20 Incredible Weekend Trips From Portland to Book (2023)

As someone who has lived in Seattle for years, I have a special affinity for Portland. It’s a quick and easy drive from Seattle, making it the perfect weekend escape, which is why I’ve been there dozens of times over the years. Portland has a vibrant arts and culture scene, as well as some incredible restaurants and breweries. However, there are also many weekend trips from Portland that you’ll want to check out, whether you’re a local or a visitor.

While I’ve been on many day trips from Portland as well as some Portland weekend getaways, it’s impossible for me to go everywhere. That’s why I teamed up with some of my fellow expert bloggers to share their experiences of what they’ve found is the best weekend trip from Portland. Make sure to read through all of these as they give their top tips for each destination.

Whether you’re a foodie, a nature enthusiast, or just looking for a relaxing vacation, I’ve got you covered. Here are some of the best weekend getaways from Portland, including some short ones just outside of the city as well as longer ones in Washington and even California.

Tips for a Weekend Trip from Portland

Here are some tips to help you plan your Portland, Oregon weekend trip.

• Always plan for traffic. I purposely only put the distance from Portland on each stop, not the time it takes, because it can vary greatly. Many people can’t get off of work until Friday afternoon, but you’ll want to add extra time onto your route if that’s the case. I always find somewhere along the way to eat dinner while I wait for traffic to die down.
• Book accommodations in advance. Some of these recommended places are in popular areas like the coast, so you’ll want to book your hotel room months in advance. I would even say book it out 4-5 months in advance if you go during peak tourist season (aka summer).
• Check the road conditions. If you go on a winter weekend getaway from Portland, be aware that some roads may close due to snow or might be extra icy. Check conditions first, go slow, and always have chains and a shovel with you.

What to Pack for a Weekend Getaway From Portland, Oregon

• Reusable water bottle – Save money and the planet by having a giant water bottle you can reuse over and over during the weekend.
• Emergency roadside kit – No matter how long you’re gone for, I recommend having an emergency kit to help with any problems that may come up during your drive.
• Reusable coffee mug – Don’t waste paper cups every morning with your morning coffee, and bring your reusable one instead to fill it up

Weekend Trips From Portland Map

Here’s a map so you can see where all these stops are to help you better pick out your next vacation.

20 Weekend Getaways From Portland to Book

Here are the best weekend getaways from Portland to check out for your next vacation.

1. Tri-Cities

Distance from Portland: 216 miles

One of the more scenic drives that you can do from Portland is a drive down the Columbia River to the Tri-Cities of Washington and enjoy some time visiting the eastern part of the state, which is the largest wine region in Washington State. 

The Tri-Cities comprise the three cities of Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland, which all meet at the confluence of the Columbia, Snake, and Yakima Rivers. This fertile area makes up the wine region of the state, with over 200 wineries within a 50-mile radius of the river area. 

Considered a year-round destination that includes active lifestyles, adventure, and recreation along with the wine country lifestyle and wineries that draw in visitors from different states and a worldwide draw of visitors to the area.

The Tri-Cities is fun, active, outdoors-oriented, and filled with attractions, culture, amazing cuisine, and river-oriented activities that make this region fun to explore combined with wine country appeal. You’ll definitely enjoy a romantic Portland getaway to this area from the Portland area.

It’s also an ideal Idaho weekend getaway if you want a bit of a drive.

If you want to extend your trip, you can head north to see all the things to do in Yakima.

Where to Stay

Treat yourself to a stay at The Lodge at Columbia Point, where you’ll enjoy an outdoor and indoor pool, gorgeous views of the river, and balconies to relax on.

Noel from USA Road Trip Now

2. Westport

Distance from Portland: 164 miles

Westport is a small coastal city located in Grays Harbor County, Washington State. It’s a popular destination known for its scenic beaches and water activities, such as surfing and kayaking, and perfect when looking for weekend trips from Portland.

Westport has several parks, including Twin Harbors State Park, where visitors can beach walk with sprawling views of the ocean and camp on Washington’s coast. The city is also home to the state’s tallest lighthouse, Grays Harbor Lighthouse. From this lighthouse, you can walk along an easy paved trail to Halfmoon Bay and the Westport Viewing Tower.

From there, you can meander around the cute town center where you’ll find the Westport Maritime Museum, cafes, and pubs, and have views over the marina.

Westhaven State Park features sandy cliffs for great vistas, or you can tackle the surf down below! This is one of the three main surf breaks in the area, so if surfing in Washington is your thing, you have found your home!

If you’ve worked up an appetite, we recommend heading to Blackbeards Brewing Company for an oven-baked pizza and some damn good craft beer. They have a wonderful outside seating area if the weather is playing nice.

Where to Stay

It’s hard to beat LOGE Westport. They know how to do accommodation right. If you’re in your van or pitching a tent, they have a really cool camping area complete with a hang-out area that features a bbq, kitchen, and picnic tables. If you need solid four-walled accommodation, they have spiffy and comfortable rooms. The bonus here is the on-site cafe and their surfboard and kayak rentals!

Nina from Washington is for Adventure

3. Silver Falls State Park

Distance from Portland: 154 miles

While there are many waterfall hikes near Seattle, Oregon has some impressive ones. If you’re a waterfall lover, then a day trip to Silver Falls State Park near Salem will be the perfect way to spend your day out from Portland! You’ll get to experience some of Oregon’s best waterfalls!

With hiking trails galore, over 10 waterfalls, including ones that you can walk behind, and endless beautiful views, it’s one to remember. It’s only about an hour’s drive from Portland to reach the state park. The main attraction here is the Trail of Ten Falls hiking trail, which is one of the best things to do near Portland.

This specific trail is about 8 miles long and leads you past the 10 best falls in the park. It’s the best way to see everything in just one loop! But if you aren’t up for that long of a hike, there are several ways to see many of the falls at shorter distances.

You can visit South Falls, Winter Falls, North Falls, and Upper North Falls via short hikes from the parking lots.

Some trails lead behind many of the waterfalls, so you can walk behind them and feel the cool mist on your face.  In the summer months, many people enjoy wading in the water at Upper North Falls to cool off after their hike.

Where to Stay

After a long day of exploring waterfalls, book a stay at Hampton Inn and Suites Salem to enjoy a hot breakfast, a fitness center, and an on-site convenience store.

Kassidy from The Hiking Helper

4. Jacksonville

Distance from Portland: 271 miles

The tiny burg of Jacksonville, located about 10 miles from downtown Ashland, takes you back in time to the 1850s, when it was a booming gold town. This area’s Gold Rush began in 1851 at nearby Daisy Creek.  

Jacksonville is a National Historic Landmark and in fact, is the first town in America to be so declared.  Strolling the town’s main street lined with art galleries and antique shops is a must, as most are situated inside 19th-century buildings made of wood and brick.

It is claimed that in this area the sun shines more than 300 days each year, so it is definitely a good idea to spend some time tasting wine at a few of the 18 wineries on the Applegate Wine Trail that runs along Highway 238 and begins just outside of town. Adding pleasure, you’ll encounter stunning rural farmland scenery all along the way.

Where to Stay

Be sure to book a room at the Jacksonville Inn, where you’ll be in good company. Amazingly, three of the past six presidents (George H., George W., and Barack Obama when he was campaigning) have stayed here!  Built in 1861 and featuring specks of gold in the mortar, this old-timer now offers luxurious accommodations and celebrated dining, and picnic baskets can be packed to go. 

Carole from Berkeley and Beyond

5. Cannon Beach

Distance from Portland: 78 miles

Cannon Beach is one of the best places to visit on a weekend road trip in the Pacific Northwest when you’re looking for weekend getaways near Portland. Renowned for its beauty, Cannon Beach is a small-town beach paradise. A true gem of the Oregon coast, it’s a great place to wander at your own pace. You can stroll downtown and explore local shops, restaurants, and art galleries. 

There are so many fun things to do in Cannon Beach on a weekend trip. Your mini-vacation wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Haystack Rock. Haystack Rock is one of two haystack rocks along the Oregon Coast.

Haystack Rock is also a prime area in Cannon Beach for tide-pooling. The tide pools are full of unique and diverse wildlife. Our kids love discovering starfish, green anemones, and crabs. 

Adventurous travelers can also take in the spectacular views at Ecola State Park. The state park offers a great vantage point to catch a glimpse of Tillamook Rock Lighthouse and also provides a prime surfing location at Indian Beach.  

Other fun and quintessential Oregon coast activities not to forget include: flying a kite on the beach, having a campfire on the beach, and trying your hand at fishing or crabbing. 

When you’re done, you can head up to visit Astoria, a charming town on the Columbia River. This is especially a cozy thing to do in Portland in the winter.

Where to Stay

The Inn at Haystack Rock and the Inn at Cannon Beach both offer very comfortable accommodations. Best of all, they are near all the action in town, so you won’t risk missing out on anything! 

Candice from GS Ginger

6. Vancouver

Distance from Portland: 10 miles

One of the best weekend trips from Portland is Vancouver, WA because it’s just a 15-minute drive across the Oregon border. That means you’ll spend less time driving and more time exploring all the fun things to do in Vancouver, WA.

Come daylight, make sure to explore the paved path that weaves along the waterfront. Head east and connect to the Waterfront Renaissance Trail for beautiful photo opportunities.

Don’t miss the pebble beach that gets you views of the WA-OR bridge from below. Or venture across the street to the Vancouver Land Bridge that spans the highway and has interpretive signs about the area’s history.

Head back west from the hotel to explore the wine tasting rooms dotting the waterfront, making it one of the best romantic getaways near Portland. Don’t miss Valo Cellars and Massalato Wines, two wineries under one roof. They make excellent wines that range from traditional to experimental. When finished, head around the corner to Amavi Cellars for big reds.

Afterward, people watch along the waterfront boardwalk and make a stop at the impressive pier for even more stunning views. Many people include this in a weekend in Portland trip.

Once you’ve had your fill, head north to downtown Vancouver and comb the streets for shops you find interesting. You’ll find a ton of boutiques and vintage stores, plus more wineries and breweries. If it’s the weekend, head to the Vancouver Farmers Market for souvenirs and street food.

No trip to Vancouver, WA is complete without visiting Fort Vancouver during your weekend getaway near Portland. Peruse Officers Row to gawk at the historic homes that once housed famous generals like Ulysses S. Grant.

Then go to the fort to learn more about Vancouver’s historic importance. It’s the perfect way to leave your weekend getaway from Portland feeling enriched and humbled by the past!

Where to Stay

Your best bet is to stay at the AC Hotel by Marriott Vancouver Waterfront. It sits right along the Columbia River and is mere blocks away from downtown Vancouver. You can wave goodnight to Portland after a day of sightseeing while relaxing in the hotel’s rooftop garden or sipping a cocktail from the restaurant patio.

Adria from The Emerald Palate

7. Bend

Distance from Portland: 175 miles

Get out of the city and into nature with a popular Seattle weekend trip to Bend, Oregon. Bend is known as a town for the outdoorsy, and with good reason. There are beautiful natural places to explore both within the city and just outside. Pack your hiking boots and hit the road!

Before you head outside, lean into your inner child’s nostalgia by checking out the last Blockbuster in the world. Walk the shelves filled with movies, snap a pic for Instagram against the tacky yellow walls, and grab a t-shirt and some candy.

If Blockbuster didn’t fill your inner child’s longing, Bend has an arcade bar that will do the trick: Vector Volcano Arcade Bar.

While we have many amazing breweries in Seattle, Bend is also known for its craft beer scene, so be sure to explore a few other breweries on your weekend from Portland. Crux Fermentation Project is an excellent choice and has a menu with non-alcoholic brews as well. Bend Brewing Company is the second oldest in the city, with an incredible summer yard right along the Deschutes River, which you’ll love during Seattle in the summer.

Speaking of the Deschutes River, be sure to rent bikes or a paddleboard to take in all this beautiful stream right through the heart of Bend.

There are several options for day trips from Bend, Oregon you can take as well, from hiking in Smith Rock State Park to the well-known Tumalo Falls. With so many options, you will have a hard time spending only a weekend in Bend!

Where to Stay

A unique thing to do in the Pacific Northwest is staying at the McMenamins, which is a family-owned venture turning historic buildings into new venues for the community. The McMenamins Old St. Francis School in Bend is the perfect setting for a weekend trip. 

With restaurants and bars, a movie theater, and a soaking pool, there is enough to spend the entire weekend just at the hotel, but don’t because there is much more to see and do in Bend!

Michele from Adventures Abound

8. Cape Kiwanda

Distance from Portland: 94 miles

Cape Kiwanda, found in Pacific City along the Oregon Coast, is an excellent spot for a weekend getaway from Portland, with plenty of outdoor adventures to be had less than two hours from Portland.

To kick off your trip, hike up the 250-foot sand dunes leading up to the cape, where you’ll have panoramic views of Pacific City Beach and offshore, Haystack Rock.

If you’re visiting during the wintertime or springtime in Oregon, you may just get lucky and spot one of the 20,000 gray whales that pass the cape as they migrate from the Arctic waters to the warm lagoons of Mexico and back again.

While the hike up to the sand dunes is a butt-kicker, the views (and sprinting down them on the way down) make it all worth it!

Pacific City is also known as one of the best surf spots in all of Oregon. You can either sign up for a surf lesson, or if you already know how to catch a wave, there are several rental shops where you can pick up a board.

To cap off one of your evenings, have a campfire on the beach as the sun sets. There’s something so magical about feeling the warmth from the campfire while watching the sun sink into the Pacific Ocean. You’ll love coming here on a drive from Portland to San Francisco.

Where to Stay

Consider a stay at the Inn at Cape Kiwanda, with rooms offering fireplaces and balconies and extra perks, like weekend happy hours with Oregon-made wines.

Jessica from Uprooted Traveler

9. Seaside

Distance from Portland: 78 miles

While there are many things to do in Portland, if you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, why not take a weekend trip to Seaside, Oregon? Located on the North Coast of Oregon, this small beach town offers plenty of fun activities and cozy places to stay.

The good news is that getting from Portland to Seaside is easy – it only takes about two hours by car! All you have to do is hop on US-26 westbound until you reach US-101 northbound which will take you straight into downtown Seaside.

There is no shortage of things to do in Seaside. During the summer months, head to the beach for a day filled with sandcastle building and swimming. Don’t forget to bring your camera – there are some breathtaking sunsets here!

Even during the winter months, there are still plenty of fun outdoor activities like bird watching and hiking the trails through nearby Oswald West State Park.

If you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, there are also many shops downtown where you can browse through souvenirs or grab a bite to eat at any one of several eateries. You can hand-feed the seals at the Aquarium or swing on the swing sets at the beach.

There’s even an old-fashioned movie theater near the Promenade, which shows classic films throughout the year! And don’t forget about that iconic carousel – it’s been here since 1924!

Where to Stay

When it comes time to rest after all that exploring, there are plenty of lodging options available in Seaside. You can choose from quaint bed and breakfasts by the beach or nearby hotels. The Best Western Plus Ocean View Resort and Shilo Inn Suites Seaside Oceanfront are both affordable, clean, and in great locations!

Chantelle from Flannels or Flip Flops    

10. San Francisco

Distance from Portland: 635 miles

San Francisco, located in the state of California, is a popular weekend trip from Portland for those looking for a long road trip from the city (make sure to look over your road trip essentials list first). The town is famous for its iconic landmarks, such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, as well as its vibrant cultural scene and diverse dining options.

One of the must-visit attractions in San Francisco is Golden Gate Park, a vast urban park that offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The park is home to several museums, gardens, and lakes, making it an ideal destination for families, nature lovers, and art enthusiasts.

Another popular destination is Fisherman’s Wharf, a bustling waterfront neighborhood known for its seafood restaurants and street performers. If you really want a long road trip, you can check out my suggestion for a west coast drive from Seattle all the way down to San Diego.

A Portland to San Francisco road trip is an exciting way to experience the city’s vibrant culture and iconic landmarks. Whether you are interested in nature, art, or dining, San Francisco has something to offer for everyone during one of the best long weekend trips from Portland.

You can also extend this by going on a San Francisco to Los Angeles drive to see the best parts of the central California coast.

Where to Stay

When it comes to accommodation, there are plenty of options to choose from, depending on your budget and preferences. For a luxurious experience, consider staying in a hotel in the Union Square neighborhood, which is also a great location for shopping and dining.

If you want a more budget-friendly option, consider staying in the Union Hotel in Mission District, a vibrant neighborhood known for its street art, music scene, and affordable accommodation options.

Trijit from Budget Travel Buff

11. Crater Lake National Park

Distance from Portland: 269 miles

Crater Lake National Park is a great place to visit when you need a weekend getaway from Portland, Oregon. Crater Lake is around 270 miles from Portland and can be reached within a 5-hour drive. Start on a Friday and enjoy an amazing weekend exploring Crater Lake National Park.

Crater Lake was formed inside the caldera of Mount Mazama volcano and is the deepest lake in America. Its water is a very distinct deep blue color which is best enjoyed in the summer months.  

Hiking in Crater Lake National Park is one of the most popular things to do here. There are several amazing hikes here for all skill levels. The Cleetwood Cove trail takes you to the Crater Lake water level. You can take ranger-led boat tours and learn about the history of the lake. 

The cinder cone Wizard Island in Crater Lake is a popular attraction and is accessible by boat. There are several waterfall hikes in Crater Lake and many hikes to explore the various mountain peaks surrounding Crater Lake. Camping, swimming, and stargazing are other activities to be enjoyed at Crater Lake. 

Where to Stay

Crater Lake Lodge inside the park is the most convenient place to stay. It has a restaurant and an overlook with great views of Crater Lake and Wizard Island. 

Anu from Destination Checkoff

12. Olympic National Park

Distance from Portland: 163 miles

Four hours north of Portland lies the city of Port Angeles, a perfect place to base yourself to enjoy one of the more active weekend trips from Portland.

From here you can see some of the most beautiful parts of ONP, including Hurricane Ridge (one of the top Olympic National Park hikes), Lake Crescent, Sol Duc Falls (a fun winter hike), and Hoh Rainforest.

If you want to drive a bit further, you can see the Pacific coastal areas of ONP like Ruby Beach and Rialto Beach. You can also go on a road trip around the Olympic Peninsula to see a lot more

While in the park, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including Black Bears and Roosevelt Elk. If you are on the water, you might get lucky and spot whales, seals, or otters.

Planning a trip to Olympic National Park can be a packing nightmare since the park includes different ecosystems like temperate rainforests, old-growth forests, glaciated mountains, and the Pacific coast. Make sure to bring layers so that you can enjoy your weekend away, no matter which part of the park you are enjoying.

Make sure to get your America the Beautiful Pass before you go to save money!

Where to Stay

For those who want to enjoy the park’s tranquility twenty-four hours a day, you can make a reservation to camp or stay in a park lodge.

If you’d prefer to enjoy Port Angeles at night, you can check into the Red Lion Hotel Port Angeles Harbor, a recently renovated mid-range hotel. Of course, if you prefer a more luxurious experience, stay at the Resort at Port Ludlow. 

Stephanie from History Fangirl

13. Snoqualmie Falls

Distance from Portland: 183 miles

Snoqualmie makes for a perfect weekend getaway from Portland and is home to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the area.

Snoqualmie is about three hours north of Portland and just a half hour from Seattle. Its top attraction is the gorgeous Snoqualmie Falls. With easy access on the paved path from the parking lot, this roaring waterfall is quite the sight to behold. There are four vantage points each offering a unique view.

The first three are just a few minutes apart from one another, and the fourth is down at river level. The river view requires a short walk down the gravel path or a drive to the lower parking lot, but it should not be missed. The beautiful wooden boardwalk stretches along the river and makes a great place for a picnic.

With a whole weekend to enjoy the area, visitors should also head to the hiking paths at Snoqualmie Pass, take in the views at Meadowbrook Farm, and enjoy the railroad history by taking a train ride through the valley. 

If you want to extend your trip, check out how to spend one day in Seattle, three days in Seattle, and the best Seattle day trips to take.

Where to Stay

Above Snoqualmie Falls, perched on the rocks, is the gorgeous Salish Lodge & Spa. Its upscale rooms with waterfront views, delicious restaurants with local ingredients, and its luxurious spa are all incredible reasons to book your accommodations for a weekend getaway.

Sierra from Island and Alpine

14. Newberry National Volcanic Monument

Distance from Portland: 190 miles

An excellent weekend getaway from Portland is a visit to Newberry National Volcanic Monument. Oregon is home to many extraordinary geologic features, but Newberry is unique as the largest shield volcano in the PNW and is about the size of Rhode Island!

The volcano remains very active, and many of the fascinating features of the Lava Lands of Central Oregon are easy to visit. Newberry NVM is a beautiful three-and-a-half-hour drive over the Cascades from Portland.  

On your first day, explore the flanks of the massive volcano at three main stops. First on your itinerary is Lava Lands Visitor Center with educational and entertaining exhibits. From there you can take the shuttle bus or hike to the top of Lava Butte, a remarkable 500’ cinder cone. 

A few minutes down the road is your stop at the Lava River Cave, the longest lava tube in Oregon. Plan to spend about ninety minutes on this fascinating subterranean hike. Reservations are strongly recommended. 

Next, head out to the Lava Cast Forest to see the shells of trees that were left after a basalt flow about 7,000 years ago. Explore this unique landscape on the one-mile paved interpretive hike.

The following day will be spent enjoying the wonders of the caldera itself. Here you can start at the Paulina Visitor Center and then enjoy the pristine East and West Paulina Lakes.

Be sure to visit the youngest lava flow in Oregon on the Big Obsidian Flow Trail. This one-mile interpretive hike brings you through extraordinary flows of obsidian and pumice.

Where to Stay

Sunriver Resort provides multiple lodging options, prime stargazing nearby, and is in the heart of the sites you will visit.

Erica from Trip Scholars

15. Long Beach

Distance from Portland: 111 miles

At a little over two hours from Portland, Long Beach, Washington, is an easy weekend trip. In addition to its eponymous beach, there are also lush forests nearby and lots of history in this picturesque coastal town. 

At the southern tip of Long Beach Peninsula is Cape Disappointment State Park. This park has not one, but two lighthouses, one of which is the oldest lighthouse on the Pacific Coast. There’s also a Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center with murals depicting the explorers’ journey. 

The North Head Lighthouse, which is still an active navigational aid, offers stunning views of the coast. There’s hiking in the park if you want to stretch your legs.

Long Beach hosts the Washington State International Kite Festival. If your visit doesn’t coincide with the event, you can still experience the World Kite Museum. It’s got the most complete collection of Japanese kites outside of Japan.

One of the cool ways to experience Long Beach is to drive your car out on the sand to watch the sunset.

Where to Stay

There are several different types of accommodations in Long Beach, and a great one is Inn at the Sea. This motel has been recently renovated and is a block away from the main stretch and easy walking distance to attractions like the World’s Largest Chopsticks.

Theresa from The Local Tourist

16. Sisters

Distance from Portland: 153 miles

Sisters, Oregon, is a quaint little town about 3 hours southeast of Portland. To get there, cross the Cascade Mountain range into Central Oregon. Sisters’ unique position makes it a transition point between the mountainous forest climate to the west and the high desert to the east. 

The town presents an 1880s Wild West facade that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The air smells different here too, like pine trees and adventure. And Sisters just happens to be a perfect jump-off point to find adventure. 

You can go horseback riding at Black Butte Ranch, just ten minutes out of town. Go rock climbing or hiking at Smith Rock State Park, a half-hour away. Hike to Koosah and Sahalie Falls or Tumalo Falls, both within an hour of Sisters. See the lava flows at Lava Lands, a 40-minute drive away. Or go white water rafting along the Deschutes River. 

If you prefer to spend a day in Sisters, then start your morning with coffee at Sisters Coffee Co. Stroll through the town and visit the shops and art galleries. Catch a movie at Sisters Movie House or spend a rejuvenating day at Shibui Spa, and then settle down for dinner at Sisters Saloon.

Where to Stay

Sisters Inn & Suites is affordable and close to the town center, making it convenient when you’re ready for a meal.

Clarice from The Clever West Wind

17. Mount Rainier National Park

Distance from Portland: 140 miles

One of the best weekend trips from Portland has got to be Mount Rainier National Park in Washington. Located just 2.5 hours northeast of Portland, it makes for a comfortable weekend getaway.

Mount Rainier National Park is large and actually has 5 entrances, so exploring the park includes a lot of driving. Most visitors stay near the southwest side of the park, to enter via the Nisqually Entrance, which is perfect if you’re coming from Portland.

Once in the park, it’s easy to fill a long weekend with plenty of hikes and sightseeing. You’ll want to visit the Paradise region of the park, because you’ll get uninterrupted views of Mount Rainier. If you’re up for the challenge, hike the Skyline Loop Trail, which is 5.5 miles and 1788 feet in elevation gain, or check out many of the other Mount Rainier hikes.

One of the most underrated hikes in the park is the Bench and Snow Lake Trail. At just 2.2 miles and 446 feet in elevation gain, this fun, interactive trail takes you through an alpine meadow on your way to not one but two beautiful lakes!

If you go on a clear day, you’ll get a beautiful reflective shot of Mount Rainier at Bench Lake. Snow Lake provides a different view of the Cascade Mountains, with stunning teal water.

Additional must-dos within the park include Inspiration Point, Sunrise Point Lookout, Box Canyon, and Tipsoo Lake. You’ll love a weekend getaway to Mount Rainier from Portland!

Where to Stay

You’ll love all the options available for Mount Rainier cabins to rent near the park.

Nikki of Inspired Routes

18. Redwood National Park

Distance from Portland: 318 miles

Just over 3 hours from Portland, Redwood National Park is one of the best ways to get back to nature.

The Redwood National and State Parks are a string of protected forests, beaches, and grasslands along Northern California’s coast.

You can spend your days hiking through the park with your head constantly lifted skywards because it’s here you can find the world’s tallest trees stretching over 350 feet (106 meters). Walking in the shadows of these ancient giants stirs the soul, compelling a response of awe and wonder.

The easiest way to get around Redwood is in your own car. Be sure to get an America the Beautiful National Park Pass ahead of time. This $80 pass is valid for 12 months and gets you into all 400+ national park sites (including the Redwood State Parks!)

Redwood National Park has decent weather all year, thanks to the mild coastal temperatures, however, it can get rainy during winter. If you are looking for a dry hike, head between May and September. This park is perfect to add to a long road trip from Seattle.

Where to Stay

We stayed in Crescent City to easily access the coast and the Redwoods. However, consider checking out the historic Requa Inn in Klamath, California. 

Erin from Explore with Erin, previously Travel With Bender

19. The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse

Distance from Portland: 140 miles

The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse is what weekend trip dreams are made of. Created by the people behind the uber-trendy Ace Hotels, it’s their take on a rustic nature resort, and the result is stunning.

Part of this is owed to the spectacular location on the shores of Suttle Lake, surrounded by the trees of the Deschutes Forest. But it’s also because of the lodge’s impeccable style and attention to detail.

Stay in accommodations ranging from rustic cabins with the use of a shared bathhouse to more luxury options, complete with gas fireplaces and a jacuzzi tub. At night, gather round the communal fire pits or enjoy one of your own.

And everyone has access to the lodge where you’ll find a cozy cocktail lounge serving food and drinks all day. Lots of games and books are on offer for cozying up by the fire. It’s an apres-ski kind of vibe.

In the summer, the Boathouse opens, where you can order food and drinks all day, as well as hire boats, kayaks, canoes, and SUPs. And there’s a lush hiking trail around the lake. It’s a place to disconnect from everyday life, and reconnect with the nature around you.

You could easily spend the whole weekend at the lodge, but it’s also just 20 minutes from Sisters so you could do a visit there too. It was one of the best stops on our San Francisco to Seattle road trip.

Where to Stay

The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse, if you haven’t already been convinced.

Victoria from Bridges and Balloons

20. Orcas Island

Distance from Portland: 277 miles

5 hours away from Portland by car and ferry, you will find yourself in another world surrounded by a magical wonderland of waterfalls, ancient trees, and whales. Few people even locally know of the wonder that is Orcas Island.

Home to the 4th largest state park in WA, Moran State Park, this beautiful island in the San Juan Islands has a little bit of something for everyone, which is also a popular Vancouver weekend getaway.

Spend the day exploring idyllic downtown Eastsound (an adorable small town in Washington) or go whale watching for a chance to spot Orcas and Humpback whales. Then finish off your weekend with a hike in Moran State Park (or check out more hikes in the San Juans) or a drive up to the top of Mt. Constitution for 360-degree views of the surrounding area into Canada.

If you want to extend your trip, head up north to go on a road trip to Vancouver Island.

Where to Stay

For the perfect place to stay whether as a couple or on a group getaway, Rosario Resort & Spa is convenient to Eastsound and has incredible views of the sound with a chance to spot wildlife right from your window.

Lina from BucketListPlaces

As you can see, there are tons of options when you need to book weekend trips from Portland! From the mountains to the coast, there’s something for everyone.