Stroll the terraces above the city; by late April you’ll start to see spring blooms and it’s a gentle intro to Portland’s green spaces. Check park hours — typically sunrise to sunset.
Short 30–45 minute drive east; Multnomah Falls is the crown jewel with a paved trail to Benson Bridge and short rim viewpoints — arrive early to avoid crowds. Visitor hours open from dawn to dusk; parking can fill quickly.
Wahclella is a shaded canyon with a pleasant hike; Oneonta Gorge can be wet/wading and may be restricted depending on river conditions — check access updates before you go.
Short, flat walk around the lake with iconic reflected views of Mt. Hood; great for photos and spring wildflowers along the shore. Park is typically accessible in spring but check road conditions—some snow patches possible.
Historic lodge with panoramic views of Mount Hood and 360° viewpoints; accessible year-round but trail conditions vary with lingering snow at higher elevations — call or check website for current access.
One of Oregon’s best waterfall circuits — the roughly 7.2-mile loop passes behind South Falls; park typically open sunrise–sunset but check for trail conditions after winter.
Approximately 2–2.5 hour drive from Bend. Note: Rim Drive is often still snowbound in early May; check NPS site for current road and trail access before you go.
Even if the full 33-mile Rim Drive is closed, Rim Village and several viewpoints may be accessible with spectacular lake views; plan for colder conditions and possible snow patches.
If sufficient snowpack remains, consider a ranger-led snowshoe or a short cleared trail walk; many hiking options depend on snow removal—check park alerts.
Scenic drive south into Prairie Creek; Fern Canyon is a highlight with fern-covered vertical walls — check seasonal access and tide times (trail open day but Gold Bluffs parking can be limited).
Fern Canyon (about 1–2 miles round trip from the beach) features towering fern-covered walls — allow 1–2 hours; shoes will get wet in places and check access/parking status before arrival.
Short coastal drive to headland viewpoints and tidal pools; Patrick’s Point has interpretive trails and sea views — state park day-use hours typically dawn–dusk and may have a small parking fee.
If you enjoy wine country, pair a relaxed dinner with local wines; otherwise choose a simple roadside diner — a quieter evening after a big driving day.
About 1–1.5 hour drive from Sonoma/Healdsburg; Point Reyes offers coastal bluffs, wildflower meadows, and the iconic Point Reyes Lighthouse (lighthouse has seasonal hours and access may require a hike).
If open, lighthouse and surrounding trails offer dramatic ocean views; coastal weather can be cool and windy, so bring layers. Lighthouse access/parking sometimes limited — check NPS updates.
Short drive across the Golden Gate into San Francisco (about 1–1.5 hours depending on traffic) to complete the trip; return rental or keep for departure tomorrow.
Muir Woods is a quick morning trip across the Golden Gate (reservation often required for parking/entry), or stay in the city and walk Lands End for coastal views and a final taste of wildflowers and seaside vistas.