Hit the Trail: The Best Spring Hikes in Portland

For those on the West Coast, 4,000-foot peaks might not even be worth blinking at. Not so, in the East. With our cities, and even most of our trailheads, sitting at less than 1,000 feet above sea level, it’s the comparatively small 4- and 5,000 footers that tower above. But even if these ancient, weathered peaks may be somewhat modest in size compared to the behemoths of the West, it certainly doesn’t make them any less spectacular. Upstate New York’s Adirondacks are home to 46 (give or take) “High Peaks” that make up a cherished and historic list defined by a magical line at 4,000 feet. What these rugged summits lack in elevation, they more than make up for in vertical gain (matching if not exceeding many of their western day hike counterparts), trail toughness, and downright beauty as they tower over some of the densest and most stunning backcountry on the continent. From rocky alpine summits to trail-less bushwhacks, here are the 10 all-around best 46ers in the Adirondacks. 1. Mount Colden Distance: 12.6 miles Rating: Difficult There’s no need to wait for the summit to enjoy the views on this hike. Within the first few miles, hikers pass a number of spots worthy of day hiking to on their own. The clearing where Marcy Dam once stood leaves visitors staring up toward Colden and Wright Peaks. Then, only a little further, the steep, narrow cut between Colden and the MacIntyre Range swallows the trail entirely. Avalanche Pass is a highlight to rival canyons and gorges everywhere. Continue up and down the ladders and boardwalks that negotiate the rocks between Avalanche Lake and the cliffs. Then, venture along the “hitch-up-matildas,” which are walkways bolted right to the rocks where it drops straight into the water. From picturesque Lake Colden, the trail cuts back and up toward Colden itself where you’ll be able to take in arguably the best views of any high peak. Colden’s bare summit sits right in the center of the most exciting part of the ‘Daks and offers unencumbered views of rocky summits in every direction. 2. Gothics Mountain Distance: 11.6 miles Rating: Moderate The Great Range snakes through the peaks from Route 73 like an arrow shot toward Mount Marcy’s summit. Between peaks on the range, trails drop, seemingly forever, making following the chain a grueling experience, while on either side of the line, the mountains drop from summit to valley in cascades of steep rock. Gothics, in the center of the range, offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and valleys from its panoramic summit. The valley forming the south side of the range has a dirt road (not open to vehicles) giving access to that side of the range and allowing for easy cruising. From halfway up the road, the Beaver Meadows Falls Trail toward Gothics cuts up into the range, quickly passing its namesake waterfall (perfect for cooling your feet on the way down) before winding higher up to the slides, and eventually the summit of Gothics become visible. 3. Mount Marcy Distance: 14.8 miles Rating: Moderate There’s something about the highest—especially when its original name, Tahawus, translates to something as intimidating and cool as “Cloud Splitter.” Mount Marcy is an instant classic for a lot of reasons, including its height. But its also the long, gradual approach, long and steep summit, and commanding views that put it at the top of a lot of people’s list of favorites. 4. Mount Skylight Distance: 17.2 miles (minimum) Rating: Difficult Relatively less-visited, the south side of Mount Marcy is nearly as deep as a hiker or backpacker can get in the High Peaks. The makings of a very long single day, Skylight is often approached as an overnight from one of multiple different directions. An intersection known as the Four Corners sits between Marcy and Skylight, but is also adjacent to Lake Tear of the Clouds, the highest lake in the state and the source of what eventually becomes the mighty Hudson River. From the Four Corners, a quick jaunt leads onto Skylight’s bare summit which offers a unique, southern vantage of the rest of the mountains on one side—dominated by Marcy’s massive summit cone—and the relatively tame southern Adirondacks in the opposite direction. 5. Big Slide Mountain Distance: 9.5 miles Rating: Easy A great introduction to the High Peaks, the loop over Big Slide makes for a fun day, not short on things to look at. Starting nearly from the trailhead, the route climbs a series of three smaller summits known as The Brothers, before leading to the main summit, offering continuous views that get progressively better with elevation. The summit itself is a great vantage of the Great Range, laid out left to right across the horizon with Gothics’ scarred face dead center. Continuing the loop down the mountain to Johns Brook, the route finishes with a hike out through the valley that flanks the northern side of the Great Range. If you can find it along the brook, Tenderfoot Pools’ swirling eddies and rocks are the perfect place to cool down before the trailhead. 6. Cascade Mountain Distance: 4.8 miles Rating: Easy Close enough to the road to make it the only high peak summit you can plainly see from its trailhead, Cascade is another favorite for first-timers. Its quick access and spectacular views also make it a popular choice for those interested in getting an early start and being on its broad, rocky summit for sunrise! 7. Dix Mountain Distance: 15.3 miles Rating: Difficult If you’re ready for an adventure, there’s nothing quite like a climb up one of the characteristic gray scars marking the side of many High Peaks. Formed by landslides that scrape away soil and vegetation down to bedrock, slide climbing isn’t for the faint of heart but does give hikers a more remote and rugged experience than they might normally get. Dix Mountain’s Beckhorn Slide clears a rock and grass highway from the base to nearly the summit, but just to get to the base, it requires a long hike through the mountain’s secluded east side, then a bushwhack up a drainage. Once on the slide, which isn’t for the faint of heart or those uncomfortable with exposure, it’s as simple as picking the best looking line to the small summit. 8. Rocky Peak Ridge Distance: 13.4 miles Rating: Moderate Although longer than the stair climb up to the saddle between it and Giant Mountain, the trail from New Russia is one that many would consider to be one of the finest in the region. The continuous views up to the panoramic summit of Rocky Peak are seriously hard to beat—even by its taller neighbor, Giant. 9. Allen Mountain Distance: 19.1 miles Rating: Difficult For the vast majority of people, a 20-mile day up a single steep mountain with lackluster views would not be a pleasurable experience. Granted, Allen is more about the hike than the mountain itself, but it’s a hike worth doing for those up to the challenge. A long day of tracing old, winding logging roads over gently rolling terrain and along crystal clear gurgling brooks makes Allen a memorable one. The second half of the route is one of the ‘Daks' famous “trail-less” routes, meaning the trail is not marked or maintained by the state like most other routes. Although not impossible to follow, trails like these require a keen eye and better attention than you might be able to use on other hikes. 10. Algonquin Peak Distance: 8.6 miles Rating: Moderate The climb from the Adirondak Loj to the summit of Algonquion, the state’s second tallest peak, is a quick jolt into one of the highest of New York’s alpine regions. Only a hundred feet lower than Marcy, hikers heading up to Algonquin climb nearly the same amount in nearly half the mileage. The views from the bare summit cone are impressive enough to make it worth it, tracing a straight line to Colden then Marcy, shrouded in the Great Range and numerous other summits. Written by Ryan Wichelns for RootsRated.

Your calendar isn't lying: Spring really is just around the corner. The time has already changed, bringing with it another hour of sunshine—and plenty of opportunities and excuses to get outside. Wildflowers, waterfalls, and wildlife all await on the myriad trails that beckon this time of year. Some of the area's higher-elevation hikes may still be buried under residual snow, but plenty of trails in low-lying areas remain open and accessible. So whether you're looking for a thigh-burning climb, an urban trek, or an up-close glimpse at the green spaces around Portland, here's where to go—and what to know—for the best spring hikes in Portland. Where to Find Wildflowers and Gorge-ous Views Dog Mountain is among the most popular hikes in the Columbia River Gorge, due in large part to its stunning wildflower displays. Bill Automata Dog Mountain is home to some of the most impressive wildflower displays in the Columbia River Gorge every April, May, and June. At their peak, the blooms absolutely explode off the mountainside, bathing Dog Mountain in fields of yellow balsamroot and purple lupine. (The wildflowers typically hit their peak on Dog Mountain in May and June, but given Portland's warm winter, flashes of color might appear sooner.) Despite two options for reaching the top—one of which is semi-helpfully marked "less difficult"—there's no easy way to bypass the difficulty of climbing 3,000 feet in roughly three miles. The work is worth it, though; in addition to fields of beautiful wildflowers, hikers will enjoy incredible views of the surrounding Columbia River Gorge. Insider tip: For all its intensity, Dog Mountain is among the most popular hikes in the region. Head out early (or on a sunny weekday) to avoid parking headaches and the biggest crowds. Walking Behind Waterfalls There are many wonderful waterfalls along the "Trail of Ten Falls". Amit Patel Spend a few minutes on the Trail of Ten Falls in Silver Falls State Park, and you might wonder if you've stumbled into J.R.R. Tolkein's Middle Earth. Thick, lush forests surround hikers throughout the 8.7-mile loop. Spectacular canyon views await behind seemingly every turn. Bucolic creeks bubble throughout. You'll be surprised when Frodo and Sam don't wander by at some point. And that's to say nothing of the waterfalls. (And, yes, there are really 10 of them along the way.) Hikers are treated to close-up views of these impressive waterfalls—more than five of which are at least 100 feet tall—and can walk behind four. Head's up: Silver Falls State Park is the most popular state park in Oregon. Make the trip on a weekday or show up early on a weekend to avoid parking headaches the biggest crowds. Warming Up With a Waterfall Dry Creek Falls rewards hikers with an unusual waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge. Bill Automata It's almost unfair to mention any waterfall hike immediately after shouting out the Trail of Ten Falls, but the short jaunt to Dry Creek Falls is well worth any hiker's time. If the thought of climbing 3,000 feet at Dog Mountain or making the 80-minute drive to Silver Falls State Park aren't doable, get your legs into gear with the quick, 4.4-mile out-and-back to an impressive, if oft-overlooked, waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge. A fair grade makes the 2.2-mile hike to the falls feel a lot shorter than it really is, and the thick forest lining the trail adds to the enchantment. At the end of the hike, the single-stream cascade at the heart of Dry Creek Falls flows down 75 feet in front of an unusual display of moss-covered columnar basalt. There are plenty of better-known waterfall hikes elsewhere in Oregon, but most demand more from hikers, and few offer the same, beautiful payoff. Wetlands and Wildlife in the City The Oaks Bottom WIldlife Refuge is a popular hiking and trail running destination not far from Ross Island. wittco.gmbh Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge isn't the most well-known or back-breaking hike on this list, but the 2.3-mile trail introduces hikers and trail runners to a piece of Portland they might not otherwise enjoy. Today, the lush wetland is a popular destination for an early-morning or after-work adventure, but it was very nearly razed to make way for an industrial park before the City of Portland acquired the refuge in 1969. Restoration and protection efforts paid off. Today, roughly 40 years after that decision to preserve the wetlands, Oaks Bottom is awash in wildlife. Beavers, nutria, salamanders, frogs, mallards, blue herons, and other migrating birds either stop at the refuge or call it home. And, as if to underscore the urban-rural tightrope the refuge walks, hikers will catch glimpses of the downtown skyline—just a 15-minute drive away—at various points along the hike. An Urban Experience Approaching the station. Chris Phan The 4T Trail unveils the best of Portland over nine fascinating miles, and it doesn't demand much of hikers just getting their legs back after spending the winter indoors. Along the way, the trail showcases the innovative mass transit for which Portland is known, takes hikers through lush forests just minutes from downtown, and delivers one impressive view after another. The 4T Trail, accessible year-round, gets its name from the four "T's" at the heart of the unusual excursion: Hikers start on a trail that spans Washington Park, Council Crest, and Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU). Washington Park hosts innumerable Portland attractions, not the least of which is a dense forest that makes it easy to forget you're in the midst of a busy urban core. Council Crest, meanwhile, is the highest point in Portland and delivers knockout views of both Mount Hood and Mount St. Helens on a clear day. From there, hikers take the tram—specifically, the Portland Aerial Tram—from OHSU, down to the rapidly-growing South Waterfront Neighborhood. The tram's platform promises views of the downtown skyline, the Willamette River snaking through Portland, and Mount Hood rising behind South Waterfront condos. Hikers then hop aboard the trolley—rather, the Portland Streetcar—at the base of the tram. The streetcar heads into downtown Portland. The loop is complete once hikers depart for the train and take the blue or red MAX light rail line back to Washington Park. Fun fact: The Washington Park MAX stop is the deepest transit station in North America. Written by Matt Wastradowski for RootsRated.

The Shenandoah Valley is one of the East Coast's best kept secrets, providing outdoor enthusiasts with opportunities to hike, paddle, and bike—and it's just a short drive away from Washington, D.C. You can get a bird's eye view of the valley, enjoy a hiking trip, or tap into your inner foodie at a local eatery. It isn't a stretch to say that the Shenandoah Valley puts adventure in the palm of your hand, and these 10 adventures are the perfect way to have a good time outside. 1. Take a Hike in Shenandoah National Park Just last year, the skies were clear enough for a visitor to spot the Washington Monument at night from Shenandoah National Park. That's a rare occurrence, but on average, you can see sites roughly 60 miles away. See what you can spot from one of Shenandoah National Park's epic hikes: Mary's Rock, Stony Man, Hawksbill, Bearfence, and Blackrock—just a few to keep on your list. 2. Backpack a Stretch of the Appalachian Trail Tackle a portion of the Appalachian trail in the Shenandoah Valley. Compass Points Media Shenandoah National Park alone has 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail within its borders, but the trail meanders through much of the Shenandoah Valley. This is one of the most scenic sections of the trail, and you can tackle a portion of it either in the park or outside of it. The area also has six AT Communities: Waynesboro, Berryville, Buena Vista, Front Royal, Harrisonburg, and Luray. These towns across the country are designed as such by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, marking them as good friends and neighbors to the trail. Trail users can expect to find excellent support in these towns, including special events, promotions, transportation options, and amenities for those making the long trek across the country. But even if you're not up for a multi-day (let alone multi-month) trek, day hikes are a great way to experience a taste of what it's like for the thru-hikers making the trip from Georgia to Maine. 3. Take a Mini-Vacation in the Shenandoah Valley. Campgrounds, cabins, and bed and breakfasts dot Shenandoah Valley, creating many opportunities for a weekend getaway. Looking for a more unique setting for your overnight adventure? How about a yurt or a treehouse? You'll find a multitude of overnight spots to serve as your base for exploring the area. 4. Marvel at the Natural Bridge and Luray Caverns The extensive Luray Caverns is one of the area’s natural wonders. sgplewka Nature can do marvelous things. Plan to be awestruck by two examples that have been bringing in tourists for centuries: the Natural Bridge, which was carved out by Cedar Creek and stands more than 200 feet high, and Luray Caverns, deep beneath the earth with room after room filled with towering rock formations and crystal clear pools. 5. Take to the Skies in a Hot Air Balloon. You don't have to head too far west to enjoy a hot air balloon ride. You'll get a new and rare perspective on the Shenandoah Valley—from mountains to farms—as you soar high above the land and take in a 360-degree look at the beauty below. 6. Explore Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway Cruise along Skyline Drive for incredible views. Shahid Durrani Since the first section of Skyline Drive opened in 1934, people have been taking road trips to enjoy views from 75 overlooks along 105 miles. The Blue Ridge Parkway, the longest road planned as a single unit, stretches nearly 500 miles further south and winds through even more mountains. Together, these two roads are an iconic drive—whether you go for a day or for the entire length. 7. Sip Locally at Virginia's Wineries and Breweries There's something to be said for a day at the vineyard. Virginia's ever-growing wine, beer, and cider scene provide numerous options for a day with friends, and a chance to try some of the more interesting and inventive offerings that you might not otherwise find at stores back home. Check out the your options in the valley along the Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail, the Shenandoah Spirits Trail, and the Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail. 8. Paddle on the Shenandoah River The Shenandoah River is one of the top paddling destinations in the eastern United States. Virginia State Parks The Shenandoah River's South Fork is considered one of the top canoeing rivers in the eastern United States. With smooth stretches and some class II whitewater, there's something for both beginners and more experienced canoeists. Looking for a more relaxed outing? You can rent tubes and enjoy a leisurely float along the river. 9. Ride the Virginia Mountain Biking Trail Running from Strasburg to Damascus, this 480-mile bike trail connects the Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountain Ranges. This rugged and adventurous route is a challenge for the experienced mountain biker—whether you tackle it in its entirety or explore sections of the trail over time. 10. Discover the Tuscarora Trail This 252-mile trail is an official bypass route of the Appalachian Trail, which stretches through much of the Shenandoah Valley and is maintained by the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club. With new sections recently re-routed just outside of Winchester and a healthy number of AT-quality shelters and campsites throughout, you've got a golden opportunity to experience ridgeline hiking and gorgeous mountain views without the crowds that can sometimes be found on the AT. Written by Jen Adach for RootsRated Media in partnership with Staunton.