Located in Malheur County, the Pillars of Rome is a unique hidden gem. These amazing, mysterious geological formations aren't quite like anywhere else in the state. Check it out:
The Pillars of Rome, Also known as the Rome Cliffs, is a remote natural wonder is tucked away in the high desert of Southeastern Oregon.
This stunning place is roughly five by two miles wide, full of intricate geological formations made up of fossil-laden clay and other sediments. Many of the pillars reach as high as 100 feet tall.
When visiting, you may want to bring a camera along; this otherworldly location is a great place for sightseeing and photography. You'll feel like you've been plopped down on the moon.
There are no marked trails here, but you can approach the pillars from numerous angles and explore the area on foot, so long as you are respectful of the delicate environment and leave no trace behind. You should also be cautious of falling rocks.
You can find this unique place by following HWY 95 to the small community of Rome, Oregon. A dirt road (located across from the Rome Store) will lead you from the center of town a couple of miles to the pillars.
The Beaver State is blessed with many iconic trails to explore. Perhaps you’ve researched the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, an epic 13-mile trail that’s highly regarded as being one of the best hiking trails in the state. Or maybe you’re into chasing waterfalls and prefer the Trail of Ten Falls, an iconic trail in Oregon that will lead you to more than 10 waterfalls. Of course, the Oregon Coast Trail might be the most iconic trail of them all. This 383-mile scenic drive showcases the beauty of the Oregon coastline like you've never seen before.
advertisement
The good news is that not all of Oregon’s trails are that long. You can experience the beauty of the Beaver State without committing an entire weekend to hike 20+ miles. Angel’s Rest trail is one of my favorite treks, and it’s a great trail for anyone looking to challenge themselves.
The Angel’s Rest Trail is a 4.5-mile out-and-back trail near Corbett, Oregon. It’s only 27 miles from Portland, making it a great trail for anyone looking to get out of the city for an afternoon. That being said, it can be one of the more popular trails near Portland. Plan to tackle this trail during the weekday if you want to escape the weekend warrior crowds.
The parking lot for Angel’s Rest is well-maintained and easy to get to from I-84. The trail begins by leading you through a thick forest, which is pretty iconic for an Oregon trail. There won’t be many viewpoints for the first mile of the trail, but don’t worry, your patience will be rewarded!
The trail gets steeper and slightly more difficult as you press on. A good pair of hiking shoes will be your best friend for this hike—those loose rocks and large roots can test your footing. Overall, this trail has nearly 1,500 feet of elevation gain. You’ll certainly feel it, but when you reach the Angel’s Rest viewpoint it’ll all be but a distant memory.
Most people will tackle this trail in the late mornings, but I’d encourage you to wait and do this hike so you can watch the sunset from Angel’s Rest viewpoint. It’ll make the experience even more magical.
The trail is open year-round, but the best time to hike Angel’s Rest is from February to October. Whenever you decide to tackle this iconic trail in Oregon, make sure you have an AllTrails + account and the best hiking gear to ensure you are prepared.
Share this article with someone you can’t wait to hike Angel’s Rest with! Read on to check out some of our favorite hiking trails in Oregon.
Oregon in the fall is a magical time, and there are few better places to experience the seasonal beauty than Chehalem Ridge Nature Park. Located just outside of Gaston, a small town southwest of Portland, this nature park offers a 5-mile, out-and-back trail that winds through breathtaking oak savannas, meadows, and woodlands. The combination of sweeping valley views, diverse wildlife, and vibrant fall colors makes this hike a perfect fall getaway.
If you’re planning to visit for peak foliage, late September through early November is the best time. During these months, the trees and plant life explode into warm autumn hues, transforming the landscape into a colorful wonderland. The park’s iconic oak trees, in particular, put on a dazzling display of reds, oranges, and yellows. Cooler temperatures make the hike especially enjoyable, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the changing season.
Chehalem Ridge’s 5-mile trail is moderately challenging, making it suitable for both experienced and beginner hikers alike. With about 600 feet of elevation gain, the hike offers a steady but manageable climb through a variety of landscapes. The trail is well-maintained, though Oregon’s fall rains can leave parts of it a bit muddy, so be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots. As you make your way through the trail, you’ll be rewarded with a series of stunning overlooks offering sweeping views of the Tualatin Valley. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of Mount Hood in the distance, framed by the rolling hills and vibrant foliage below.
One of the highlights of this trail is the variety of landscapes it offers. The hike begins by winding through open meadows dotted with wildflowers, which later give way to dense woodlands where you’ll find towering oaks and Douglas firs. Along the way, you’ll pass through several different ecosystems, from open grasslands to shady, forested sections where moss-covered trees create a peaceful, almost otherworldly atmosphere. In the fall, these sections of the trail are particularly beautiful, with the sunlight filtering through the golden leaves above.
Wildlife is abundant in Chehalem Ridge Nature Park. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, coyotes, and a variety of birds that call this park home. Birdwatchers, in particular, will enjoy the chance to spot species like the red-tailed hawk, great horned owl, and western bluebird. The park’s diverse habitats attract a wide range of wildlife, making it a great destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Chehalem Ridge Nature Park is relatively new, having opened in 2021. One of the park’s main attractions is its accessibility. It’s located just 45 minutes from downtown Portland, making it an easy day trip for city dwellers looking to escape into nature. The park is open year-round, but fall is arguably the best time to visit due to the stunning foliage and cooler weather.
Parking at Chehalem Ridge is free, and there are no entrance fees, making it an affordable option for those looking to explore Oregon’s natural beauty. The park’s main trailhead offers plenty of parking, though the lot can fill up on weekends, so it’s a good idea to arrive early if you’re visiting during peak hiking hours. Basic restroom facilities are also available at the trailhead, so you can comfortably prepare for your hike.
One of the things that makes Chehalem Ridge Nature Park stand out is its multi-use trails. The park is open to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders, so you may encounter others enjoying the trail in different ways. While pets are not allowed on the trail to protect the local wildlife, the park still offers a serene, family-friendly environment for visitors of all ages. The wide, well-maintained paths make it easy to navigate, even for those with little hiking experience, and there are plenty of spots along the trail to stop and take in the views or snap a few photos of the stunning fall foliage.
Chehalem Ridge also offers several picnic areas, perfect for enjoying a meal with a view. Bring a packed lunch and settle in at one of the park’s scenic picnic spots, where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of the valley below. If you plan to spend the day, it’s worth packing a camera to capture the incredible landscapes and vibrant colors surrounding you. The park’s open meadows and wooded trails provide endless photo opportunities, especially when the foliage is most colorful in the fall.
advertisement
Chehalem Ridge Nature Park is a must-visit destination during the fall. Its 5-mile trail provides a perfect mix of scenic views, wildlife encounters, and the vibrant colors of autumn, making it one of Oregon’s best-kept secrets for leaf-peeping.
Need some new boots for your autumn hikes? I love the ones at REI. There are tons of great hikes in Oregon to catch the autumn foliage.
