Photogenic hiking trails around Portland

My greetings to everybody :)
Although I already introduced myself in the Welcome thread, I will be glad to do it again: my name is Cezar Mart, I am 47 yrs young, I am of a Polish origin, and I am new to this very nice group of nature photographers.
I have been living in Portland, Oregon, for the last 11 years, and now is the first time when I am actually interested in photo-oriented hiking trips to the surrounding areas.
Having said that I will ask my question: this weekend I am planning a backpacking trip with my two sons (20 and 13). For them it will be a nice occasion to leave the city, for me a great photo opportunity. I know that the weather is a bit unstable, so I try to avoid the coast.
My choice is rather around Mt. Jefferson, or maybe somewhere on the other side of Mount Hood range. Can you recommend a two days hiking trail with the following conditions:
- up to 3 hrs drive from Portland
- photogenic qualities
- 5-8 miles on Saturday, night in a tent and back on Sunday preferably by a different route.
- dryer areas with less chance of rain than on the coast, for example around Olallie, Mt Jefferson or Madras. I once drove southbound on hwy 97 and noticed a beautiful canyon just before Redmond. Are there any trails there?
- not covered by thick snow to be able to set a tent for the night

If you know such hiking trails possible to travel this time of year, I will be very grateful.
Thanks very much,
Cezar Mart

I've just come across info on Smith Rock State Park. Is the park OK to backpack this time? Does it satisfy the mentioned conditions?
Thanks
Cezar Mart

Smith would wouldn't really be backpacking but it would be a fun place to wander around. If the weather is nice it might even be warm. Just as you turn off 97 onto the Smith Rock Road, there is a store on the right called Redpoint. Stop in there and ask about trails and camping spots.
Winter is tough for backpacking unless you're really set up for it. Make sure you check the weather before you head out though.

Cezar, if you have not heard of them, NWHikers.net may be a really good place for you to get some info about the trip that you desire to take with your sons. There are thousands of hikers there many of which are into photography as well and would likely be able to offer many suggestions.

Wherever you end up, share some of the scenery with us when you return, please.

Is there a trail along the Crooked River gorge between the Peter Skene Ogden Park (right at the bridge with hwy 97) and the Smith Rock Park? If there is, do you know how long and photogenic it is?
Would you recommend it for a backpacking trip?

I don't know if there is a trail all along the River. It would be cool if there was.