As summer’s warmth fades and the skies turn cloudy and grey, it can be tempting to stay indoors for days — or weeks — on end. However, getting outside can provide benefits for your mental and physical health. And, with what seems like another trail at every turn, Oregon certainly has no shortage of places to explore.
Harvard Health recently published an article on 5 surprising benefits of walking, reminding us that we don’t need expensive equipment or elaborate routines in order to care for our bodies. The listed benefits include easing joint pain, boosting immune function, and counteracting effects of obesity-promoting genes.
Here are four Oregon hikes, somewhat nearby, that you might not have heard of before. They will lift your spirits and allow you to rekindle your love of the outdoors, even when the weather isn’t so lovely.
Hug Point
This hike is located on the coast near Tolovana Park near Cannon Beach. It’s only about one mile long. Caves, tidepools, and sandstone cliffs make this area an exciting place to explore.
Located west of Eugene, Sweet Creek Trail is gorgeous year round. This two mile hike takes you to multiple stunning waterfalls.
Located on the coast near Florence, this four mile hike leads you through coastal forest to end up on the beach. Basically, the best of both worlds that the Pacific Northwest offers.
This three mile hike takes you to a suspension bridge with a breathtaking view of the Drift Creek Falls waterfall. Located east of Salem, this trail is worth the drive.
By Olivia Goodfriend
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