This is a post by Brittany, our resident hiking enthusiast.
The Pacific Northwest has so many amazing hikes to offer. These five are a great jumping point to get kids out there on the trail.
1. Wahclella Falls
I get asked all the time for hiking suggestions. Ninety percent of the time I will say Wahclella Falls. This hike is just too perfect. It is less than one mile each direction (just under two miles total). The hike is gorgeous. There is a perfect spot just beyond the bridge at the falls to stop, eat lunch, and let the kids throw rocks into the water. Kids LOVE to do this.
When my five year old nephew came to visit he spent most of the week telling us that he DID NOT under any circumstances want to hike. We took him to Wahclella Falls and the entire time he was singing praises of how cool this hike is.
Things to consider:
There are many portions of this hike with large drop offs on the side of the trail. If you don’t think you can trust your kids to stay on the trail it might be best to pick a different hike from this list.
It cost $5 to park at Wahclella Falls. There is a pay station in the parking lot. On weekends and holidays the parking lot fills up fast. You might have to park in the overflow area or over at the fish hatchery across the freeway. Do not try inventing a parking space. You will get a ticket. Don’t ask me how I know.
Getting there:
Take I-84 to Exit 40/Bonneville Dam Exit. Turn south and drive to the end of the road to the parking lot.
Find the other four kid-friendly hikes in Portland over at Paper Trail Design!
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