Planning a day trip from Portland to Painted Hills? You’re in the right place!
In this guide, I’ll walk you through a day full of adventures, exploring the ghost town of Shaniko, the amazing rock formations at Clarno Unit, the stunning Painted Hills, and the beautiful Trillium Lake with a jaw-dropping view of Mount Hood.
It’s the perfect itinerary to discover some of the most scenic spots in Oregon. Plus, I’ll share some practical tips to make your trip planning easier and more fun.
Get ready for breathtaking views and unforgettable moments! Ready? Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Portland to Painted Hills Day Trip Map
1. Shaniko: Oregon’s Most Well-Preserved Ghost Town
Kick off your Portland to Painted Hills day trip early in the morning. Start by heading east along the Columbia Riverand continue south on Highway 97.
Along the way, you’ll drive through the picturesque Journey Through Time Scenic Byway, known for its stunning views, and one of the most beautiful routes in Oregon.
Make sure to stop in Shaniko, one of the best-preserved ghost towns in the state.
From 1900 to 1930, Shaniko was a bustling hub for commerce and transportation, largely due to the wool industry.
Over time, after the railway was shut down and the wool industry declined, the town began to fade.
Today, only 32 people live there, and it has become one of Oregon’s many ghost towns.
While you’re there, be sure to check out the Shaniko Hotel, the school, the church, and the train station. They’re all great spots for photos that really show off the unique vibe of this historic town.
2. Clarno Unit: Oregon’s Scenic Rock Formations and Fossils
Next, head to the stunning Clarno Unit rock formations, located about 16 miles 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: One of Oregon’s 7 Wonders
After exploring Clarno Unit, continue your journey to the highlight of the day: the awe-inspiring Painted Hills.
About 2 hours from Clarno, these vibrant hills are a true wonder, earning them a place among Oregon’s Seven Wonders.
It’s hard to believe that these hills, with their striking, painted look, are the work of Mother Nature and not a famous impressionist artist!
Each layer of the Painted Hills tells a story from a different time, going back an amazing 35 million years. This area used to be a lush river floodplain.
The beautiful colors you see come from various climate changes that have shaped the landscape over time.
The rich red layers remind us of a tropical period, while the golden yellows represent a drier, cooler time.
The way these colors blend together creates a stunning landscape that highlights the wonders of nature. It’s these amazing views that make the trip totally worth it!
In the 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:
- Painted Hills Overlook Trail
- Length: 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: 0.3 mile
- 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: 1.9 miles
- Features: The longest local trail in the area.
- Highlights: This trail rewards hikers with incredible panoramic views from the top of Carroll Rim. You’ll be blown away by the beauty of the surrounding hills and valleys!
Make sure to check the official Painted Hills website for trail updates, weather info, and any alerts before you go!
4. Trillium Lake: A Hidden Gem with Mount Hood Views
Make sure to include the stunning Trillium Lake and the majestic Mount Hood as your final stops on the Portland to Painted Hills day trip.
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!
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 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!
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Useful Tips
How far is from Portland to Painted Hills?
Traveling from Portland to the Painted Hills usually takes about 4 hours, and you’ve got two scenic routes to choose from.
The first route takes you through Biggs Junction, offering stunning desert plateau views and a chance to stop by the historic ghost town of Shaniko and the Clarno Unit.
The second route goes through Mt. Hood National Forest, giving you incredible views of Oregon’s tallest peak. Either way, you’re in for a beautiful journey!
Are the Painted Hills in Oregon worth visiting?
Visiting the Painted Hills is 100% worth it! I’ve been there a few times, and honestly, it gets more magical with each visit.
These stunning hills are one of Oregon’s seven wonders, and their unique charm is unbeatable. The views are absolutely incredible—something you have to see to believe.
If you’re after unforgettable sights and cool spots to explore, the Painted Hills should definitely be on your must-see list!
What is the best time to visit Painted Hills?
You can visit the Painted Hills year-round, but the best times, in my opinion, 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 70°F.
I wouldn’t recommend going in summer, though, since the desert heat can soar above 85°F.
Can you drive through the Painted Hills?
No 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 take a few short hikes to the awesome viewpoints. It’s a great way to take in the stunning scenery!
What to watch out for at the Painted Hills?
- Wear proper hiking shoes to make your walks more comfortable and safe.
- Stay hydrated! Be sure to bring a water bottle, especially during hot, dry weather, and don’t forget sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Watch out for snakes! Keep an eye on your surroundings and stay on marked trails to avoid encounters with the local snake species.
- Leave your drone at home. To protect the fragile ecosystem, drones aren’t allowed in the area.
- Stick to designated trails to help preserve the landscape and keep yourself safe.
- Camping isn’t allowed within the Painted Hills, but there are nearby dispersed campgrounds where you can stay.
How deep is Trillium Lake?
Trillium Lake has a maximum depth of 20 feet and an average depth of 7 feet, making it a perfect spot for all kinds of outdoor activities against stunning natural views.
Can you swim in Trillium Lake?
Yes, Trillium Lake allows swimming! It’s a popular spot where you can enjoy swimming, fishing, kayaking, and more, all while taking in the stunning views of Mount Hood and the surrounding forest.
Portland to Painted Hills: Conclusions
The beautiful Painted Hills and Trillium Lake are just waiting to be explored on a day trip from Portland.
These stunning spots offer unforgettable views, making them must-see destinations.
If you enjoyed this Portland to Painted Hills day trip itinerary or have other recommendations, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!
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