Tired of sitting at home watching Netflix on the weekends?  Change things up by getting some friends together and go on a hike. As we all know, Oregon is a beautiful state and has many great outdoor activities to offer, but sometimes the endless possibilities of places for exploration can be daunting. Listed below are some of the top hiking destinations in the Portland area:

1. Multnomah Falls

A 30 minute drive from Portland, Multnomah falls is an easy hike ending in a breathtaking 611 ft. roaring waterfall. Just a 5 minute walk from the parking lot, you begin to feel the mist from the waterfall on your face. To get a closer view, you can hike up the trail and go onto a bridge where the waterfall is just feet away.

Rank: Beginner level hike

Location: Multnomah Falls 50000 Historic Columbia River Hwy Corbett, OR 97019

More info: http://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Multnomah_Falls_Hike

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2.Horsetail Falls Loop

Horsetail Falls Loop is also in the Columbia Gorge. Horsetail falls is a challenging but rewarding 2.3 mile long hike that contains three different waterfalls: Ponytail Falls, Oneonta Falls, and Triple Falls. Horsetail Falls is such a spectacular hike because you are able to see the different aspects of nature and even walk behind the Ponytail Falls.

Rank: Moderate level hike

Location: Horsetail Falls Trail #438, Cascade Locks, Oregon 97014

More info: http://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Horsetail_Falls_Loop_Hike

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3. Angel’s Rest

A moderate 4.6 mile round trip hike. Although climbing up the trail may be difficult, the end viewpoint is extremely rewarding. As you get to the top you can take in all of the beauty that the Columbia Gorge offers.

Rank: Challenging level hike

Location: Scenic Columbia River Hwy. Exit 28 Corbett, OR 97019

More info: http://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Angel%27s_Rest_Hike

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4. Dog Mountain

A difficult 6.9 mile hike that offers many great views of the Gorge and beautiful wild life surrounding it. The hike contains many steep paths and trails, so hiking experience would be needed. The best time of the year to go to Dog Mountain is in May or June when the wildflowers are at their prime.

Rank: Challenging level hike

Location: State Rte 14 White Salmon, WA 98672

More info: http://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Dog_Mountain_Hike

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5. Pittock Mansion Hike

The Pittock Mansion is a moderate 5 mile round trip hike starting at the Lower Macleay  Walking through these easy trails, you will be able to see the lush forest, charming creek and end the hike with the Pittock Mansion. Once at the Pittock Mansion, you will have a beautiful view of all of downtown Portland.

Rank: Moderate level hike

Location: 3229 Northwest Pittock Drive, Portland, OR 97210

More info: http://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Pittock_Mansion_Hike

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6.Tryon Creek State Park

Tryon Creek is a natural state park that has a variety of many animals and plants. Walking into the forest you will be able to see owls, bats, beavers and squirrels. Tryon Creek is a very family friendly park and has many hikes ranging from moderate to experienced.

Rank: Beginner level hike

Location: 11321 SW Terwilliger Blvd, Portland, OR 97219

More info: http://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Tryon_Creek_State_Park_Trailhead

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With the warm weather approaching, hiking is a good way to enjoy the outdoors while staying active. These hikes are the perfect destination for a day trip with your best friends or family and will create a memorable summer day.

Do you have another favorite hiking spot in Portland? Let us know in the comments below.

Creative Commons photo source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/lorenkerns/14544328432