One Night Wilderness: Portland: Quick and Convenient Backcountry Getaways within Three Hours of the City

by Doug Lorain

Surrounded by old-growth forests, volcanic peaks, and water in nearly all its forms--from the ocean to alpine lakes, glaciers to waterfalls--the Portland area is a short jaunt from boundless adventure opportunities, many of which can be taken in just one night. This book covers the best one- (and a few two-) night hikes within three hours of the city--perfect for hikers seeking a wilderness experience without the commitment of a lengthy backpacking trek. Trips take readers to the lush Olympic Mountains, eerie Mount St. Helens, the thundering Columbia River, and the quirky spires of Three Fingered Jack.

Genres: Guidebook

234 pages, Paperback

First published February 15, 2009

Reviews

[Rebecca L · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great guide to quick outdoor trips near Portland

[Wendy · Rating 4 out of 5]

So excited. On our way to the library, we were talking backpacking. I'm not a fan of carrying heavy stuff long distances, but I love the solitude and beauty you get by walking away from the trailhead. My husband is sturdier on foot, but has back issues that make sleeping on the ground problematic. This book looks like it will help us find places that will let us get small, frequent doses of backpacking delight. I've used Lorain's trail guides before, so I trust his ratings and comments as well.

[Melody · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found several hikes in this book that I didn't know about before, and that I am eager to try out. The maps/trail descriptions are nice and clear, and the book gives a person lots of fun options. A short introduction covers the essentials of backpacking, but steers you toward more thorough resources before advising you to go out into the wilds.