Tryon Creek State Natural Area is a fantastic location for those in or close to Southwest Portland who crave a little outdoor time without a long drive. Due to its low elevation location in the Metro area, snow is just as uncommon here as in downtown. It’s also reachable via TriMet (the local transit system) via Route 35. The maintained trails keep this location family friendly, included four-legged friends on a leash.

I hesitate to list a specific route for winter hikes within Tryon Creek. With eight miles of trails that loop and intersect with one another, you can take a different path on almost every single trip. Along those trails you’ll find few steep stretches on the hiking paths, multi-use routes (horses allowed on 3.5 miles), paved bikeways, and a short all-access trail near the visitor center. Winter weather can make for slick trails and iffy traction if there has been a lot of recent rain, as this is a riparian forest with a large creek at its heart (crossed at several points with bridges). Consider bringing a change of shoes in case of mud. I encourage you to look at the park map and pick a distance you feel comfortable with, customizing your visit to fit your goals for that day.

Additional notes, November 2020: Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the visitor center is currently closed. The park remains open for day use activities. Please wear a mask when visiting, and practice physical distancing.

A privately-owned woodland along Little Buckner Creek, Hopkins Demonstration Forest is open to the public with a goal of educating its visitors about sustainable forest management. Over five miles of trail cross through the 190 acre riparian forest in different stages of growth; you’ll find interpretive signage, an outdoor amphitheater, and a picnic shelter. This location makes for a great solo saunter or an fun (and educational) family outing. Dogs are welcome on a leash.

Although various trails can make for longer or shorter routes to suit your winter hikes goals, my recommended route is the outer loop at approximately 3.3 miles, which will take you through each of the growth areas on the property as well as along the creek. Elevation is relatively minimal along the way. Snag a map at the information kiosk, or better yet, get a digital copy from their site, and check out the well-marked forest stages you’ll be seeing where. Several options exist to extend or shorten the outer loop to fit your needs for the day.

Additional notes, November 2020: According to their Facebook Page, this location remains open 7am-7pm (or sundown), seven days a week. Please wear a mask when visiting, and practice physical distancing.

The Trillium Lake snowshoe and winter hike loop on Mount Hood may be the most popular in the region. This is a pro and a con when considering this location. You’re almost guaranteed to see other people no matter when you visit. There’s a real risk of not even being able to park during peak times (late morning and weekends). If you are relatively new to winter adventures, the abundance of people and the care given to maintaining this wide route make it ideal. Dogs are welcome on leash.

You can go either direction on this loop; I recommend counter-clockwise. This starts you off with a forested beginning before you pass snow-covered meadows; as you reach the midway point of the loop, you find yourself looking at the iced-over Trillium Lake with Mount Hood towering over it across the way. (Cloud cover permitting, of course.) This is a popular break point for many people, so be prepared for others to be stopped along the frozen shore. Note that no matter what others may be doing, upholding outdoor ethics means not feeding the tenacious gray jays hanging around. It doesn’t matter how cute they are.

From here, you can return the way you came or continue along the loop; note that completing the loop means climbing a relatively steep hill before returning to the trailhead; it’s a bit less steep if you return instead of doing the full circuit. Take your time, and enjoy the snowy forest as you climb.

This location has been re-opened but be aware of potential crowding during the COVID-19 pandemic or dangerous winter weather conditions (January 2021).

A fairly close-in Columbia River Gorge classic, this short hike along Tanner Creek is one I hesitated to include. It’s a beautiful and geologically interesting hike, and I decided to add it along with a few extra cautionary bits of information. While the trail to Wahclella Falls starts out relatively flat and wide, it becomes narrow (single-track) and in places is along steep slopes and drop-offs which can be hazardous on winter hikes. Passing right next to Munra Falls on a footbridge is both amazing and potentially an ice skating opportunity in cold enough weather. The majority of the route is in a canyon, meaning the sun gets little chance to melt ice and snow that accumulates. Plan your packed gear accordingly! If you have young children or canines, you may want to save this one for better weather due to safety concerns.

If you’re up for the potential hazards, then you are in for one of the most spectacular short treks in the area. Although damage from the Eagle Creek Fire in 2017 is evident, and what used to be a loop is now an out-and-back hike due to slides on the closed upper portion, you’ll still be up close and personal with some amazing cliff faces and enormous boulders (think tiny house sizes). A spectacular tiered waterfall in a natural amphitheater awaits you at the end-point of this journey. In all seasons, this is a hike that never disappoints.

Additional notes, January 2021: This site has been re-opened after being closed due to the potential for unsafe crowded conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please wear a mask when visiting, and practice physical distancing. Also be aware of potential dangerous winter weather conditions.

Another classic hike in the Columbia River Gorge, this one can provide amazing winter views but may also be extra challenging in seasonal weather conditions. Angel’s Rest is a very popular location; parking can be tight and the trail crowded. Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to share your experience with fewer hikers.

With a quick elevation gain, winter hikes can also provide obstacles like high winds, ice, and/or snow that may not be present at the trailhead. It’s strongly advised to check recent weather before tackling this route to know what you may encounter. If you’re prepared for conditions, the views at the top of distant snowy landscapes are definitely worthwhile. Young children and dogs may find the trail difficult, especially near the top. They may enjoy this hike more in warmer weather.

The route is easy to follow. Following the Eagle Creek Fire in 2017, this trail has seen a lot of restoration work to bring it back to hiking condition. Hazards from the fire may still be present, including falling debris and landslides. You’ll begin in forest cover following Coopey Creek, which features two visible waterfalls and a foot bridge. Soon you’ll be heading up in elevation and the tree cover will thin, starting to grant views north into Washington as well as towards the west end of the gorge. Near the end of the hike, the trail crosses a talus (rock & boulder) field. You’ll come to an intersection with a spur trail to the left that leads to Angel’s Rest – a large outcropping of rock with views in all directions (weather permitting). Simply return the way you came.