Portland Parks and Outdoors Travel Guide

Few cities in the United States can boast the caliber or variety of outdoor opportunities found in Portland. Tucked amid lush folds of the Willamette Valley—bounded by the snow-capped volcanoes, old-growth forests, and the Columbia River—the region has long attracted residents with a keen appreciation for the great outdoors.
Three great rivers within three hours of Portland—the Deschutes, Metolius, and Crooked Rivers—offer excellent opportunities year-round to catch nice fish.
Between the wilderness areas, national forests, and state parks there is no lack of opportunities for backcountry camping around Portland. Groups seeking a car-camping experience should check out Eagle Creek Campground, a perfect base camp for hiking forays up Eagle Creek and Ruckle Ridge trails. For coastal camping, sample primeval coastal rain forest at Oswald West State Park, and for riverside camping just a short drive from the city visit Oxbow Park.
Two full-day scenic drives leading from the city typify some of the classic scenery of this region. Heading east, the Columbia River Gorge Historic Highway passes some of the most spectacular waterfalls and overlooks along the river and encompasses a loop around Mount Hood. Driving west, the Oregon Coast Drive, involves a long loop through the Willamette Valley and through the Coastal mountain range with the prime attraction being miles of winding road along the Pacific Ocean.

Portland Travel Guide

Situated at the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia rivers, Portland, Oregon, with a metropolitan population of roughly two million, is a city of discreet charms. That it claims a rose garden as one of its biggest attractions should give you an idea of just how laid-back this city is. Sure, Portlanders are just as attached to their cellphones and PDAs as residents of other urban areas, but this is the City of Roses, and people still take time to stop and smell the flowers. Spend much time here, and you, too, will likely feel the leisurely pace seeping into your bones. Read More

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Where can you go horseback riding in or near Portland, Oregon?
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I am bringing two grandchildren ages 10 and 12 via the train to Portland from Tacoma, WA. What are the best places to take them to shop for school clothes and have fun? We will be there the weekend of 8/28-30.
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I will be traveling to Portland mid Sept. Have no idea where to stay...downtown? by convention center, etc? Would like to be in walking distance to activities if possible.
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Portland Parks and Outdoors Travel Guide