Discover the Wonder of Oregon
Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, Crater Lake is widely celebrated as Oregon’s most magnificent lake and one of the most picturesque in the United States. Formed by the collapse of the volcano Mount Mazama, Crater Lake is renowned for its deep blue color and crystal-clear waters, making it the deepest lake in the United States. Surrounded by sheer cliffs nearly 2,000 feet high, the lake is a centerpiece of the Crater Lake National Park, offering a stunning display of natural beauty. Whether you’re hiking the rim for breathtaking panoramic views, embarking on a boat tour to the island, or simply absorbing the serene beauty from the lakeshore, Crater Lake provides an unforgettable experience.
Interesting Facts about Oregon
01
Powell’s City of Books
Powell’s Books in Portland is one of the largest independent bookstores in the world. It occupies an entire city block and boasts a vast collection of new and used books.
02
Mount Hood
Mount Hood, a dormant volcano, is the highest peak in Oregon. It’s a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, and hiking.
03
Covered Bridges
Oregon has one of the largest collections of covered bridges in the West. These charming structures can be found throughout the state.
Must See Attractions
Crater Lake National Park
Nature & Parks
Crater Lake National Park is a must-see destination in Oregon, renowned for its stunningly deep blue waters and dramatic scenery. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from Rim Drive, hike through old-growth forests, or take a boat tour to Wizard Island. The park offers a variety of activities year-round, including snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter.
Mount Hood
Nature & Parks
Mount Hood, Oregon’s highest peak, is a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts. In the winter, the mountain offers excellent skiing and snowboarding at several resorts, including the historic Timberline Lodge. Summer activities include hiking, mountain biking, and climbing.
Smith Rock State Park
Nature & Parks
This park is a haven for rock climbers and outdoor enthusiasts. It showcases towering cliffs and dramatic rock formations set against the backdrop of Oregon’s high desert landscape. The park offers miles of hiking trails and some of the best sports climbing routes in North America.
Where to Sleep
Oregon Lakes
1. Detroit Lake
Created by the Detroit Dam, Detroit Lake is a popular recreational spot for a variety of water activities, including fishing and camping, all set against the scenic backdrop of the Cascade Range.
2. Clear Lake
Known for its remarkably clear and cold waters, Clear Lake, situated in the Cascades, boasts an underwater forest, submerged for decades and visible through the crystal-clear depths.
3. Lake Billy Chinook
Formed by the confluence of the Metolius, Deschutes, and Crooked Rivers, Lake Billy Chinook showcases unique canyon scenery, making it a favorite spot for houseboating and water sports.
4. Lost Lake
Tucked away in the Mount Hood National Forest, Lost Lake charms visitors with its peaceful setting, reflection of Mount Hood in its waters, and opportunities for kayaking and camping.
5. Paulina Lake
Located in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, Paulina Lake is a volcanic crater lake surrounded by lush forests, offering fishing, hiking, and the chance to explore the fascinating Big Obsidian Flow.
6. Diamond Lake
Framed by the towering peaks of Mount Thielsen and Mount Bailey, Diamond Lake is a recreational haven, offering boating, fishing, and stunning views of the surrounding volcanic landscapes.
7. Crater Lake
Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the United States, captivates visitors with its stunning blue waters and the picturesque Wizard Island, making it a must-see natural wonder in Oregon.
8. Wallowa Lake
Nestled in the Wallowa Mountains, Wallowa Lake offers a serene retreat with opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking, surrounded by the breathtaking Eagle Cap Wilderness.
Annual Events and Festivals
May – June, 2025
Portland Rose Festival
The Portland Rose Festival epitomizes the city’s nickname, “The City of Roses.” This much-anticipated event, which began over a century ago in 1907, ushers in the spring with an array of festivities spanning several weeks. Typically kicking off in late May and extending into early June, the festival is renowned for its grand floral parades, featuring intricately decorated floats adorned with thousands of fresh flowers, marching bands, and performers.
July 2025
Waterfront Blues Festival
The Waterfront Blues Festival in Portland is a dazzling celebration of blues music and culture. Over the Fourth of July weekend along the picturesque banks of the Willamette River, the festival has been a staple in Portland’s event calendar since its inception in 1988. It has since become the largest blues festival on the West Coast and the second-largest in the United States. Each year, the festival attracts world-class musicians from across the globe, showcasing a wide array of blues styles, from classic delta to zydeco and everything in between.
September 11 – 14, 2024
Pendleton Round-Up
The Pendleton Round-Up, an iconic event deeply rooted in the traditions of the American West, transforms the Eastern Oregon town of Pendleton into a vibrant hub of cowboy culture every September. Established in 1910, this renowned rodeo has become one of the most celebrated in the nation. Drawing competitors and spectators from far and wide, the Pendleton Round-Up offers a captivating blend of rodeo events, including bull riding, barrel racing, and steer roping, showcasing the skill and bravery of talented cowboys and cowgirls.
Top Hiking Trails
Trail of Ten Falls
Ten Falls Trails, 20024 Silver Falls Hwy SE, Sublimity, Oregon
The Trail of Ten Falls is a mesmerizing hiking experience that winds through a scenic wonderland of dense forests and captivating waterfalls. The crown jewel of the park, this 7.2-mile loop trail provides an immersive journey that showcases not just one but ten distinct waterfalls, each with its own unique charm. The awe-inspiring South Falls, with its 177-foot curtain of water, allows hikers to pass behind its thundering cascade, providing a rare and exhilarating perspective along with the other nine waterfalls.
Multnomah Falls Trail
Cascade Locks, Oregon
The Multnomah Falls Trail, a breathtaking and iconic pathway in the Columbia River Gorge, offers an unforgettable hiking experience that leads to one of the state’s most famous natural landmarks, Multnomah Falls. Spanning an approximately 2.2-mile round trip, this moderately challenging trail allows hikers to witness the majestic beauty of the 620-foot waterfall, the tallest in Oregon and one of the tallest year-round waterfalls in the United States. The journey begins at the historic Multnomah Falls Lodge, built in 1925. It ascends along a well-maintained path with a series of switchbacks offering stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge.
Mirror Lake Loop Trail
Mirror Lake Trail #664, Rhododendron, Oregon
Nestled on the slopes of Mount Hood, the Mirror Lake Loop Trail in Oregon beckons hikers with its enchanting alpine scenery and a pristine mountain lake that perfectly reflects the majestic surroundings. This moderately challenging 3.6-mile loop begins at the trailhead near Government Camp and meanders through a forest before ascending to the mirror-like lake. The trail unfolds with glimpses of Mount Hood, and during the winter, the landscape transforms into a snow-covered wonderland, providing a different kind of allure. The loop offers a sense of tranquility as hikers traverse wooden footbridges and embrace the crisp mountain air.
Best Golf Courses
Bandon Dunes Golf Resort
57744 Round Lake Rd, Bandon, Oregon
Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, situated along the rugged and windswept coastline of southern Oregon, stands as a golfer’s paradise and a testament to the raw beauty of the Pacific. Renowned for its world-class golf courses, this destination is a haven for those seeking an authentic and challenging golf experience. With five distinct 18-hole courses, the resort offers a variety of layouts, each intricately designed to showcase the natural contours of the land. Golfers are treated to sweeping ocean views, towering dunes, and undulating fairways, creating a harmonious blend of sport and nature.
Crosswater Club
17600 Canoe Camp Dr, Bend, Oregon
The Crosswater Club is a prestigious golf destination that exemplifies the serene beauty and outdoor splendor of the region. Situated near the city of Bend, this golf club boasts a championship course designed by the renowned architect Bob Cupp. The course is set against the backdrop of the Cascade Mountains and stretches across a remarkable 600 acres, interwoven with the Deschutes and Little Deschutes rivers.
Aspen Lakes Golf Course
16900 Aspen Lakes Dr, Sisters, Oregon
Aspen Lakes, located near the charming town of Sisters in Central Oregon, is a hidden gem among the state’s golfing destinations. Known for its stunning natural beauty and unique course design, Aspen Lakes offers a distinctive golf experience that attracts enthusiasts from across the region and beyond. Nestled against the majestic Cascade Mountains backdrop, the course’s layout beautifully incorporates the natural landscape, featuring shimmering lakes, rolling terrain, and stunning mountain views at every turn. Measuring over 7,000 yards from the back tees, it caters to various skill levels, making it enjoyable for casual golfers and challenging for serious players.
Water Sports
Passion Yachts
Sailing
Sailing in Oregon is a captivating experience, and for those seeking the thrill of harnessing the wind on the water, there’s no better place than the picturesque lakes that dot the state’s diverse landscapes. One standout company catering to sailing enthusiasts is Passion Yachts, offering sailboat rentals. Whether looking for a leisurely day on the water, a team-building event, or sailing lessons, Passion Yachts provides a gateway to the joy of sailing amid Oregon’s natural scenery.
Paddleboarding
Stand Up Paddleboarding
Stand-up paddleboarding has gained immense popularity in Oregon, thanks to its calm lakes and gentle rivers. The Deschutes River in Bend is a favorite spot, offering a mix of flat water and mild rapids suitable for all skill levels. Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the United States, provides a unique paddleboarding experience with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views. SUP yoga classes are also a growing trend, combining the tranquility of paddleboarding with the mindfulness of yoga.
Oregon Fishing
fishing
Fishing in Oregon is a diverse and rewarding experience, with the state offering a wealth of freshwater and saltwater opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. Oregon’s rivers and lakes are teeming with various fish species, including salmon, steelhead, trout, bass, and sturgeon. From the legendary salmon runs in the Columbia River to the pristine mountain streams of the Cascades, the state’s waterways cater to different fishing preferences. The coastal areas, with their estuaries and bays, provide excellent opportunities for saltwater fishing, where anglers can pursue halibut, lingcod, and a variety of rockfish.
Resorts to Explore
Running Y Resort
Family-friendly, Lakefront
5500 Running Y Rd, Klamath Falls, Oregon 97601
Sunriver Resort
Recreational
17600 Center Dr, Sunriver, Oregon 97707
The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse
Family-friendly, Recreational
13300 US-20, Sisters, Oregon 97759
Tips on Vacationing in Oregon
Explore Beyond Portland
While Portland is a must-visit with its unique culture and culinary scene, don’t miss out on other areas. The Oregon Coast, Willamette Valley’s wineries, and the scenic beauty of Central Oregon are worth exploring.
Drive the Scenic Routes
Rent a car to explore the Oregon Coast Highway, the Historic Columbia River Highway, or the scenic byways of Central Oregon. The state’s diverse landscapes are best experienced on a road trip.
Visit Small Towns and Rural Areas
Oregon’s small towns have a lot to offer, from unique local arts and crafts to historical sites and charming downtowns.
Frequently Asked Questions about Oregon
A popular road trip is the Oregon Coast Highway (US 101), which takes you through picturesque coastal towns. Another scenic route is the Columbia River Gorge, with stops at Multnomah Falls and Hood River.
The summer months (June to August) are generally the most popular due to pleasant weather. However, spring and fall can also be great, offering fewer crowds and mild temperatures. Winter is ideal for skiing and snow activities in places like Mount Hood.
There are plenty of beautiful lakeside vacation rentals available along the Oregon Coast. Some popular areas include Siltcoos Lake, Woahink Lake, and Devils Lake. Look for cozy cabins and luxurious homes offering amenities like private docks, outdoor seating, and stunning lake views. Be sure to explore the surrounding attractions, such as hiking trails, water sports, and charming coastal towns.
Yes, you’ll find many Oregon vacation rentals featuring hot tubs! These properties offer relaxation and a chance for you to unwind after a day of exploring the region’s natural beauty. Search for vacation rentals highlighting “hot tubs” as an amenity, or consult a local reservation specialist to find your perfect match. Hot tub rentals are available in various locations, from oceanfront to secluded forest retreats.
Oregon boasts several state parks with abundant vacation rental opportunities. Some favorites include Silver Falls State Park, Crater Lake National Park, and Cape Lookout State Park. These parks offer rentals near nature, immersing you in an authentic Oregon experience. Be prepared for hiking, wildlife sightings, and incredible views you’ll remember for years.