Surrounded by old-growth forests, volcanic peaks, and water in nearly all its forms–from the ocean to alpine lakes, glaciers to waterfalls–the Portland area is a short jaunt from boundless adventure opportunities, many of which can be taken in just one night. This book covers the best one- (and a few two-) night hikes within three hours of the city–perfect for hikers seeking a wilderness experience without the commitment of a lengthy backpacking trek. Trips take readers to the lush Olympic Mountains, eerie Mount St. Helens, the thundering Columbia River, and the quirky spires of Three Fingered Jack.
In nearly 200 trips Afoot & Afield Portland/Vancouver covers every hike within a one-hour drive of this metropolitan area. Hit the trail through dense old-growth forests, walk beside waterfalls, climb to viewpoints above massive glaciers, or wander through the quiet forests of a 5000-acre park in metro Portland itself. The hikes range from simple strolls through urban preserves to rugged climbs in the Columbia River Gorge and on glacier-clad Mt. Hood. Hikes that are great in cloudy weather are labeled, and each hike is shown on an up-to-date map. Each hike includes at-a-glance essential information – distance, time, elevation change, and difficulty rating.