When it comes to wildflowers you can find hiking around Portland, trillium literally stands above the rest. The attractive, three-petaled white (and later dark pink) blooms often stretch up from the forest floor on rigid stems, searching out dappled sunlight.
One of the best places to seek them out is Tryon Creek State Natural Area, a 658-acre park that encompasses a wooded ravine with an expansive trail system. Each April, the Friends of Tryon Creek hosts the Trillium Festival, where volunteers run educational booths, guided walks, and a native plant sale.
Quick facts
- Starting point: Tryon Creek State Natural Area (multiple entry points are available)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: Varies depending on route; loops range from 1.2 to 2.8 miles (or more).
- Route type: Loop
- Elevation gain: 26-613 ft
- Trail surface: Soft/dirt
- Wheelchair accessible: Trillium Trail has 0.37 mile of paved surface with resting benches and viewing decks.
- Open: Year-round
- Dog friendly: Yes, leashed
Brief overview
Located just 15 minutes south of downtown Portland, Tryon Creek draws 330,000+ visitors a year — and it’s free. Before setting out, grab a printed map at the visitor center to make sure you stick to your chosen route; there are 8 total miles of trails, with some open to horses.
Why you should try it
Soak in the tranquility among stands of Douglas fir and riparian areas along the creek. The vibrant and varied habitats are a haven for wildlife species; search for kingfishers and pileated woodpeckers up high, blacktail deer and red foxes in the brush, and otters, beavers, and cutthroat trout in the water. At night, flying squirrels and owls take to the skies.
Pro tips
Parking is often hard to come by, so be prepared to find a spot out on the road or start your hike elsewhere, like the Iron Mountain or North Creek trailheads.
Let us know
Did you try this hike? Do you know of one we should check out? Send us your thoughts and recommendations — or check out our other monthly hiking guides.