5 Best Energizing Hikes in Oregon

5 Best Energizing Hikes in Oregon

Oregon is known for its incredible beauty and invigorating hikes. This weekend, why not take to the trails and get your heart pumping while soaking in all of the natural splendor? Tackle the challenge of these five energizing hikes in Oregon.

1. Tamolitch Falls Blue Pool via McKenzie River Trail at Willamette National Forest

The Tamolitch Blue Pool via McKenzie River Trail will get your heart rate up. The entire McKenzie River Trail is quite long at 26.4 miles with several fantastic features along the way, so we’re focusing on just the section that leads to the Tamolitch Blue Pool. Choose between a 3.3-mile hike starting from the Carmen Smith Reservoir or a 2.1-mile hike from the Trailbridge Reservoir. 

A post shared by Madelynn Knutson (@madelynn26) on

2. Trail of Ten Falls at Silver Falls State Park

Trail of Ten Falls near Silverton, Oregon, is an energetic hike for sure, but the waterfall makes this 7.2-mile hike well worth the extra effort. The elevation gain is over 1,300 feet on this loop-style route. Keep in mind that this is a heavily trafficked loop, so watch out!

3. Lower Table Rock Trail at Table Rock Wilderness

The Table Rock Trail near Molalla, Oregon, is known for its gorgeous wild flowers, bird watching, forest, and nature views. The lower section is also known as a difficult, 5.4-mile out and back hike with almost 800 feet in elevation gain. If you’re an intermediate level hiker, this is one of the most rewarding hikes in the state.

A post shared by Mika Tyler (@hoopergurl22) on

4. Canyon Creek Meadows Loop or Deschutes National Forest

If you live near Camp Sherman, Oregon, then you must check out the Canyon Creek Meadows Loop. The loop covers 4.5 miles and has an elevation gain of 400-feet and features a lake. The loop will give you a good workout, but isn’t the most difficult on the list: kids are welcome, as are leashed dogs.

5. Scout Lake via Pacific Crest Trail at Mount Jefferson Wilderness

If you live for a challenge, then visiting Scout Lake via the Pacific Crest Trail might be the perfect hike for you. This out and back-style trail isn’t as popular as the other hikes on this list, likely because its 10.2 miles and almost 1,800 feet of elevation gain makes it a candidate for more serious hikers. However, the mountain, wild flower, wildlife, forest, and lake views provides for a diverse and rewarding landscape. 

A post shared by KATU News (@katutv) on