What Is the Distance From Gaston to Hillsboro?

Learn about What is the distance from Gaston to Hillsboro?

If you’re wondering, “What is the distance from Gaston to Hillsboro?”, here’s the simple answer: it’s roughly 14–16 miles by car, depending on your exact start and end points. This guide explains the fastest routes, typical travel times, and what to expect along the way.

Quick Answer

Gaston to Hillsboro is about 14–16 miles by car. The most common route is OR‑47 north to Forest Grove, then OR‑8 (Tualatin Valley Highway) east into Hillsboro. In light traffic, expect 20–30 minutes. Straight‑line distance is around 13–14 miles. Travel time varies with farm traffic, school rush, and weather.

What What is the distance from Gaston to Hillsboro? Means

When locals ask this, they usually mean driving distance from Gaston’s Main Street to downtown Hillsboro. Because Hillsboro is spread out, your destination matters:

  • Downtown Hillsboro (Main St): about 14–16 miles
  • Hillsboro Medical Center (Tuality): about 14–15 miles
  • Intel campuses (Ronler Acres/Hawthorn Farm): about 16–18 miles
  • Hillsboro Airport: about 17–18 miles

Straight‑line (“as the crow flies”) is shorter, but roads add a few miles.

Why People Search for This in Gaston, Oregon

  • Commuting to jobs in Hillsboro (Intel, city offices, schools)
  • Running errands, shopping, or medical visits
  • Meeting TriMet/MAX light rail in Hillsboro
  • Comparing commute times when deciding where to live
  • Planning winery trips and day outings around Gaston, Forest Grove, and Hillsboro

What to Expect

Routes

  • Fastest and simplest:
    • OR‑47 north from Gaston to Forest Grove
    • OR‑8 (Tualatin Valley Hwy) east to Hillsboro
  • Scenic southern approach:
    • OR‑47 north, right on SW Fern Hill Rd, then Rood Bridge Rd into south Hillsboro (good for Rood Bridge Park/Jackson Bottom Wetlands)

Typical Drive Times

  • Light traffic: 20–30 minutes
  • Weekday peaks (7–9 a.m., 3:30–6 p.m.): 25–40 minutes, especially along TV Hwy signals

Road Conditions

  • OR‑47 is a two‑lane country highway with farm equipment at times. Expect slower vehicles during harvest.
  • TV Hwy is busy with frequent lights; allow extra time.

Seasonal Notes

  • Fall–winter: rain, fog, and occasional icy mornings; visibility can drop on rural stretches.
  • Spring: potholes or shoulder debris after storms.
  • Summer: more cyclists and winery traffic; watch for slower farm vehicles.

Transit and Biking

  • Public transit: No direct TriMet in Gaston. Some limited regional buses may connect via Forest Grove or Hillsboro on weekdays; check local schedules in advance.
  • Biking: Experienced riders sometimes use OR‑47; shoulders vary. Early morning rides are calmer. Consider bright gear and lights.

Landmarks Along/near the Route

  • Montinore Estate and other wineries off OR‑47
  • Forest Grove main drag and services
  • Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve (south Hillsboro)
  • Rood Bridge Park and the Rock Creek Trail connections

Tips for Visitors / Residents

  • Leave a time cushion during school days and harvest season.
  • For a smoother drive to south Hillsboro, try SW Fern Hill Rd to Rood Bridge Rd.
  • Need supplies? Forest Grove has larger grocery and fuel options on the way.
  • For family stops:
    • Jackson Bottom Wetlands: easy trails, wildlife viewing
    • Rood Bridge Park: playgrounds, gardens, river access
  • If you’re catching MAX: Park near the Hillsboro Central or Hatfield Government Center stations downtown, or Orenco Station on the east side.

Frequently Asked Questions About What is the distance from Gaston to Hillsboro?

Q: How far is Gaston from Portland?

  • About 30–35 miles to Downtown Portland. By car, plan on 45–60 minutes in typical traffic, longer at peak times.

Q: What time of day is best to drive between Gaston and Hillsboro?

  • Mid-morning to early afternoon is usually smoother. Avoid 7–9 a.m. and 3:30–6 p.m. on weekdays.

Q: Is the route kid friendly for stops?

  • Yes. Rood Bridge Park and Jackson Bottom Wetlands are great quick stops with restrooms and easy walking paths.

Q: Is parking easy in downtown Hillsboro?

  • Generally yes. You’ll find street parking (time-limited) and public lots/garages near Main Street and the Hillsboro Central MAX area.

Q: Can I get there without a car?

  • Options are limited. You may be able to connect via regional buses through Forest Grove or Hillsboro on weekdays, but service is infrequent. Check current schedules and consider rideshare.

Summary

  • The distance from Gaston to Hillsboro is roughly 14–16 driving miles, about 20–30 minutes in light traffic.
  • Easiest route: OR‑47 to Forest Grove, then OR‑8 into Hillsboro.
  • Expect rural highway conditions, busy signals on TV Hwy, and seasonal weather impacts.
  • Getting from Gaston to Forest Grove: routes, time, and where to stop
  • Hagg Lake (Henry Hagg Lake) basics: distance from Gaston, fees, and best times to go
  • Wineries around Gaston: easy afternoon tastings near OR‑47