The Best Wildflower Hikes Near Portland, Oregon

It's one of the most beautiful times of year to take a hike — with wildflowers in bloom. Norther Emily of Wild Solitude Guiding offers expert tips on where to go to enjoy the peak season, which starts in March but lasts till August:

Stay Close to Home in Portland

The season begins in mid-March with trillium blooming in the valley. That part of the wildflower season is over, but you still don’t have to drive far: You can still find wildflowers in the shadier parts of Forest Park and tiny flowers blooming in the meadows of Powell Butte.

Columbia River Gorge Right Now

The Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge, with its south-facing meadows, gets more sun. They’re at peak right about now. Classic wildflower hikes include Coyote Wall and Catherine Creek Loop. For a different kind of spring joy, Lyle Cherry Orchard Loop offers a chance to walk through wild cherry trees. You also don’t necessarily need to go for a hike; just take a drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway.

Higher Elevation Wildflowers

In higher elevations, wildflower season can last into August. A couple of places worth checking out later in the season: Saddle Mountain sees a peak in June. Mitchell Creek sees blooms both in the spring and summer.