Best Road Trips From Portland, Oregon

🚗 125 miles ⏱️ 2 hours, 30 minutes

For a laid-back coastal getaway, visit Cannon Beach, famous for its iconic Haystack Rock and stunning shores. Here, you can explore art galleries, cafes, and scenic trails along the rugged Oregon coastline.

On the way to beautiful Cannon Beach, make sure to visit Astoria and Lewis and Clark State Park as well.

🚗 290 miles ⏱️ 5 hours, 30 minutes

Seattle's skyline is easily recognizable with its iconic Space Needle. The city is also home to amazing markets, and thriving music scene. The Emerald City is the perfect destination for a mix of urban fun and exploring the great outdoors.

If you have more time, you can explore Olympia and Astoria, as well as make a short detour to the stunning Cannon Beach.

🚗 320 miles ⏱️ 5 hours, 30 minutes

There is nothing quite like the towering giants of Redwood National Park, where ancient redwoods create a majestic canopy. Hike among these ancient trees and lose yourself in this natural wonder, maybe even try Shinrin-yoku, forest bathing.

You will hug the coast as you travel south to California, and can also visit Newport and Coos Bay on the way.

🚗 70 miles ⏱️ 1 hour, 45 minutes

For an amazing day trip, set off on an adventure to majestic Mt Hood, Oregon's highest peak. Whether you're skiing in winter or hiking in summer, Mt Hood offers outdoor enthusiasts year-round excitement.

On this relatively short drive, you can extend your road trip to also visit Mt Hood National Forest and the stunning Trillium Lake.

🚗 760 miles ⏱️ 17 hours, 30 minutes

Whether you are visiting San Francisco to see the Golden Gate Bridge, its historic cable cars, or Alcatraz Island, you will fall in love with this eclectic and sophisticated city. There's something for everyone in the City by the Bay.

This coastal road trip will take you all the way to California past Redwood National and State Parks and Humboldt Redwoods State Park.

🚗 235 miles ⏱️ 4 hours

Admire the awe-inspiring beauty of Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the United States, nestled within the caldera of an ancient volcano. Explore scenic viewpoints, hike trails, and practice your photo skills.

Make sure to add Salem and Bend to your itinerary on this road trip to beautiful Crater Lake.

🚗 130 miles ⏱️ 2 hours, 30 minutes

A local favorite, Newport is a beautiful coastal town in Oregon, where you can enjoy some of the freshest seafood, stroll along historic waterfronts, and visit the famous Oregon Coast Aquarium.

As you make your way to Newport, we recommend also spending some time in McMinnville and Lincoln City.

🚗 210 miles ⏱️ 4 hours, 30 minutes

Unleash your inner adventurer at the outdoor playground of Bend, where you can hike, bike, and kayak surrounded by gorgeous natural scenery. After a day of adventure, you can relax at local breweries and eateries.

This scenic drive will take you past some beautiful waterfalls such as Silver Falls State Park, Sahalie Falls and Koosah Falls.

🚗 350 miles ⏱️ 7 hours, 15 minutes

Trace the footsteps of pioneers along the historic Oregon Trail, where wagon ruts and landmarks tell the story of westward expansion. This iconic American journey will allow you to travel back in time.

On this historic route, you can also stop and visit Mt Hood National Forest and John Day Fossil Beds National Monument en route to Baker City.

🚗 950 miles ⏱️ 18 hours

You have to see the magic of Yellowstone to believe it. America's first national park offers unparalleled natural beauty and outdoor adventures from geysers and hot springs to wildlife and waterfalls.

As you make your way to stunning Yellowstone, you can also visit pretty town of Boise and Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve.

🚗 755 miles ⏱️ 13 hours, 5 minutes

The majestic beauty of Banff National Park comes from its snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and fascinating wildlife. Whether you're hiking, skiing, or simply admiring the scenery, Banff offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

You can also visit the scenic town of Spokane and the stunning Kootenay National Park on your way to Banff.

🚗 560 miles ⏱️ 10 hours

Boise is an outdoorsy city, surrounded by stunning state parks. Idaho's capital city is home to a scenic riverfront, hiking trails, and lively downtown districts; Boise offers something for every visitor.

On the way to Boise, you can start your outdoor adventures early on in Mt Hood National Forest and visit the cute town of Walla Walla.

🚗 740 miles ⏱️ 12 hours, 10 minutes

Discover the pristine wilderness of Glacier National Park, and marvel at its rugged mountains, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife. Whether you're into hiking, camping, or driving the scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier has it all.

You can also explore the urban landscape of Seattle and make a stop in Spokane on this drive.

🚗 650 miles ⏱️ 11 hours, 20 minutes

For a sophisticated foodie road trip, you can head to Napa Valley, California's premier wine country. From vineyard tours and wine tastings to gourmet dining experiences, Napa Valley is a feast for all the senses.

Some of the amazing places you can discover on this road trip are Bend, Crater Lake National Park and Klamath Falls.

🚗 290 miles ⏱️ 5 hours

Swap city views for mystical underground caves. At the Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve, you can tour limestone caverns and see and learn about unique geological formations.

Make sure to add Salem and Eugene to your itinerary to make the most of this inland road trip to Oregon Caves.

🚗 730 miles ⏱️ 13 hours, 40 minutes

For a visit to world-class museums and great urban fun, visit Sacramento, California's capital city. Explore historic landmarks, art galleries, and farm-to-fork dining experiences in this colorful riverfront city.

En route, you can also visit Bend, make a detour to Crater Lake National Park and explore Mt Shasta.

🚗 350 miles ⏱️ 5 hours, 30 minutes

Spokane is Washington's second-largest city but there is so much to Spokane than its urban charm. From scenic riverfront parks and vibrant downtown Spokane is the place to be for a laid-back adventure with amenities.

This route initially follows the scenic Columbia River, and you can visit beautiful riverfront towns such as Hood River and Kennewick.

🚗 500 miles ⏱️ 9 hours, 40 minutes

If you are looking into crossing the border, Vancouver is a beautiful Canadian city nestled between the mountains and the sea. Here, you will find amazing dining, boutique shopping and outdoor adventures.

This drive has the best of both worlds if you are looking for a mix of urban and scenic with Mt Rainier National Park and Seattle en route.

🚗 100 miles ⏱️ 2 hours

You will fall in love with the historic charm of Astoria, where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean. Explore Victorian architecture, maritime museums, and breathtaking views of the coastal landscape.

On your way, you can visit Beaver Falls near Clatskanie and make a detour into Clatsop State Forest if you'd like to enjoy a hike.

🚗 140 miles ⏱️ 3 hours, 10 minutes

For a short getaway, Eugene is a great destination. Known for its artsy vibe, craft breweries and outdoor fun you can have nearby, this city is home to lovely parks, great bike routes and local markets.

We recommend also taking the time to visit Salem and Siuslaw National Forest on this drive to Eugene.

🚗 130 miles ⏱️ 3 hours

Discover Florence's coastal beauty, where you can sand dunes and the ocean in a single area. You will find scenic viewpoints, enjoy outdoor adventures, and unwind in the laid-back beach vibe.

This relatively short drive to the Pacific Coast will take you through Salem and Eugene before you head to the shore.

🚗 285 miles ⏱️ 5 hours, 40 minutes

A beautiful city with the heart of a charming small town, Ashland is known for its theater scene, artisanal shops, and culinary delights. Don't forget to explore the vibrant downtown and nearby outdoor attractions.

On your way to this pretty small town, you can also visit Salem and Eugene, and make a detour to the stunning Crater Lake National Park.

🚗 340 miles ⏱️ 5 hours, 40 minutes

Escape from the city to the peaceful beauty of Wallowa Lake, surrounded by the stunning Wallowa Mountains. Enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, and breathtaking views in this hidden gem of Eastern Oregon.

On the way, you can also explore Hood River and take an underground tour at Pendleton before reaching Wallowa Lake.

🚗 205 miles ⏱️ 4 hours, 20 minutes

If you are a fan of anything geological, John Day Fossil Beds is the place to visit. Couple with the dramatic landscapes of Smith Rock State Park, this road trip will take you from fossilized history to rugged rock formations.

Why not explore the green landscape of Mt Hood National Forest and spend some time at Smith Rock State Park en route?

🚗 55 miles ⏱️ 1 hour, 20 minutes

Discover the cascading beauty of Silver Falls State Park and the charming town of Silverton. From Portland, it's a short drive to stunning waterfalls and quaint streets, offering a serene escape from city life.

You can extend this short road trip by making a detour to Salem before heading to Silverton if you'd like to spend more time on the road.

🚗 75 miles ⏱️ 1 hour, 30 minutes

Cute town of Tillamook is home to the famous Tillamook Creamery. Don't miss out almost-mandatory cheese tastings, scenic drives along the coast, and outdoor adventures in this coastal community.

With plenty of spots to pull over and admire the scenery, we recommend driving through the pretty Tillamook State Forest.

🚗 90 miles ⏱️ 1 hour, 50 minutes

If you are looking for coastal beauty without the commotion of the crowds, Rockaway Beach is it. Feel the sand between your toes as you stroll along the shore, taking in the fresh sea breeze.

Before you reach Rockaway Beach, you can also visit Tillamook and take a ride on the Oregon Coast Scenic Railway.

🚗 60 miles ⏱️ 1 hour, 20 minutes

For the perfect day trip, you can explore the charming towns of Carlton and McMinnville, nestled in the heart of Oregon's wine country. Discover award-winning wineries, farm-to-table dining, and lovely boutiques.

This is the perfect adventure if you are short on time and will take you past Forest Grove and Yamhill en route.