Can You Recommend A Scenic Driving Route Around Portland?

Sure! Portland, Oregon is situated in a region, with beauty providing numerous picturesque drives that showcase the areas lush landscapes, rivers and mountains. One popular route that captures the essence of the Pacific Northwest begins in the city. Takes you through a diverse range of terrains. From urban settings to forested hillsides and alongside major waterways.

Scenic Driving Route around Portland.

Commence your journey in Downtown Portland. Start your drive at the heart of the city. Take a moment to appreciate the captivating skyline and the Willamette River that gracefully divides the East and West sides of town.
Travel eastward, across Hawthorne Bridge. Cross over this bridge for views of downtown Portland.
Head south on McLoughlin Blvd/99E. Follow this route as it takes you alongside the Willamette River.
Explore Sellwood neighborhood. Consider making a detour to Sellwood Riverfront Park for a view of the river.
Continue towards Oregon City. Keep heading until you reach Oregon City, which marks the end point of the renowned Oregon Trail. Don't miss out on visiting their elevator for views.
Here's a suggested paraphrased version;

Take the I 205 North towards West Linn. You'll come across the Abernethy Bridge. It's a spot to enjoy the views of the Willamette River.
Head, in the direction of Lake Oswego. Follow the signs for Willamette Falls Drive. This route offers breathtaking scenery of the river and magnificent homes along the way.
Continue your journey by looping North using Highway 43. Drive alongside the Willamette River towards Portland passing through Dunthorpe, a neighborhood and enjoying the beauty of Tryon Creek State Natural Area.
Cross over the Sellwood Bridge to return to Portland while taking in some vistas of the Willamette River.
Enjoy a drive along Terwilliger Boulevard, a winding road that provides views of both cityscapes and forested areas with designated vista points.
Make your way towards Pittock Mansion, a home known for its viewpoints showcasing Portlands skyline, against Mount Hood as an enchanting backdrop. Don't miss out on capturing some photos
Complete your drive by descending into downtown via West Burnside Street.

This route typically takes a hours to complete depending on how you decide to stop and appreciate all that there is to see along the way. The ideal time to embark on this drive is, during a day when you can admire the presence of Mount Hood in the distance.

Additional Resources;

Utilize Portland Maps to navigate through city streets effectively; https://www.portlandoregon.gov/bps/article/51676
Explore Oregon Citys attractions and delve into its history; https://www.orcity.org/
Discover information about Tryon Creek State Natural Area; https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=103
Learn about Pittock Mansion and its fascinating history here; https://pittockmansion.org/

Remember to double check for any road closures or ongoing construction that might impact your route before embarking on your drive, around Portland!

1 Other Answers To: "Can You Recommend A Scenic Driving Route Around Portland?"

Loop through Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood

Commence your journey on I 84 East from Portland. Begin your adventure by heading out of the city on Interstate 84 the freeway that runs alongside the Columbia River Gorge.
Vista House at Crown Point. Your first point of interest should be the Vista House located at Crown Point. This architectural gem offers an observatory deck where you can soak in views of the gorge.
Multnomah Falls. Continue your drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway until you reach the Multnomah Falls – Oregon's waterfall. Make sure not to miss capturing a photo from Benson Bridge.
Hood River. Proceed towards Hood River, a town for its invigorating winds that attract windsurfers and kiteboarders from, over. Take some time to relax and indulge in culinary delights or visit one of its charming breweries.
**Step 1; Understand the ideas and concepts of the text.** Take Highway 35 South. This route will lead you towards the Mount Hood area. Along the way you'll come across orchards. Have the chance to stop at fruit stands (, during specific seasons) in the Hood River Valley.
Mount Hood. As you drive you'll get closer to Oregon's peak. You can visit the Timberline Lodge. Explore one of the many scenic trails.
Head West on Highway 26. Traverse through the captivating Mount Hood National Forest, where you'll encounter changing landscapes ranging from mountain vistas to dense forests.
Sandy. Before reaching Portland make a pit stop at the charming town of Sandy. It's a place to grab a meal and soak in all the natural beauty you've witnessed along your journey.
Return to Portland via Highway 26. Bring your driving tour to a close as you make your way back to the city.

This loop covers 146 miles. Can easily fill up an entire day if you plan on indulging in hikes and longer breaks along your route. It's undoubtedly one of the visually breathtaking drives near Portland.

Additional Resources;

For up to date information, on highway conditions and closures; Make sure to visit the TripCheck website from the Oregon Department of Transportation for updates, on road conditions. If you're interested in exploring the Multnomah Falls and other recreational spots check out the USDA Forest Service website. For attractions in Hood River County you can visit the Hood River Chamber of Commerce. If you're into skiing or want to experience Timberline Lodge head over to their website.

Remember that weather conditions can change quickly in areas so it's important to check the forecast and road conditions before setting off on your journey— during winter when there might be snow and ice on the roads. Enjoy your adventures, around Portland!