Best One-Day Winter Hikes in Oregon
If you're based near **Portland**, you're in luck. There are plenty of beautiful trails that turn magical during winter.
TRAVEL IN THE USA
10/7/20246 min read
Best One-Day Winter Hikes in Oregon
Ever wonder where you can find the best one-day winter hikes in Oregon? If you're anything like me, you’re searching for trails that are both gorgeous and accessible during the colder months. Maybe you're worried about icy paths or how to stay warm without overpacking. Let's cut to the chase—here are the top spots to hit this winter when you only have a day but still want adventure.
---
Best Winter Day Hikes Near Portland
If you're based near Portland, you're in luck. There are plenty of beautiful trails that turn magical during winter. The Columbia River Gorge is an obvious choice because of the waterfalls and scenic views. The trick is picking the right ones.
- Multnomah Falls is iconic year-round, but it’s especially breathtaking in the winter when you catch a glimpse of the waterfall partially frozen. It's only a 2.4-mile loop if you include Wahkeena Falls.
- Eagle Creek Trail offers a bit more adventure. Though there are sections closed off due to past wildfires, you can still enjoy part of this trail. Keep an eye out for slippery paths though—**crampons** might come in handy here.
- Closer to Mount Hood, you've got Trillium Lake. A solid choice for beginners. It’s about 3.6 miles round-trip, with views of Mount Hood reflecting on the lake's icy surface. Bring insulated water bottles because, trust me, your drink will freeze fast.
Pro Tip: If you're hitting these trails after a fresh snowstorm, having waterproof hiking boots is a lifesaver. I made the mistake of wearing regular ones once—bad idea. Get boots with good traction to handle the mix of snow and mud.
---
Top Scenic Winter Hikes in Central Oregon (Bend Area)
Central Oregon is perfect if you want quieter trails with fewer people. Bend is my go-to base camp for exploring this area, and winter here is seriously magical. Snowshoeing? Yep, that’s big here.
- First stop: Smith Rock State Park. It’s like hiking through a winter painting, especially if you go early. Snow dusts the towering rock formations, and it’s an easy enough hike that you won’t be dead tired afterward. The Misery Ridge trail gives you a workout, but the panoramic views are so worth it.
- Tumalo Falls is next on the list, a short and sweet hike that takes you to a frozen waterfall. It's only about 2.5 miles and you get epic photo ops at the falls.
- Want something longer? Head to Deschutes National Forest. You’ve got a variety of winter hiking and snowshoeing trails to pick from. These are great if you want to avoid the crowds and truly enjoy nature.
Gear Alert: If you’re heading into the Bend area, pack heated gloves and snowshoes. Trust me, the extra warmth and traction go a long way when you’re trudging through deeper snow.
Coastal Oregon Winter Hikes
Don’t sleep on the Oregon coast in winter. It’s not just about the mountains—there are coastal trails that look amazing during the colder months. Plus, fewer tourists means you practically get the place to yourself.
- Cape Perpetua is one of my favorites. It’s windy and rugged, but you get this dramatic view of the waves crashing against the rocky cliffs. The Captain Cook Trail is a short loop (under a mile), but you can extend your hike by connecting to the Giant Spruce Trail.
- Another spot is Ecola State Park. The views of the ocean, mixed with the coastal forest, are unbeatable. You can hike the Clatsop Loop Trail, which is about 2.8 miles. It’s an easy-to-moderate hike and a great option for families.
- Last but not least, Hug Point. This hike takes you along the beach, and you’ll even pass some waterfalls depending on the tide. The winter mist and waves crashing make this an unforgettable hike.
Coastal Tip: Always bring waterproof gaiters when hiking the coast in winter. The trails can be wet, and nobody likes hiking with soaked socks.
---
Winter Waterfall Hikes in Oregon
Oregon's waterfalls are legendary, but did you know that some of them freeze over in winter? It’s like walking into a winter wonderland.
- Silver Falls State Park is a must-see if you love waterfalls. The Trail of Ten Falls lets you check out multiple frozen waterfalls in a single loop (it’s about 7.2 miles, but you can shorten it if you want). Even if the waterfalls aren’t completely frozen, the mist alone is worth it.
- Ramona Falls near Mount Hood is another great option, though it’s a bit longer at 7 miles. The trail can get icy, so throw on some crampons for extra grip.
- For something off the beaten path, check out Salt Creek Falls. It's the second-highest waterfall in Oregon and looks amazing when frozen. Located in Willamette National Forest, it’s only about a mile to the viewpoint, making it a great quick hike.
Waterfall Hack: Winter waterfall hikes can get chilly. Layer up with thermal jackets and bring a thermos of hot tea or coffee. Nothing beats sipping something warm while you’re staring at a frozen waterfall.
---
Winter Hiking Safety Tips
Winter hiking is no joke, so here are some quick tips to keep in mind before you hit the trails:
- Check the weather before you go. Oregon's winter weather can change fast. Snow, ice, or fog can roll in unexpectedly.
- Layer your clothing—it’s better to take layers off than not have enough. Stick to moisture-wicking base layers, an insulated mid-layer, and a waterproof jacket.
- Always carry emergency gear: a first aid kit, an emergency blanket, and a portable charger for your phone.
- Bring microspikes or crampons if you expect icy conditions. Even a mild-looking trail can turn into a slippery mess in winter.
- Start early—daylight is limited in winter, so plan to finish your hike by mid-afternoon to avoid being caught out in the dark.
Winter hiking is so much fun, but preparation is key. One time, I went on a hike in Mount Hood and didn’t bring my portable charger. My phone died halfway through—never again!
---
Gear Recommendations for Winter Hiking
Let’s talk gear. Winter hikes are amazing, but you need to be well-prepared. Here's what I recommend:
- Waterproof hiking boots: Your feet will thank you. I swear by Merrell or Columbia boots with good insulation and grip.
- Thermal hiking socks: These will keep your toes warm, even when the temperatures drop. I usually pack a spare pair just in case.
- Insulated jackets: You can’t go wrong with brands like Patagonia or The North Face. These jackets keep you warm without being too bulky.
- Trekking poles: Helps with balance, especially when dealing with snow or ice.
- Insulated water bottles: A Hydro Flask will keep your water from freezing. I've had water freeze in a regular bottle before—not fun.
---
Subscribe to our newsletter
Enjoy exclusive special deals available only to our subscribers.
Adventure
Explore hidden gems, bustling streets, and serene wonders.
Passport
Globetrotter2024
Travel Out of Now Here
© 2024. All rights reserved.
Affiliate Disclosure:
This site contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services we trust. Thank you for supporting our site!