The city of Portland is one of the greatest towns in the world. It is known for its beer and has around 70 breweries. Portland is also famous for its forest hikes, fun neighborhoods, and cheap food. In fact, the city is famous for its delicacies and some of the most innovative chefs in the city can be found in parking lots, as they prepare their culinary delights in food carts and food trucks that range from sheds to trailers. You can easily spend a couple of days in this capital city, which features endless opportunities for intrigue and entertainment. Exploring the city’s neighborhoods is easy by bike and you will love the notorious rainy weather here. There is no dearth of places to visit and attractions to see in this region, with Portland as the starting point. Check out some of these best road trips from Portland, Oregon, so that you can plan your vacation accordingly.
1. Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City is the capital of the state of Utah and offers much more than winter sports and beer. In the summer, you can visit one of the waterparks and amusement parks to have some fun. You are sure to have lots of adventures while spending a day in the city. Go on a hiking trip to Antelope Island and discover the wildlife there. Birdwatching is another recommended outdoor activity. The view of the lake is amazing and you can even indulge in a swim in some of the world’s saltiest water.
The city’s Temple Square is one of the most well-known tourist attractions. Salt Lake City is undoubtedly a great stopover if you are planning a road trip from Portland.
2. San Francisco, California
San Francisco is another recommended stopover from the city of Portland. One of the most stunning cities in the world, San Francisco is well-known for its cable cars, lovely waterfront, and iconic bridge, among other star attractions. The city is also popular for its trendsetting restaurants, ranging from food trucks to fine dining, world-famous symphony, opera, and theater, along with unlimited adventures for outdoorsy tourists.
One of the most famous tourist spots in the city, the Golden Gate Bridge Park should definitely be on your bucket list. It offers mesmerizing vistas and the opportunity to take a stroll, bike, or walk to the Marin Headlands.
3. The Payette National Forest, Idaho
Come to the Payette National Forest, which features all four seasons in just one day. Located at a comfortable distance from Portland, it is one of the best places to go on a road trip from the city. This national forest is known for its rugged landscapes, beautiful lakes, and gorgeous river canyons. While you can enjoy some much-need moments of solitude here, amenities and facilities can be easily accessed. The forest offers a rich assortment of wildlife in their natural habitat, including birds and big game.
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Twin Falls, Idaho
Twin Falls, Idaho, is famous for being home to what is referred to as the “Niagara of the West’. It offers excellent picturesque views, as well as different recreation opportunities. Did you know that Shoshone Falls is at a higher altitude than Niagra Falls? A lovely spot to enjoy, you can pack a lunch and have a picnic here, while marveling at the mammoth Snake River Canyon. Alternatively, try out the local delicacies at one of the restaurants in the neighborhood.
Be fully mesmerized by the stunning waterfalls and canyon walls or go for kayaking and paddleboarding on the Snake River. Visit the Twin Falls Visitor Center and enjoy the gorgeous views. From Portland, it will take around 8.5 hours to reach Twin Falls, Idaho.
5. Carson City, Nevada
Get ready for a string of outdoor adventures, excellent eateries, fine golf courses, gaming opportunities, museums, historical attractions, and an array of entertainment and events. Located at approximately a 9.5-hour drive from Portland, Carson City is within close proximity to famous Lake Tahoe, thrilling Reno, the magnificent Sierra Nevada Mountain range, and historic Virginia City. It is the capital of the state of Nevada and a great choice for an exciting road trip from Portland.
6. Great Falls, Montana
Great Falls is known for its rich history, great cultural and recreational facilities for your entire family, and impressive traditions. Thus, there is a plethora of activities to keep your family engaged while vacationing here. Boasting more than 64.4 km (40 mi) of the River’s Edge Trail and more than 57 parks, Gibson Park is the premier park in the city and features a playground, walking path, duck pond, and live music during the summer. Great Falls is situated on the Missouri River and acts as a basecamp for participating in different kinds of outdoor adventures.
7. Sacramento, California
Sacramento, the capital city of California, is another interesting road trip from Portland. It is also known for some of the most memorable landscapes and historic attractions. The city is surrounded by two rivers – the American River and the Sacramento River – and is known for its mesmerizing scenery.
The rivers are perfect for water adventure sports, including kayaking, fishing, boating, and whitewater rafting. Other outdoor activities to entice adrenalin junkies and outdoorsy travelers include jogging, walking, or biking along the extensive trail near the American River.
8. Idaho Falls, Idaho
The city of Idaho Falls offers so much to do, irrespective of the season you arrive here. The charming city is set on stunning falls and offers attractions for all the members of your family. Bikers and hikers can have fun on the paved trail that moves alongside the Snake River and crosses downtown, a waterfall, and the market.
The Art Museum of Eastern Idaho showcases works of new and famous national and local artists. Idaho Falls Zoo happens to be one of the country’s finest small zoos, housing animals from as many as six continents. A trip to Idaho Falls can be one of the best road trips from the city of Portland.
9. Salmon-Challis National Forest
An excellent option for a road trip when you are in and around Portland, Salmon-Challis National Forest is known for offering picturesque scenery, great solitude, and plenty of adventure. The forest also houses the tallest peak in Idaho called Borah Peak and the picturesque Salmon River. The Salmon-Challis National Forest is a desired destination where outdoorsy travelers can have a great time. They can indulge in activities like camping, hiking, whitewater rafting, fishing, and hunting, among others.
10. San Jose, California
San Jose is known for being the home of the world-famous Silicon Valley and is regarded as a technological and cultural gem. The city has it all, starting from jaw-dropping architectural landmarks to world-class shopping and dining facilities. San Jose boasts an array of attractions for tourists. Spend a couple of hours exploring the Children’s Discovery Museum and the San Jose Museum of Art in downtown San Jose. If you want to get first-hand knowledge about the computer industry of Silicon Valley, a visit to the Tech Museum of Innovation is a must.
Memorable road trips from Portland, Oregon
All these above road trips from Portland will be unique and quite distinct from any other experienced before. Visit some of these interesting places by car when you are vacationing in the city of Portland. Try any of these best road trips from Portland, Oregon, and enjoy a great trip ahead.
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