top of page

☀️Summer in Portland: The Best Outdoor Adventures for Every Kind of Explorer

Ah, Portland in the Summer — where the skies are (mostly) blue, the trees are vibing, and everyone suddenly remembers they own hiking boots and paddle boards. As a local Realtor® who lives for getting outside after a long winter of sipping Stumptown under gray skies, I’ve rounded up the best outdoor activities to make the most of your Portland Summer.


Whether you’re new to the city or a long-time local rediscovering your backyard, these adventures are guaranteed to turn your weekends into “why-didn’t-we-do-this-sooner?” memories.

Summer in Portland

🥾 1. Hike (or Frolic) in Forest Park

With over 5,200 acres of wooded trails, Forest Park is basically our city’s backyard playground. Choose an easy walk like Lower Macleay Trail to the Witch’s Castle (it’s Instagram gold) or go full-send on a longer loop like Wildwood Trail.

Realtor Tip: Forest Park is a huge plus for West Hills and NW Portland neighborhoods. Buyers love being this close to nature!


🚴 2. Bike the Springwater Corridor

Portland is a bike city, and the Springwater Corridor is a smooth, scenic path stretching over 20 miles along the Willamette River and through wildlife preserves. Bonus: it’s mostly flat and full of great spots to stop for food trucks and microbrews.


🌊 3. Paddle on the Willamette or Columbia

Whether you’re team kayak, paddleboard, or canoe, Portland's rivers are summer central. Head to Sellwood Riverfront Park, the Portland Boathouse, or the Columbia Slough for a tranquil float with Mount Hood peeking over your shoulder.

Hot local hack: Go early or at sunset to avoid crowds and get that golden hour glow.


🌸 4. Explore the Rose Garden & Washington Park

Portland is the City of Roses, after all. In full bloom from late May to August, the International Rose Test Garden in Washington Park is free, fragrant, and full of picnic-perfect views.

Nearby, you’ll also find the Japanese Garden, Hoyt Arboretum, and tons of shady spots to lounge with a book or your favorite snack from Zupan’s.


🍻 5. Hit a Patio or Rooftop for Happy Hour

Is it even summer if you’re not sipping something local on a patio? Some top spots:

  • Departure for city skyline views

  • Revolution Hall Rooftop Deck for music and a chill vibe

  • Ecliptic Brewing or Migration for classic PDX beer garden energy


🧺 6. Catch an Outdoor Concert or Movie

From Movies in the Park to Pickathon and Waterfront Blues Fest, Portland serves up all the Summer vibes with free (or cheap) entertainment under the stars. Pack a blanket, your favorite picnic, and maybe a light sweater—because Portland evenings like to keep you humble.


🌄 7. Day Trip to the Gorge or Mount Hood

Need a quick escape? Drive 45 minutes east and boom: waterfalls, scenic lookouts, and hikes that make your legs burn in the best way. Multnomah Falls is iconic, but try Latourell Falls or Dog Mountain for fewer crowds and major wow factor.

Bonus points if you cap it off with a cider stop in Hood River!


🏡 Why This Matters if You’re House Hunting

Summer is prime season to get a feel for Portland neighborhoods and lifestyles. Want to be near paddle boarding spots? Prefer walking distance to a farmer’s market or trailhead? That’s where I come in. Let’s find a home that gives you the lifestyle and the backyard view you’ve been dreaming about.


Ready to make your move (or just explore your options)?Let’s connect, tour some neighborhoods, and maybe sneak in a trail walk while we’re at it. Portland’s waiting—and summer doesn’t last forever.


Comments


bottom of page