Head to the Columbia River Gorge for some hiking and breathtaking views. Check out Multnomah Falls, the most famous waterfall, and the Bridge of the Gods, a suspension bridge spanning the Columbia River. Don't forget to pack comfortable shoes and plenty of water for the hike.
Spend the day at Mount Hood, the highest peak in Oregon. In the winter, you can hit the slopes for some skiing or snowboarding. In the summer, take a hike or go mountain biking. If you're feeling extra adventurous, book a guided climbing tour to the summit.
For the Columbia River Gorge, renting a car is the most convenient option, although public transportation is available. For Mount Hood, renting a car is recommended as there are no public transportation options available. Expect to pay around $40 per day for a rental car. Travel time is included in the distance estimates.
If you have more time, check out some of the other waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge, such as Wahkeena Falls or Horsetail Falls. For a less strenuous activity on Day 2, head to Timberline Lodge and take in the views of Mount Hood while enjoying a meal or drinks at the historic lodge.
Portland International Airport (PDX) is the primary airport serving Portland, located just 10 miles northeast of downtown. It's the largest airport in Oregon and serves major airlines such as Delta, United, and Southwest. Expect a 20-30 minute drive from the airport to downtown Portland.