Moulton Falls Regional Park on a random afternoon, and it completely took my breath away. The…read moretrails wind through this lush, green wonderland, with pockets of shade that feel like little natural hideaways and open spaces that invite you to just sit and breathe. I watched families and hikers passing by, some daring to dip into the water. I can only imagine how cold it must be, but it looked exhilarating! Every turn offered something new, towering trees, sparkling streams, and even little corners where wildflowers peeked out. We ended up spending hours wandering, stopping whenever we felt like it, and just enjoying the simple beauty of it all. It's definitely a stop that makes you slow down, notice the little things, and feel refreshed by being outside. I can see myself coming back again and again.

Moulton Falls Regional Park is a spectacular site that shouldn't be missed! Situated in north Clark…read moreCounty, in between Battle Ground and Yacolt, Moulton Falls is a natural scenic area offering water falls, forested trails, picnic sites, a train depot and tunnel, and a gorgeous bridge offering stunning views. Do me a favor and visit Moulton Falls seasonally because the natural beauty is ever-changing. Winter visits reveal churning water that roars furiously as it cascades over giant bolders and rock formations. Summer visits offer deep, mountain fresh pools of blue-green water that attract locals and tourists alike for a refreshing swim or float. There's something for everyone in this special park. Be sure to walk up to the bridge that spans the narrow canyon as it offers a stunning view of the river below. If you continue beyond the bridge you'll find a well-maintained trail that follows the river westward for miles and miles. The lush forest is filled with plants in every shade of green; towering Douglas Fir, Sword and Brachen Fern, Salal, Huckleberry and so much more. For a special treat, visit in early spring when the Trillium are blooming. Arriving from the west, visitors will first encounter the main falls with a small parking lot. Don't worry if it's full, there are two more lots further up the road as it turns sharply toward the north in the direction of Yacolt. Don't miss Yacolt Falls - a smaller waterfall on Big Tree Creek, which empties into the Lewis River just east of the main falls. You can access it from the gravel parking lot on the side of the road.

I love this park! I have driven past a few times, but just recently visited. Great place for all…read moreages. Calm water, lots of space to sit and enjoy the view. Ample free parking in the neighborhood.

We love Horseshoe! Such a great place to swim, float, or padddle board. It's a short loop and you…read morecan go the full length fairly easily. Don't be scared away by the crowds on the beach. Once you're out in the water it's not bad at all.

Lucia Falls is tucked along the East Fork of the Lewis River. I stopped by on a spontaneous…read moreafternoon, and it felt like stepping into a sanctuary, untouched corner of nature. The walk in is easy, about a 1‑mile loop with gentle gravel paths, enough shade to feel cool but also patches where sunlight filters through the trees in the most beautiful way. I saw a woman with her stroller here, but had leave it half way through because there is an upward path. When I reached the waterfall, I was struck by how graceful it was, the river cascades over a basalt-rock ledge, wide and steady. One of the most magical things..the park is a front-row seat for steelhead trout leaping upstream. There are picnic tables nearby, so I ended up opening up my book and just reading, listening to the water, hearing frogs, and feeling completely grounded. And honestly sometimes running away from bees! Oh the great outdoors! But a very important heads-up: no swimming allowed. The area near the falls is a sensitive fish spawning ground, and the park strictly protects it. Parking is easy enough and the park is open from 7a.m. to dusk. If you're looking for a peaceful afternoon where you can unwind, enjoy a modest but lovely waterfall, go visit Lucia Falls.

It's a beautiful autumn day and I decided to take a drive up here to these falls. I have never been…read moreand I am so glad I did. The park area was very nice. Clean and well kept. There were a lot of people enjoying picnics at the abundant picnic tables that are on the site. The waterfalls were really great. I enjoyed watching the people walk down by the Falls and the children. There is no fee to come and visit this waterfall. I recommend it if you are looking for relaxing afternoon in a great view.

Beautiful hiking trails, perfect for walking your dog! Parking can be a little scary (but then…read moreagain, it is on Germantown road - what can you expect haha). However, there is usually room in the parking lot on Germantown or along the sides of the road. I love how large the walking path is. It's definitely easy to pass another walker, even if you both have dogs. The path is well-maintained, and it didn't have any large fallen branches or trash when I visited. It's a straightforward path, so you don't have to worry about accidentally taking a wrong turn and getting lost if you are new to hiking. Very beginner friendly! The forest itself is beautiful. So much greenery, little birds, and a wonderful sense of peacefulness. I would recommend visiting on a weekday if possible, as the parking lot and trail can get crowded on weekends.

I love coming to Forest Park when visiting Portland! There are many trails to choose from, it's…read morewell maintained, and there's a lot of signage, making it fairly easy to navigate around. I've come here a handful of times and have done some easy walks, as well as the more strenuous trek all the way up to Pittock Mansion. The observation deck is always a favorite stop too since it's such a pretty area. The whole park is very lush and seems to stay that way no matter the time of year. Not sure if all of the trails are dog friendly, but we have brought a dog on some and see lots of them throughout the park.

A small little park outside of Hood River . The view was amazing . Mount Hood towering over the…read moremany orchards and wineries was breathtaking. Well worth a small side trip.

A surprising gem in the middle of nowhere! While on a drive through Hood River, this was an…read moreexcellent stop, not just for a bathroom but also to stretch legs, take some photos, and enjoy the quiet.

Stopped by the lake on my way up to the ape caves. Was there for only a little bit just to stop and…read moreview the scenery. Seems like a really nice place to hang out for a picnic. If it wasn't 35 degrees out and the wind wasn't blowing about 50 mph. It would have been a really nice spot to stay longer. You can see a small glimpse of Mnt Helen. Want to come back in the summer and take advantage of it. The parking lot is relatively small for being a park. I can see this place being very crowded in the summer time. Has picnic tables and a boat launch too if you are interested in water sports.

Stopped here on the way to the Gifford Pinchot National forest. Such a pretty lake view, and a…read moregreat place to stop. They have picnic tables, restrooms, parking, and boat ramps. Noticed a few people on their kayaks, and some people with fishing poles. Stop by, stretch and take a walk if you're headed to Mount St. Helens.

Visiting Hood River is a must on its own!! But you cannot…read morebeat what you're going to get at the waterfront park !! A small cove cut out for the beach , kite surfing or watching, beautiful water views, Mt. hood, beautiful people watching, playgrounds, it's all here and worth the visit! A couple of things to keep in mind, the bathrooms are very clean and accessible spread throughout . They have a lifejacket lender station !!! It was so nice to be able to let the kids just hop in the water and swim freely! (because I sure as heck I'm not gonna pack lifejackets on my trip who does that?!) Within walking distance, there are so many food options. We always visit Solstice (see that review if you're looking for some great pizza in town).

Known as the 'Windsurfing Capital of the World', Hood River is a small city in Oregon, on the banks…read moreof the Columbia River. It is known for its concentration of craft breweries in the downtown area, and the ability to consume alcohol publicly on open sidewalks and parks. My wife, mother-in-law, and I drove intentionally to see the city during our visit to the Gorge, and stopped by the famous Park next to the River. It was drizzling and cold this day, so finding free street parking was easy. We found a place to sit, and admire the brave souls surfing. There is a small beach area, and children life jackets to share. And a nice grassy area with playground equipment.

Just went to visit this hike, I've done it before and the expierence was amazing. Went last week…read moreand the bridge was close so it cut out hike short but the view was beautiful and worth it

A very unique and beautiful area to visit!…read more The trailhead has a nice parking area, with bathrooms. The trail to the winding, aqua blue stream is wide and well maintained. You can view the main attraction from trails on both sides, as well as looking down from the bridge. We took the trails on both sides of the water. The trail across the bridge is much easier to traverse, and winds down to the (closed down) suspension bridge. The opposite side leads down beyond the suspension to the waters edge, but even to get down to that point isn't for the faint of heart. It includes a narrow, steep downhill trek...including a section over running water (with a wire handrail for support). Once you arrive at the water at the bottom you can view the suspension bridge above, and if you dare, the waterfall below. We did attempt to continue on a little ways down the trail from there, but as reviews describe, the next section is even steeper with a very loose and dangerous footing. I got vertigo trying to look over the edge at the falls right before that section, so continuing on was a huge no. I'm sure that many people without height woes have no issues moving on, but if you're like me, the trail ends there. This area is stunning. The waters and canyon are a site that pictures simply cannot do justice. Highly recommend!!