Don't look now Portlanders, but some of the bigleaf maples around town are already starting to turn colors. Like it or not autumn is descending upon the city of roses. Let's not mourn the passing of summer, but celebrate the beginning of one of the Pacific Northwest's finest seasons.
The air will soon be brisk, colors are changing, the trails are still dry, and the tourists have gone home. Realistically, this is a fine time of year to get out on the trails here in Portland. With that in mind, here is a list of some area hiking trails that showcase the best the season has to offer.
Ramona Falls: A world class 7 mile loop in the Mt Hood Wilderness. The trees along Ramona creek will be on fire with color in October.
Wahkeena-Multnoma Loop: Perhaps the best time to do this 5.4 mile loop is late October. Any hike in the Gorge is amazing in fall, but now you can enjoy the 2nd tallest year-round waterfall in the U.S. sans bus loads of tourists.
Opal Creek: The best old growth forest in the area, unbelievably colored pools of water, and relative solitude. Frame that with autumn color change and you have as a fine an outdoor experience as you can line up in an afternoon.
Siouxon Creek: This 8 mile out and back Washington version of Opal Creek is a fine alternative for folks north of the Columbia River, who would perhaps like something a bit closer.
Falls Creek Falls: The 3.5 mile out and back hike to Falls Creek Falls delivers jaw-dropping color change along with one of the best waterfalls within a day's drive from Portland.
Horsetail-Triple Falls: Another Gorge classic. This 4.5 mile semi loop will make feel as if you've died and gone to bigleaf maple heaven.
Hoyt Arboretum: If you're looking for something close in, the Hoyt Arboretum is your ticket. This place also lets you see what fall looks like in different parts of the world, thanks to the numerous non-native trees.
Lacamas Creek Park: The best kept secret in the area is also one of the best spots to hike in fall.
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