A small network of trails surrounds and climbs this extinct volcano in Southeast Portland. Some routes are paved, others are dirt, allowing hikers to construct whatever loop best suits them. Climb to the top of Mt Tabor for views that stretch from downtown Portland to the snowy slopes of Mt Hood.

Powell Butte is another extinct volcano on the east side of Portland with a great trail network ripe for exploration. Miles of trails, both paved and unpaved, wind around the base of the butte, and there are multiple routes to the summit. The most direct path, the Mountain View Trail, runs from the visitor center to the top in .75 miles. A mountain finder at the the summit identifies the Cascade volcanos that line the horizon, including nearby Mt Hood.

Situated on the north side of the Columbia River in Washington, this refuge offers a nice selection of easy hikes. The Mountain View Trail is a good 1-mile stroll that features a wide, flat path leading to a view of Mt Hood.

Eight miles of trails wind through the woods above Tryon Creek, offering numerous options for loops. Start at the Nature Center and link the Middle Creek, Cedar, and Old Main trails to form a mellow 2-mile loop that runs through the heart of the park.

Located on Sauvie Island, this park offers an easy 2-mile loop that winds through the woods and out to the banks of the Multnomah Channel. It's level walking all the way, and there are ample opportunities for bird watching and wildllife viewing.

Set out from the trailhead at the Riverbend Picnic area and combine the Riverbend and Maple Ridge Trails for a 3.4-mile loop hike with views along the Clackamas River and sections of trail winding through forests of red-cedar, hemlock, and Douglas-fir.

The Wildwood Trail runs a full 30 miles through Forest Park, connecting to scores of other paths along the way. If that distance seems a bit dauting, start out with this shorter loop instead: Take the Redwood Trail north through the Hoyt Arboretum, then circle back around on the Wildwood Trail for an easy 2.5-mile loop. Take the Oak or Magnolia trails on the way back to make an even shorter loop.