Looking for small-town charm with outdoor adventure in Oregon's countryside? Visit Molalla! Nestled at the edge of the Cascade foothills, Molalla offers hiking, horseback riding, river fun, and local flavor—perfect for a quiet getaway just an hour from Portland.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Molalla is from late spring through early fall (May–October), when the weather is ideal for hiking, exploring nature parks, and enjoying the town’s signature events like the Molalla Buckeroo Rodeo.
How to Get There
- By Car: Molalla is located about 35 miles south of Portland via OR-213 or OR-211, making it an easy drive from the metro area.
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Portland International Airport (PDX), about 1 hour away by car.
- By Bus: Canby Area Transit and South Clackamas Transportation District offer limited local transit options; driving is most convenient.
Where to Stay
- Stagecoach Inn Motel – A budget-friendly, no-frills option in town with easy access to dining and events.
- Molalla River Lodge – Peaceful and private vacation rental nestled near the Molalla River Recreation Corridor.
- Nearby Oregon City or Silverton Hotels – More lodging options available 20–30 minutes away for those seeking expanded amenities.
Recommended Activities for Families
⮕ Alpacas at Marquam Hill Ranch
Meet adorable alpacas and explore a unique, family-friendly experience.
© Alpacas at Marquam Hill Ranch
-
What is Alpacas at Marquam Hill Ranch?
- If you've always wanted to get up close and personal with a cuddly alpaca, Alpacas at Marquam Hill Ranch offers one of the best experiences you can have in Oregon.
-
How many alpacas live on the ranch?
- Their working ranch is home to more than 80 alpacas, and the barn has a special visitor's area where you can see them in their stalls.
-
Are guided tours available?
- Guided tours of the farm are available by reservation, and visitors are also welcome to purchase a bag of grain to feed the friendly alpacas.
-
Is there a gift shop on-site?
- If you want a souvenir, there's an on-site store that sells clothing and accessories made from alpaca wool.
9508, 35835 OR-213, Molalla, OR 97038, Phone: 503-407-3699
⮕ Table Rock Wilderness
Hike scenic trails and admire breathtaking views of rugged landscapes.
© cmbankus/stock.adobe.com
-
What is the Table Rock Wilderness?
- Encompassing more than 5,500 acres of densely forested land in the Western Cascade Mountains, the Table Rock Wilderness is a spectacular hiking destination.
-
What is the highest point in Table Rock Wilderness?
- The summit of Table Rock is the highest point in the park, standing at just over 4,800 feet.
-
What are the most popular hiking trails?
- The 3.3-mile trail to the top of Table Rock is one of the park's most popular hiking routes.
- There are approximately 13 miles of other trails to explore, including the challenging High Ridge Trail, which has an elevation gain of more than 3,200 feet.
-
When is the best time to visit?
- The best time to visit is between May and October, when the higher trails are clear of snow.
Table Rock Wilderness, Molalla, OR 97038, Phone: 503-375-5646
Attractions for Couples
⮕ AlexEli Vineyard & Winery
Savor fine wines while enjoying a peaceful, romantic vineyard setting.
© AlexEli Vineyard & Winery
-
What is AlexEli Vineyard & Winery?
- Nestled in the beautiful foothills of the Cascade Mountains, AlexEli Vineyard & Winery is a family-run business that specializes in making small batches of high-quality Old World style wines.
-
Are the wines estate grown?
- All wines are estate grown and estate bottled, ensuring high-quality production from start to finish.
-
When is the tasting room open?
- The tasting room is open on weekend afternoons between May and November.
-
Can private tastings be arranged?
- Private tastings for groups of eight or more people can be arranged year-round.
-
Is the property available for events?
- The property can also be booked for small weddings and other special events, with a variety of beautiful spaces to choose from.
- Available spaces include a garden patio and a waterfront lawn with a gazebo.
35803 OR-213, Molalla, OR 97038, Phone: 503-829-6677
⮕ Skydive Oregon Inc
Experience an exhilarating skydive with breathtaking views of Oregon’s landscape.
© German Skydiver/stock.adobe.com
-
What is Skydive Oregon Inc?
- Boasting the largest fleet of skydiving aircraft in the Pacific Northwest, Skydive Oregon Inc welcomes beginners and experienced skydivers alike.
-
What altitude options are available for tandem jumps?
- Tandem jumps can be done from either 14,000 or 18,000 feet, and photo and video packages are available for an additional fee.
-
Are training programs available?
- During the spring and early summer, they offer comprehensive training programs that provide the certification needed to jump solo.
-
Can spectators watch the skydivers?
- If you don't want to make a skydive yourself, you're still welcome to watch your friends and family members from the spectator viewing area, which is located right next to the parachute landing area.
12150 OR-211 # 1229, Molalla, OR 97038, Phone: 503-829-3483
⮕ Molalla Buckeroo Rodeo
Enjoy exciting rodeo action, family fun, and lively Western entertainment.
© Steve Lovegrove/stock.adobe.com
-
What is the Molalla Buckeroo Rodeo?
- Fondly known as "Cowboy Christmas", the Molalla Buckeroo Rodeo has been one of the town's favorite traditions since 1913.
-
When does the main rodeo event take place?
- The main rodeo show takes place on the Fourth of July, but exciting events are held for several days before as well.
-
What special events are included?
- Highlights include nightly fireworks, an off-grounds kiddie parade, and a kick-off party with live music and dancing.
-
What rodeo events can guests expect?
- The rodeo events include everything from barrel racing to bull riding to exhilarating saddle bronc shows.
-
Is there a carnival section?
- For an additional fee, guests can also attend the family-friendly carnival section, where you'll find rides, games, and plenty of food.
815 Shirley St, Molalla, OR 97038, Phone: 503-829-8388
⮕ Out in the Garden Nursery
Explore vibrant plants and discover unique gardening treasures.
© stock.adobe.com
-
What is Out in the Garden Nursery?
- Located on the home property of a local plant enthusiast, Out in the Garden Nursery sells beautiful flowers and plants that are perfectly suited to the Oregon climate.
-
What types of plants are available?
- The emphasis is on shade plants, but plenty of sun-loving plants are available as well.
-
Can visitors get help selecting plants?
- The owner is happy to help customers choose the perfect combination of plants for their space.
-
Are there animals on the property?
- As a bonus, the property is also home to friendly dogs, cats, and goats that visitors can interact with.
-
When is the nursery open?
- The nursery is open Tuesday through Saturday between April and October.
- Appointments can also be made outside opening hours.
32483 S Mathias Rd, Molalla, OR 97038, Phone: 503-829-4141
⮕ Snowline Tree Farm
Pick the perfect Christmas tree and enjoy a festive family outing.
© america_stock/stock.adobe.com
-
What is Snowline Tree Farm?
- Family owned and operated since 1980, the Snowline Tree Farm is a U-cut Christmas tree farm that also grows a beautiful selection of organic produce.
-
Where can visitors purchase produce?
- Their organic produce can be purchased right on the farm in the summer.
-
What activities are available on the farm?
- Visitors are always welcome to stroll along the farm's nature trail, participate in one of the guided craft activities, or enjoy a picnic on the property.
-
What seasonal activities are offered?
- U-pick pumpkins and hayrides are offered in the fall.
- U-cut trees are available between just before Thanksgiving and just before Christmas.
-
Is grass-fed beef available for purchase?
- Depending on the season, you might also be able to purchase grass-fed beef.
39098 S Sawtell Rd, Molalla, OR 97038, Phone: 503-829-8396
Attractions for First Time Visitors
- Molalla River Recreation Corridor – Hike, fish, swim, or kayak along this beautiful forested river area with multiple trails and picnic spots.
- Table Rock Wilderness – Explore volcanic cliffs and panoramic views on challenging hikes in this rugged natural area.
- Molalla Train Park – Seasonal family fun with miniature train rides and a nostalgic setting (open Sundays during summer).
- Horner's Corner – Eclectic antique and vintage store with local finds and quirky charm.
- Downtown Murals & Shops – Stroll the small-town streets to discover public art, shops, and cafes.
Where to Eat
- Backstop Bar & Grill – Local favorite for burgers, steaks, and casual pub fare in a welcoming atmosphere.
- Humble Pig Café – Cozy breakfast and brunch spot serving hearty homemade meals and fresh pastries.
- Fajitas Mexican Restaurant – Friendly service and flavorful traditional Mexican dishes in downtown Molalla.
Local Events
- Molalla Buckeroo Rodeo (July 4th Weekend) – A beloved annual rodeo with parades, fireworks, and classic Western festivities.
- Molalla Farmers Market (Spring–Fall) – Fresh produce, handmade goods, and live music in the heart of town.
- Molalla Train Park Events (Summer Sundays) – Great for kids and train enthusiasts with open-ride days and community fun.
More events and things to do
Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Molalla, Oregon
- Canby (20–25 min) – Visit flower farms, stroll through charming downtown shops, or ride the historic ferry.
- Silverton (25–30 min) – Explore Silver Falls State Park or admire murals and boutiques in this artsy small town.
- Woodburn (25–30 min) – Shop brand deals at Woodburn Premium Outlets or visit nearby tulip fields in spring.
- Mount Angel (25–30 min) – Enjoy Bavarian charm, Benedictine Abbey views, and the annual Oktoberfest celebration.
- Oregon City (25–30 min) – Discover local history at the End of the Oregon Trail center and scenic Willamette Falls.
- Colton (10–15 min) – A peaceful rural community near hiking trails and forested backroads of the Cascade foothills.
- Marquam (10–15 min) – A quiet hamlet surrounded by farmland and forest, ideal for scenic drives.
- Scotts Mills (20–25 min) – Visit the serene Scotts Mills Falls or explore local farms and picnic spots nearby.
- Mulino (10–15 min) – A small farming community close to Molalla with quiet roads and countryside views.
- Beavercreek (20–25 min) – Explore rural charm, hidden trails, and small local farms just outside Oregon City.
FAQ
-
Where is Molalla located?
- Tucked in between Portland and Salem, Molalla is a charming agricultural community with plenty of family-friendly attractions for visitors to enjoy.
-
What are some popular attractions in Molalla?
- Many of the top attractions give visitors a glimpse of the peaceful rural lifestyle, with highlights including a tour of a working elk ranch, an exciting meet and greet with the alpacas at Marquam Hill Ranch, and the annual Molalla Buckeroo Rodeo.
-
What activities are available for adventure seekers?
- If you want to get your heart pumping, you can go for a challenging hike in the Table Rock Wilderness or throw yourself out of an airplane at Skydive Oregon Inc.
-
How far is Molalla from Portland?
- Molalla, Oregon is 45 minutes from Portland, OR (35.1 miles via I-205 S and OR-213/Cascade Hwy S).
Plan Your Trip