Find the top rated hiking trails in Forest Grove, whether you're looking for an easy short hiking trail or a long hiking trail, you'll find what you're looking for. Click on a hiking trail below to find trail descriptions, trail maps, photos, and reviews.
This gem of a trail has been my go-to for over 15 years, including the outstanding refurb of Buxton Trestle and the 'final mile' into namesake Banks trailhead (used to just end outside of town). Many happy memories. While the pavement is still fine for mountain bikes and most hybrids, it has become increasingly unsafe for the skinny tire set, and any repairs have been mere band-aids. The unsafe ruts and root heaves have been helpfully painted as a warning, but I was still knocked off-trail into the grass last week by an unmarked bump (with both hands on the handlebars). I hope Oregon State Parks has a plan for repaving, considering they do a great job of cutting back blackberries and equipping trailheads with tools/workstands.
Pro-tip: Just north of the crest, near mile marker 11.5, stop by the small clear-cut on a calm day. Sheltered from traffic noise on highway 47, it's among the quietest spots I've experienced in the Portland metro area.
This ride looks promising based on the photos, but it’s pretty grim in reality. We went with or 6 and 8 year old and they struggled on the many big climbs. The trail crosses a few major roads and is a little daunting for little kids. Much of the trail looks into people’s backyards and/or power lines. And few homeless camps and trash now pepper they area near overpasses. Would not recommend if you’re going for anything other than exercise
I started at the Banks trailhead and rode to Vernonia. Plenty of parking when I arrived, and not a ton of people on the trail. It was really beautiful, and pretty quiet almost the entire 22 miles there. There were a few sections that were a bit bumpy but just be aware of your surroundings and you should be fine. Almost every trailhead had a bathroom and bike station to use, and there were also great views!
Lots of garbage and campsites. Some sections are blocked with tents.
Neighborhood greenways are better.
We started at Bonnie Falls trailhead and headed up towards Vernonia. The signage was not very clear and we ended up an a logging road for an extra 4 miles. We should have gone under the bridge at about 14 miles. Instead we went on to the logging road. Good views of Mt. St. Helens and Mt. Adams but on the wrong road. So we backtracked after talking to some people. The trail was quite muddy in spots (mid-March). Most of the trail was packed dirt and gravel. It is paved from Scapoose to Ruley TH. Then it's trees, river, meadows. Very quiet and pleasant.
I ride this almost daily in the summer , I really like having this trail so close to where I live. The only issues is you really need to pay attention the first time you ride it or you may get lost like I did. And since COVID-19 the homeless have really took over this area.
The hills are steep but the scenery makes up for that. Peaceful, rolling vistas. A beautiful challenge that feels like a back country trek. I wouldn't try to bike it unless you are super fit. Some of the hills after Nora St will kick your butt just walking them..
Best access point is parking at Columbia Boulevard Water Treatment plaint and following the path and bridge across the slough. A little industrial in parts, but beautiful views of the slough and lots of birds (great blue herons, great egrets, hawks, sandpipers, etc.) and other animals (river otters, nutria, etc.). You'll have the trail mostly to yourself. I'd recommend going during the week to avoid going on a day where the raceway is up and running. Great hidden gem.
I didn't like how one direction was mostly uphill and the other direction was mostly downhill. I like a little more variety of up and down in each direction. And although it was pretty, I'm I don't understand why this trail is so popular.
My husband and I just discovered this trail today. What a gem! Love the random artwork and the peaceful trail!
The first portion of it, starting near Vancouver Lake, is pretty, although there is very little shade. However, once it gets to the end of the Isthmus, at Blurock Landing, it parallels the road. It's really no more than a more protected bike lane that is right beside 501. I walked for a while and then turned around, very disappointed. I'm surprised at the high ratings folks gave it. 5 stars, really? Also cell phone coverage is spotty (at least for my phone) so be aware. For bikers or skaters it may be fine, but NOT recommended for walkers unless you find walking beside a sometimes busy two lane road as your idea of being out in nature.
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