Oregon is a gorgeous state and a great place to spend time outdoors. Plus, hiking is fantastic exercise: a 160-lb person can expect to burn up to 440 calories per hour on a hike!
To honor this time-honored pastime, we’re sharing some of our favorite local hikes near Salem.
These 5 trials are all less than one hour away from the city and vary in difficulty and terrain, so they’re sure to satisfy everyone’s inner outdoorsman!
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5 Hiking Trails Less Than an Hour From Salem
1) Salem Heritage Trees Walk
This out and back trail is a relatively easy hike with only 19 feet of total elevation and a 1.5 mile total distance. It’s perfect for a hike with the whole family, and you can even bring your leashed dogs along. Open year-round, and full of gorgeous flowers and wildlife.
2) Little North Santiam Trail
Just under 1 hour from Salem, this moderate-to-difficult out and back trail features up to 7.9 miles along the Little North Santiam River near the Opal Creek Scenic Recreation Area. It boasts an elevation gain of 1496 feet. Witness a lush green forest, babbling creeks, and several rustic footbridges. Disappear into the woods for a while and let nature melt your worries away!
3) Willamette Mission Trail
Just a 20 minute drive will get you to this easy loop trail located in this historical park of the same name. This trail in particular is an awesome place to bring the family, the kids, or the dogs with just 4.2 miles and 55 feet of elevation, but the park in total has over 16 miles of trails to choose from. The park also is home to two oxbow lakes and America’s largest Black Cottonwood, living large at over 250 years old!
4) Trail of Ten Falls
About 40 minutes away from Salem is Silver Falls State Park where you’ll find this moderate loop trail coming in at 7.1 miles and 1,118 feet of total elevation. People love it for the views of the epic waterfalls, gorgeous canyon land, and well-maintained trails. Expect a few tourists with you, but it’s well worth the visit.
5) Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge: Rail Trail Loop
Enjoy an easy and gorgeous walk in the woods on this 1.4 mile loop trail with only about 6 feet of elevation. Follow boardwalk trails through wetlands and bring your binoculars to check out the amazing birds and wildlife. This is a great trail to introduce your little ones to the joys of being outdoors!
Are you a Salem local and have your own favorite hike? Feel free to share your secrets in the comments below!
Why include a photo of a hike / waterfall that isn’t featured in this list?
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