Did you read the previous installment of this series and visit the Arabian Desert? If not, don’t sweat it–not all memorable summer adventures are overseas. Much like the famous explorers Lewis and Clark, modern adventurers can go west and enjoy destinations in the US. Like Oregon! Oregon provides breathtaking landscapes, diverse activities, and a rich cultural heritage that every traveler would love. Whether you like nature, are passionate about extreme sports, or are a history fan, Oregon offers something for everyone, so here’s a list of bold places to visit!
1. Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge is one of the Pacific Northwest’s greatest natural treasures. The river canyon is over 80 miles long, nearly 4,000 feet deep, and holds dramatic waterfalls. The gorge channels the Columbia River through the Cascade Range to the Pacific Ocean and marks the border between Oregon and Washington.
In addition, the spectacular river canyon is a key part of Lewis and Clark’s expedition to the western portion of the United States. Nowadays, modern adventurers can travel to the Columbia River Gorge for hiking trips, windsurfing activities, and wine tasting.
People can enjoy the historical river canyon with a half-day hiking tour of its cascading waterfalls and breathtaking scenery from Portland. One essential visit would be Multnomah Falls, the highest falls in the state, and other lesser-known falls in the area.
2. Newberry National Volcanic Monument
The Newberry National Volcanic Monument covers 50,000 acres of scenic plains in Central Oregon. This Oregon natural wonder is the site of the Newberry Volcano, which last erupted over 75,000 years ago. Despite being seismically active, the monument has lakes, lava tubes, and geographical patterns many people can enjoy for hiking and camping trips.
The Newberry National Volcanic Monument is a must-visit for outdoor lovers, which travelers can enjoy better in the summer. The area has numerous sites and trails for hiking, fishing, and picnic activities, which offer breathtaking scenery.
Vogel Canyon is a picnic area with a scenic tributary of the Purgatorie River. The permanent springs at the canyon’s end support various wildlife that can provide families and outdoor lovers with fun activities and amazing sights.
Fishing enthusiasts would enjoy the Big Mac Fishing Site at the northern shore of the Twin Lakes Reservoir. The site is full of rainbow trout and other native species that newbies and casual fishers would love to try fishing.
3. Mt. Hood
Oregon’s highest peak and one of the state’s active volcanoes. This popular tourist destination is for outdoor lovers of all seasons. Mount Hood is over 11,250 feet above sea level and is a sacred part of many religious ceremonies of the Native Americans.
Although hiking trips are a must in every traveler’s Oregon itinerary, people can also visit the city of Sandy. The Old West-inspired city has gear rentals and sales shops year-round for those who want to climb the mountain in the summer or ski during the winter. People can also enjoy a breakfast at Joe’s Donut Shop, a staple for every guest in the area.
Travelers can admire wildflowers in Elk Meadows and enjoy the view of Ramona Falls through the Pacific Crest Trail. Backpackers with a taste for more adventure can traverse the Timberline National Historic Trail that circles Mount Hood. Other activities include kayaking and paddle boarding in Trillium Lake and Timothy Lake.
4. Wahkeena Falls
Wahkeena Falls is one of the scenic waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge. The waterfall cascades 242 feet in tiers through the lush forest in the canyon. The waterfalls gained popularity for their beauty, but one other reason why travelers love them is that they only require a short hike.
Reaching the waterfalls through the Scenic Highway loop can give you a wonderful view of the scenery. In addition, the Wahkeena Falls Trail can also lead you to other spectacular waterfalls in the gorge.
5. Oregon Coast
The Oregon Coast stretches for more than 350 miles along the Pacific Ocean. It covers the Columbia River to the California border, which can be a fun one-day drive or a multi-day road trip full of fun detours, coastal village visits, and beach days.
Travelers can take detours to the Clatsop, Siuslaw, and Rogue River-Siskiyou forests. People can also get a guided Oregon tour highlighting Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park, and Neahkahnie Overlook. In addition, visit coastal towns like Rockaway Beach and Coos Bay for fresh-caught seafood and antique gallery exhibits.
6. Wallowa Mountains
The Wallowa Mountains are the highest peaks in the state outside the Cascade Range, located at the extreme northeast corner. It has 534 miles of trails throughout the wilderness that take hikers from grasslands and pine forests to breathtaking alpine meadows.
Visitors to Wallowa can try taking a ride on the Wallowa Lake Tramway, the most popular attraction in the area. The tramway is the steepest gondola in North America that offers riders the best views of the peaks. There is also the Wallowa Lake State Park, where families can enjoy a picnic and a good swim in the marina.
7. Crater Lake
The Crater Lake is a beautiful Oregon wonder formed more than 7,700 years ago from a volcanic eruption. The clear waters of the lake have been a collection of rain and snow for thousands of years. Popular for its rich blue and extremely clear waters, the Crater Lake is the country’s deepest lake.
Explorers can cruise across the lake during summer to get a complete view of the ancient lake. Reaching the docks requires a 45-minute walk from the camping areas. The two-mile trail is worth it due to the beautiful forest surrounding the area.
Don’t forget the book that lays out the principles of goal-achievement and attaining a Bold Life!
