Oregon has some of the most beautiful hiking terrain in the country. Known for its wide topographical diversity, Oregon contains hiking trails through the desert, mountains, coasts, forests, and canyons. There's probably no other state in the nation with as many hiking opportunities that boast the breathtaking scenery that can be found while hiking through Oregon.

Whetstone Ridge to Twin Lakes - found in Bull of the Woods Wilderness off of Oregon Highway 224, 26 miles southeast of Estacada Walking through this western Cascade preserve, visitors will enjoy densely forested canyons, clear running streams, small lakes and view offering ridges. With over 27,400 acres of wilderness, hikers have a great chance of finding some privacy and quiet. The 9.2 mile round trip hike to Silver King Lake junction, or the 14.2 mile round trip hike to Upper Twin Lakes are both classified as moderate in difficulty. To reach Silver King Lake and return, hikers should reserve about four and a half hours. However, to make the trip to Upper Twin Lakes, travelers should schedule in about two days. The time to hike through the preserve is between late June and October although for the best sights that the hike has to offer, hikers should make the trip in mid July. A pair of small lakes awaits the weary traveler at the Upper Twin Lakes along with campsites and some fantastic views.

Triangulation Peak - 56 miles east of Salem on Highway 22 This easy two hour hike seems deceptive from the ground. Visitors mistake the dull looking peak as a good way to get some exercise. However, upon reaching the top, they realize their mistake. This 4.2 mile round trip journey extends a view to the towering peak of Mount Jefferson. The trail itself is also spectacular with Douglas firs, true firs, hemlocks and cedars bordering the walk along with abundant wildflowers, Huckleberries and beargrass.

Hanging Rock - Located in Coos County outside of Glendale, Oregon Hikers looking for a jaw-dropping view at the end of the trail should consider Hanging Rock. It's probably one of the state's most incredible day hikes, but the trail sees few visitors. When hikers reach the turn around point on this journey, they will be standing atop an unbelievable overhang 3600 feet above the rapidly moving Rogue River. With a pair of binoculars hikers can see the white-water rafters in the river far below. If hikers choose the short route to Hanging Rock the total round trip distance is two miles, while the longer trek stretches into a four mile round trip journey.

Information on more great hiking trips, including a 41 mile trip around Mount Hood, is available on my website.

Barbara Pfieffer
http://www.vacation-in-oregon.com
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Picture: Hiking in Oregon