Mountains in Portland? You betcha! But not exactly how you think...
Portland, Oregon. City of Roses? Absolutely. Home to artisanal coffee roasters and enough breweries to fuel a small nation? You know it. But mountains? Well, that depends on your definition of "mountain" and your tolerance for a little friendly geographic ribbing.
What Mountains Are In Portland Oregon |
Hold on, there's a BUT...
Because let's be honest, Portland isn't exactly nestled in the shadow of the Rockies. You won't be skiing to work here (although, some days the traffic might make you wish you could). But that doesn't mean there aren't some interesting (and let's face it, sometimes hilarious) bumps on the horizon to be explored.
Introducing Portland's "Mighty" Mountains
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We're talking about the likes of Shotover Mountain, a whole 333 meters of thrilling...well, let's say scenic vistas. Haycock Hill might not be winning any mountain climbing awards, but it offers a pretty sweet view of the city if you're willing to huff it up the 1,069 meters (don't worry, there's a decent chance you'll be the only one there).
The Real Deal is a Day Trip Away
Now, if you're looking for something a little more substantial (and by substantial, we mean you can actually see snow in the winter), then fret not, adventure seeker! Mount Hood, a legit stratovolcano (fancy word for big, pointy, and potentially fiery) is just a cool 80 kilometers east of Portland. Hood, as the locals call it, is the state's tallest peak, offering stunning views, epic skiing, and the humbling reminder that Portland sits smack dab in the middle of volcano country (don't worry, the last eruption was a while back...we think).
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So, what's the verdict?
Mountains inside Portland city limits? Not exactly the Matterhorn. But hey, there are some decent hills for a leg workout and a dose of nature, and the real mountain majesty is just a day trip away.
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Portland Mountains FAQ
How to find the tallest "mountain" in Portland?
Head to Shotover Park and prepare to be amazed by the whole 333 meters of scenic wonder.
How to avoid disappointment when mountain climbing in Portland?
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Maybe "hill climbing" is a more accurate term. But hey, fresh air is fresh air!
How to get to the real mountains near Portland?
Hop in a car and head east towards Mount Hood National Forest. Just remember, it's a real mountain, so dress appropriately.
How to convince your friends Portland has mountains?
Use generous amounts of artistic license and focus on the beauty of Mount Hood, conveniently located nearby.
How to find the best cup of coffee while enjoying mountain views?
Portland has you covered. Grab a brew to-go and head to any viewpoint overlooking Mount Hood. Just be careful not to spill on your hiking buddy.