How Far Is Gaston From PDX Airport?

Learn about How far is Gaston from PDX Airport?

If you’re wondering “How far is Gaston from PDX Airport?” here’s the short version: it’s about 40 miles by car, usually around an hour outside rush hour. This guide explains the distance, timing, best routes, and what to expect whether you’re visiting, commuting, or moving to the area.

Quick Answer

Gaston is roughly 40–45 miles from Portland International Airport (PDX). Driving typically takes 55–70 minutes in light to moderate traffic, and 70–90 minutes during peak commute times. There’s no direct public transit to Gaston; most travelers use a rental car or rideshare for the last leg.

What How far is Gaston from PDX Airport? Means

In plain terms, you’re asking about both distance and travel time from the airport to the small town of Gaston in western Washington County.

  • Typical drive: PDX → US‑26 W → OR‑47 S → Gaston
  • Distance: ~40 miles
  • Time: ~1 hour (longer at rush hours)
  • Terrain: Freeways to rural two‑lane roads near the end

Door-to-door time varies based on your exact address in Gaston (downtown vs. near Hagg Lake) and current traffic.

Why People Search for This in Gaston, Oregon

  • Catching a flight and need to plan your departure time
  • Coming to Hagg Lake (Scoggins Valley Park) for boating or biking
  • Visiting wine country around Gaston, Forest Grove, and Yamhill
  • Considering a move and evaluating commute times to PDX and Portland

What to Expect

  • Driving: The fastest routes use US‑26 and OR‑47. Expect congestion on US‑26 and OR‑217 during weekday rush hours.
  • Traffic patterns:
    • Morning: Heavy inbound toward Portland/Beaverton
    • Late afternoon/evening: Heavy outbound westbound
    • Weekends: Extra traffic near Hagg Lake and wineries, especially sunny days and harvest (Sep–Oct)
  • Weather:
    • Fall–spring: Rain, slick roads, occasional fog; rare ice/snow can slow rural segments
    • Summer: Dry roads; occasional wildfire smoke days
  • Rideshare: Easy pickups at PDX; longer waits and fewer drivers around Gaston late nights.
  • Public transit: You can reach Hillsboro or Forest Grove by MAX/bus, but no direct line to Gaston—plan a rideshare or pickup for the last 6–10 miles.

Tips for Visitors / Residents

  • Best times to drive: Midday or later evening to avoid rush hours on US‑26 and OR‑217.
  • Allow extra time:
    • +20–30 minutes during commute peaks
    • +15–20 minutes in heavy rain or dense fog
  • Handy stops on the way:
    • Hillsboro (groceries, chargers, quick meals)
    • Forest Grove (downtown dining, fuel) about 6 miles north of Gaston
  • Rideshare cost estimate: $70–$120+ one-way PDX → Gaston, depending on time of day and demand.
  • Parking:
    • Gaston and Forest Grove: Generally free street parking
    • Hagg Lake/Scoggins Valley Park: Day-use fee (posted at the park)
    • PDX: Economy and long-term options; check current rates before you go
  • Local distances:
    • Gaston ↔ Forest Grove: ~6 miles
    • Gaston ↔ Hillsboro: ~15 miles
    • Gaston ↔ Hagg Lake: ~3 miles to main park entrances

Frequently Asked Questions About How far is Gaston from PDX Airport?

  • How far is this from Portland (downtown)?
    About 30 miles; typically 50–60 minutes depending on traffic.

  • Is there public transit from PDX to Gaston?
    Not directly. Take MAX to Hillsboro/Beaverton or a bus to Forest Grove, then use a rideshare or pickup to reach Gaston.

  • What’s the best route?
    Generally US‑26 W to OR‑47 S. Your GPS may reroute via OR‑217 or surface roads based on traffic.

  • When is the best time to drive?
    Late morning to mid-afternoon or after 7 pm to avoid westside rush-hour bottlenecks.

  • Is Gaston kid-friendly?
    Yes. Families love Hagg Lake for trails, playgrounds, boating, and picnics. The town is small and relaxed.

  • Is parking available?
    Yes—easy parking in Gaston and Forest Grove. Expect a posted day-use fee at Hagg Lake.

Summary

So, how far is Gaston from PDX Airport? About 40 miles, usually around an hour by car, with longer times during rush hour or bad weather. There’s no direct transit to Gaston, so plan on driving, renting a car, or rideshare. Expect freeway driving followed by a calm, rural finish on OR‑47.

  • Getting from Gaston to Downtown Portland: commute times and routes
  • Visiting Hagg Lake: parking, fees, and best times to go
  • Living in Gaston: everyday amenities, schools, and nearby towns