Day Trips from Portland
← All Portland day tripsDay Trips from Portland: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Portland, OR. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Portland
Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area
Cascade Locks, OR 97014
Just 32 min from Portland, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Neahkahnie Viewpoint
Arch Cape, OR 97102
Just 1 hr 40 min from Portland, rated 4.9 stars by 1,776 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
River Road Overlook
Glenwood, WA 98619
Just 1 hr 59 min from Portland, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Silverfalls State Park Scenic Viewpoint
Sublimity, OR 97385
Just 1 hr 16 min from Portland, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Symons State Scenic Viewpoint
OR 97141, USA
Just 1 hr 37 min from Portland, rated 4.8 stars by 180 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Cape Horn Lookout
Washougal, WA 98671
Just 37 min from Portland, rated 4.8 stars by 874 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Rockwood Viewpoint Hwy 26
Rhododendron, OR 97049
Just 1 hr 8 min from Portland, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Lost Lake North Viewpoint
Cascade Locks, OR 97014
Just 1 hr 50 min from Portland, rated 4.8 stars by 154 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Mirror Lake viewpoint
Rhododendron, OR 97049
Just 1 hr 12 min from Portland, rated 4.8 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Columbia River Gorge Viewpoint
Underwood, WA 98651
Just 1 hr 13 min from Portland, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Chanticleer Point Lookout
Corbett, OR 97019
Just 30 min from Portland, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Elk Rock Viewpoint
Toutle, WA 98649
Just 1 hr 39 min from Portland, rated 4.8 stars by 491 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Portland
What are the best scenic drives near Portland, OR?
The best scenic drives near Portland include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Portland?
Most scenic drives near Portland range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Portland?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Portland, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Portland?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
Don't know where to go?
Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.
Surprise me