Top 10 places to visit in Oregon

Top 10 places to visit in Oregon

 

IMG_06921. CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK 

This iconic national park is home to the deepest lake in the United States, surrounded by towering cliffs and snow-capped mountains. Take a scenic drive around the rim, hike to Wizard Island, or go for a swim in the crystal-clear waters.There are many things to do around Crater Lake National Park, but here are five suggestions:

  • Explore Crater Lake: Crater Lake is the main attraction in the area, and for good reason. It's the deepest lake in the United States and one of the clearest in the world. You can drive around the rim, hike down to the lake, or take a boat tour.
  • Hike in the surrounding forests: There are many hiking trails in the forests surrounding Crater Lake National Park. Some popular trails include the Pacific Crest Trail, the Rogue River Trail, and the Mount Scott Trail.
  • Visit Umpqua National Forest: Umpqua National Forest is located just north of Crater Lake National Park and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. Some popular spots to visit include Diamond Lake, Toketee Falls, and the North Umpqua River.
  • Go skiing or snowboarding: In the winter, the Crater Lake area is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding. The nearby Mount Ashland Ski Area and Diamond Lake Resort offer a variety of slopes for all skill levels.
  • Take a scenic drive: The Crater Lake area is home to many scenic drives, including the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway and the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway. These drives offer stunning views of the surrounding forests, mountains, and lakes.

    2. THE COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE 

    This scenic area on the border of Oregon and Washington is home to some of the most stunning waterfalls in the country, including Multnomah Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Wahclella Falls. Take a scenic drive, hike to viewpoints, or explore the charming towns along the way. The Columbia River Gorge is a popular destination for outdoor recreation and scenic attractions. Here are five of the most popular things to do in the area:

    • Visit Multnomah Falls: Multnomah Falls is one of the most iconic attractions in the Columbia River Gorge. This 620-foot waterfall is the tallest in Oregon and is easily accessible from the Historic Columbia River Highway.
    • Hiking: The Columbia River Gorge offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. Some of the most popular trails include the Eagle Creek Trail, the Angel's Rest Trail, and the Wahclella Falls Trail.
    • Scenic Drives: The Historic Columbia River Highway is a scenic drive that offers breathtaking views of the gorge and its waterfalls. The drive also passes through charming towns and historical landmarks.
    • Wine Tasting: The Columbia River Gorge has a thriving wine industry, with many wineries offering tastings and tours. The region is known for producing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and other varietals.
    • Water Sports: The Columbia River Gorge is a popular destination for water sports, including windsurfing and kiteboarding. The area's strong, consistent winds and wide, open river make it an ideal location for these activities.

    IMG_0698 3. PORTLAND 

    This vibrant city is known for its foodie scene, craft breweries, and quirky culture. Visit the famous Powell's City of Books, explore the street art, or go on a food tour of the city's many food carts and restaurants. Explore Washington Parks famous International Test Rose Garden and Enjoy a run in Forest Park, America’s largest urban park. Portland, Oregon is a great city with a lot to offer. Here are five things to do in Portland that you might enjoy:

    • Visit Powell's City of Books: Powell's City of Books is the largest independent bookstore in the world, and is a must-visit for any book lover. With over 1 million books spread across multiple floors, you're sure to find something that interests you.
    • Explore Forest Park: Forest Park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States, and offers miles of hiking trails through beautiful forests and hills. It's a great place to escape the city and enjoy some fresh air.
    • Check out the food scene: Portland is known for its amazing food scene, with plenty of restaurants and food carts serving up delicious and innovative cuisine. Some popular options include Voodoo Doughnut, Pok Pok, and Salt & Straw.
    • Visit the Portland Art Museum: The Portland Art Museum is one of the oldest art museums on the West Coast, and features a wide variety of art from around the world. It's a great place to spend a few hours and soak up some culture.
    • Take a trip to the Columbia River Gorge: The Columbia River Gorge is a stunning natural area just outside of Portland, with plenty of hiking trails and scenic vistas. It's a great place to spend a day exploring the outdoors and taking in some breathtaking views.

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    4. CANNON BEACH 

    This picturesque beach town is home to the iconic Haystack Rock, a towering sea stack that's a popular spot for photos. Stroll along the beach, browse the art galleries and boutiques, or watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Cannon Beach, Oregon is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beach, stunning coastline, and quaint town center. Here are some things to do in Cannon Beach:

    • Visit Cannon Beach: This is the main attraction of the area, a beautiful beach with stunning views of Haystack Rock and the coastline.
    • Explore Ecola State Park: This state park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
    • Take a scenic drive: The area surrounding Cannon Beach is filled with beautiful scenic drives, including the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway.
    • Go surfing: Cannon Beach is known for its great surfing conditions, so rent a board and hit the waves.
    • Enjoy local seafood: Cannon Beach is home to many great seafood restaurants, so be sure to try some fresh local seafood while you're in town.
    • Attend a local event: Cannon Beach hosts numerous events throughout the year, including the annual Sandcastle Contest, Savor Cannon Beach wine and food festival, and the Stormy Weather Arts Festival.

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    5. MOUNT HOOD 

    This snow-capped mountain is a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and hiking and camping in the summer. Take a scenic drive up to Timberline Lodge, hike to Mirror Lake, or go on a guided snowshoe tour. Here are five popular things to do on Mount Hood:

    • Skiing and Snowboarding: Mount Hood is home to several ski resorts, including Timberline Lodge, Mt. Hood Meadows, and Ski Bowl. These resorts offer a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
    • Hiking: Mount Hood boasts many beautiful hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging. Some of the most popular trails include the Timberline Trail, the Pacific Crest Trail, and the Mirror Lake Trail.
    • Climbing: Mount Hood is also a popular destination for climbers, with its summit being the highest point in Oregon. Climbers can choose from several routes, including the South Side Route, the North Side Route, and the Pearly Gates.
    • Camping: Mount Hood has several campgrounds and backcountry camping areas that offer a great way to experience the mountain's natural beauty. Some of the most popular campgrounds include Lost Lake, Trillium Lake, and Timothy Lake.
    • Scenic Drives: Mount Hood is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, and there are several scenic drives that provide stunning views of the mountain and its surroundings. The Mount Hood Scenic Byway is a popular route that takes visitors through picturesque towns, forests, and mountain vistas.

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    6. BEND 

    This charming town in central Oregon is known for its outdoor adventure opportunities, including hiking, mountain biking, and river rafting. Visit the Deschutes Brewery, explore the High Desert Museum, or go on a hot air balloon ride. Bend, Oregon is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, and beer lovers. Here are five popular things to do in Bend:

    • Go hiking: Bend is surrounded by beautiful mountains and hiking trails, making it a great place for hiking. Some popular hikes include the Misery Ridge Trail in Smith Rock State Park, Tumalo Falls, and the Deschutes River Trail.
    • Visit breweries: Bend is known for its craft beer scene, with over 30 breweries in the area. Some popular breweries include Deschutes Brewery, Bend Brewing Company, and Boneyard Beer.
    • Go skiing or snowboarding: Bend is close to several ski resorts, including Mt. Bachelor, which offers over 4,000 acres of skiable terrain.
    • Explore the outdoors: In addition to hiking and skiing, Bend offers many other outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and mountain biking.
    • Visit the Old Mill District: The Old Mill District is a shopping and dining area located along the Deschutes River. It features a variety of restaurants, shops, and galleries, as well as a movie theater and outdoor concerts during the summer.

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    7. OREGON COAST 

    This rugged coastline is home to scenic towns, sandy beaches, and dramatic cliffs. Visit the charming town of Newport, hike along the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, or go on a whale watching tour. There are many popular things to do on the Oregon Coast, but here are five activities that many visitors enjoy:

    • Visit the Oregon Dunes: The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area offers a unique and beautiful landscape to explore. Visitors can hike, ride ATVs, or take a guided tour of the dunes.
    • Explore tidepools: The Oregon Coast is home to a variety of sea life, and exploring the tidepools can be a fun and educational experience. Some popular spots for tidepooling include Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach and Cape Perpetua near Yachats.
    • Tour lighthouses: The Oregon Coast has several historic lighthouses that offer tours and stunning views of the ocean. Some popular lighthouses to visit include Heceta Head Lighthouse near Florence and Yaquina Head Lighthouse near Newport.
    • Visit coastal towns: The Oregon Coast is dotted with charming coastal towns that offer unique shops, restaurants, and attractions. Some popular towns to visit include Astoria, Newport, and Cannon Beach.
    • Go whale watching: The Oregon Coast is a great place to spot gray whales, which migrate along the coast each year. Many tour operators offer whale watching tours from coastal towns like Depoe Bay and Newport.

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    8. SILVER FALLS STATE PARK 

    This beautiful state park is home to 10 stunning waterfalls, including the iconic South Falls. Take a scenic hike to see the waterfalls up close, or go horseback riding or mountain biking on the park's many trails. Silver Falls State Park is a beautiful park located in Oregon, famous for its stunning waterfalls and hiking trails. Here are three things to do in and around Silver Falls State Park:

    • Hike the Trail of Ten Falls: The Trail of Ten Falls is an 8.7-mile loop that takes you to ten breathtaking waterfalls, including the famous South Falls. The trail is well-maintained and has several viewpoints and benches along the way. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water and snacks.
    • Visit the Silver Falls Lodge and Conference Center: The Silver Falls Lodge is a historic lodge located within the park. It was built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps and has a rustic charm with modern amenities. The lodge offers lodging, dining, and event spaces, and it's a great place to relax after a day of hiking.
    • Explore the nearby towns: There are several charming towns near Silver Falls State Park that are worth exploring. For example, the town of Silverton is only a 15-minute drive from the park and has a historic downtown with shops, restaurants, and galleries. The city of Salem, the capital of Oregon, is also nearby and offers museums, parks, and other attractions.

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    8. EUGENE 

    This college town is known for its arts and culture scene, including the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art and the Hult Center for the Performing Arts. Visit the Saturday Market, go on a brewery tour, or explore the nearby Willamette Valley wine county. There are many things to do in and around Eugene, Oregon, but here are three popular options:

    • Visit the University of Oregon: The University of Oregon is located in Eugene and is a popular destination for visitors to the area. The campus is beautiful and has several museums, including the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art and the Museum of Natural and Cultural History. The university also has a vibrant sports culture, and visitors can attend games at Autzen Stadium or Matthew Knight Arena.
    • Explore the outdoors: Eugene is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, and there are many opportunities to explore the outdoors. You can take a hike in the nearby Mount Pisgah Arboretum or Skinner Butte Park, go for a bike ride on the Willamette River Trail, or spend a day exploring the nearby McKenzie River Trail.
    • Visit local breweries and wineries: Eugene is home to several breweries and wineries, and visitors can take tours and tastings at many of them. Some popular options include the Ninkasi Brewing Company, Oakshire Brewing, and Sweet Cheeks Winery. The Eugene Ale Trail is a great way to explore the local beer scene, and it includes over 20 breweries in the area.

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    10. PAINTED HILLS 

    This scenic area in eastern Oregon is home to colorful hills that look like they've been painted by an artist. Take a scenic drive, hike to the top of the hills, or visit the nearby John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. Here are three things you can do around the Painted Hills in the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument:

    • Explore the Painted Hills: The Painted Hills are a unique geological wonder with vibrant shades of red, orange, gold, and black. You can explore the hills on several short hiking trails, such as the Painted Cove Trail, the Carroll Rim Trail, and the Leaf Hill Trail. These trails offer stunning views of the hills, as well as opportunities to see the unique plant and animal life that inhabit the area.
    • Visit the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center: The Thomas Condon Paleontology Center is a museum that showcases the rich fossil history of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. The museum features interactive exhibits, displays of fossils from the region, and educational programs. It's a great place to learn about the ancient animals and plants that once roamed the area.
    • Take a scenic drive: The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument offers several scenic drives that take you through the breathtaking landscapes of the region. The Painted Hills Unit, for example, has a 7-mile scenic drive that offers stunning views of the hills and surrounding landscape. The Sheep Rock Unit also has a scenic drive that takes you through the rugged canyons and rock formations of the area. These drives are a great way to take in the natural beauty of the region at your own pace.
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    1 comment

    Bigfoot is so photogenic! Love this list!

    Michael

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