Skip to Main Content
Road Scholar logo
Oregon

Portland & Beyond: An Outdoor Adventure With Your Grandchild

Program No. 24157RJ
Zip, raft, kayak and hike your way through the great outdoors with your grandchild, all while learning why eco-friendly Portland is one of the coolest cities around!
WishlistShare
Start
  • 24157-portland-oregon-zipline-lghoz.jpg
GrandparentMulti-SportOutdoor AdventuresSmall GroupAges 10 – 13
Length
6 days
Rating (5)
Activity Level
Starts at
1,949 / ADULT
1,299 / CHILD

Enroll with Confidence

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. Learn more

Protecting the Environment

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more

6 days
5 nights
13 meals
5B 4L 4D
1
Check-in, Program Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Portland, OR
2
Portland Kayaking, Urban Hiking
Portland, OR
3
Hiking the Columbia River Gorge
Portland, OR
4
Ziplining, Free Time
Portland, OR
5
North Santiam River Rafting
Portland, OR
6
Wrap-up Session, Program Concludes
Portland, OR
View Full Itinerary

At a Glance

Not only is Portland, Oregon full of magnificent parks and gardens, it’s the perfect gateway to the great outdoors! Just beyond the city sits a world of natural wonders, from thundering waterfalls to rushing rivers — and you and your grandchild will explore them together in unforgettable ways. Soar over towering trees at a zipline park, practice your rafting skills along the North Santiam River and spot birds, wildlife and waterfalls on a kayaking expedition. You’ll also learn how Portland has become of the most eco-friendly cities in the U.S. as you set out on an urban hike with experts, explore local neighborhoods by public transportation and more! Both inside the city and beyond, this fun-filled adventure is sure to put the “great” in the great outdoors!
Activity Level
Outdoor: Spirited
Kayaking for 1.5 hours on flatwater, walking up to two miles on city sidewalks and paved trails. Hiking about 4 miles on packed dirt trails. Ziplining for up to 2.5 hours. Rafting 13 miles down river apprximately 3.5 hours, whitewater rating II+.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • See booming waterfalls up close during an expert-led hike through the Columbia River Gorge.
  • Learn about local wildlife as you kayak along the Willamette River and spend a day rafting on the North Santiam River.
  • Soar among huge Douglas Firs and Western Red Cedars at a zipline park, a thrilling bonding experience!

General Notes

Due to the nature of this program, listening devices are not available.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Carolyn Best
Of all the joys in Carolyn’s life, the two greatest are her grandchildren and her adventurous travels. After three distinct careers in nursing, fashion and nannying, it was time to pursue her dream of traveling. Carolyn has sky-dived in Hawaii, sailed across the Atlantic in a 65-foot boat, hiked in Zion with her grandsons and traveled internationally to Russia, China and Spain. With Road Scholar, Carolyn loves to share the Pacific Northwest with adventurous people who have a lust for life and can-do attitudes.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Carolyn Best
Carolyn Best View biography
Of all the joys in Carolyn’s life, the two greatest are her grandchildren and her adventurous travels. After three distinct careers in nursing, fashion and nannying, it was time to pursue her dream of traveling. Carolyn has sky-dived in Hawaii, sailed across the Atlantic in a 65-foot boat, hiked in Zion with her grandsons and traveled internationally to Russia, China and Spain. With Road Scholar, Carolyn loves to share the Pacific Northwest with adventurous people who have a lust for life and can-do attitudes.
Profile Image of Eric Wheeler
Eric Wheeler View biography
Eric Wheeler has over twenty years of experience as an architectural historian. He has written numerous National Register nominations, taught graduate level classes in architectural history and consulted with architects and realtors. Eric discovered the Pacific Northwest several years ago and continues to explore and interpret the captivating built environment of Portland and environs. Currently Eric designs and leads outings for his architectural walking Meetup group: Positively Portland Walking Tours. Eric has been leading walking excursions for Road Scholar since 2017.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Search for a Title
Start Enrolling
Meals
13 Meals
5 Breakfasts
4 Lunches
4 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Vegetarian, Low Fat, Gluten Free, Low Salt
Lodging
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Display
Aug 04, 2024 - Aug 09, 2024
  • Aug 04, 2024 - Aug 09, 2024
  • Jul 07, 2024 - Jul 12, 2024
  • Aug 04, 2024 - Aug 09, 2024
DoubleTree by Hilton Portland
5 nights
Portland
This newly renovated hotel is located in the center of the Lloyd District near the MAX light rail, providing easy access to many local businesses and restaurants. Upon arrival, enjoy their famous complimentary, warm, walnut-chocolate chip cookies. During your stay, take advantage of the outdoor pool, fitness center, and the on-site restaurant which uses local ingredients. The hotel puts a strong emphasis on sustainability, and is focused on ongoing environmental initiatives including community outreach, waste reduction, energy efficiency and localized purchasing.
TripAdvisor Reviews
DoubleTree by Hilton Portland
5 nights
Portland
This newly renovated hotel is located in the center of the Lloyd District near the MAX light rail, providing easy access to many local businesses and restaurants. Upon arrival, enjoy their famous complimentary, warm, walnut-chocolate chip cookies. During your stay, take advantage of the outdoor pool, fitness center, and the on-site restaurant which uses local ingredients. The hotel puts a strong emphasis on sustainability, and is focused on ongoing environmental initiatives including community outreach, waste reduction, energy efficiency and localized purchasing.
TripAdvisor Reviews





Recommended For You