Hikes in Washington County, Oregon

Test out your newest treads, aka hiking boots, on one of Washington County's many hiking trails. Terrain challenges abound in the diverse landscapes available for hiking throughout the county. Wildlife in the form of bald eagles, many species of wetland birds and deer are among those you may catch a glimpse of while hiking, so trust those sturdy shoes to do their job and let your eyes soak up the beauty and majesty of this 727-square-mile section of Oregon.

  1. Easy Wetland Hikes

    • Visit the Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve for easy walking trails that lead you into wetland wonder featuring a variety of wild birds to feast your eyes on. Look for the renowned, 1,500-pound bald eagles' nest. The preserve is located within the city limits of Hillsboro. Fernhill Wetlands is another park well known for its wild birds and easy hiking, near the town of Forest Grove. Look skyward to spot the high-flying hawks, falcons and resident eagles. Trumpeter swans grace the waterways. Beavers and otters make their home here too.

    Moderate Forest and Mountain Hikes

    • For those seeking a longer hike with a gradual incline and fairly level footpath, the Banks-Vernonia State Trail is 21 miles long and was made from an old railroad grade amid the forest and nearby creeks. Expect to see equestrians and cyclists on this popular trail that connects the towns of Banks and Vernonia. For a shorter hike of just over five miles round-trip, march to the summit of Saddle Mountain for breathtaking views of Mt. Hood and the Pacific Ocean. Wildflowers brighten the upper half of this hike May through July. The trailhead is located seven miles off Route 26 on Saddle Mountain Road.

    Tilamook State Forest Hikes

    • Washington County hikes in the eastern portion of Tilamook State Park are plentiful. Springtime is the perfect time to hike the easy peninsula trail with its abundant wildflowers. Ramp it up for a 8-mile round-trip trek on the Belding Hike, which begins at the North Fork Salmonberry trailhead. Water, seasonal wildflowers and some challenging terrain caused by flood damage place this hike in the pretty but difficult category.

    Wildlife Refuge Hiking

    • Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the ecodiversity of the Tulatin River National Wildlife Refuge located near Portland. Easy footpaths and service roads are open to hikers seeking to spend time with nature. Hundreds of bird species and over 50 different mammals make their home here. Expect to see black-tailed deer, northern pintail ducks and with patience you might glimpse a northern Pacific pond turtle.