Don’t let the cold weather keep you inside! Even though the trails near Mount Hood are icy, there are several other hikes open year long where you can go out and enjoy the outdoors. These locations are close to home and great paired with a post hike hot chocolate or tea.

Mount Tabor – Blue Trail

Mount Tabor is located right in the middle of Southeast Portland and is a great place for a run or hike. There is a great view of the city, a playground, a basketball court, a look at the volcano itself and three hikes of different levels that take you around the park.

Location: SE 60th Ave and Salmon Street. Parking is available at the top, and on surface streets near the entrance.

Distance: 3.3 miles

Type: loop

Difficulty: moderate

Elevation: 275 ft

Fees: none

Season: year round

Notes: One great spot to grab a snack after hiking is the Rain or Shine Coffee House on 60th and Division. It is complete with warm drinks and pastries.

Forest Park – Lower Macleay Park to Pittock Mansion

Lower Macleay Park to Pittock Mansion is a beautiful trail full of old growth trees and a view of the city at Pittock Mansion. The trail is also popular so make sure to set out early for good parking and for less congestion on the trail.

Location: 2984 NW Thurman St. This parking lot is usually crowded because it is small, so the best place to park is on a side street in the nearby neighborhood.

Distance: 5 miles

Type: out and back

Difficulty: moderate

Elevation: 921 ft

Fees: none

Season: year round

Notes: Lower Macleay is close to Northwest 23rd Avenue, home to several restaurants and coffee shops. Some of my favorites are Blue Star Donuts, Salt and Straw, Pizzicato, Jim and Patty’s Coffee, and Little Big Burger.

Council Crest – Marquam Trail to Council Crest

The Marquam trail is a beautiful hike year round but especially when the days are short and leaves have fallen from all the trees. Marquam Trail is home to several holly trees that provide a pop of red and color to bring joy during the winter.

Location: 3100 SW Sam Jackson Park Road

Distance: 4 miles

Type: out and back

Difficulty: moderate

Elevation: 748 ft

Fees: none

Season: year round

Notes: f & b Cafe at Marquam Hill is a great place to sip coffee from a local roaster and feast on various snacks.