Looking for a spectacular dayhike near Portland? Most thru-hikers follow this alternate path, which passes a dozen large cascades, including walk-behind-it Tunnel Falls. "For a ways," says Jack Haskel, our PCT map contributor, "the trail is blasted out of 200-foot cliffs with only some cables to hold onto."

TIMBERLINE LODGE to CASCADE LOCKS: Swift creeks, several waterfalls, and long photogenic views near Mt. Hood highlight this 41-mile segment.

A steady climb past towering firs and a cascading waterfall leads to Dublin Lake--the hidden gem of the Columbia River Gorge--on this 13.3-mile out-and-back.

Get your fill of breathtaking waterfalls on this 13.1-mile out-and-back in the Columbia River Gorge that visits Punchbowl Falls, Tunnel Falls, and Twister Falls.

Ditch the crowds on this lesser-traveled, 8.7-miler in the Columbia River Gorge that features shady old-growth forest, striking rock pinnacles, and a breathtaking waterfall.

You'll find postcard-worthy views atop a rocky lookout on this 9.6-mile lollipop loop touring the lush forests and ravines of the Columbia River Gorge.

Take the secluded route up Larch Mountain to a popular pinnacle on this 7-mile loop that features shady woods, vibrant wildflowers, and huge, 5-mountain views.

Trek through a lush wonderland en route to four spectacular waterfalls, countless swimming holes, and postcard-worthy views of the Columbia River Gorge on this 8.8-mile loop.

Find primo lakeside camping on a rainforest-to-alpine loop.

This 6.6-mile out-and-back visits an old fire lookout site and two wildflower-strewn meadows with postcard-worthy views of Mount Hood.