50 Colleges That Rival Ivy League Campuses in Beauty

37. Lewis & Clark College – A Hidden Gem in Portland

Tucked into the lush, forested hills of southwest Portland, Lewis & Clark College offers the kind of campus that feels like a secret sanctuary. Towering Douglas firs, moss-draped maples, and winding trails envelop the campus in a cool, green hush, making it feel worlds away from the bustle of the city—despite being just 15 minutes from downtown. Set on a bluff with sweeping views of Mount Hood on clear days, the campus seamlessly merges Pacific Northwest wilderness with refined collegiate charm. The architecture is a graceful blend of Tudor Gothic and contemporary design, with steep gables, arched windows, and leafy courtyards providing a timeless, scholarly atmosphere. One of the standout features is the college’s connection to the surrounding landscape. The adjacent Tryon Creek State Natural Area—645 acres of forest filled with ferns, bridges, and creekside trails—feels like an extension of the campus itself, giving students direct access to nature for hiking, research, and restoration. This strong sense of place informs Lewis & Clark’s academic focus on environmental studies, global engagement, and social responsibility. Whether students are participating in outdoor seminars or gathering in cozy firelit common rooms, there’s a quiet, thoughtful energy that defines life here.