Photo: Paula Cobleigh/Shutterstock

17+ Spots in Oregon to Connect With Nature and Clear Your Mind

Oregon Travel Insider Guides
by Bex Olivieri Jan 18, 2017

There’s more reasons to get outdoors in Oregon than we can count, but here’s our top 18 locations in Oregon to get you out into nature when you’re craving some peace of mind.

Editor’s note: These spots are all taken directly from travelstoke®, a new app from Matador that connects you with fellow travelers and locals, and helps you build trip itineraries with spots that integrate seamlessly into Google Maps and Uber. Download the app to add any of the spots below directly to your future trips.

Powell Butte Nature Park


Walk among mountains and wildlife at Powell Butte Nature Park, an extinct cinder cone volcano outside Southeast Portland. The park features 8 miles of trails for all experience levels, as well as stunning views of Mount Hood, Mount Saint Helens, The Cascades, and downtown Portland.

Tryon Creek State Natural Area


Make your time in nature educational at Tryon Creek State Natural Area. The park’s Nature Center hosts weekly guided nature walks every Saturday. A hike through Tryon Creek includes several miles of trails, bridges, and wetland board walks.

Gorton Creek Falls

The Grotto


Breathe in serenity at The Grotto, a Catholic shrine and nature retreat in Northeast Portland. The Grotto’s upper and lower levels feature incredible gardens, a meditation centre, fountains, a labyrinth, and paved paths for leisurely strolls away from the bustle of the city.

Tryon Creek State Natural Area

Mt. Hood Skibowl

Wahclella Falls

Powell Butte Nature Park

Lost Lake Resort

Elowah Falls

Portland Japanese Garden

Ponytail Falls

Eastbank Esplanade

Tom McCall Waterfront Park


Find nature right in downtown Portland at Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Walk along the banks of the Willamette River and take in the view of Portland’s bridges and cityscape, and even spot Mount Hood on a clear day.

Oneonta Gorge

Multnomah Falls

Mt. Hood National Forest

Discover Matador

Save Bookmark