Portland is home to the nation's largest wooded urban park—Forest Park. A short hike in, and you'll find it hard to believe that civilization is just steps away. With 70 miles of trails winding through the forest and offering views of the Willamette River, you'll often have nature all to yourself. However, you're also likely to run into locals jogging or walking their dogs—expect to be greeted with a friendly "hello." If you have the time, hike up to Pittock Mansion, a stunning French Renaissance-style château that once belonged to Henry Pittock, a prominent publisher and businessman. Today, the mansion serves as a historic house museum open to visitors, offering panoramic views of the city. Another popular destination within Forest Park is the so-called "Witch's Castle"—the moss-covered ruins of an abandoned stone house. Despite its eerie name, there’s no record of witchcraft here. However, legend has it that its original inhabitant was the first person in Oregon to be sentenced to execution for murder in 1859.

An easy 2-hour trail beginning in La Islita and exploring the tunnels and gorges of Bornos dam, this path is known as the "Angostura", bordering the valleys and lake.

If you missed the ski season you can make up for it here even on the hottest of summer days. This sports centre overlooking Lake Malta boasts a 150 metre artificial ski slope, a summer sledge run, golf lessons, as well as bicycle and rollerblade hire.