If you’re planning a day trip from Portland, Oregon, don’t miss one of the region’s seven wonders—the breathtaking Painted Hills.
Known for their stunning colors and unique patterns, the Painted Hills are a must-see for anyone who loves dramatic landscapes. I was honestly blown away by their beauty.
For a fun day trip from Portland, you can also explore the fascinating rock formations at Claro Unit and finish up at the beautiful Trillium Lake, with Mount Hood towering in the background.
It’s a great way to see some of Oregon’s top sights, especially if you’re short on time. Ready to embark on an unforgettable day trip from Portland? Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Day Trip from Portland: Route Map
1. Shaniko: Oregon’s Best-Preserved Ghost Town
Kick off your day trip from Portland and start your Oregon adventure from this vibrant city, which makes a perfect base for your travels.
Follow the stunning Journey Through Time Scenic Byway, known for its beautiful routes.
Along the way, stop at Shaniko, Oregon’s best-preserved ghost town, and dive into its rich history. It’s a great spot to step back in time and experience the transformation of this once-bustling town.
Explore Shaniko’s fascinating past as the former “Wool Capital of the World”, once a key hub for the Columbia Southern Railway.
Check out its remaining attractions and support the preservation efforts of the Shaniko Preservation Guild.
2. Clarno Unit: Ancient Fossils and Serene Landscapes
Next, head to the stunning Clarno Unit rock formations, located about 30 kilometers from Fossil. Along with Painted Hills and Sheep Rock, the Clarno Unit is part of the awe-inspiring John Day Fossil Beds National Monument.
This ancient site, dating back millions of years, is famous for its rich collection of fossils from a time when the area was lush and green.
Though it now has a desert-like feel, Clarno Unit offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. You can enjoy three short trails and a peaceful picnic area while taking in the natural beauty.
One of the perks of the Clarno Unit is its secluded location and fewer crowds, making it a great spot for a more peaceful and exclusive experience.
Take your time to soak in the serenity of this incredible place.
3. Painted Hills: Oregon’s Awe-Inspiring Geological Masterpiece
After an enchanting day trip from Portland to Clarno Unit, continue your journey to the highlight of the day: the awe-inspiring Painted Hills.
Located about 2 hours from Clarno, these vibrant hills boast a stunning beauty that has earned them a spot among Oregon’s Seven Wonders.
It’s almost unbelievable that these hills, with their striking, painted-like appearance, are the work of Mother Nature and not a famous impressionist artist!
How far from Portland to Painted Hills?
Traveling from Portland to Painted Hills usually takes about 4 hours. On the way, you have two scenic routes to choose from.
The first route takes you through Biggs Junction, where you can enjoy captivating views of the desert plateau and even stop by the historic ghost town of Shaniko, along with Clarno Unit.
The second route goes through Mt. Hood National Forest, giving you spectacular views of Oregon’s tallest peak. Both options promise a beautiful journey!
Each layer of the Painted Hills tells a story from a different time, going back an incredible thirty-five million years. This area used to be a lush river floodplain.
The beautiful colors you see are a result of the many climate changes that have shaped the landscape over time. The rich red layers remind us of a tropical period, while the golden yellows show a time that was drier and cooler.
The way these colors blend together creates a stunning landscape that really shows off the wonders of nature.
It’s these amazing views that make the trip totally worth it. Get ready to be wowed by the beauty of the Painted Hills—it’s an incredible reminder of our planet’s ever-changing wonders!
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Are the Painted Hills in Oregon worth visiting?
Visiting the Painted Hills is absolutely worth it!
I’ve been there several times, and I can honestly say that each visit is even more magical than the last.
These stunning hills are one of Oregon’s seven wonders, and they have a unique charm that you just can’t beat.
The views are incredible and really something special.
If you’re looking for unforgettable sights and awesome places to check out, make sure you put the Painted Hills on your must-see list!
What is the best time to visit Painted Hills?
You can visit the Painted Hills year-round, but I think the best times are late spring or early fall.
In spring, you get stunning views with blooming flowers, and the extra rainfall in fall really brings out the vibrant colors of the landscape.
Plus, the weather during these seasons is perfect for hiking, with temperatures around 20°C (68°F).
I wouldn’t recommend going in summer, though, since the desert heat can soar above 30°C (86°F).
In Painted Hills, you’ll find some of my favorite easy and short trails to explore. Here are a few you won’t want to miss:
Highlights: It rewards hikers with amazing panoramic views from the top of Carroll Rim. You’ll be blown away by the beauty of the surrounding hills and valleys!
- Painted Hills Overlook Trail
- Length: 1 kilometer (0.6 miles)
- Features: This trail takes you to the beautiful Painted Ridge viewpoint.
- Highlights: It’s perfect for stunning photos from a comfy bench.
- Painted Cove Trail
- Length: Shorter than the Overlook Trail
- Features: This trail features an elevated wooden walkway that shows off the vibrant red hills.
- Highlights: It provides awesome photo ops along the way.
- Carroll Rim Trail
- Length: 3 kilometers (1.9 miles)
- Features: The longest local trail in the area.
Can you drive through the Painted Hills?
Without a doubt, you can easily drive to all areas of the Painted Hills, making it super convenient to explore.
Just park in the designated lots, and then take some short hikes to reach the amazing viewpoints. It’s a great way to enjoy the stunning scenery!
5 Essential Tips for a Safe Trip to Painted Hills
1. Watch out for the snakes! Keep an eye on your surroundings and stick to marked trails to avoid encounters with the local snake species.
2. Leave your drone at home. To preserve the fragile ecosystem, drone usage is prohibited in the area.
3. Stick to designated trails to protect the delicate landscape and ensure your own safety.
4. Camping within the Painted Hills isn’t allowed, but you can choose from nearby dispersed campgrounds for accommodation.
5. Stay hydrated! Remember to bring plenty of water, especially during hot and dry weather.
For more detailed info about visiting the Painted Hills, check out the official website.
4. Trillium Lake and Mount Hood: A Captivating Finale to Your Trip
Make sure to include the stunning Trillium Lake and the majestic Mount Hood as your last stops on the day trip from Portland.
This beautiful spot, about 3 hours away from the Painted Hills, offers a breathtaking view of Mount Hood reflecting in the calm waters of Trillium Lake.
Try to arrive early so you can fully soak in this amazing experience!
How deep is Trillium Lake?
Trillium Lake has a maximum depth of 6 meters (20 feet) and an average depth of 2 meters (7 feet), making it a perfect spot for all kinds of outdoor activities against stunning natural views.
With its gorgeous scenery and plenty of recreational facilities, Trillium Lake is a fantastic camping spot. In the winter, you can even enjoy some skiing activities here!
Take a stroll along the approximately 3-kilometer (1.9-mile) trail that circles the lake—it’s perfect for hikers looking to soak in the views.
I highly recommend catching the sunset at Trillium Lake. The lake’s surface beautifully reflects the majesty of the volcano, creating a magical play of light. It’s also a perfect spot for a romantic picnic for two!
Can you swim in Trillium Lake?
Yes, Trillium Lake allows swimming! This popular spot gives visitors the chance to enjoy activities like swimming, fishing, and kayaking in its clear waters, all while surrounded by the beautiful views of Mount Hood and the nearby forest.
Day Trip from Portland: Summary
The picturesque Painted Hills and Trillium Lake are waiting for you to discover them on a day trip from Portland. These breathtaking destinations offer unforgettable views that make them must-visit spots.
If you enjoyed this post or have recommendations for other fascinating places for a day trip from Portland, please share your thoughts in the comments below. I’d love to hear from you!
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