Shape up!

If you’re looking to get in shape, Portland is the perfect place to be. Few places boast as many recreational activities available to us than the Rose City—from skiing to rowing to hiking, we’ve literally got it all. So when you’re fed up with studying and homework, here are some fun recreational activities to help you stay happy and healthy in and around the city and outside of the gym:

Go hiking

Despite being a fairly large city, residents are lucky enough to have the outdoors right at their doorsteps. For instance, Multnomah Falls is only a 30-minute drive from the city, where hikers can gaze at the awe-inspiring 620-foot waterfall. There’s also Marquam Trail, located in southwest Portland. The trail curves through beautiful forest and peaks at an astonishing 1,110-foot elevation panorama, giving you a beautiful view of the city, Mount Hood and Mt. Rainier that is, if you catch it on a sunny day. To customize your own hike, visit www.portlandhikersfieldguide.org.

Bike Portland

Portland is renowned for being bike-friendly, and so what better way to get in shape than to cycle? If riding in the city isn’t your thing, however, there are also several trails around Portland for the more adventurous. For a fairly easy scenic bike ride, head to Sauvie Island, which is a little over 10 miles outside the city. And for a close-in bike ride, Forest Park is just footsteps away.

Kayak the Willamette

You know that great big river just blocks from Portland State? Well, the Willamette River is great for kayaking or canoeing. To make it even easier, the PSU’s Outdoor Program offers kayak rentals for only $30 to students. Campus Rec also offers free kayak pool sessions each Thursday from 6:30 to 8:20 p.m. for Academic and Student Recreation Center members. 

Join PSU’s disc golf club

Ten years ago, it would have been safe to say that no one had heard of disc golf. However, these days the sport is quickly gaining popularity. Essentially, it’s a more enjoyable form of golf instead of golf balls and country clubs, it’s frisbees. Fun, right? PSU’s disc golf club was started in 2008 and always welcomes new members. For more information,

e-mail [email protected].

Ice skate at the Lloyd Center

Though Portland just can’t seem to get some snow, we should still get to reap its benefits. For this experience, look no further than your Lloyd Center, which boasts an impressive ice skating rink. It’s located on the first floor across from Macy’s, and is only $6, plus an additional $3 skate rental. Visit www.lloydcenterice.com for hours.