They say the color of the heart chakra is green. No wonder my heart will always be in the lush green state of Oregon. The beauty of the state is unparalleled in the entire country. From high snow-clad volcanoes surrounded by dense forests to awe-inspiring vistas of the Pacific Ocean, Oregon is a complete package for nature-lovers.
Geography (Only for geology fans)
Road tripping through Oregon is an overdose of green (in a good way, of course). Geographically, Oregon is pretty diverse. You have the coast range running north to south along the Pacific Ocean with Spruce and Fir giving you those clean inhales of oxygen and towering cliffs inspire many cliff divers. A little east are the Williamette lowlands where the soil is rich and the trees are abundant. Further east are the mighty Cascade Mountains, where you can find 10,000ers such as Mount Hood, Mount Jefferson, Three Sisters and Mount McLoughlin. The very beautiful Crater lake is also found in this range. The Southwest corner is covered with dense forests, thanks to the Klamath Mountains, while much of the southeast corner is semi-desert. The Northeastern region is shaped by the Columbia Plateau where ranges like the Blue Mountains and the Wallowa Mountains rise high and the Snake River cuts the Hells Canyon.
Road-Trip itineraries
Few of the routes are classics and they definitely shouldn't be missed.
1. Pacific Coast Scenic Byway
Arguably, Oregon Hwy 101 is the best coastal drive in the country. This 15-hour ride comprises of beautiful cliffs, scenic viewpoints and lighthouses. Every fifty something miles, there is a view sooo worthy of that 20-minute stop. The most picturesque views are between Seaside and Coos Bay. There are numerous small towns on the way that will provide the much needed refreshing meals and if you are into them, souvenirs.
Ecola State Park
2. Umpqua River Scenic Byway
The very refreshing Umpqua river starts right off the coast and follows Hwy 38 East merging into Hwy 138 that passes through the beautiful Umpqua National Forest. The forest is home to more than 60 mammal species and about 230 bird species. Throughout the drive, you will have numerous opportunities to stop and do short hikes to waterfalls such as Susan Creek falls and Clearwater falls.
Umpqua National Forest
3. Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway
To top off the Umpqua experience, take Hwy 97 South into Crater Lake National Park to get panoramic views of the deepest lake in the country at 1943 ft under water! Mt. Bailey, Mt. Thielsen and Mt. Scott grace the eyes with pretty snow-capped peaks. Catch the sunset at Diamond Lake or preferably, Crater Lake for some awe-inspiring colors.
Crater Lake National Park
4. Mount Hood National Forest
You obviously can't miss the highest peak in Oregon! Mount Hood at 11,249 ft is a gorgeous stratovolcano covered with snow most of the year. If you are coming from Portland, take 84 East or Hwy 26 towards Madras. There is plenty of dispersed camping and hiking trails to be explored throughout the lush green forest.
Mount Hood
Dispersed Camping in Mt Hood National Forest
I'd love to hear about your Oregon adventures and road trip tips! Keep exploring!
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