Oregon is the Pacific Northwest part of the United States with the Columbia River delineating largely of Oregon’s northern boundary with Washington. In contrast, the Snake River delineates greatly of its eastern boundary with Idaho.
If you want to explore this wonderful area on foot, by car, or by boat, you will find many scenes and splendors that are for your enjoyment. Here are some of the very best things to see in Oregon.
Best Things to Do in Oregon
- Cannon Beach
- Crater Lake National Park
- Portland
- Astoria
- Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway
- Mount Hood
- Hells Canyon National Recreation Area
- Yachats
- Wallowa Lake
- Columbia River Gorge
1. Cannon Beach
A small coastal city in northwest Oregon, Cannon Beach is famous for its long, sandy beaches and Haystack Rock, which is the tufted puffins’ temporary home. Arcadia Beach, with tidal pools and Hug Point’s sea caves, is situated to the south, while Ecola State Park, to the north, offers breathtaking views of the ocean. There are many galleries and businesses within the charming town. Cannon Beach, only 90 minutes from Portland, offers stunning coastline beauty with the charm of a seaside community and was chosen as one of the world’s 100 most beautiful places by National Geographic.
2. Crater Lake National Park
Southern Oregon’s Crater Lake National Park is known for Crater Lake, which was created when Mount Mazama collapsed. Rim Drive provides amazing views of volcanic formations, like Wizard Island and the Phantom Ship, for visitors to explore. Winter activities at the park offer Nordic skiing and snowshoeing, while summer activities offer boat tours to Wizard Island.
Hike the Sun Notch Trail for Phantom Ship vistas, or the Cleetwood Cove Trail to get to the lake. The most popular places are near waterfalls, such as Vidae and Plaikni Falls. Although July and August are the best months to visit, the park can be explored all the time.
3. Portland
The largest city in Oregon, Portland, is popular for its parks, bridges, bike lanes, energy efficiency, microbreweries, and coffeehouses. If you just have one day, take the most of the great outdoors, the thriving food and drink culture, and the charming east-side neighborhoods with their local shops. The Japanese Garden and Oregon Zoo are located in Wash Park; don’t miss those, and keep everything else in mind for your next visit!
4. Astoria
There are lots of fun things to do in Astoria, which is near to the Pacific Ocean on the Columbia River. Explore the Columbia River Maritime Museum, which shows the region’s naval heritage, or climb the Astoria Column for panoramic views. You may also enjoy a walk down the historic Astoria Riverwalk.
Take a tour of Fort Clatsop at Lewis and Clark National Historic Park or dive into cinema history at the Oregon Cinema Museum. The beauty of Queen Anne architecture can be seen at the Flavel House Museum, and Lucy’s Books is a terrific place to find an enjoyable read. Go to check out the colorful fishing boats and birdwatching possibilities at the marina and pier.
5. Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway
Providing everyday activity, the 66-mile Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway in central Oregon runs throughout the counties of Klamath and Deschutes. Camping under the stars is a possibilities, as are hiking and biking routes like the Deschutes River Trail and canoeing on lakes like Waldo, Odell, and Sunset.
Popular winter activities are trout fishing, Nordic skiing, skiing, and downhill skiing at Mt. Bachelor. Along with these activities, the byway offers opportunities for rock climbing, rafting in the Deschutes National Forest, photography, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. For Oregon’s outdoor aficionados, it’s a must-visit.
6. Mount Hood
About 50 miles from Portland, on the boundary of the counties of Clackamas and Hood River, lies Mount Hood, an active stratovolcano in the Pacific Northwest. Mt. Hood, which is only 90 minutes from the city, offers year-round outdoor activities like mountain biking, skiing, fishing, hiking, and camping.
Government Camp, Mt. Hood Meadows, Mt. Hood Ski Bowl, and Timberline Lodge are a few of these popular spots. Mt. Hood is an important location for outdoor adventure in Oregon, with a variety of activities like skiing the slopes, hiking trails, and allowing in a pleasant vacation home.
7. Hells Canyon National Recreation Area
The deepest gorge in North America, even deeper than the Grand Canyon, is located in the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, which has common borders with Oregon and Idaho. Located on each side of the Snake River, that separates the two states, Hells Canyon is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts because of its challenging landscape and plethora of species. Whether traveling by boat, automobile, or foot, visitors are greeted with breathtaking views and unspoiled nature all around them. For everyone looking for adventure in the Pacific Northwest, this place is a must-visit.
8. Yachats
Located between the Pacific Ocean and the temperate rainforest of the Oregon Coastal Range lies the little coastal town of Yachats in Lincoln County, Oregon. The Native language that gives it its name most likely means “where the trail leaves the beach.” Yachats is an excellent spot for an outdoor adventure or peaceful getaway.
Excellent dining options, retail stores, art galleries, sea views, and restored greenery are all available to tourists, and an extensive system of trails connects them all. A family vacation, a romantic retreat, or some alone time—Yachats, renowned as the “Gem of the Oregon Coast,” has something to offer everyone.
9. Wallowa Lake
At 4,372 feet, Wallowa Lake is a ribbon lake made up of Pleistocene glaciers and is located about 1 mile south of Joseph, Oregon. There are holiday rentals, hotels, eateries, and small businesses throughout the lake. The Wallowa Lake Tramway, a gondola gets up to Mt. Howard (8,150 feet) with amazing views of Wallowa Lake, Eagle Cap Wilderness, and the Seven Devils, is one of the main attractions.
Wallowa Lake is a wonderful place for fun family outings. In along with swimming, go-carts, ping pong, croquet, small golf, and bumper boats, kids can also enjoy horseback riding. Try stand-up paddleboarding or clear-bottom kayaking with JO Paddle for a unique experience, or book their Glacier Clear Nighttime Adventure Tour. Paddleboards, motorboats, canoes, kayaks, rowboats, and even a 21-foot pontoon boat are all available for rent. Along with being a great place to fish, Wallowa Lake just broke the record for the largest Kokanee.
10. Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge, a canyon of the Columbia River, stretches over 80 miles and forms the boundary between Washington and Oregon. Outdoor adventure is the main attraction here. Hikers can ride along the Historic Columbia River Highway, backpack through forests, climb mountains, hike past waterfalls, camp in beautiful campgrounds, and go fishing in the vicinity of The Dalles.
Going down the Historic Columbia River Highway is a more relaxing way to explore lovely places and waterfalls while you’re in the luxury of your vehicle. Fall is a great time for seeing salmon move upstream at the Bonneville Lock & Dam. Enjoy nearby brewpubs and restaurants that provide seasonal, fresh food after a day of exploring.
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Bottom Line:
Natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences are all available in Oregon. There is many things for everyone, from the peaceful beaches of Cannon Beach to the stunning heights of Hells Canyon and the volcanic marvels of Crater Lake. There are many opportunities for exploration and enjoyment in Oregon’s unique landscapes, whether you choose to hike, fish, ski, or just take in the local food and drink environment.