Top Portland Outdoor Activities

Head out to the Columbia River Gorge for half a day of visiting cascading waterfalls and scenic overlooks with this tour from Portland. You'll visit Multnomah Falls, the highest waterfall in the state, as well as lesser-known falls throughout the region. You'll also have the chance to take mini-hikes in the area to get better views of waterfalls and the surrounding scenery.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city for the day on this guided tour to Multnomah Falls and the Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls. Travel along the historic Columbia River Highway National Scenic Byway and stop at the magnificent falls of Multnomah, Latourell, and Bridal Veil.

Enjoy lunch along the Willamette River on a 2-hour cruise in Portland. Great for newcomers and locals alike, the leisurely cruise presents an expansive vista of Portland from the water. In addition to exceptional views and food, the afternoon tour also includes commentary from your captain and live entertainment. Prepared with local ingredients, your meal can be upgraded to include an appetizer and dessert.

This private tour takes you out on the Willamette River, where your captain guides you to scenic spots including one of the largest waterfalls in the Northwestern US. Ideal for personal or corporate events, the tour emphasizes sustainability and conservation. Enjoy narration while you relax and take in the views on this two-hour private boat tour.

The Columbia River Gorge is known for its dramatic waterfalls and impressive vistas—but if you don't have car, planning a trip from Portland can be tricky. Instead, enjoy a hassle-free way to check off many top attractions in just half a day, all thanks to this small-group sightseeing tour. Visit the historic Vista House, admire Latourell Falls, stop at Multnomah Falls, and more, all while your guide shares insider stories.

Escape the city for an afternoon exploring some of greater Portland's most scenic falls. Travel along the Columbia River Gorge, home to the largest concentration of waterfalls in the country, stopping at the epic Latourell Falls and Multnomah Falls. Enjoy panoramic views from the Crown Point Vista House and hear about the local legends and natural history of the area from your guide.

The Upper Clackamas River awaits with a thrilling half-day rafting excursion that promises unforgettable fun. Nestled just a short drive from Portland, this trip offers a mix of roaring rapids and tranquil stretches, all framed by lush old-growth forests. As you navigate the river's exciting twists and turns, there are plenty of chances to splash around and cool off in the crystal-clear waters. With experienced guides leading the way, safety is paramount, ensuring you can focus on enjoying the ride. Prepare for an adventure packed with adrenaline and stunning scenery.

An unforgettable tour of the Columbia River Gorge's top 5 waterfalls and the Crown Point Vista House. With Waterfall Shuttle the views are better, the crowds are lower and you get an expert guide to show you around in a small group. Plus, we pick up from over 50 Downtown Portland hotels so you can access the wonder of the Columbia River Gorge without a rental car. Starting from your hotel in Downtown Portland, we start with a 45 minute drive out to the Waterfall Corridor. Working our way back one waterfall at a time we spend 2.5 of the 3.5 hours walking around and exploring each of the waterfall state parks. Plenty of time to take pictures, enjoy the natural beauty and make unique memories. Waterfall Shuttle is a tour designed to show visitors the best of our area. We strive to create unique and memorable experiences so that your time with us is some of the best of your whole vacation.

Whether you want to relax after a long day of sightseeing or need to unwind at the end of your workweek, a sunset dinner cruise along the Willamette River is sure to do the trick. The journey offers spectacular views of the Portland skyline and city’s main landmarks. Listen to live music while you enjoy a freshly cooked Pacific Northwest meal.

There is no better way to discover the Columbia River Gorge, a must-visit destination when you're in Portland, than on a private tour just for you or with a companion. From stunning waterfalls to iconic viewpoints, this is your chance to experience the Pacific Northwest at its finest. Book your tour today and let the magic of Multnomah Falls and the Gorge’s natural wonders captivate you!

An unforgettable tour of the Columbia River Gorge's top 5 waterfalls and the Crown Point Vista House. This tour is specifically timed to appreciate the colorful sunsets at the Vista House- an epic ending to an unforgettable experience. With Waterfall Shuttle the views are better, the crowds are lower and you get an expert guide to show you around in a small group. We spend 2.5 of the 3.5 hours walking around and exploring each of the waterfall state parks. Plenty of time to take pictures or even dive in and take a 200 foot tall shower. Waterfall Shuttle tours are designed to maximize your time in the Columbia River Gorge. We create memorable experiences so that your time with us is some of the best time on your vacation!

Hop aboard the Portland Spirit for a trip along the Willamette River with this sightseeing tour of Portland. Your captain will ferry you under some of the city's famous bridges and waterfront sights, and you'll have plenty of chances to take photos of the city right from the water. You'll also have the option to buy snacks and drinks from the onboard bistro.

Visit the prettiest spots along the Waterfall Corridor in the Colombia Gorge, without having to worry about parking, with a self-guided electric-bike tour. You and your private group will be outfitted with everything you need for a successful trip, including locks, helmets, and bikes adjusted to your heights, as well as a digital self-guided tour route to help you maximize your time.

Immerse yourself in the scenery and story of Portland on this small-group sightseeing tour. With your naturalist guide, visit verdant urban parks, eclectic neighborhoods, and some of the city’s most treasured landmarks including the famous Powell’s Books. Enjoy a breakfast of tea and pastries as you traverse the city in style.

Explore Oregon’s rocky northern coastline, dotted with beaches and sea cliffs, on a scenic full-day trip from Portland. Travel the picturesque US Highway 101 through quaint beach towns, stopping in Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park, and Oswald West State Park. Enjoy panoramic coastal views, geological wonders, and wind-swept beaches without the hassle of self-driving, and learn more from your guide than you would going alone.

Our kayak tours offer a unique immersion into the breathtaking Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area. Perfect for families spanning multiple generations, our crystal-clear waters provide an up-close view of fish darting beneath your kayak, while bald eagles, osprey, and blue herons soar overhead. Experience the quintessential Northwest tradition of blackberry picking right from your kayak during midsummer excursions, adding a delightful local flavor to your adventure. What sets our tours apart is our commitment to personalized experiences. With small group sizes and expert guides, we ensure that each participant receives individual attention and gains valuable insights into the local environment and wildlife. See the Columbia Gorge from a unique perspective and embark on an adventure you'll cherish forever with Gorge Paddling Center.

Visit the Columbia Gorge, easily one of Oregon's most scenic spots, with this intimate half-day tour from Portland. You'll make plenty of stops along the way, with the chance to take in the views from the aptly named Vista House and the Portland Women's Forum State Scenic Viewpoint. You'll also visit Horsetail Falls, Latourell Falls, and the most famous waterfall of them all, Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in the state.

**City Lights & Tiki Nights Cruise – Tiki, Tunes & Waterfront Views** Step aboard for Portland's most unique evening escape: the City Lights & Tiki Nights Cruise. This 21+ one-hour cruise along the Willamette River combines the fun of a floating lounge with views of the city skyline sparkling against the night sky. Sip your favorite drink as you glide past glowing bridges and the illuminated waterfront while music and social vibes set the mood. Every cruise is unique as the vibe tends to align with the energy of the group onboard, often ending in one big dance party. Whether you're planning a date, celebrating a special occasion, simply gathering with friends, or looking for a new way to enjoy Portland after dark, this cruise blends scenic views with lively island-style energy. **August:** 9:30 PM check-in, 10–11 PM cruise. **September & October:** Usually 8:00 PM check-in, 8:30–9:30 PM cruise. Please review all booking details and communications carefully before your cruise.

Experience the unrivaled beauty of the Columbia River Gorge, Cascade Mountain Range, and Mount Hood—and see them all in one hassle-free, time-saving excursion—on this full-day tour from Portland. In the comfort of a luxury vehicle, travel with just your guide and a small group for company. Enjoy a guided tour of the Gorge’s top destinations, including Vista House, Multnomah Falls, Timberline Lodge, Hood River, and more.

Experiences both Portland’s rugged outdoors and renowned wine scene on this small-group tour. Visit the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area where you see waterfalls, admire the Cascade Mountain Range, and look out for bald eagles and osprey. Then explore Hood River and stop at a variety of boutique wineries to sample locally produced wines including the much talked about Oregon Pinot Noirs.

Get out in nature with this small-group forest adventure in Portland, Oregon. Your guide will point out highlights along the route, adding context to what you see. Enjoy a scenic car-free gravel path in Forest Park with your choice of bike option depending on your needs. The experience is open to all experience levels, from beginners to more expert gravel riders.

Welcome to the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Join the eagles, osprey, salmon and sturgeon on an epic journey on the Columbia River. Starting out in beautiful Herman Creek Cove we'll get comfortable with the kayaks and explore the crystal clear waters as we paddle a gentle inlet of Herman Creek toward an old fish hatchery From there we head out onto the Columbia, staying near the shore and letting the wind of the gorge push us to our next cove while soaking up the majesty or this amazing river. The wind will blow us down to Government Cove where a secluded cove full of wildlife awaits. We'll pause for a water break on the shore and get a chance to watch the birds soar over the water. After some more exploring of beautiful Government Cove we'll paddle to shore and hop on a 5 minute shuttle back to where we started. The shuttle allows us to paddle downwind, making this tour suitable for those who can walk about 100 yards through the woods and are comfortable in a kayak.

Forest Park and Washington Park Small-Group Hike Hike from the city and up into massive Forest Park and the adjacent Washington Park with a guided hike. The morning tour will take you through Northwest Portland and up into the International Rose Test Garden, while the afternoon tour starts in the Goose Hollow neighborhood near downtown. Both will pass by some of the parks' prettiest spots, including the Japanese Garden and the Witch's Castle.