I recently contributed to Vancouver Family Magazine with an article highlighting some excellent trails for spring hiking with kids.
Check out the post here!
SPRING FAMILY HIKES NEAR VANCOUVER: WILDFLOWERS, WATERFALLS AND TRAILS FOR KIDS
Category: Columbia River Gorge hikes
How and Where to Hike in Spring around Portland, Vancouver, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Hood, and the Columbia River Gorge
Spring is such a mixed bag around here. In a given year, we can have snow, ice, rain, hail, and sunshine. Spring in the PNW means wildflowers are popping up everywhere, the waterways are full, and temperatures are (should be??) warming up.
It can be hard to know where to hike in the spring since the weather is constantly changing and snow levels are still quite low. Urban trails, as well as the local national wildlife refuges are usually a good bet with their low elevation and migratory bird excitement. Hikes in the Gorge, as well as most hikes below 2,000 feet are a good bet in spring.
While I can’t fully prepare you for spring hiking, below are a few tips on how to hike with your kids in spring:
- Plan for quickly changing weather. Check the weather the morning of your hike, but make sure you have extra layers for rain, wind, or hail.
- Dress in layers and avoid cotton. The combination of cool spring temperatures and rain can still put you in hypothermia territory.
- If you are going up into the area’s national forests, check conditions on trailhead pages (included in book descriptions), as well as here for the Gifford Pinchot National Forest and here for the Mt. Hood National Forest
- Assume you will encounter mud and bring a change of clothes for kiddos!
- Make sure you do a tick check after your hike and watch out for poison oak, especially when hiking through oak woodlands and east of the Cascades. Learn about how to hike in tick country.
- Keep an eye out for rainbows.
- Maintain reasonable expectations and have fun!
- Check out these great spring hiking tips from the Washington Trails Association.
- Consider an after-dinner hike as sunset gets later.
Now that you know how to hike in spring, how do you know where to hike with your family? No worries, I’ve got you covered. I’ve compiled my favorite spring hikes by book. Check them out below.
For springtime kid-friendly hikes in the Portland area, visit this page.
For springtime kid-friendly hikes in the Mt. St. Helens, Southwest Washington, Vancouver, and Clark County areas, visit this page.
For springtime kid-friendly hikes in the Columbia River Gorge, visit this page.
For springtime kid-friendly hikes in the Mt. Hood area, stay tuned for a future post.
How and Where to Hike in Winter around Portland, Vancouver, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Hood, and the Columbia River Gorge
We all spend a lot of time indoors during our wet Pacific Northwest winters. However, with the right gear and knowledge, you can make winter one of your favorite hiking seasons. Trails are less crowded, migratory birds are in the area, and waterfalls are full. That said, weather can be unpredictable, trails can be muddier, and there may be road hazards.
little feet hiking books have some great information on hiking in the winter. Read on for mom-tested tips on where to hike with kids in the winter, as well as ideas on how to hike safely with kids. Remember that you don’t have to travel far from home or spend a ton of time hiking to make it worthwhile. Even a short hike during the winter can be restorative and meaningful!
For winter hiking with kids, it can be good to stay lower in elevation, closer to cell service, and away from fire-damaged areas. It’s also a great idea to:
- Plan for quickly changing weather. Check the weather the morning of your hike, but make sure you have extra layers for rain, wind, or hail. Consult WTA’s snow depth map when looking for snow conditions on a trail. Stay out of the forest when high winds are forecasted (rain plus wind can equal trees falling on roads and/or trails).
- Dress in layers and avoid cotton. The combination of cold temperatures and rain can easily put you (and especially kids) in hypothermia territory.
- Learn more about winter hiking from the Washington Trails Association (WTA).
- Plan for winter driving.
- Bring a change of clothes, extra socks and gloves, lots of snacks, something warm to drink, and something warm/dry to sit on.
- Maintain reasonable expectations and have fun!
Now that you’ve learned a bit on how to hike in the winter, how do you know where to hike with your family? Thankfully, I’ve compiled my favorite winter hikes by book. Check them out below!
Hike 4 in little feet hiking: Steigerwald National Wildlife Refuge
Winter may feel a bit sleepy, but the jogging stroller friendly trail at Steigerwald takes you through an area busy with lots of wildlife. On any given winter day, you could encounter deer, birds of prey, ducks, geese, insects, and more. There are also Mt. Hood and Columbia River views. You can hike as little as 2 miles round trip to get a great nature experience, but there are also miles to add on once you connect to the Columbia River Dike Trail. This trail is a family favorite – just be prepared for the possibility of lots of wind while hiking here.
Hike 9 in little feet hiking: Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge – Oaks to Wetlands Trail
Winter is the best time to visit the refuge because of all the migratory birds! You don’t have to walk very far on this easy 2 mile out-and-back trail to see and hear the noisy and beautiful swans that flew south (to our area) for the winter. Along the trail, you may even come across deer, birds of prey, ducks, and more. Bring a pair of binoculars and be sure to stop to read any interpretive signs. Consider a drive on the nearby Auto Tour Route to see even closer-up views of winter waterfowl and birds of prey. There is a fee to park.
Hike 16 in little feet hiking: Bells Mountain Trail from Cold Creek Day Use Area
This hike in the Yacolt Burn State Forest is only 27 miles from downtown Vancouver, yet it feels like it is deep in the wilderness. I love this trail in the winter because there is such a deep forest feel that is even more special in the rain. There is so much green from the trees that you totally forget that the skies are gray, and the sound of the rushing creek is quite soothing. The trailhead is down a gravel road, and there is no cell service, so you’ll need to plan to be a little off the grid. A WA Discover Pass is required to park.
Hike 8 in little feet hiking two: La Center Bottoms
La Center Bottoms is an excellent place for birdwatching, especially for migratory swans and pintail ducks. The trail can be a little muddy, especially when the gravel/dirt trail turns to dirt after the first half mile. You can continue on a dirt trail for another half mile for a 2 mile total round-trip hike. Favorite parts of this trail include multiple bird blinds and fun statues near the trailhead.
Hike 10 in little feet hiking two: Tarbell Trail from Rock Creek Campground
Our family loves this trail as it is rarely busy, there are always cool things to see, and we sometimes see horses! The trail starts out by crossing the creek on a long bridge, hiking through pretty forest (with some impressive nurse logs), and then taking you through a young forest that feels like a wild holiday tree farm. It has been neat to watch the trees grow on this trail over the last 10 years. There are also a lot of large cut stumps that allow for learning about dendrochronology (the study of tree rings). A WA Discover Pass is required to park.
Hike 19 in little feet hiking two: Lacamas Lower Falls
In the winter, there is a lot of water flowing through Lacamas Park and over Lower Falls, which makes it really cool to hike to the falls this time of year. Between the pretty forest, the downed logs that are perfect for climbing, the wide stroller-friendly trail, and the bridge over the rushing creek, it’s a fantastic place to hike with kids. My favorite part of the trail, though, is the rocks. Did you know they are millions of years old? Learn more about that in my book.
Hike 1 in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood: Little Zigzag Falls
The short hike to Little Zigzag Falls is great any time of the year, but my family really enjoys it when there is just a touch of snow on the ground. The trailhead sits just above 3,000 feet in elevation, so the trail has snow much of the winter. I’m not a huge fan of driving in snow or ice, but the access to this particular trailhead is less challenging than other higher-elevation Mt. Hood hikes. Be sure to read up on winter driving, and follow chain rules. As always, come prepared with your essentials and anything else you might need for a cold, icy/snowy adventure. Thankfully, there is a traffic camera on Highway 26 right by the trailhead. Find the traffic camera for Highway 26 at USFS Rd 35 here.
Hike 4 in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood: Wildwood Recreation Area Trails
I love hiking at Wildwood Recreation Area on a rainy day! This awesome BLM recreation area has several miles of flat, kid-friendly trails (most of which are paved or boardwalk) and is located on the west slope of Mt. Hood. This spot is at about 1,200 feet, which means that it should stay snow-free most of the winter. When visiting, be sure to check out the relief map, the river beach, the naturalist exhibits on the boardwalk, and the awesome nurse logs along the paths. FYI, some of the boardwalks can be slippery when wet! There is a fee to park.
Hike 6 in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood: Old Salmon River Trail
If you’ve ever wanted to hike through a fairy forest, the Old Salmon River Trail in Welches is the place to visit. You can hike up to 3.8 miles out-and-back along the river through a mossy old-growth forest. There are multiple parking areas and every section of this trail is beautiful. Plan on playing by the riverbank and climbing on and hugging massive trees. Keep an eye on kids around drop-offs and the swift river. This hike is accessible most of the year, as long as snow levels aren’t too low.
Hike 2 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Columbia River Dike Trail
The Columbia River Dike Trail is a popular trail, but you will find fewer crowds in the winter. Winter is a fantastic time to hike, especially on cold, sunny days. Kids always seem to enjoy checking out the interpretive signs, hanging out in the dugout canoe replicas, climbing on low-hanging trees, and birdwatching. You might even see horses along the trail. Look for a view of Mt. Hood to the east on sunny days, and be prepared for windier conditions along the river.
Hike 4 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Latourell Falls
We love this hike because you can hike right up to two waterfalls on a somewhat challenging 2.4 mile loop hike. This hike is a Gorge treasure and is appropriate for kids who can navigate steep trails that are slippery when wet and are narrow with drop-offs. There are great Gorge views as well as fun trees to climb on and walk through. Be prepared for the cold sensations of waterfall spray as you make your way around the loop. The trail can get muddy, so use caution near cliff edges. This is one of the few hikes on the Oregon side of the Western Gorge that has not been affected by the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire. Fire-stricken areas are prone to dangerous mudslides during times of heavy rain, ice, and snow. That said, you still need to pay attention to recent weather events, as they can still destabilize any of the slopes in the Gorge.
Hike 38 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Rowena Plateau
This hike is one of the best in the eastern Gorge for late winter wildflowers. This nature preserve has amazing Gorge views and reliably has purple and white grass widows blooming in late February. In general, the area sees more sunshine in winter due to the rain shadow effect, making its a great destination for the winter blues. Just remember to check the latest forecasts, as the Gorge is prone to ice storms and low-elevation snow during the winter. Please respect this Nature Conservancy property by keeping your pets at home, staying on the trail, not picking the flowers, and using the boot brush at the beginning of the hike. As always when hiking in this part of the Gorge, keep an eye out for poison oak and ticks.
Hike 1 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Central Forest Park Loop
Most people know about amazing Forest Park, but it is hard to know where in the park to hike with kids. This fun loop takes you through a less-crowded section of Forest Park. On your hike, you’ll encounter pretty forest and lots of muddy track traps to help you track any wild animals that may have traversed the trail earlier. Read more about animal track and track traps in my book.
Hike 32 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Hopkins Demonstration Forest
Hopkins Demonstration Forest is a lovely 140-acre privately owned forest near Beavercreek that is open to the public for hiking. There is a variety of trails here that take you past a pond, a creek, a log house, a fire lookout, and more. There are also interpretive features that teach out about the various habitats onsite. I like this property in the winter because there is so much green by way of fir needles, ferns, and other evergreen plants. There isn’t great cell service here, so make sure you know the way before leaving town.
Hike 44 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Cooper Mountain Nature Park
This Metro park is a fantastic place to hike in winter. You’ll often encounter deer amongst the oak savannah and ponderosa pines, and there are interpretive signs along the trail. On a sunny day, you can even spy a view of Mt. Hood. You can hike up to 3.2 miles, and there are some hills to get your blood pumping. Leave some time at the end of your hike to play on the nature playground. No dogs are allowed at this park.
I hope you have a wonderful winter season out on the trails. Be safe and have fun! Be sure to follow little feet hiking on Facebook and Instagram for trip reports.
How and Where to Hike in Winter around Portland, Vancouver, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Hood, and the Columbia River Gorge
We all spend a lot of time indoors during our wet Pacific Northwest winters. However, with the right gear and knowledge, you can make winter one of your favorite hiking seasons. Trails are less crowded, migratory birds are in the area, and waterfalls are full. That said, weather can be unpredictable, trails can be muddier, and there may be road hazards.
little feet hiking books have some great information on hiking in the winter. Read on for mom-tested tips on where to hike with kids in the winter, as well as ideas on how to hike safely with kids. Remember that you don’t have to travel far from home or spend a ton of time hiking to make it worthwhile. Even a short hike during the winter can be restorative and meaningful!
For winter hiking with kids, it can be good to stay lower in elevation, closer to cell service, and away from fire-damaged areas. It’s also a great idea to:
- Plan for quickly changing weather. Check the weather the morning of your hike, but make sure you have extra layers for rain, wind, or hail. Consult WTA’s snow depth map when looking for snow conditions on a trail. Stay out of the forest when high winds are forecasted (rain plus wind can equal trees falling on roads and/or trails).
- Dress in layers and avoid cotton. The combination of cold temperatures and rain can easily put you (and especially kids) in hypothermia territory.
- Learn more about winter hiking from the Washington Trails Association (WTA).
- Plan for winter driving.
- Bring a change of clothes, extra socks and gloves, lots of snacks, something warm to drink, and something warm/dry to sit on.
- Maintain reasonable expectations and have fun!
Now that you’ve learned a bit on how to hike in the winter, how do you know where to hike with your family? Thankfully, I’ve compiled my favorite winter hikes by book. Check them out below!
Hike 4 in little feet hiking: Steigerwald National Wildlife Refuge
Winter may feel a bit sleepy, but the jogging stroller friendly trail at Steigerwald takes you through an area busy with lots of wildlife. On any given winter day, you could encounter deer, birds of prey, ducks, geese, insects, and more. There are also Mt. Hood and Columbia River views. You can hike as little as 2 miles round trip to get a great nature experience, but there are also miles to add on once you connect to the Columbia River Dike Trail. This trail is a family favorite – just be prepared for the possibility of lots of wind while hiking here.
Hike 9 in little feet hiking: Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge – Oaks to Wetlands Trail
Winter is the best time to visit the refuge because of all the migratory birds! You don’t have to walk very far on this easy 2 mile out-and-back trail to see and hear the noisy and beautiful swans that flew south (to our area) for the winter. Along the trail, you may even come across deer, birds of prey, ducks, and more. Bring a pair of binoculars and be sure to stop to read any interpretive signs. Consider a drive on the nearby Auto Tour Route to see even closer-up views of winter waterfowl and birds of prey. There is a fee to park.
Hike 16 in little feet hiking: Bells Mountain Trail from Cold Creek Day Use Area
This hike in the Yacolt Burn State Forest is only 27 miles from downtown Vancouver, yet it feels like it is deep in the wilderness. I love this trail in the winter because there is such a deep forest feel that is even more special in the rain. There is so much green from the trees that you totally forget that the skies are gray, and the sound of the rushing creek is quite soothing. The trailhead is down a gravel road, and there is no cell service, so you’ll need to plan to be a little off the grid. A WA Discover Pass is required to park.
Hike 8 in little feet hiking two: La Center Bottoms
La Center Bottoms is an excellent place for birdwatching, especially for migratory swans and pintail ducks. The trail can be a little muddy, especially when the gravel/dirt trail turns to dirt after the first half mile. You can continue on a dirt trail for another half mile for a 2 mile total round-trip hike. Favorite parts of this trail include multiple bird blinds and fun statues near the trailhead.
Hike 10 in little feet hiking two: Tarbell Trail from Rock Creek Campground
Our family loves this trail as it is rarely busy, there are always cool things to see, and we sometimes see horses! The trail starts out by crossing the creek on a long bridge, hiking through pretty forest (with some impressive nurse logs), and then taking you through a young forest that feels like a wild holiday tree farm. It has been neat to watch the trees grow on this trail over the last 10 years. There are also a lot of large cut stumps that allow for learning about dendrochronology (the study of tree rings). A WA Discover Pass is required to park.
Hike 19 in little feet hiking two: Lacamas Lower Falls
In the winter, there is a lot of water flowing through Lacamas Park and over Lower Falls, which makes it really cool to hike to the falls this time of year. Between the pretty forest, the downed logs that are perfect for climbing, the wide stroller-friendly trail, and the bridge over the rushing creek, it’s a fantastic place to hike with kids. My favorite part of the trail, though, is the rocks. Did you know they are millions of years old? Learn more about that in my book.
Hike 1 in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood: Little Zigzag Falls
The short hike to Little Zigzag Falls is great any time of the year, but my family really enjoys it when there is just a touch of snow on the ground. The trailhead sits just above 3,000 feet in elevation, so the trail has snow much of the winter. I’m not a huge fan of driving in snow or ice, but the access to this particular trailhead is less challenging than other higher-elevation Mt. Hood hikes. Be sure to read up on winter driving, and follow chain rules. As always, come prepared with your essentials and anything else you might need for a cold, icy/snowy adventure. Thankfully, there is a traffic camera on Highway 26 right by the trailhead. Find the traffic camera for Highway 26 at USFS Rd 35 here.
Hike 4 in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood: Wildwood Recreation Area Trails
I love hiking at Wildwood Recreation Area on a rainy day! This awesome BLM recreation area has several miles of flat, kid-friendly trails (most of which are paved or boardwalk) and is located on the west slope of Mt. Hood. This spot is at about 1,200 feet, which means that it should stay snow-free most of the winter. When visiting, be sure to check out the relief map, the river beach, the naturalist exhibits on the boardwalk, and the awesome nurse logs along the paths. FYI, some of the boardwalks can be slippery when wet! There is a fee to park.
Hike 6 in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood: Old Salmon River Trail
If you’ve ever wanted to hike through a fairy forest, the Old Salmon River Trail in Welches is the place to visit. You can hike up to 3.8 miles out-and-back along the river through a mossy old-growth forest. There are multiple parking areas and every section of this trail is beautiful. Plan on playing by the riverbank and climbing on and hugging massive trees. Keep an eye on kids around drop-offs and the swift river. This hike is accessible most of the year, as long as snow levels aren’t too low.
Hike 2 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Columbia River Dike Trail
The Columbia River Dike Trail is a popular trail, but you will find fewer crowds in the winter. Winter is a fantastic time to hike, especially on cold, sunny days. Kids always seem to enjoy checking out the interpretive signs, hanging out in the dugout canoe replicas, climbing on low-hanging trees, and birdwatching. You might even see horses along the trail. Look for a view of Mt. Hood to the east on sunny days, and be prepared for windier conditions along the river.
Hike 4 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Latourell Falls
We love this hike because you can hike right up to two waterfalls on a somewhat challenging 2.4 mile loop hike. This hike is a Gorge treasure and is appropriate for kids who can navigate steep trails that are slippery when wet and are narrow with drop-offs. There are great Gorge views as well as fun trees to climb on and walk through. Be prepared for the cold sensations of waterfall spray as you make your way around the loop. The trail can get muddy, so use caution near cliff edges. This is one of the few hikes on the Oregon side of the Western Gorge that has not been affected by the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire. Fire-stricken areas are prone to dangerous mudslides during times of heavy rain, ice, and snow. That said, you still need to pay attention to recent weather events, as they can still destabilize any of the slopes in the Gorge.
Hike 38 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Rowena Plateau
This hike is one of the best in the eastern Gorge for late winter wildflowers. This nature preserve has amazing Gorge views and reliably has purple and white grass widows blooming in late February. In general, the area sees more sunshine in winter due to the rain shadow effect, making its a great destination for the winter blues. Just remember to check the latest forecasts, as the Gorge is prone to ice storms and low-elevation snow during the winter. Please respect this Nature Conservancy property by keeping your pets at home, staying on the trail, not picking the flowers, and using the boot brush at the beginning of the hike. As always when hiking in this part of the Gorge, keep an eye out for poison oak and ticks.
Hike 1 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Central Forest Park Loop
Most people know about amazing Forest Park, but it is hard to know where in the park to hike with kids. This fun loop takes you through a less-crowded section of Forest Park. On your hike, you’ll encounter pretty forest and lots of muddy track traps to help you track any wild animals that may have traversed the trail earlier. Read more about animal track and track traps in my book.
Hike 32 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Hopkins Demonstration Forest
Hopkins Demonstration Forest is a lovely 140-acre privately owned forest near Beavercreek that is open to the public for hiking. There is a variety of trails here that take you past a pond, a creek, a log house, a fire lookout, and more. There are also interpretive features that teach out about the various habitats onsite. I like this property in the winter because there is so much green by way of fir needles, ferns, and other evergreen plants. There isn’t great cell service here, so make sure you know the way before leaving town.
Hike 44 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Cooper Mountain Nature Park
This Metro park is a fantastic place to hike in winter. You’ll often encounter deer amongst the oak savannah and ponderosa pines, and there are interpretive signs along the trail. On a sunny day, you can even spy a view of Mt. Hood. You can hike up to 3.2 miles, and there are some hills to get your blood pumping. Leave some time at the end of your hike to play on the nature playground. No dogs are allowed at this park.
I hope you have a wonderful winter season out on the trails. Be safe and have fun! Be sure to follow little feet hiking on Facebook and Instagram for trip reports.
How and Where to Hike in Fall around Portland, Vancouver, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Hood, and the Columbia River Gorge
Fall is personally my favorite season in the Pacific Northwest. The snow level tends to hang high enough into early October to still get up into the mountains, and the mushrooms and changing leaves can be so colorful. We also get to enjoy less-rainy outdoors adventures with less heat, less smoke, and fewer mosquitoes. My favorite part, however, is all the opportunities to see salmon spawning.
little feet hiking books have some great information on hiking in the fall. Read on for mom-tested tips on where to hike with kids in the fall, as well as how to hike safely with kids.
What makes hiking in the fall so special?
- Trails tend to be less crowded and it’s easier to connect with one another on a trail. Once kids go back to school, staying connected to nature is more important than ever and is actually quite helpful to their studies. Despite the busyness that fall brings, make sure to keep some routines of connecting with nature. Even a walk around the neighborhood can lead to nature discoveries.
- The sun is setting earlier, but our nights are still mostly clear. This is a great time to introduce younger kids to stargazing. Consider a hike at dusk and watch the stars come out. For the best stargazing, find a spot away from city lights and start looking for stars about a half hour after sunset. Search for your location and find sunset times here.
- It has been a bad year for mosquitoes and they are finally starting to die down. This makes it a great time to get into the higher elevations above 4,000 feet, where huckleberries are ripe and leaves are changing colors. We usually have till at least mid-October before snow starts falling this high. Consider checking out some higher-elevation hikes on Mt. Hood or in the Indian Heaven Wilderness in SW Washington. That said, keep an eye on the forecast – snow levels should start dropping soon!
- Campgrounds are starting to close, but there are a few places like Lost Lake, where you can camp through mid-October. Also, many state park campgrounds allow camping year-round and this shoulder season is a great time to camp with fewer crowds and great weather.
Here are a few tips for fall hiking:
- Plan for quickly changing weather. Check the weather the morning of your hike, but make sure you have extra layers for rain, wind, or hail.
- Dress in layers and avoid cotton. The combination of cool fall temperatures and rain can still put you in hypothermia territory.
- Keep an eye out for rainbows.
- Teach kids how to be safe around mushrooms.
- Stay safe during October and November hunting seasons. little feet hiking books tell you if a particular hike could be impacted by a hunting season.
- Learn more about fall hiking from the Washington Trails Association
- Maintain reasonable expectations and have fun!
Now that you know how to hike in the fall, how do you know where to hike with your family? No worries, I’ve got you covered. I’ve compiled my favorite fall hikes by book. Check them out below.
Hike 1 in little feet hiking: Vancouver Lake North Trail
I love this hike for the falling heart-shaped cottonwood leaves and the chance to see birds preparing for winter. Leaves start changing colors in mid-October and are usually off the trees by mid-November. This 2.5 mile hike is appropriate for new hikers through adults.
Hike 5 in little feet hiking: Lucia Falls Regional Park
Lucia Falls is a year-round favorite for our family, but we especially love it in October for the salmon run. Check out this video and this post to see salmon jumping there in October. Along this short hike, you will also see lovely changing falls colors and neat mushrooms. Consider visiting on a weekend in October so you can check out Pomeroy Farm’s Pumpkin Lane after your hike. This 1 mile hike is appropriate for all ages, although littles will need help staying away from the rocks and walking through the parking lot.
Hike 7 in little feet hiking: Whipple Creek
The forest at Whipple Creek Regional Park is such an urban oasis for the area. The forest is beautiful year-round, but especially mid-October to mid-November when the big-leaf maple tree leaves fall. The trail itself is okay for all ages, but littles will need help if you encounter horses. The trails can be a bit confusing, so check out the 1 to 2.4 mile routes outlined in the book.
Hike 10 in little feet hiking: Cape Horn Upper Trailhead Hike
The Cape Horn area of the Columbia River Gorge is one of the best places to see fall colors. The problem is that most of the area isn’t too kid-friendly due to drop-offs. In little feet hiking, I’ve outlined a more kid-friendly 1 mile hike to a walled overlook of the Gorge. For a longer hike to this same spot, check out the Cape Horn hike in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge.
Hike 13 in little feet hiking: Whistle Punk Trail
The Whistle Punk trail is located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest near Carson, so it requires a little bit of a drive. However, the drive through the Gorge and into the forest is quite lovely, and this trail also features some neat historical equipment interspersed throughout the forest. Consider tacking on a trip to the Bonneville Fish Hatchery to see adult fall Chinook and coho salmon spawning. This 1.9 mile hike is appropriate for all ages.
Hike 15 in little feet hiking: Thomas Lake
The 1.8 to 4 mile hike on the Thomas Lake trail is one of my absolute favorites in the fall. It is hard to hike into the Indian Heaven Wilderness most of the year due to snow and heavy mosquito populations. Late September into October is perfect up there – you’ll encounter pretty fall colors, cool and crisp weather, colorful mushrooms to identify, and maybe even some lingering huckleberries. The drivetime to the trail is longer than other hikes in the book, but this one is worth it.
Hike 20 in little feet hiking: Goat Marsh Lake
The 2.4 mile round trip hike to Goat Marsh Lake is one of my favorite hikes on the south side of Mt. St. Helens. In addition to hiking through ancient lava flows, you’ll have a chance to see an epic view of the volcano. Fall is special in this spot because the mosquitoes have died down (it is a marsh after all), and you are likely to see lots of frogs and colorful mushrooms.
Hike 23 in little feet hiking: Summit Springs
This 3 mile off-the-beaten-path hike doesn’t have any grand vistas, but the forest is so quiet and the fall colors in October and November are quite pretty. The hike is especially cool in foggy weather. This hike is doable for any kid that can deal with steady elevation gain, hike safely on a gravel road for a few minutes, and can either cross independently or be carried over some minor water crossings.
Hike 1 in little feet hiking two: CASEE Trails
The CASEE trails are the perfect place for a mellow fall hike with your family. On the 1.1 mile hike, you’ll walk through an arboretum with many native and non-native deciduous trees, and then you’ll dip into a native fir forest full of neat and interesting mushrooms.
Hike 9 in little feet hiking two: Battle Ground Lake Loop
Battle Ground Lake State Park is a busy place in summer, so I like to visit in the fall when leaves are changing and crowds are sparse. Hiking around the lake also provides an opportunity for some place-based learning. You can learn about the volcanic origins of this lake in my second hiking book. Littles may find this trail challenging at times due to rocks on the trail – and then there is the lake:)
Hike 12 in little feet hiking two: Fort Cascades Historic Site
This short, flat hike is another place where place-based learning can occur. This hike not only has tons of historical connections, but you also get some neat views of Bonneville Dam. Consider hiking this trail in November for fall colors and to honor Native American Heritage Month. Along the trail, you will find signposts that correlate with an online brochure detailing what each signpost. Unfortunately, much of the information you will find about this trail focuses on the western settlers and how they built forts to protect the portage from the people who once lived here. Before this land was taken in the 1850’s, the Fort Cascades Loop Trail was occupied by members of the Watlala and Cowlitz tribes. Before or after your hike, educate your kids on the people who lived here before it was taken. While this trail works for all ages, littles will need help staying off the historical equipment.
Hike 17 in little feet hiking two: Placid Lake
This hike takes you to subalpine meadows with a lovely lake. Late September and early October are the best time to hike if you want to see changing fall colors and colorful mushrooms (look, don’t touch!). Keep an eye on changing snow levels as the trailhead is located at 4,100 feet. This trail is appropriate for all ages.
Hike 20 in little feet hiking two: Lewisville Park
If you’re looking for fall colors, look no further than the 2.8 mile trail at Lewisville Park in Battle Ground! This easy trail is practically empty on a cold, wet day. Just keep your kids far away from the rushing, swollen East Fork Lewis River.
Hike 22 in little feet hiking two: Ape Cave Surface Trail
October is a fantastic time to hike the Ape Cave surface trail. The vine maple leaves are changing to a vibrant red, fun mushrooms start popping up in the forest, and you can hike along the trail through the lava fields without getting overheated. You can also explore the cave with smaller crowds (I recommend the lower cave for kids). Timed parking reservations are still required. I would avoid this with littles because it is easy to get scraped up on the lava field or fall in hole.
Hike 3 in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood: Barlow Wayside
Barlow Wayside is a lovely place to see changing fall colors, but it is also known as a great place to watch spawning salmon late September to early December.. You can learn about where to look for the salmon in my Mt. Hood hiking guide. This hike is appropriate for all ages, but you will want to keep littles out of the creek to protect the salmon.
Hike 4 in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood: Wildwood Recreation Area Trails
The Wildwood Recreation Site in Welches is such a neat place. If you visit in the fall, you will definitely see changing falls colors, but you are also likely to meet some small fry at the fish viewing window and see salmon spawning in the Salmon River from late August through November. This hike is great for all ages.
Hike 8 in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood: Salmon River Trail
The 4 mile out-and-back hike on the Salmon River Trail is excellent in the fall. You’ll see spawning salmon, changing fall leaves, and lots of mushrooms. There are some drop-offs and the trail can be slippery when wet, so this hike is best-suited for more confident older hikers.
Hike 32 in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood: Lookout Mountain
Lookout Mountain is one of my favorite hikes around. In addition to volcano views of Mt. Hood, Mt. Rainier, Mt. Adams, Mt. Jefferson, and Mt. St. Helens, a visit in the fall will allow you to see western larch trees up close on the drive to the trailhead, and also in the distance from the top of the mountain. These deciduous conifers only grow on the east slopes of our PNW mountains and the needles change to a golden yellow starting mid-October before dropping off completely. Be sure to visit this one in early to mid-October before snow closes the road. This hike is best for older kids who can handle trails with steep drop-offs.
Hike 41 in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood: Lost Lake Lakeshore/Old Growth Loop
Lost Lake is a family favorite for fall hiking and camping (open through mid-October). The lake trail is flat and offers excellent views of Mt. Hood and changing fall colors. You can even rent boats on-site through the middle of October. This hike is appropriate for all ages, but littles will need help staying out of the lake and crossing campground roads.
Hike 6 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Cape Horn
One of my favorite places to hike in the fall is Cape Horn on the Washington side. It’s so close to town and the fall colors are amazing…unfortunately many of the trails around Cape Horn are not kid-friendly due to drop-offs and cliff top viewpoints with no barriers. My first book outlines an easy and flat 1-2ish mile round trip hike that takes you to an awesome overlook with barrier walls. My Gorge book includes a longer and steeper (but not too steep) 3 mile hike that takes you to multiple viewpoints and through a neat tunnel (you can see some of the viewpoints and the tunnel on a shorter, less steep option too). Both are more kid-friendly (there are still risks and caution will need to be used near roads and cliffs) but you won’t find either of these kid-specific hiking routes described anywhere else.
Hike 9 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Latourell Falls
This 2.2 mile hike takes you past several waterfalls and is one of the few kid-friendly Gorge trails not impacted by recent wildfires. In the fall, the changing colors are magnificent and so are the mushroom sightings. There are some drop-offs and the trail can be quite slippery when wet.
Hike 18 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Ruckel Creek Falls
One of the best places in the area to see salmon spawning is in Eagle Creek by the Cascade Salmon Hatchery. I don’t think the infamous Eagle Creek trail is safe for most kids, but I’ve crafted a more kid-friendly hike starting at this trailhead and passing one of my favorite salmon spawning viewing spots. The best time to see salmon spawning here is late-September to mid-October. This hike is okay for all ages but littles will need help staying out of the creek, walking through the parking lot, getting to the bottom of the waterfall, and not falling over the bridge above the waterfall.
Hike 21 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Pool of the Winds and Little Beacon Rock
The hike to Pool of the Winds is one of my favorite trails, but it can be hard to hike in the summer due to its popularity. As we move into October and November, the trails should be less busy and it should be easier to find a parking spot so you can get those amazing Hamilton Mountain and waterfall views. This hike’s elevation gain can be challenging on little legs and there are some drop-offs, so I recommend this hike for sure-footed hiker kids.
Hike 32 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Starvation Creek State Park
I love the Columbia River Highway Trail heading west from Starvation Creek State Park because of its lovely waterfalls and it’s accessibility. The trail is paved, making it okay for strollers and even bicycles. As we move into the rainy season, the waterfalls will get fuller and colorful leaves will drop to the ground. It can be quite noisy due to the interstate, FYI. This hike is appropriate for all ages.
Hike 37 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Catherine Creek Arch Loop
On the west side of the Columbia River Gorge, most of the leaves we see changing and falling come from big-leaf maple trees. On the east side, the most dominant deciduous tree is the mighty white oak tree. While hiking along the Catherine Creek trail in October and November, you’ll be struck by the contrast of the brown/orange oak leaves against the blue sky (because it is sunnier there than it is on the west side). This hike is best for older hikers due to elevation gain, drop-offs, and rattlesnakes (staying on the trail is the best way to avoid them).
Hike 3 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Wapato Access Greenway Loop
This trail on Sauvie Island is excellent in fall. On a typical hike in fall, you should see birds, caterpillars, frog, snakes, and maybe even some deer or crickets. If you visit in October, I highly recommend following your hike up with a trip to one of the island’s wonderful pumpkin patches. This hike is okay for all ages, but littles will need help near water.
Hike 8 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Lacamas Park
Lacamas Park is lovely in the fall with lots of falling colorful leaves. There are many trails here, but my book outlines a 1.4 mile and 2.5 mile loop depending on how far you’d like to hike. Highlights include the lake, the dam, and some very cool rocks!
Hike 13 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Reed Lake
You don’t hear much about the hike around Reed Lake, but its an absolutely lovely place for a hike and nature connection. My favorite part of hiking here is the opportunity to see wildlife up close. The City of Portland and Reed College have been working tirelessly over the years to restore Reed Lake and Crystal Springs Creek to its former, healthier self. Because of this, last October (while scouting for the Portland book), my daughter and I watched an otter eat a fish in the lake. 3 miles from downtown Portland! I can’t guarantee an otter sighting, but as this area gets healthier and more salmon return to the area in fall, your chances get better every year. Learn more about the restoration work and the hike itself in my Portland book. This hike is okay for all ages, but littles will need help near water and when walking on the road.
Hike 18 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Oxbow Regional Park
Oxbow Regional Park is known for its fall salmon viewing, as well as its beautiful forest. My book outlines several hikes you can do, but this brochure is the best for understanding the annual salmon run. When you visit, be sure to leave enough time for kids to play on Oxbow’s two playgrounds. This hike is okay for all ages, but littles will need help with road crossings and staying out of the rushing and dangerous Sandy River.
Hike 27 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Springbrook Park
Springbrook Park has 1.2 miles of flat trails that are perfect for all ages. The park is full of big-leaf maple trees, and those trees will certainly drop large yellow leaves in the fall. Be sure to leave some time for kids to play on the nature play area inside the park.
Hike 39 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Hoyt Arboretum – Deciduous Loop
Hoyt Arboretum is one of the best places in the area to check out the changing seasons, especially the change from summer to fall. The arboretum’s massive deciduous tree selection is sure to put on a great show every October and November. Check out the website for seasonal activities and little feet hiking: Portland Metro for several kid-friendly loops through these changing trees. This hike is great for all ages.
Where to See Salmon Spawning this Fall
One of the most amazing natural wonders we encounter in the Pacific Northwest is the annual fall salmon run. Salmon need cold, clean water and large amounts of gravel or sediment to lay their eggs (spawn), which is why you’ll encounter them in some of our local creeks and rivers. Salmon spawn at the end of their lives – they spend 3 or 4 years out in the ocean before swimming back to the freshwater area where they were born. Watching fish complete this instinctual cycle is a sight to behold, and thankfully there are some kid-friendly places in the Portland-Vancouver area where families can witness this wonder.
Below is a list of the best places to take kids to see salmon spawning in the fall. Be sure to pick up a copy of the relevant little feet hiking guide to give you the best information for a safe, educational, and fun salmon-watching adventure.
P.S. Salmon poisoning is a thing for dogs. Look into this and keep dogs away from spawning areas for their safety.
Lucia Falls Regional Park
- Easy stroller-friendly hike is appropriate for all ages, although littles will need help staying away from the rocks and walking through the parking lot
- You will see salmon jumping the falls starting in late September and through the end of October at least (sometimes you’ll see into December)
- Check out this video and this post to see salmon jumping there in October
- You’ll also encounter lovely changing falls colors and neat mushrooms
- Stop over to Pomeroy Farm’s Pumpkin Lane after your hike if visiting on an October weekend
- Please avoid ALL water contact to protect the salmon
- Learn more in little feet hiking
Wahclella Falls
- Harder hike with dangerous cliff edges
- This is one of the best waterfall hikes around
- Avoid this trail during heavy rain due to fire damage and cliffs
- After your hike, stop by Bonneville Fish Hatchery to see the fish ladder
- Learn more about this hike and its connection to the hatchery in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge
Ruckel Creek
- Easy hike is okay for all ages but littles will need help staying out of the creek, walking through the parking lot, getting to the bottom of the waterfall, and not falling over the bridge above the waterfall
- The hike starts from the Eagle Creek trailhead, which is one of the best places in the area to see salmon spawning
- The Eagle Creek trail is not kid-friendly, but I’ve crafted a more kid-friendly hike starting at this trailhead and passing one of my favorite salmon spawning viewing spots
- Best time to see salmon spawning here is late-September to mid-October
- Learn more in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge
Oxbow Regional Park
- Hikes are okay for all ages, but littles will need help with road crossings and staying out of the rushing and dangerous Sandy River
- There are several hikes in the book that take you through the park, but this brochure is the best for understanding the annual salmon run
- When you visit, be sure to leave enough time for kids to play on Oxbow’s two playgrounds
- There is usually an event at the end of October celebrating the return of the salmon
- Learn more about the hikes in little feet hiking: Portland Metro
Barlow Wayside
- Hike is appropriate for hikers who can handle stairs and small cliffs, and you will want to keep littles out of the creek to protect the salmon
- Watch salmon spawn at Barlow Wayside late September through early December
- Visit in November for lovely fall colors
- See if you can find and touch the waterfall along the trail
- Learn more in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood
Wildwood Recreation Area
- Two short and easy hikes that are ADA-accessible and stroller-friendly
- Use caution near the Salmon River’s edge
- Visit in fall for lovely changing fall colors
- Visit the fish viewing window to look for smaller fish
- Watch for salmon spawning in the Salmon River from late August through November
- Learn more in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood
Old Salmon River
- Hike has some cliffier sections, but is okay for most hikers
- Hike through beautiful old-growth forest along a river named for the very salmon that spawn there
- Look for salmon spawning late September through early December
- Be sure to make some time to play on the river beaches, using caution near the river’s edge
- There are multiple trailheads for this hike; learn more in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood
Salmon River Trail
- Harder hike for stronger hikers; there are some cliffs in the beginning of the hike
- Hike through old-growth forest along the Salmon River
- Look for salmon spawning late September through early December
- Look for spawning salmon whenever you are close to the river
- Learn about nurse logs in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood, and identify them along the trail
Which spot will you visit first?
12 Runner-Up Playground Hikes within 50 miles of the Portland and Vancouver (WA) Metro Areas
Have you ever hiked with a kid who just didn’t want to hike? It happens. In my five hiking guides, I give you a lot of general and hike-specific ideas to motivate your kids to keep hiking. However, after 10 years of hiking with kids of all ages, the most tried-and-true motivator that I’ve found (other than ice cream) is PLAYGROUNDS!
After going through all 5 of my kids hiking guides, I’ve identified 22 hikes, within 50 miles of Portland (Oregon) and Vancouver (Washington), that have playgrounds along the trail, at the trailhead, or within a few miles of the trailhead. Better yet, my 10 year old (the original littlefoot) sat down with me to rank the top 10 playgrounds in her opinion (she has visited all of them). You can find that post here. Below you will find the remaining 12 playground hikes!
12 MORE PLAYGROUNDS (AND THEIR HIKES)
Tickle Creek
- 1.6 to 3.2 miles round trip
- Shallow creeks
- Paved or gravel, stroller-friendly trails
- 29 miles from downtown Portland and 32 miles from downtown Vancouver
- Learn more in little feet hiking: Portland Metro
Mt. Tabor
- Up to 3 miles round trip
- Hike atop an extinct volcano
- Paved stroller-friendly trails with some hills
- Flush toilets available
- 4 miles from downtown Portland and 11 miles from downtown Vancouver
- Learn more in little feet hiking: Portland Metro
Cooper Mountain Nature Park
- 0.7 or 2.9 miles round trip
- Hike through meadows and look for wildlife like deer, frogs, and birds
- Nature-themed playground
- Gravel trails that are stroller-friendly if you don’t mind hills (the 0.7 mile loop is less hilly)
- Flush toilets available
- 13 miles from downtown Portland and 21 miles from downtown Vancouver
- Learn more in little feet hiking: Portland Metro
Oxbow Regional Park
- 2 to 4.1 miles round trip
- Hike through old-growth forest and along the Sandy River (use caution near the river)
- Two available playgrounds: a more traditional playground and an inclusive nature-themed playground
- Flush toilets available
- 25 miles from downtown Portland and 28 miles from downtown Vancouver
- Learn more in little feet hiking: Portland Metro
Lower Marble Creek Falls
- 1 mile round trip
- Hike alongside a lake (reservoir) to a small waterfall
- Flush toilets available
- 46 miles from downtown Portland and 35 miles from downtown Vancouver
- Learn more in little feet hiking two
Battle Ground Lake
- 1 or 2 miles round trip
- Hike alongside a volcanic lake and through lovely forest
- Flush toilets available
- 29 miles from downtown Portland and 20 miles from downtown Vancouver
- Learn more in little feet hiking two
Pool of the Winds
- 3 miles round trip
- Hike uphill to a beautiful waterfall through forest past Bonneville Dam views
- Flush toilets available
- 41 miles from downtown Portland and 35 miles from downtown Vancouver
- Learn more in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge
Hamilton Island
- 3 miles round trip
- Hike past Gorge views, through meadows, and along the Columbia River
- Vault toilet available at the trailhead
- See if you can find all the Bigfeet at the Bigfoot-inspired North Bonneville Park playground located 3 miles from the trailhead
- 46 miles from downtown Portland and 40 miles from downtown Vancouver
- Learn more in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge
Campen Creek Greenway
- 1 mile round trip
- Hike through meadows to the turnaround point at Hartwood Park Red Barn Playground
- Portable toilets available
- 26 miles from downtown Portland and 20 miles from downtown Vancouver
- Learn more in little feet hiking two
Oaks Bottom
- 2.7 or 2.8 miles round trip
- Hike through an urban wildlife refuge
- Playground and flush toilets available at adjacent Sellwood Park
- 5 miles from downtown Portland and 13 miles from downtown Vancouver
- Learn more in little feet hiking: Portland Metro
Iron Mountain
- 1.8 miles round trip
- Hike up hills to the site of a historic iron mine
- Flush toilets available
- 9 miles from downtown Portland and 18 miles from downtown Vancouver
- Learn more in little feet hiking: Portland Metro
Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge
- 1 to 4.1 miles round trip
- Hike through a large national wildlife refuge
- Vault toilets available
- Davis Park playground is located 1 mile from the trailhead
- 27 miles from downtown Portland and 18 miles from downtown Vancouver
- Learn more in little feet hiking: Portland Metro and little feet hiking
Which playground, I mean hike, will you choose first??
Shady Hikes for the Portland/Vancouver Area July 2024 Heat Wave
The heat is here and people will be flocking to our local waterways. In addition to being crowded, our waterways aren’t the safest places during the rapid snowmelt that comes with our first few heat waves of the year. The water can be cold and fast-moving, and many places do not have lifeguards available. So how do you keep your kids active during a heat wave? The awesome thing about our area is that we have so many amazing forests that can keep us cool on the hottest days. Did you know that shady forests can keep us cool through what is known as the process of evapotranspiration?? While forests can help keep you cool, you will still need to take it easy and keep an eye out for signs of heat exhaustion or stroke. Hitting the trail in the morning and bringing along extra water and sun protection is helpful too.
Below are some suggestions of hikes that should be shady, less-crowded, and keep you away from the big bodies of water. If you are going near any body of water, it is good to brush up on your water safety skills and assess the risks for your entire family before enjoying any water. Even small creeks can present issues for certain kids. Be safe, and access water on the following hikes at your own risk.
From my first guide little feet hiking:
-Salmon-Morgan Creeks Natural Area (there is a small creek on this hike)
-WSU Cougar Trails (there is a small creek on this hike)
-Whipple Creek (there is a small creek on this hike)
-Volcano View Trail (need Ape Cave Parking reservation)
-Whistle Punk Trail
-Saddle Dam (there is a small creek on this hike)
-Goat Marsh Lake (the lake isn’t for swimming and you may encounter mosquitoes)
-Summit Springs (you cross a few creeks early on in the hike)
-Bells Mountain Trail from Cold Creek Day Use Area
From my second guide little feet hiking two:
-Columbia Springs
-Fort Cascades Historic Site (stay on the trail to avoid the Columbia River)
-Lewis River Trail (the trail comes close to the river at times; the river may be shallow enough in spots for water play)
-Cedar Flats Natural Area
-Moulton Falls Trail from Hantwick Road (there is a small creek near the trailhead)
-Pacific Crest from Trout Creek (the creek may be low enough for some creek play)
From my third guide little feet hiking: Mt. Hood:
-Barlow Wayside (there is a small creek here)
-Lost Creek (there is a creek, but it shouldn’t be so rushing that it carries you away)
-any of the three Lost Lake hikes in my book (the lake has swimming areas and boat rentals)
-Catalpa Lake (bring mosquito repellant)
-Still Creek Trail (there is a large creek at the turnaround point)
-Pioneer Bridle Trail
-Hidden Lake
-Little Zigzag Falls (the trail runs along a creek)
From my fourth guide little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge:
-Larch Mountain Environmental Education Site (there is a small creek here)
-Larch Mountain Summit
-Nellie Corser Wildlife Area (there is creek access here, but it shouldn’t be so rushing that it carries you away)
-Dry Creek Falls (there is creek access here, but it shouldn’t be so rushing that it carries you away)
-Emerald Falls (there is creek access here, but it shouldn’t be so rushing that it carries you away)
-Skamania Lodge Trails
-Fort Cascades (stay on the trail to avoid the Columbia River)
From my fifth guide little feet hiking: Portland Metro:
– Central Forest Park Loop
-Reed Lake (there is a little creek that runs through the west half of the trail system)
-Whipple Creek
-Scouters Mountain
-Tickle Creek (there is a small creek that runs along the trail)
-Mt. Talbert
-Tryon Creek
-Hopkins Demonstration Forest (there is small creek access here)
-Springbrook Park
-Hyland Woods Natural Area
-Tualatin Hills Nature Park
STAY COOL AND SAFE OUT THERE!
Top 10 Playground Hikes within 50 miles of the Portland and Vancouver Metro Areas
Have you ever hiked with a kid who just didn’t want to hike? It happens. In my five hiking guides, I give you a lot of general and hike-specific ideas to motivate your kids to keep hiking. However, after 10 years of hiking with kids of all ages, the most tried-and-true motivator that I’ve found (other than ice cream) is PLAYGROUNDS!
I have gone through all five of my books, and I’ve identified 22 hikes, within 50 miles of Portland (Oregon) and Vancouver (Washington), that have playgrounds along the trail, at the trailhead, or within a few miles of the trailhead. Better yet, my 10 year old (the original littlefoot) sat down with me to rank the top 10 playgrounds in her opinion (she has visited all of them).
Below, you will find these top 10. Click here for the remaining 12!
TOP 10 PLAYGROUNDS (AND THEIR HIKES) ACCORDING TO LITTLEFOOT
MAC Trail
- Find the hike description in little feet hiking: Portland Metro
- 1.8 to 4.8 miles round trip
- Hike takes you past the Rose Garden Children’s Playground (with bathrooms) towards the Portland International Rose Test Garden
- 4 miles from downtown Portland and 10 miles from downtown Vancouver
Marshall Park
- Find the hike description in little feet hiking: Portland Metro
- 1.5 miles round trip through lovely woods
- Playground at the beginning of the hike
- Shallow creek in summer
- Not a lot of parking, so go on a weekday
- 5 miles from downtown Portland and 14 miles from downtown Vancouver
Canemah Bluff
- Find the hike description in little feet hiking: Portland Metro
- 1.7 miles round trip on historical trails
- 2 play structures and flush toilets at the beginning of the hike
- Lovely views of the Willamette River
- Watch out for poison oak on the trail
- 5 miles from downtown Portland and 14 miles from downtown Vancouver
Vancouver Lake North Trail
- Find the hike description in little feet hiking: Portland Metro and little feet hiking
- 2.5 to 4.5 miles round trip
- Mostly stroller-friendly
- Playground and flush toilets are located inside of Vancouver Lake Regional Park, just off the trail
- Visit on a sunny day for a view of Mt. Hood
- Watch out for lake advisories
- 15 miles from downtown Portland and 6 miles from downtown Vancouver
Fairgrounds Connector Trail
- Find the hike description in little feet hiking
- 1.6 miles round trip through pretty forest and meadows
- Large playground and flush toilets are located at the trailhead
- 18 miles from downtown Portland and 9 miles from downtown Vancouver
Round Lake Trail
- Find the hike description in little feet hiking
- 1.2 to 1.5 miles round trip through pretty forest and around a lovely lake
- Playground and flush toilets are located at the trailhead
- Watch out for lake advisories
- 22 miles from downtown Portland and 15 miles from downtown Vancouver
Dry Creek Falls
- Find the hike description in little feet hiking Columbia River Gorge
- 3.8 miles round trip to an amazing waterfall
- Cascade Locks Marine Park Playground (including flush toilets) is located less than a mile from the trailhead
- Add on an ice cream from Eastwind Drive-in afterwards
- 43 miles from downtown Portland and 43 miles from downtown Vancouver
Jackson Bottom Wetlands
- Find the hike description in little feet hiking: Portland Metro
- 1 to 4 miles round trip through a wildlife refuge
- Make time to check out the visitors center and bring binoculars if you have them
- Hidden Creek Park West, located 4 miles from the trailhead, has multiple playgrounds and flush toilets
- Visit on a sunny day for a view of Mt. Hood
- 17 miles from downtown Portland and 24 miles from downtown Vancouver
Washougal Waterfront Trail
- Find the hike description in little feet hiking Columbia River Gorge
- 1 mile round trip
- Paved and stroller-friendly
- Meet a Sasquatch named Eegah at a nature playground along the trail
- Enjoy lovely views of the Gorge and Mt. Hood
- 22 miles from downtown Portland and 16 miles from downtown Vancouver
Lewisville Park
- Find the hike description in little feet hiking two
- 2.8 mile loop
- There are multiple beaches along the river side of the trail
- Gets very busy on summer weekends
- Gravel trail and stroller-friendly
- 29 miles from downtown Portland and 18 miles from downtown Vancouver
Which playground, I mean hike, will you choose first??
Columbia River Gorge Must-do Summer Hikes
The Columbia River Gorge is amazing year-round, but summertime seems to be most people’s favorite time to visit. The Gorge is very busy in the summer, especially on weekends, so it is best to visit in the early morning, late afternoon, or weekdays. You can also try out some lesser-known hikes and try to avoid the crowds (more on that below). It can be hard to know which hikes are appropriate for kids, especially since there are so many online resources labeling cliffy or steep hikes as kid-friendly. I’ve been hiking in the Gorge for over 15 years, and my daughter has been hiking there since she was a toddler….we’ve done the research and scouting for you!
While most of the 50 hikes in my kids Gorge hiking book, little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge, can be hiked in summer, some are better than others. I’ve picked the must-do summertime hikes from my book, and listed them below. For the best information, including almost all the details you need for a safe and fun family hike, pick up a copy on Amazon or at Vintage Books before hitting the trail.
Pro-tips for hiking in the summertime in the Columbia River Gorge:
- Remember that not every trail will be right for your family. I go into this more in my books, but please assess your family members’ hiking abilities and pay attention to the risks outlined so you can determine if a trail is right for your family
- When hiking in the Gorge, especially near or east of Cascade Locks/North Bonneville, make sure you do a tick check after your hike and watch out for poison oak.
- Rattlesnakes can be seen along some Eastern Gorge hikes, so advise kiddos not to climb on or stick their hands into rock piles.
- The Eastern Gorge can be quite hot in the summer, so these hikes are best done early in the morning or in the late afternoon.
- If it is warm in town, it still may be cool in the mountains. On the morning of your hike, check daytime and overnight weather conditions and make sure to bring the right gear.
- Make sure to check mountain snow levels.
- Educate yourself on summer safety.
- Auto thefts happen
- Don’t forget your mosquito repellant, sun protection, and anti-itch cream!
- Check for wildfires and smoke, as well as air quality.
- In summer, water can still be cold and swift or even unsafe due to toxins. Washington.gov has great tips for keeping kids safe or learn more about kids and water safety here.
- Maintain reasonable expectations and have fun!
Latourell Falls
- 2.2 round-trip miles
- This is one of a handful of kid-friendly Gorge waterfall hikes unaffected by the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire
- There is easy creek access for a bit of splashing
- The rock formations on this hike are amazing
- Visit during off hours or on weekdays in order to find parking
Larch Mountain Environmental Education Site
- 0.9 to 1.8 miles round-trip
- Practically unknown hike, so it shouldn’t be busy
- Visit this site for solitude, shade, and creek play
- Look for Oregon Slender Salamanders (learn more in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge)
Emerald Falls
- 1.2 round-trip miles
- This is a more obscure hike that isn’t written about in too many places
- The hike to Emerald Falls is less crowded than other kid-friendly Gorge waterfall hikes
- Keep an eye out for water ouzels
Starvation Creek State Park
- 0.6 – 4 round-trip miles
- Paved and stroller-friendly way to access up to three waterfalls
- Can be noisy due to proximity to the interstate
- Lots of spots for water-splashing
St. Cloud Day Use Area
- 1 to 1.5 miles round-trip
- Great spot for animal tracking when water is low (learn more about the bear and beavers that live there in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge)
- Rocky beach is great for river access
- Use caution near the river
Larch Mountain
- 0.6 mile or 4.2 round-trip miles
- Amazing mountaintop view of 5 volcanoes
- Wildflowers abound in summer
- The amazing forest here is unlike any other
- The 4.2 mile route isn’t described anywhere else other than little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge
Nellie Corser Wildlife Unit
- 0.85 round-trip mile
- This short hike is lesser-known and lovely
- The creek offers cool water to splash in on a warm day
- Pay special attention to directions in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge so you can avoid private property and ledges
Hood River Waterfront Trail
- 2.8 miles out-and back (but you can do less)
- Paved, stroller-friendly trail takes you past a playground and river access
- The trail is fun for watching kiteboarders and windsurfers in the summer
Dry Creek Falls
- 3.8 mile round-trip miles
- Hike through shady forest, right up to a waterfall
- There is good parking at the trailhead
- Look for wildflowers along the way
Nick Eaton Falls
- 4.4 round-trip miles
- This hike has shade, wildflowers, and a nice waterfall you can walk right up to
- The hike was impacted by the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire (learn more in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge)
- This trail is cliffy and best for older hikers
Catherine Creek Interpretive Trail
- 2 to 2.8 miles round-trip
- Mt. Hood views and more shade than most eastern Gorge hikes
- Look for oak galls (see Hike #37 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge)
- Can add on or replace with a paved stroller-friendly 0.25 or 1.25 mile loop from the save trailhead (see Hike #45 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge)
Mosier Tunnels
- 2+ round-trip miles
- Paved and stroller-friendly walk in and out of historical tunnels
- Great place in the eastern Gorge to hike on a hot day due to its shade
Hope you found this helpful! Now go out and enjoy making some summertime family memories!
little feet hiking 