The best walks and hikes around North Plains
3.8
(12)
89
hikers
4
hikes
Hikes around North Plains Oregon provide access to the varied landscapes of the Tualatin Valley. The region is characterized by rolling hills, lush farmland, and protected wetland areas. The trails here are generally low-elevation, following creek corridors and passing through local nature parks.
Best hiking trails around North Plains
- The most popular hiking route is the Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve loop from North Parking, a 4.5 mile (7.3 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 50 minutes to complete. This route explores a significant wildlife habitat with minimal elevation change.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Orchard Park to Orenco Woods Nature Park via Rock Creek Trail — Hillsboro, an easy 3.4 mile (5.4 km) path. The trail follows Rock Creek, connecting two local parks.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Rock Creek Trail loop from North East Walker Road — Oregon, a 2.7 mile (4.3 km) trail leading through a mix of wooded and open areas, often completed in about 1 hour 6 minutes.
- Hiking around North Plains is defined by gentle riverside paths, wetland preserves, and trails through community nature parks. The network offers accessible options suitable for most ability levels.
- The routes in North Plains are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 70 hikers have used komoot to explore North Plains's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
4
hikers
13.7km
03:35
120m
60m
Embark on the Rock Creek Trail for a moderate hiking experience that spans 8.5 miles (13.7 km), offering a diverse journey through varied landscapes. You'll gain 382 feet (117 metres) in elevation over approximately 3 hours and 34 minutes, making it a substantial yet accessible outing. The route features a mix of paved paths and boardwalk sections, guiding you through serene forests, vibrant wetlands, and open meadows. As you follow Springville Creek, you'll encounter a scenic bridge at Orenco Woods Nature Park, providing a picturesque spot to pause and enjoy the surroundings.
Planning your visit to the Rock Creek Trail is straightforward, as it's designed for ease of access and comfort. You'll find well-maintained paths and wide bridges throughout the route, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors. Conveniently, parking is typically available at various access points along the trail, allowing you to choose your starting point. Amenities such as picnic tables, water fountains, and even porta-potties are provided, ensuring a comfortable trip.
This trail is a highlight within the Rock Creek Greenway, offering a unique opportunity to explore a rich natural environment close to urban areas. As you hike, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various songbirds, majestic osprey, and Red-tailed Hawks soaring overhead. The path thoughtfully follows both Springville Creek and a powerline corridor, showcasing how nature and infrastructure can coexist. It's an excellent choice if you're seeking a blend of natural beauty and convenient amenities.
2
hikers
20.6km
05:18
100m
110m
Embark on the Rock Creek Trail, a challenging 12.8-mile (20.6 km) hike that promises a rewarding experience for seasoned adventurers. You will navigate diverse landscapes, winding through dense forests, serene wetlands, and expansive open meadows. As you hike, enjoy continuous views of Rock Creek itself, with towering evergreens providing a majestic backdrop. The route features a total elevation gain of 320 feet (98 metres), making it a difficult undertaking that typically requires around 5 hours and 17 minutes to complete. Keep an eye out for the tranquil Rock Creek Greenway Boardwalk, a notable feature along your journey.
Planning your visit to the Rock Creek Trail is straightforward, as parking is generally available at various access points along the route. The trail offers convenient amenities such as wide bridges, picnic tables, and water fountains, enhancing your comfort during the long hike. While the overall difficulty is rated as difficult, certain sections are notably flat and ADA-accessible, making parts of the trail suitable for a wider range of visitors. Consider starting your hike early to make the most of the daylight and avoid peak times, especially on weekends.
The Rock Creek Trail is distinguished by its rich natural environment, offering glimpses of local wildlife like red-tailed hawks and kestrels, particularly in the more open areas. This trail is a significant part of the Rock Creek Greenway, an important ecological corridor that preserves diverse habitats. Its blend of challenging terrain and accessible sections makes it a unique destination within the region. The trail's extensive length also provides ample opportunity to explore different facets of the local ecosystem.
Sign up for free
1.08km
00:17
0m
0m
The Orchard Park trail in Hillsboro, Oregon, offers a delightful, easy stroll on a paved multi-use path. It's a fantastic option for a quick escape into nature, providing a consistently flat and accessible surface that's perfect for casual walkers, families, or anyone needing a gentle leg stretch. You'll enjoy the simplicity and ease of this short route, making it a reliable choice for a relaxed outdoor moment.
Planning your visit to Orchard Park is simple; the trail is designed for easy public access and is suitable for use year-round. It's a great spot to bring your dog, as long as they are kept on a leash, and its minimal 14 feet (4 metres) of elevation gain means you won't need any special gear. This 0.7-mile (1.1 km) route can be completed in about 16 minutes, making it ideal for a spontaneous outing.
This particular Orchard Park trail stands out as a convenient urban oasis, offering a peaceful, paved pathway within the community. While many trails bearing the
4.3
(3)
14
hikers
7.25km
01:50
10m
10m
The Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve Loop offers an easy 4.5-mile (7.3 km) hike, taking around 1 hour and 49 minutes with a minimal 39 feet (12 metres) of elevation gain. You'll wander through a mix of paved, dirt, woodchip, and compacted gravel paths, experiencing diverse habitats like marshes, forests, and wet meadows. Keep an eye out for the Tualatin River views and the abundant wildlife, especially the impressive Great Blue Heron rookery.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the preserve is just minutes from downtown Hillsboro. Be aware that trails can experience seasonal flooding during winter and spring, so checking conditions beforehand is a good idea. The interconnected loops allow you to easily customize your hiking distance, and many sections are ADA-friendly, making it accessible for a wide range of visitors.
This preserve is a designated Important Bird Area by the Audubon Society, hosting over 211 species annually, including nesting Bald Eagles. Beyond birds, you might spot deer, otters, and beavers. The on-site interactive Nature Center provides educational exhibits, including a real bald eagle nest display, adding an extra layer of engagement to your outdoor adventure.
3.0
(1)
6
hikers
5.42km
01:23
20m
20m
The Rock Creek Trail in Hillsboro, Oregon, offers a refreshing urban escape, winding through a scenic greenway that combines paved sections and boardwalks. You'll enjoy views of the meandering creek, towering evergreens, and peaceful meadows, with the tranquil Orenco Woods Nature Park serving as a lovely highlight. It's a gentle path, perfect for a relaxed outing, providing a natural respite within the city.
Planning your visit is straightforward, with Orchard Park serving as a convenient starting point. This park provides parking, restrooms, and picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for families or anyone looking for easy Rock Creek Trail routes for beginners. The trail is accessible year-round, offering a reliable option for a quick nature fix.
This trail isn't just for recreation; it's an important artery that links residential areas with local employment and shopping centers, serving as both a natural escape and a commuting route. It's an easy 3.4-mile (5.4 km) hike with only 73 feet (22 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 23 minutes, making it a truly family-friendly Rock Creek Trail option.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Short bikeway we use constantly. You can get to it using bike lanes, bike trails and residential streets
0
0
Once a golf course, the Orenco Woods Nature Park has been transformed into an outdoor lover's paradise, right in suburban Hillsboro. The cycle trail is paved and there is a playground on site for any mini cyclists with you.
0
0
This suburban wildlife refuge spans over 635 acres and offers 4.5 miles (7.24 km) of trails that take you through the upland region near the Nature Center and the riparian woodlands along the river. While exploring the preserve, you can spot a variety of wildlife throughout the year, particularly if you're a bird enthusiast. Look out for bald eagles, Canadian geese, blackbirds, and swallows. However, please keep in mind that some lower trails may be inaccessible during periods of high water.
0
0
The Rock Creek Greenway is a beautiful stretch of wooded green-space between Orchard Park and Bethany Lake. The Rock Creek Trail passes through the greenway.
0
0
Coyote Hill Seasonal Trail is a very short 0.7 mile within the 4.5 mile trail network of Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve. This route has an elevation gain of about 3.3 ft and so your not going to get any altitude sickness so have a nice easy walk of it. NOTE: The trail is open May-September. It is closed the rest of the year for nesting habitat.
0
0
Jackson Bottom is a habitat for many amazing plants and animals. The preserve's 635 acres are a quiet sanctuary for both people and wildlife. The preserve also offers 4.5 miles of good trails that meanders through a variety of habitats, providing exceptional wildlife watching opportunities throughout the seasons. It would be prudent to call for trail updates before coming to visit after wet weather spells. When visiting, please stay on the trail and no collecting of animals or plants. Trails are open seven days a week from sunrise to sunset. It would be prudent to call for trail updates before coming to visit after wet weather spells. When visiting, please stay on the trail and no collecting of animals or plants.
0
0
A beautiful treelined raised boardwalk section on the Rock Creek Trail winding its way through on a platform in order to better preserve the surrounding environment.
0
0
Shadow Springs is a nature preserve that shares borders with Orchard Park and Amberview Park along the Rock Creek Trail. There are lots of bridges in the park, and you can connect to a few different trails in the preserve.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes near North Plains?
Yes, the area is well-suited for families. A great option is the Orchard Park to Orenco Woods Nature Park via Rock Creek Trail. It's a gentle path that connects two local parks, making it an enjoyable outing for all ages.
Can I take my dog on the trails around North Plains?
Many trails in the region are dog-friendly, but policies can vary, especially in wildlife preserves. For example, the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge has strict rules to protect wildlife, so pets are not permitted. Always check the specific regulations for the park or trail you plan to visit before you go.
What are the hiking trails like in L.L. Stub Stewart State Park?
L.L. Stub Stewart State Park offers nearly 30 miles of trails through rolling hills and forests. The trails are generally considered moderate, with some significant elevation changes. Many trail names, like 'Skidder Row', reflect the area's logging history. The Hilltop Day-use Area provides excellent views of the Coast Range.
Are there any circular walks available?
Absolutely. If you're looking for a loop trail, consider the Rock Creek Trail loop from North East Walker Road. This route is under 3 miles and takes you through a pleasant mix of wooded and open areas along the creek.
What is the Banks-Vernonia State Trail like for hiking?
The Banks-Vernonia State Trail is a 21-mile paved path on a former railroad bed, making it great for an easy hike with a very gentle grade. A major highlight is the Buxton Trestle, a high and long bridge offering fantastic views over the forest. You can access the trail from several points, including the Manning Trailhead.
Are there any hikes with waterfalls near North Plains?
While the immediate North Plains area is known more for wetlands and gentle creeks, you can find spectacular waterfalls with a bit of a drive. The highly-regarded Silver Falls State Park features a famous loop trail that takes you past ten different waterfalls, though it's important to note that pets are not allowed on the main canyon trail there.
What kind of wildlife can I see while hiking?
The Tualatin Valley is rich in wildlife. The Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve is a prime location for bird-watching, with nearly 200 species recorded. In other areas, like the Ghost Creek Trail, you might spot western pond turtles from the observation deck.
How can I get to the trailheads without a car?
Reaching trailheads without a car can be challenging as many are in rural locations. Some trails within city limits, like those in Orenco Woods Nature Park or Rock Creek, may be accessible via local bus routes combined with some walking. For parks further out, such as L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, public transport options are limited, and a car is generally necessary.
What are the trails like for winter hiking?
The low-elevation trails around North Plains are generally accessible for hiking year-round. Paved paths like the Banks-Vernonia State Trail are excellent winter options. Trails in wetland areas can be muddy, so waterproof footwear is recommended. Always check weather conditions before heading out, as some higher elevation trails in the broader region may see snow.
Are there good options for trail running near North Plains?
Yes, many of the local trails are suitable for running. The relatively flat and paved Banks-Vernonia State Trail is a popular choice for long, uninterrupted runs. For a shorter run with a bit more variety, the Orenco Woods Nature Park loop from Noble Woods Park offers a pleasant circuit through natural scenery.
What do other hikers enjoy about the North Plains area?
The trails around North Plains are well-liked by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the accessibility of the trails and the peaceful scenery of the wetlands and creek-side paths. The ability to connect with nature so close to the city is a frequently mentioned highlight.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints on my hike?
For expansive views, L.L. Stub Stewart State Park is a top choice, with viewpoints looking out over the Oregon Coast Range. For a different kind of scenery, the Buxton Trestle on the Banks-Vernonia State Trail provides a unique, elevated perspective over the forest canopy.
Most popular attractions around North Plains
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
