Falls

You’ll probably want to read our guide to Abiqua Falls, as it’s a bit confusing to locate. Once you get here, you’ll just follow the river until you reach the thundering falls!

12. Tom, Dick and Harry Mountain Oregon Trail

Distance: 9.0 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate

This easily accessible hike is a true Oregon favorite due to its picturesque scenery of Mount Hood above Mirror Lake. The trail begins off U.S. Highway 26 near Mt. Hood Skibowl and can get quite crowded during peak season.

Mirror Lake provides a peaceful resting spot to soak up the astonishing views of Mount Hood in all its glory.

TIP: For more scenic vistas without the crowds, keep trekking through the wilderness to reach the summit of Tom Dick and Harry Mountain.

On a clear day, the views of multiple snow-capped peaks make this one of the most exhilarating Oregon hiking trails. Read our guide to the Tom, Dick, and Harry hike.


READ MORE: 7 of The Best Hikes Around Mount Hood


13. Hamilton Mountain and Rodney Falls Trail

Distance: 7.2 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Difficulty: Hard

This challenging hike is over the border in Washington at Beacon Rock State Park. With an elevation gain of over 2,200-feet, this is one of the grandest adventures you can have in the Columbia Gorge.

The path takes you to scenic waterfalls, pristine forests, sharp cliffs and heart-racing mountaintop views. You’ll gain splendid views of Hamilton Mountain and the snow-capped peaks of Mount Hood and Mount Adams.

Bridge over Rodney Falls on Hamilton Mountain Trail Columbia River Gorge
Hamilton Mountain Trail

Wildflowers dot the Douglas fir-lined forest during springtime and the foliage is spectacular during the fall. The mist from the cascading Rodney Falls, Hardy Falls, and the Pool of the Winds are refreshing spots to cool off.

The uphill switchbacks lead to further cliff-side edges with perfect vantages overlooking the Columbia River.

14. Multnomah Falls to Wahkeena Falls Loop

Distance: 9.0 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Difficulty: Hard

With breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge’s tallest waterfall (and several others), this is among the most famous hikes in Oregon.

Have your camera from the very beginning as the loop starts at the Multnomah Falls Lodge near the famous landmark. The route gains plenty of elevation before heading to other falls and ending at Wahkeena Falls.

There are still remnants of the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire, but the landscape remains peaceful with flowing creeks and gorgeous wildflowers. Hikers are advised to tread with caution due to dangerous conditions caused by the fire.

Falling tree limbs, unstable rocks and overgrowth could potentially make this trail unsafe for inexperienced hikers. Nevertheless, the numerous waterfalls you pass still makes this one of the most magical hikes in Oregon.

TIP: Make sure you start at the crack of dawn to avoid the hordes of crowds at this popular site.

→ If you don’t have a lot of time, do this half-day waterfall hiking tour that visits the best waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge.

15. Forest Park Ridge Trail

Distance: 4 miles
Type: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate

For an epic hike in Portland, hands down one of our favorites is in Forest Park.

St Johns Bridge from Forest Park Ridge Trail in Forest Park Oregon
St Johns Bridge from Forest Park

The Forest Park Ridge Trail will give you amazing views of the work of art known as the Saint John’s Bridge. Not to mention it will totally make you forget you’re hiking in a big city!

Read More About Visiting and Portland, Oregon Trails

Where to Stay Near Portland

Ainsworth State Park: Ainsworth Campground is located right in Ainsworth State Park, at the western end of the Columbia River Gorge. There are about 40 full-hookup spots you can reserve, along with six walk-in tent sites.

Trillium Lake Campground: Trillium Lake Campground sits next to beautiful Trillium Lake at an elevation of 3,600 feet, and offers dozens of single and double sites for tents and RVs.

Trillium Lake
Trillium Lake in Oregon

Tiny House With Lofted Views of the Forest: This unique tiny house is surrounded by trees and has a woodsy interior. Enjoy the forest views from the lofted bed.

Tiny Forest Cabin: This tiny forest cabin is close to Portland while still being secluded and peaceful. The loft bedroom has a skylight so you can see the trees from the comfort of the cozy bed.

Central Oregon Hikes

16. Proxy Falls Loop Trail in Oregon (Fav Central Oregon Waterfall Hike!)

Distance: 1.6 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Difficulty: Easy

This is one of the best hikes in Oregon for those just looking for a peaceful stroll to enjoy nature. Hikers of all skill levels can enjoy lush forests and mesmerizing waterfalls along this easy stretch of terrain.

Proxy Falls is one of Oregon's best hikes
Proxy Falls is one of Oregon’s best hikes

It’s possible to gain a closer vantage of the greenery surrounding the falls, but there is a slight scramble from the base of the Lower Falls.

Overall, the loop is incredibly easy to navigate and is the perfect Oregon hike when you’re pressed for time.

TIP: This is one of our favorite photo locations in Oregon!


READ MORE: Proxy Falls Hike—Central Oregon’s Most Epic Waterfall!


17. Deschutes River Canyon Oregon Trail

Distance: 5.3 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Difficulty: Easy

This relaxing hike along the Deschutes River is the perfect outing for an enjoyable day with cooler temperatures. Also, the flexibility of the path is a great introduction for novice trekkers.

Rolling hills rise above the river and springtime wildflowers can often be spotted along the landscape. There is lots of overgrowth on the trail, which can potentially hide unsettling critters like ticks and rattlesnakes.

Deschutes River hike in Oregon
Deschutes River Trail hike in Oregon

You will notice some scorched areas in the lower Deschutes Canyon due to a fire that hit the region in 2018.

Despite the damage caused by the fire, the waterfront path still offers remarkable scenery of basalt cliffs, native wildlife, and remnants of early western settlements.


RELATED: Deschutes River—Hiking, Rafting, Floating


18. Cletewood Cove Trail

Distance: 2.1 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate

This short Oregon hike is simply a must-do when visiting the hypnotizing hues of Crater Lake.

You’ll park off of East Rim Drive, then you’ll start your gradual descent towards the lake. You’ll eventually reach the lake and a boat dock where you can brave a dip in the chilly waters (57 degrees in the summer!).

Garfield Peak Trail is a cool hike in Oregon
Garfield Peak Trail

If you’re short on time, Cleetwood Cove Trail is among the best hikes in Oregon for an unforgettable trip.


RELATED: 9 Best Crater Lake Hikes You’ve Got to Take On!


19. Tumalo Falls via Tumalo Creek Trail

Distance: 6.5 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate

Arrive early to beat the crowds on this beautiful Oregon hike along the serene Tumalo Creek. Located near the Three Sisters Wilderness, the magical Tumalo Falls is proudly on display right when you start the trek.

The falls plunge over the basalt cliffs and the creek peacefully flows downstream adjacent to the path. Upwards of seven waterfalls in total can be spotted on this route depending on how far you go.

Elevation gain is moderate, but the trail provides just enough of a climb to slightly lift your heart rate. The path continues to wander through the dense spruce and pine forests while hopping over logs to beautiful viewpoints along the river.


RELATED: Tumalo Falls Hike and Bike Trail Near Bend, Oregon


20. Misery Ridge and Summit Trail Loop

Distance: 5.5 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Difficulty: Hard

One of the best hikes in Oregon for rock climbing enthusiasts, Misery Ridge challenges your endurance. The beginning stages of the hike are along a sharp incline, but it gradually flattens throughout the trail.

The Misery Ridge Trail is one of the best hikes in Oregon
The Misery Ridge Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Oregon

If you’re feeling winded, catch your breath and take the time to admire the peculiar rock formations in the park. The summit provides stellar views of features like the Monument Area and winding Crooked River.

Catch a peek of the famous 350-foot Monkey Face and see if determined rock climbers are attempting to reach the top.

TIP: Trekking poles and spiked boots can come in handy when trying to manage potentially unstable terrain.

21. Green Lakes Trail

  • Distance: 9 miles
  • Type of Trail: Out and back
  • Difficulty: Moderate

The Green Lakes Trail outside of Bend, Oregon, is a well-worth-it challenge.

South Sisters and Broken Top make stunning appearances as the backdrop to the Green Lakes, so if you can’t hike up either of those mountains, this is the hike to do.

Nina on a log at Green Lake.
Nina on a log at Green Lake.

You’ll still get an epic reward without as much of an effort!

22. Paulina Peak Trail

Distance: 6.1 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Hard

Stretching from the azure-blue waters of Paulina Lake to fertile coniferous forests, this beautiful hike offers some of the top views of any Oregon hike.

It is a sturdy climb to the Paulina Peak summit area, but the panoramas of the Cascades are worth the ascent.

Paulina Peak Trail in Oregon
Paulina Peak Summit is a great Oregon trail!

Once you reach the Newberry Caldera rim, you will see spectacular views of the lake from above and the craggy cliffs of the mountain peak.

Check out the fascinating volcanic features of the Big Obsidian Flow before taking in the sweeping 360-degree views.

TIP: While the hike is beautiful and totally worth it, you can technically drive up to the summit in summer.


RELATED: Your Guide to Newberry National Volcanic Monument


23. South Sister Trail

Distance: 12.2 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Hard

Adrenaline junkies will be in heaven along this adventurous Oregon hike. South Sister’s extreme endeavor takes you to the summit of the state’s third-highest mountain and unforgettable views.

South Sister is an epic hike in Oregon
South Sister is a GRIND—but totally worth it.

Although it’s a non-technical climb, the route gains nearly 5,000 feet of elevation and puts your endurance to the test. The beginning parts of the trek wander through the forest before reaching the base of the mountain.

TIP: Trekking poles will come in handy when facing loose rocks or icy conditions along the trail.

The otherworldly vistas are some of the most spectacular anywhere in Oregon, especially on a clear day. Not only will you spot numerous peaks in either direction, but also a crater nestled along the mountain.


READ MORE: Your Guide to Hiking South Sister in Bend, Oregon


24. Broken Top Trail to No Name Lake and Bend Glacier

Distance: 15.2 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Hard

The Three Sisters Wilderness shows off its rugged beauty on this majestic hike to the highly eroded Broken Top.

From the trailhead, you’re greeted with subalpine forest views and jagged peaks rising above you. Loose rocks are scattered along the trail before ambling past a creek crossing.

Broken Top Hike in Oregon
Broken Top Hike in Oregon

After going through the scramble, the sharp pinnacles of Broken Top and the turquoise waters of No Name Lake are the perfect spot to relax.

Don’t forget to make the extra half-mile climb to the top and catch breathtaking vistas of the nearby mountains!

NOTE: Much of the area’s terrain is brutal on cars, so it is recommended that you start the hike at Todd Lake without a high-clearance vehicle.

25. Sahalie and Koosah Falls

Distance: 2.6 miles
Type of Trail: Loop
Difficulty: Easy

Looking to chase some waterfalls? We got you! Along the McKenzie River Trail, you’ll find two stunning falls with little to no effort—Sahalie and Koosah Falls.

Take the loop trail and visit them both along the way or just drive up to their respective parking lots for a quick visit.

26. Blue Pool Hike

Distance: 3.9 miles
Type of Trail: Out and back
Difficulty: Easy

Another famous Oregon Hike, the Blue Pool hike, is not too far from the above waterfalls! In fact, you can loop them all into one hike if you want to.

Blue Pool with Nina in a yellow shirt sitting to the left side.
Blue Pool

Blue Pool is just as it sounds—One incredibly blue pool. You’ll wander through cool volcanic rock before reaching this stunning reward at the end of your hike.

Read More About Visiting and Hiking Oregon Trails

Where to Stay in Central Oregon

Bend-Sunriver RV Campground: This friendly campground can be found on the Little Deschutes River, and offers cabins, cottages, and yurts to rent as well as RV and tent sites.

Tumalo State Park Campground: This beautiful campground is on the banks of the Deschutes River. There are full hookup sites, lots of tent sites, and a couple of pet-friendly yurts.

Hummingbird Cottage: Hummingbird Cottage is an adorable craftsman style Bungalow in a quiet part of Bend that is close to breweries, hikes, and more.

Tall Pines A-Frame: This cute A-Frame in La Pine sits on an acre of Ponderosa Pine and has a full kitchen, bathroom, and two bedrooms. 

East Oregon Hiking Trails

27. Upper Leslie Gulch Trail in Oregon

Distance: 4.1 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Easy

Nestled near the Jordan Valley, you’ll be living in serenity walking along this easy path in the eastern Oregon desert. There is little elevation gain and the terrain is suitable for all skill levels.

Leslie Gulch Trail hike in Oregon
Leslie Gulch Trail hike in Oregon

Craggy rock formations surround the landscape and there are several exciting rock-climbing spots if you look closely enough.

NOTE: You will not find any shade cover and it is critical to bring lots of water, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses for the hike. Make sure to watch out for snakes since you’ll be in prime rattler country.


READ MORE: Your Guide to Leslie Gulch: Oregon’s Stunning Alien Territory


28. Wildhorse Lake Trail from Steens Summit Road

Distance: 2.5 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate

Although on the shorter end, this phenomenal Oregon hike lives up to the hype with its dramatic scenery. The 2.5-mile trail gains over 1,000-feet in elevation and will make you work for it to reach the spectacular alpine vistas.

Steep switchbacks and sharp drops make the terrain a more daring endeavor than at first glance. Also, loose rocks present another potential hazard if not paying close attention.

Wildhorse Lake Trail in Oregon
Wildhorse Lake Trail

The rocky landscapes around Wildhorse Lake reveal the glacial erosion that has shaped the area over millions of years. Towering above the lake, you’ll gain a jaw-dropping aerial view of Alvord Desert and the neighboring jagged peaks.


RELATED: Steens Mountain: Everything You Need to Know!


29. Strawberry Lake and Little Strawberry Lake Trail

Distance: 6.2 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate

With two gorgeous lakes, pristine meadows and blooming wildflowers, the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness boasts one of the best hikes in Oregon.

You’ll reach the heavenly Strawberry Lake in just over a mile along the path and the beautiful surroundings of firs and pines. Continue past the shores of Strawberry Lake to see Strawberry Falls cascading against a rocky wall.

You won't be disappointed by this Oregon waterfall hike ⁠— Strawberry Falls.
Strawberry Falls

The trail makes a bit of a climb before reaching the shimmering Little Strawberry Lake. This peaceful spot is ideal for taking in the scenery and scanning the area for deer, mountain goats, and other wildlife.

TIP: Don’t forget the bug spray for this one! Although the landscape is breathtaking during the summer, mosquitoes are brutal in the Strawberry Wilderness this time of year.


RELATED: Guide to the Strawberry Mountain Wildness


30. Mirror Lake to Eagle Cap

Distance: 16.9 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate

The alpine scenery of the Wallowa Mountains is second to none and this adventurous journey is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Oregon. Despite the long route, the landscape is not a dreadful climb for average trekkers.

The picturesque Mirror Lake is a popular stopping point for day hikers and those deciding to camp overnight. If your goal is to reach the summit of Eagle Cap, then take your time to soak up the majestic views surrounding the lake.

Eagle Cap Wilderness
Beautiful scenery at Eagle Cap Wilderness

The remainder of the trail to the peak of Eagle Cap is a tougher challenge but the panoramas are simply out of this world. Snow-capped peaks, forested valleys and deep-blue lakes complete the dreamlike 360 views from the top of the near 10,000-foot mountain.


RELATED: Guide to Wallowa Lake State Park


31. Succor Creek Campground Trail

Distance: 3.9 miles
Type of Trail: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate

You probably won’t find this trail on any other list of Oregon hikes because almost nobody comes out here! If you’re in Eastern Oregon and looking for a new area to explore—Succor Creek is it!

Garrett hiking along Succor Creek campgrounds trail.
Succor Creek area in the morning light.

This hike will have you roaming unearthly landscapes—seriously! We set up camp here and hiked this one first thing in the morning; it was magical.

Read More About Visiting and Hiking in East Oregon

Where to Stay in Eastern Oregon

Alvord Desert: You can camp out in the Alvord Desert for free – and there’s even a hot spring nearby, too! This is hands down one of the coolest spots to go camping in Oregon. Read our guide on camping in the Alvord Desert.

Camping in Alvord Desert is a fun thing to do on your Oregon road trip.
Camping in the Alvord Desert

Wallowa Lake State Park: This campsite is located just south of Wallowa Lake and offers 89 tent sites, lots of RV sites with hookups, and even a few yurts and cabins. Most of the campsite closes in winter though, so plan accordingly.

Rich’s Camp Cabin: Stay in a cute cabin right by a peaceful creek in the Elkhorn Mountains of Eastern Oregon. Rich’s Camp Cabin has everything you need for a comfortable stay. 

Eagle Cap Chalets: Stay in a rustic but comfortable cottage at Eagle Cap Chalets on a forested property near Wallowa Lake. There is an outdoor pool and hot tub on-site for guest use.

South Sister is one of our fav Oregon hikes
Some Oregon hiking tips to consider…

Tips for Oregon Trail Hiking

  • Note that some of the hikes will require you to have a Northwest Pass ($30) or to purchase a day pass for $5.
  • Many of the hikes on the list are a bit more than a stroll in the park, to say the least! Good hiking shoes or hiking boots are a must to avoid broken ankles and slips.
  • Always check the weather, particularly outside of the summer, to make sure the roads to the trailheads are open or the trails themselves are open. Some do close in winter or in adverse weather conditions.
  • Let’s state the obvious for anyone stubborn out there—Don’t forget a sufficient amount of water, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Maybe even a hat too!
  • We LOVE camping in Oregon—it’s cheap and easy. But the best part is being able to wake up at our trailhead, or at the least down the road. Consider camping near your hike to cut out the driving. Or even camp along your trail in the designated areas.
  • It goes without saying, but we need to say it—pack in, pack out! DON’T leave the trail littered for the next person. Particularly those on the multiday Oregon trails.
  • Summers in Oregon are pretty busy, if you have any flexibly in your visit, we suggest coming in shoulder season (April-May or September-October). The weather is still great, and most hikes in Oregon are still open.

We hope you loved our list of hikes in Oregon! Be sure to check out our other hiking in Oregon posts and other adventures around Oregon.

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