1. Mt. Tabor Blue Trail

This trail is 3.3 miles in length and offers scenic views of the city and the old volcanic cinder cone upon which the park is built. To access the trail, you will begin at the main parking lot and follow the color-coded signs for the Blue Trail. Learn more about the legendary Mt. Tabor Blue Trail from our friends at AllTrails.

2. Hoyt Arboretum Loop

Take this scenic loop through the park for a 4.7-mile easy hike that shows you a myriad of species of spectacular northwest trees. One of our favorite hidden gems in Oregon, Hoyt Arboretum is a wonderful Portland park that feels like a true urban oasis. The arboretum is home to 2,300 tree species, collected from six continents. This place offers much more than just a beautiful landscape - its many volunteers are dedicated to education, conservation, and recreation. Explore the arboretum along its 12 miles of trails, two miles of which are paved and accessible to everyone. Come and revel in the forest landscape along the eponymous and accessible Hoyt Arboretum Loop — you might never want to leave!

3. Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge Loop

Take the loop around the wildlife refuge for a stunning view of diverse bird species in the 2.3-mile hike. Learn more about the wondrous Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge Loop from our friends at AllTrails.

4. Wapato Greenway

Head out to Sauvie Island for this 2.2-mile trail that gives you plenty of opportunities to spot myriad waterfowl and even an elusive beaver! This short-and-sweet trail is straightforward, flat, and well-marked, making it perfect for families with young children and beginner hikers. However, a mix of large trails along the channel, as well as ones screened from viewing the channel, makes this hike a winner for all ages and abilities!

5. Washington Park Loop

Dirt trails and sidewalks line this 3.9-mile trail that takes you around the expansive park that houses many of the city's most notable attractions. This Washington Park hike really is definitely one of the best hikes in Portland!

6. Powell Butte Loop

The short and lovely Powell Butte Loop takes you along the perimeter of the nature park and up the remains of the extinct volcano that lies underfoot. It's a hike with a grand payoff: the view from the summit of this 10 million-year-old volcano includes Mount Saint Helens, Mount Adams, Mount Rainier, the Clackamas Butte, Mount Scott, the Gresham Buttes to the east, and (on a clear day), Mount Jefferson and Olallie Butte!

7. Marquam Nature Park Loop

This is a moderate 3.8-mile hike on the northwest side of town with some stunning views and pure tranquility. Learn more about the Marquam Nature Park Loop from our friends at AllTrails, and start planning your hike ASAP! You won't regret it.

8. Pittock Mansion Hike

Take the five-mile hike from Macleay Park to the Wildwood Trail, and up the climb to the Pittock Mansion, where you will be rewarded with stunning views of the city. Just be warned: the Pittock Mansion is rumored to be one of the most haunted places in Oregon! Hike at your own risk!

Have you been on any of these easy hikes in Portland that are under five miles long? You may want to consider it because these trails offer BIG views with little effort! What are your picks for the best hikes in Portland, Oregon? Share them with us in the comments! And if you’re looking to expand your hiking adventures into the rest of the Beaver State, you’ll definitely want to tackle these short-and-sweet scenic trails in Oregon. And if you’re interested in upping your hiking game, you might want to check out our friends over at AllTrails+, which is a game-changer of an app for hikers, mountain bikers, and many other adventurous sorts. Check it out!

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1. Blue Lake

Located in Fairview, OR, Blue Lake is the closest to Portland and features not only the lake, but also a large water splash play area, a disc golf course, and plenty of sporting fields and shelters for picnics. Admission is a few dollars per vehicle, which is 100% worth it to visit this hidden gem park and lake near Portland, Oregon!

2. Vancouver Lake

A sandy beach makes Vancouver Lake a great lake to unwind for the day. A haven for kayakers and paddle boarders, this beach is not typically overcrowded and it's free. It is a truly lovely lake around Portland.

3. Henry Hagg Lake

Located just 25 miles south of Portland, Henry Hagg Lake is a man-made lake and a go-to destination for Portlanders that's a total underrated gem for anyone not in-the-know. Featuring multiple swimming areas, this lake near Portland is bustling on warm days, and there is a nominal day-use fee per vehicle.

4. Buck Lake

Another one of the best lakes near Portland, the easy hike to get to the beautiful Buck Lake is doable by kids, and worth every minute of the adventure when you reach this pristine lake. Located near Estacada, there is no fee required to access this lake, which we think makes it a summer bucket list must!

5. Trillium Lake

If you are headed to Mt Hood, this is one of the most accessible lakes on your journey. Non-motorized boating, swimming, and fishing are all popular here. Just note that there is a day-use fee to access this beautiful lake near Portland. Trillium Lake really is one of the most beautiful lakes in Portland... and Oregon!

6. Lost Lake

Situated down winding forest roads, this near-hidden park has excellent swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating. Stop for lunch in Hood River to break up the drive. Note that there is a day-use fee to access Lost Lake, one of the best lakes near Portland.

7. Battleground Lake State Park

Said to be a miniature version of Crater Lake, this lake of volcanic creation sits among 280 acres of forested Cascade wilderness. There is a day pass required for entrance to Battleground Lake State Park and its awesome lake around Portland.

8. Timothy Lake

Another great place for Mt. Hood views, Timothy Lake is a pristine lake with wonderful, albeit cold, swimming. With its beautiful vistas of Mt Hood National Forest, Timothy Lake is a stunning reservoir that makes for a perfect summertime destination near Portland!

Have you visited these beautiful lakes near Portland before? Which is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!

Want to explore more water? Check out these gorgeous waterfalls near Portland.

The post 8 Gorgeous Lakes To Visit Around Portland This Summer appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Chainsaw Chains

Portlanders know a thing or two about trees. Back in the heyday of logging, Portland inventor and businessman Joseph Buford Cox invented the chipper-type chain for chain saws. Basing his design on the C-shaped jaws of the larva of the timber beetle, Cox's design is still in use today.

2. Wikis

Long before Wikipedia took over the internet, Portland computer programmer Ward Cunningham developed the world's first wiki. Cunningham is a leader in design patterns and extreme programming, and programmed WikiWikiWeb in 1994.

3. The Computer Mouse

American engineer and inventor Douglas Engelbart hails from Portland, and under his guidance at the Augmentation Research Center Lab in SRI International, the computer mouse was invented. He was also in charge of projects that resulted in the creation of hypertext, networked computers, and graphical user interfaces, making his substantial mark on the internet, computers, and the world. When it comes to Portland inventions, the computer mouse is arguably among the most influential in our society.

4. The Simpsons

Matt Groening, the creator of the Simpsons, introduced the world to this lovable family and continues to tell their story today. The Simpsons is notable as the longest-running Prime Time show in history, as well as the longest-running animated series and sitcom.

5. Nike

One of the most surprising fun facts about Portland, Oregon is that Nike co-founder Phil Knight hails from Portland. He created one of the largest global sports brands in the world. Nike's "swoosh" logo is one of the most recognizable logos in the world. Knight also owns the stop-motion film company Laika.

Do you know of any other Portland firsts? Feel free to share in the comments below!

If you’re interested in uncovering more Portland history, check out these 8 photos of Portland from the early 1900s, as well as this list of some of the oldest photos of Portland. It adds a great deal of perspective to look to the past in order to appreciate how far we’ve advanced in the current era, as well as imagine what new frontiers remain to be discovered.

The post Some People Don’t Know That Portlanders Were The First To Do These 5 Things appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Seattle

Sitting at just a little over three hours away by train, Seattle is a perfect day trip that's home to numerous bucket-list-worthy attractions. Take the first train out in the morning and take the last back to enjoy a full day in the city and see the Space Needle, Experience Music Project Museum, Pike Place Market, or the Woodland Park Zoo.

2. Eugene

Head down south to the home of the University of Oregon for a day of fun. The Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art is a great visit, as is the Cascades Raptor Center. For kids, the Science Factory Children's Museum and Planetarium is the best. At two and a half hours away, Eugene is great for a day trip and fun for the whole family.

3. Salem

If you haven't been to Salem, the beautiful Oregon state capitol, consider visiting by train for the day. Visit the capitol building, stroll Riverfront Park, explore the Gilbert House Children's Museum, or check out the Oregon State Hospital's Museum of Mental Health. You can even be back before dinner.

4. Centralia

Halfway between Seattle and Portland, this stop is a great day trip, especially if you want to spend the day shopping. This town, which is one of the best small towns in Oregon features plenty of opportunities for antiquing, a lovely historic downtown, a farmer's market, and lots of retail spots for shopping. Fort Borst Park, featuring an 1860 homestead and replica of a one-room schoolhouse along with plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities, is a lovely place to visit when exploring Centralia, too.

5. Tacoma

If you have never made a stop in Tacoma on your way to Seattle, consider a day trip to this bustling city. The Museum of Glass is awe-inspiring, as is the Tacoma Art Museum, which features an extensive collection of Chihuly glass. History buffs will enjoy the Washington State History Museum and the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium is a great place for tourists of all ages.

6. Olympia

You will have to get off the train in Lacey, Washington, a suburb of Olympia, but at just five miles from the city, you will be close to the action -- including its amazing array of restaurants! Head to Washington's capitol building, visit the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, or try your luck at the Nisqually Red Wind Casino. Kids will enjoy the Hands On Children's Museum, while the Olympic Flight Museum will satisfy visitors of all ages.

Would you agree that these are some of the best day trips in Oregon? Did you know Rose City was so close to all these lovely destinations? Have you ever taken any of these day trip options? If so, which ones were your favorites? What are your picks for the best day trips in Portland? We’d love to read about your experience in the comments section below!

For more amazing adventures in and around Portland, Oregon, check out these 10 day trips.

If you’re still in the mood for more Beaver State adventures, take a look at this video:

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1. Willamette River

While the Beaver State is best-known for its abundance of outdoor recreation and natural splendor, its big cities are pretty picture-perfect, too. In fact, Portland, Oregon, has one of the most stunning and iconic cityscapes in the country. Rose City's man-made skyscrapers and bridges, combined with the resplendence of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, puts this big city in a league all its own... and our favorite way to revel in this scenery is on this tubing adventure near Portland, we say! Welcome to Portland's Yacht Tubs, the ultimate in-water, on-water experience for Beaver State adventure seekers. These unique vessels let guests relax and unwind while immersed - quite literally - in a luxurious floating vessel on the Willamette River. Yes, please!

2. Clackamas River

For another close-in river tubing destination that is just a short hop from Portland, the Clackamas is perfect for a lazy day float. Get in at Milo McIver State Park in Estacada for a perfectly relaxing float down the winding, scenic river. This hidden gem park is a beautiful Oregon oasis!

Whether you’re looking to bomb down the Upper Clackamas or take an easier float on another lazy river near Portland, Oregon River Rentals can hook you up with a tube.

3. Sandy River

Troutdale's Sandy River is a close location for your next tube float, and this river has it all. Easy access and plenty of nice strips of sand to stop and play on, this is tubing perfection. Start at Dabney State Recreation Area and float your way to relaxation. This is absolutely one of the best lazy river floats near Portland!

4. Washougal River

Sometimes, we have to venture over to our northern neighbor for an epic adventure. Just 20 miles from Portland, the Washougal River is a great destination for tubing and swimming.

Head to the Mile 3 Marker on Washougal River Road, and you are in the perfect spot to start a peaceful river float. Be sure to buy a Discover Pass for parking before you go.

Where is your favorite place to river float in Oregon? What are your picks for the best river tubing near Portland? Let us know in the comments below – we love hearing from you!

The post 4 Lazy Rivers Around Portland That Are Perfect For Tubing On A Summer’s Day appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Blue Lake

Blue Lake, located in Fairview, is a family-friendly swim spot, that along with the lake, features a large water splash pad, picnic areas, and a frisbee golf course. Admission is $5 per vehicle.

Enjoy this short peek at Blue Lake in Fairview, Oregon. It is one of several mighty nice places to go swimming near Portland:

2. Glenn Otto Community Park

Just 20 minutes from Portland, this spot on the Sandy River is perfect for a quick cool-off. Admission is free. Glenn Otto Park is also home to an annual Big Foot Festival in August so keep an eye out for hairy beasts while you are swimming.

3. Vancouver Lake Park

Just across the Columbia in Vancouver, Washington lies Vancouver Lake, a picturesque park with a sandy beach and shady picnic areas. The area is also a great location for kayaking and canoeing. Admission is free.

4. Alder Flat

Located on the Clackamas River, this swimming spot requires a 3/4-mile hike, but it is well worth it. A stone and sand beach and primitive campground are about all that's here, making it a great low-key swim spot. There is no fee.

5. Henry Hagg Lake

Located near Forest Grove, Henry Hagg Lake is a great getaway for a day of swimming, fishing, and boating. The day-use fee is $7 per vehicle.

6. Lost Lake

Situated at the end of over 20 miles of winding roads, Lost Lake is secluded at 3,100 feet up Mt Hood. Besides the stunning view of the mountain, you can camp and rent paddleboats or canoes from the lodge here. The day-use fee is $5 per vehicle.

Enjoy a tour of the beautiful Lost Lake in Oregon in this video from David Lim. If you are looking for an incredible place to discover more Portland swimming holes you really can't beat this spot:

7. Trillium Lake

Close to Government Camp, the pristine Trillium Lake is a great place for a summer adventure. Enjoy swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating on this picturesque lake with a great Mt. Hood view. The day-use fee is $10 per vehicle.

8. Sauvie Island

Head to Sauvie Island, and pick up some fresh fruit from a farm along the way for lunch. Located on the Columbia River, there are both traditional beaches and clothing-optional ones here. The day-use fee is $10 per vehicle.

9. Wildwood Recreation Area

There are several places along the Salmon River to dip your toes in, and a couple to have a full afternoon of swimming. Try the small beach near the underwater viewing area for one of the deepest, least rocky swimming areas along the park's impressive trail. The day-use fee is $5 for a vehicle of nine or fewer passengers.

Oregon's Wildwood Recreation Area is filled with beauty and fun places to explore. Enjoy this video from BLM Oregon & Washington showing a quick look at what you can expect when you come to visit:

Whether you prefer a man-made beach, a natural ocean beach, or a secluded swimming hole in the middle of a state forest, Oregon is an incredible state to find somewhere to cool off on a hot summer day. When you head to the cool blue waters in Oregon where are your go-to swimming holes near Portland?

If you want a really cool place to cool off in Oregon, head to one of these waterfall swimming holes for a beautiful and refreshing summer day.

The post Here Are 9 Swimming Holes Near Portland That Will Make Your Summer Epic appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

This incredible flea market takes place the middle weekend in July.

Beginning as just one show in 1981, the previous flea market slowly gained momentum over the years. The Rose City Vintage show took over and has its very first show this year in the same space as the previous one.

This flea market is so large that visitors come from as far as Japan and Germany to see the offerings.

Some of the notable items that the show features are sterling flatware, rare books, vintage clothing, decorative items and estate jewelry.

During the show in July, there are 400 outdoor booths in addition to the 1400 indoor ones. This is one of the largest Portland flea market all year long.

Admission to the event is $8 for standard admission. Children 12-17 are $4.00, and children under 12 are free.

If you want to check out the deals before the crowds, you can also purchase early bird admission for $25.00, good for both days.

If you want to pick up some antique wares for your home, you are going to want to get your tickets to this epic show! The Rose City Vintage Market will be held at the Portland Expo Center, which is located at 2060 N Marine Drive.

Have you been to this epic flea market in Portland?

The post Everyone In Portland Should Visit This Epic Flea Market At Least Once appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Portland Flea

This monthly flea market in Portland, Oregon, is held on the last Sunday of each month from April through October. Portland Flea is a market is a gathering place for the best of Portland’s makers, food purveyors and curators of vintage to sell their wares and grow their businesses. Featuring over 50 vendors, this is an upscale market that has a wide variety of vintage gear and is the best place to shop local in PDX.

2. Rerun

One of the best flea markets in Portland, Rerun has two shops in Portland, aptly called "Rerun" and "Rerun 2." Voted Portland's best flea market/consignment shop for many years, the furniture department at Rerun is a total treasure trove of deals and unique decor!

3. House of Vintage

A visit to a vintage store isn’t just a step back in time; it’s a real-life treasure hunt! And House of Vintage in Portland, Oregon, is 13,000 square feet of thrift shop finds, antique treasures, and so much more. For all things vintage, retro, and one-of-a-kind, Portland’s House of Vintage is *the* place to go. Boasting 13,000 square feet of killer vintage inventory, House of Vintage is is a collection featuring more than 60 dealers, all in one place. Each of the store's dealers rents a space within the store and fills it with their own inventory, making for a unique, vintage-store-meets-flea-market kind of shopping experience in PDX.

Which flea market in Portland is your favorite? Let us know about your favorite flea markets in Portland, Oregon, in the comments below!

The post 3 Amazing Flea Markets In Portland You Absolutely Have To Visit appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

Mt. Hood Skibowl is a treasured family getaway with more than 20 unique activities and attractions for guests of all ages to enjoy. But Skibowl isn't just for winter adventurers and powder-seekers.

Forget traditional activities like skiing! In summer, Mt. Hood Skibowl transforms into a sliding paradise.

The Alpine Slide in Mt. Hood, Oregon features a 1/2 mile mountain coaster course with dual tracks for a fun racing adventure in an amazing setting. It's the only one of its kind in the Pacific Northwest!

Both children and adults can enjoy the s-curves and hairpin thrills of the slide at their own pace.

Ride solo or race family and friends down the track for a little competitive fun.

Larger groups can also slide into the fun too!

The course drops over 350 feet and sends you down the mountain at speeds averaging 20 MPH.

You have control of the brakes, so you can set your own pace. Speed lovers have clocked speeds as high as 37 miles per hour!

And don't worry about climbing up the mountain - the Scenic Sky Chairs will do all the work for you and drop you right at the starting line.

Whether journeying up or racing back down...

The scenery is pretty spectacular too!

Along with the Alpine Slide, Mt. Hood Skibowl also features mountain bike racing, ziplining, mini golf, disc golf, and much more during the summer. This is definitely a fantastic place for families to visit! Mountain coaster and SkiBowl summer opening dates and hours vary by year, so double-check the Mt. Hood Skibowl website for the latest info.

Have you ever been on the Alpine Slide? What did you think of this “fast and furious” mountain coaster in Oregon? Let us know in the comments below.

The Portland area has a few more high-speed destinations up its sleeve still. For more roller coasters in Oregon, fulfill your need for speed at this legendary amusement park.

The post The Alpine Mountain Slide Near Portland That Will Take You On A Ride Of A Lifetime appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Petunia's Pies & Pastries

What could be better than a warm gooey chocolate chip cookie? Two warm gooey chocolate chip cookies smashed over a scoop of creamy cold vanilla ice cream! Petunia's Pies & Pastries is one of the best places in Portland to satisfy your sweet tooth. Even better, the entire shop is gluten and dairy-free!

Learn more about how Petunia's Pies & Pastries came to be in this video:

2. Courier Coffee

As you know, Portland has some amazing coffee shops. If you are downtown, stop by this small no-frills coffee shop and bakery for a delicious chocolate chip cookie and a cup of coffee. You might just find yourself going back again and again for more.

3. Dove Vivi Pizza

Finish a delicious pizza feast with these chocolatey treats from Dove Vivi. This NE shop delivers quality flavor and you will definitely want to come back for more.

4. Ruby Jewel

Ruby Jewel may be known for its ice cream, but its cookies are pretty great too. While the chocolate chip is a standout, the snickerdoodles are pretty amazing too.

Learn more about the Ruby Jewel test kitchen on NW 23rd Street and how it makes its delicious ice cream cookie sandwiches in this video:

5. Baker & Spice

Excellent bread, pastries, and cookies are what you will find at this SW bakery that makes fantastic chocolate chip cookies. Once you have your fill of the bakery, you can head to the neighboring cakery for all things cake. Baker & Spice is one of many delightful restaurants in the area.

6. Woodlawn Coffee & Pastry

This NE shop serves a lovely breakfast, creates delicious pastries, and makes a noteworthy chocolate chip cookie, among other scrumptious cookies.

7. Grand Central Bakery

The classic chocolate chip cookie shines here with these epic-sized cookies that are so amazing. With seven Portland bakeries, these cookies are close by wherever you are in Portland. The one near Multnomah Falls makes for a tasty treat after a day at the falls.

Learn more about how Grand Central Bakery's founder Gwen Bassetti, got started in 1972 and how it led to the opening of Grand Central Bakery in 1989 in this video:

Portland chocolatiers really know how to tempt us with a deliciously crafted cookie. Where do you go to find the best chocolate chip cookies in Portland? Do you have a favorite chocolate chip cookie, not on this list? Let us know in the comments.

If you have a truly dangerous sweet tooth, be sure to visit one of these places that serve up the most unique desserts in Oregon.

The post These 7 Places In Portland Have The Most Incredible Chocolate Chip Cookies appeared first on Only In Your State ®.