The best city hikes and walks in Lacamas Regional Park

The Washougal River Greenway Trail is an easy, pleasant hike that follows the Washougal River, offering diverse scenery from riparian forests to repurposed gravel quarries. You'll enjoy views of the water and surrounding wetlands, with the highlight being a prominent steel-and-wood pedestrian bridge that crosses the river, providing excellent viewpoints. This 1.2-mile (1.9 km) route has only 32 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 29 minutes, making it a quick and rewarding outing.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is very accessible and generally flat, with many paved sections. It's an ideal spot for families, those with strollers, and dog owners. Be aware that during heavy rain or snowmelt, some wetland areas can become wet or flooded, so checking local conditions before you go is a good idea.

Beyond the scenic river views, the trail is a haven for wildlife, with opportunities to spot ducks, herons, eagles, and various smaller birds, as well as butterflies and dragonflies. Depending on the season, you'll see fields of wildflowers or vibrant autumn foliage, and on clear days, even Mount Hood in the distance. This trail offers a gentle escape into nature right on the eastern edge of Camas.

The Washougal River Greenway loop from Camas offers a delightful and accessible escape into nature, perfect for a leisurely stroll. As you follow the 2.1-mile (3.3 km) path, you'll journey through wetlands and alongside the Washougal River, with opportunities to spot diverse wildlife like herons, hawks, and even deer. A standout feature is the steel-and-wood pedestrian bridge, which provides expansive views of the river and, on clear days, a peek at Mount Hood in the distance.

This easy route, with only 75 feet (23 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 51 minutes, making it ideal for beginners, families, or anyone seeking a quick outdoor fix. You'll find multiple entry points, including one near SE Yale Street and NE 2nd Avenue, and another at Baz Riverfront Park off 3rd Loop. The trail is suitable for year-round enjoyment, but consider visiting in autumn for spectacular fall foliage or in June to witness the cottonwood trees shedding their

The Marine Drive Trail offers a wonderfully flat and accessible hiking experience right along the Columbia River. You'll walk just feet from the water, enjoying views of boats, marinas, and even planes taking off and landing at Portland International Airport. The paved or asphalt surface makes it ideal for a leisurely stroll, birdwatching, or even pushing a stroller, with a mix of native plants and trees providing a lush backdrop.

Planning your visit is straightforward for this popular trail. Its highly accessible nature means it's suitable for a wide range of users, including families and those with dogs. Since some sections offer limited shade, it's wise to bring sun protection or consider hiking during cooler parts of the day. Parking is generally available at various access points along the route.

This trail is notable for its historical significance, running through an area that was a vital trade route for Native American tribes and explorers. It's also envisioned as a key part of the larger "40-Mile Loop" around Portland, connecting to other paths like the I-205 Multi-Use Path. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as it's a great spot for birdwatchers to observe species like ospreys and bald eagles.