There’s nothing quite as romantic or unforgettable as an Oregon proposal during the fall. The air is crisp, the trees are changing colors, and somehow the sunrises and sunsets are more brilliant than usual.
As Portland’s full-serve boutique jewelry store, we’re proud to help Oregon couples find the perfect diamond engagement ring. Over the years, we’ve heard many engagement stories featuring stunning PNW locations. Keep reading for our list of favorite Oregon locations that make the perfect outdoor setting for a fall marriage proposal.
1. Multnomah Falls
Tucked back off the Columbia River Gorge, the historic Multnomah Falls attracts over two million visitors from around the world every year ⏤ and it’s no wonder! Spanning 2 tiers of basalt cliffs and reaching a height of 620 feet, this is the tallest waterfall in the state of Oregon and is a truly magnificent sight.
A proposal at Multnomah Falls would be a memorable experience ⏤ what a backdrop! The area is crowded, but there are ways to avoid the crowds and find a quieter spot to pop the question:
- Go on a weekday: People visit the falls everyday, but the area is significantly less crowded on a weekday.
- Go early in the day: Consider an early morning proposal!
- Hike to the top of the falls: Most visitors congregate at the base of the falls, so sneak away to the top of the falls (a 2.2-mile hike).
- Hike to the top of Wahkeena Falls: If you’re an especially adventurous couple, hike the 5.4-mile loop up 1600 feet to the top of Wahkeena Falls.
Location: 30 minutes outside of Portland
2. Haystack Rock
Haystack Rock is another recognizable Oregon landmark and a beautiful setting to get down on one knee.
This massive geological formation is most famous for its appearance in the 1985 film, The Goonies. However, what draws people to Haystack Rock is the stunning Oregon Coast backdrop and the charming town of Cannon Beach.
During low tide, you can walk right up to the rock and see colorful sea stars and tide pool creatures. Puffins are also common from early spring to mid-summer.
Location: Cannon Beach, OR (90 miles northwest of Portland)
3. Smith Rock State Park
Do you and your partner enjoy scenic views of deep river canyons and cathedral-looking basalt cliffs? Then add Smith Rock to your list of potential proposal spots!
This state park (and one of the 7 wonders of Oregon) is known as the birthplace of American sport climbing. Even if you’re not a rock climbing aficionado, Smith Rock is a must-do experience.
Hiking Misery Ridge will give you the full Smith Rock experience. On a clear day, the top of this loop trail presents an expansive view of the surrounding mountains and would make the perfect proposal spot ⏤ especially during sunset.
Location: Terrebonne, Central Oregon (about 3 hours southeast of Portland)
4. Trillium Lake
If you’re trying to choose between proposing near a lake or somewhere with a mountain view, why not have both? Trillium Lake is beautiful all on its own, but the stunning Mt. Hood backdrop is what makes this place special. As you get further into fall, you may even get some snow!
This is a drive-up lake and campground area, but if you’re looking to get away to somewhere quiet, you can find a spot somewhere around the perimeter of the lake, a 2-mile loop.
Location: Near Mt. Hood (about 90 minutes from Portland)
5. Wallowa Mountains
The Wallowa Mountains in northeastern Oregon offer an unforgettable setting. Often referred to as the "Alps of Oregon," this mountain range is renowned for its dramatic peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and expansive vistas. Whether you choose to pop the question on the shores of Wallowa Lake, under a sky full of stars, or during a hike on one of the area's many scenic trails, the Wallowas provide a breathtaking backdrop that will make your moment truly magical.
Location: Getting there is easy with a five-hour drive from Portland or a two-hour drive from Pendleton’s airport. The charming town of Joseph serves as your base, where you can take the Wallowa Lake Tramway for panoramic mountain views and stargazing opportunities in the clear, dark skies.
6. The Grotto
This peaceful sanctuary in Northeast Portland features lush gardens, a meditation chapel with stunning views, and walking paths surrounded by trees that transform into brilliant autumn colors. The Grotto offers a serene and spiritual setting, perfect for a meaningful and memorable proposal.
Location: 8840 NE Skidmore Street, Portland, OR 97220
7. Abiqua Falls
Abiqua Falls is a lesser-visited Oregon waterfall ⏤ but only because it takes a bit of work to get there. If you and your partner love an adventure, Abiqua Falls would be a wonderful proposal spot.
You’ll need to offroad a bit to get down to the trailhead. From there, it’s a simple (but very steep) out-and-back hike to the falls, less than a mile, total. As soon as you round the corner to the falls, you’ll be met by a 92-foot waterfall framed by a stunning basalt amphitheater unlike any other in Oregon.
Location: Marion County, OR (1 hour south of Portland)
8. In the Sky, Above Portland
We love unique proposal ideas, and a scenic Oregon flight tour sounds like such a romantic and special experience ⏤ especially during sunset or sunrise!
Many companies throughout Portland offer tours from the sky. Choose from flights that show off nearby waterfalls, the Columbia River Gorge, Mt. Hood, Portland, and more.
Whether you go with a plane, helicopter, or hot air balloon, your proposal in the clouds is sure to be the envy of couples everywhere!
Location: Portland, OR
9. Cathedral Park
St. John’s Bridge is considered by many to be the most beautiful of all 12 Portland bridges. However, many don’t realize that there’s a beautiful park underneath the east side of this bridge!
Cathedral Park is named after the appearance of the large Gothic arches that support the bridge. This spot is not only beautiful, especially in the fall, but it’s also rich in history, making it a perfect place for a proposal.
Cathedral Park is believed to be one of the 14 Lewis and Clark landing sites in the area. And somewhere in the park is a time capsule, sealed in 1980 and scheduled to be opened in 2030.
Location: Portland, OR
10. Crater Lake
If you envision an awe-inspiring engagement, then situating Crater Lake in the background of your proposal may be exactly what you need.
At 1,943 feet, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in America ⏤ and also one of the most beautiful. The water’s blue color is stunning and the surrounding rocky hills and old-growth forests are breathtaking.
This area is open year-round, but the beautiful colors of the fall make it our favorite season for taking in the view.
Location: Crater Lake National Park, Southern Oregon (4 hours south of Portland)
11. Painted Hills
Named for the delicate layers of red, yellow, gold, and black soil, the Painted Hills almost make you feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet. Seeing this area is a one-of-a-kind experience.
In addition to offering a truly unique and special view, the Painted Hills are a great proposal spot thanks to the lack of crowds. You can certainly find space all to yourselves.
Keep in mind: The colors of the hills shift and change with the difference of light. We think the area is best viewed in the afternoon, when the sun makes the colors of the hills incredibly vibrant.
Location: John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Eastern Oregon (4 hours southeast of Portland)
12. Rowena Crest
If you and your partner are the type of couple who can’t turn down a great photo-opp, a proposal at the Insta-famous Rowena Crest is a great idea.
There’s a reason this unique horseshoe curve in the road has garnered so much attention ⏤ the surrounding landscape is stunning!
During the fall, a short walk up the hill provides sweeping views of hills, cliffs, forests, and the Columbia River Gorge below, all blanketed in vibrant shades of orange, red, and yellow.
Location: Near Mayer State Park (80 minutes east of Portland)
Decided on the perfect place to propose?
Now it’s time to find the perfect ring.
Our team at Malka Diamonds would love to help you pick out a ring to complement your perfect fall proposal.
We offer a carefully curated selection of designer and vintage rings, and our specialty is creating unique, one-of-a-kind custom rings to match your one-of-a-kind love. Give us a call at (503) 222-520 to learn more about who we are, or visit us, we’d love to meet you!