trip report oregon

• Beyond Oregon
• Central Oregon
• Columbia River Gorge
• Eastern Oregon
• Oregon Coast
• Southern Oregon
• Western Oregon
• Willamette Valley
• Forest Bathing
• Mountain Biking
• Photography
• Ski/Snowboard
• Storm Watching
• Vacation rental near Mt Bachelor Oregon
• Vacation Rentals
• Bend Vacation Homes
• Sunriver Vacation Homes
• Oregon Wine
• Restaurants

Treat Yourself To Savory Fish & Chips At This Local Favorite…

An Oregon Coast Inn Has Earned a Spot in the 15…

The Little Pink House That Serves Up Some Of The Best…

This Southern Oregon Waterfall Makes For The Perfect Summer Hike

Discover Serenity at Crater Lake Resort, Just Minutes from the National…

An Online Child Predator Catcher Leads to 24 Arrests in Albany,…

Stay A Night In An Authentic Railroad Caboose In Oregon, With…

Sleep Overnight in a Luxury Yurt That’s on Your Own Private…

Your Stay at This Magical Oregon Bed & Breakfast Will Feel…

Escape to Serenity: A Secluded Cabin Getaway on the Southern Oregon…

The Art of the Omelete Has Been Perfected at This Cozy…

The Giant Bloody Marys At This Popular Pub In Oregon Are…

Tripcheck oregon road & weather conditions map.

Oregon's award-winning travel information website, TripCheck , is a fantastic tool when traveling to Oregon . You can access up-to-date road conditions, weather forecasts, and travel advisories around the clock. Additionally, you can browse through a wide selection of traffic cameras to view the latest traffic updates.

Stay Safe on the Roads in Oregon

• Rest Areas : Find out about the rest areas and service centers available on your route and plan your stops accordingly to avoid driver fatigue.
• Winter Travel Tips : Get practical advice on how to prepare for winter driving conditions, including how to equip your vehicle, what to pack, and how to drive safely on snowy and icy roads.
• Transportation Safety Topics : Stay informed about other important transportation safety topics, such as seatbelt use, child car seat regulations, distracted driving, and impaired driving.
• Report Hazards : Help keep our roads safe by reporting any road hazards you encounter, such as accidents, road closures, or debris on the road, to the relevant authorities.
• Shipping & Returns

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in oregon.

Oregon offers some of the West Coast's most captivating scenery. Moody coastline, lush mountains and mesmerizing waterfalls are abundant, and lucky for travelers, many are easily accessible from nearby towns and cities. U.S. News took into account dining – another one of the state's standout attributes – as well as affordability, sights, traveler sentiment and expert opinion to come up with the best places to visit in Oregon. Want to put in your two cents? Be sure to vote below to influence next year's list.

Crater Lake National Park

Cannon beach, willamette valley, silver falls state park, newport, or, portland, or, john day fossil beds national monument, seaside, or, florence, or, mount bachelor, oregon dunes national recreation area, newberry national volcanic monument.

Formed 7,700 years ago after Mount Mazama erupted and collapsed, Crater Lake is America's deepest lake and makes for a superb lake vacation . Today, you can admire Crater Lake National Park's rich blue water and towering mountains during a boat or trolley tour, a scenic drive along the rim or a hike on one of its many trails. In winter, some roads are closed and visibility may be poor due to clouds and snowstorms. But if you don't mind these potential drawbacks, you can enjoy fun winter activities like sledding, skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing.

A top destination on the Oregon Coast, Cannon Beach features a nearly 4-mile-long shoreline with tide pools and sand dunes in addition to its most well-known attribute, the 235-foot-tall Haystack Rock. Once you've gotten your fill of this breathtaking beach, hop in the car and visit nearby Oswald West State Park, which offers great hiking, surfing and fishing opportunities. Or, stay in town to check out Cannon Beach's art galleries and watch experts make glass art at Icefire Glassworks.

Powder hounds and nature lovers take note – Mount Hood is one of Oregon's best places to enjoy outdoor activities. The state's tallest mountain towers more than 11,000 feet above sea level and is reputed to be the second-most climbed peak in the world. Its perpetually snow-covered peaks are home to six ski areas that offer the longest ski season in North America, with Timberline Lodge open 10 months of the year. You can also ski after dark at Mount Hood Skibowl, which boasts the nation's largest terrain for night skiing. In the warmer months, take a scenic hike or drive through the mountain's forest.

Willamette Valley is to Oregon what Napa Valley is to California. This destination is home to two-thirds of Oregon's wineries and vineyards, totaling more than 700 wineries for the entire region. Come here to wine and fine dine for days, and be sure to sample as much pinot noir as you can, since it is Willamette Valley's specialty. When you're not wine tasting, enjoy a relaxing soak in one of Willamette Valley's hot springs.

Oregon's largest state park is one of the state's most unique and scenic natural attractions because of its jaw-dropping waterfalls. The Trail of Ten Falls hiking path loops through the park and takes you above, below and even behind its 10 waterfalls, including the 177-foot-tall South Falls. What's more, Silver Falls State Park offers 35-plus miles of backcountry trails that can be used for mountain biking, horseback riding and hiking. When you've worked up an appetite, venture to the park's South Falls Day-use area to enjoy a picnic or barbecue lunch.

Hood River's location in the Columbia River Gorge makes it a prime place for outdoor pursuits. The 80-mile-long valley is known for its stunning collection of waterfalls (think: Multnomah Falls and Starvation Creek Falls) accessible via various hiking trails. It's also considered the windsurfing capital of the world and an excellent destination for other water sports like kiteboarding and sailing. After a long day of adventuring, travelers can unwind with a beer or two at one of the town's microbreweries.

If you're after hearty hikes and delectable eats, Bend is the place for you. This small city has a dining scene that foodies fawn over, complete with food carts, breweries and even cider houses. Bend is also a jumping-off point for numerous natural attractions, including the Deschutes National Forest, which features multiple rivers, mountains and scenic byways. Ample opportunities for outdoor recreation like skiing and snowboarding in winter, hiking in summer and rock climbing in spring and fall make Bend appealing year-round.

Of all of the cute coastal towns Oregon has to offer, families will probably appreciate Newport the most. The town, located on Oregon's central coast, features kid-friendly attractions like the Oregon Coast Aquarium, Oregon State University's Hatfield Marine Science Center and several beaches. Newport also provides numerous outdoor attractions suited for adults, including scenic Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area and the equally picturesque Ocean to Bay Trail.

Located on the southern Oregon Coast just 6 miles north of the California border, Brookings offers outdoorsy travelers the perfect Pacific Northwest welcome, with rugged coastline views and natural splendor to explore. Head to Harris Beach State Park for its sandy beach, tide pools, tufted puffins and views of sea stacks on the shoreline. Then, drive up the coast on the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor for 12 miles of breathtaking ocean vistas. While the town itself is small, you can catch a movie at the local cinema, grab a beer at Chetco Brewing Company or stroll through Azalea Park.

Portland has one of the most dynamic (and affordable) food scenes in the USA, so you'll likely spend the bulk of your time enjoying the city's many culinary offerings, from Voodoo Doughnut to Eastern European fare at Kachka. In between meals and snacks, visit one of Portland's many parks or cultural sights, such as Forest Park (one of the largest urban parks in the country),  the Portland Art Museum (the oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest) or Powell's City of Books (the largest independent bookstore in the world).

Fans may recognize Astoria as the setting of "The Goonies," and you'll find several iconic film sites in town, such as the original Goonies house and the Oregon Film Museum, which was featured in the opening scene. But beyond its film history (more than a dozen movies have been filmed here), Astoria holds rich heritage. Its location on the Columbia River near the Pacific Ocean made it a prime fur trading post in the 1800's, and many of Astoria's attractions are dedicated to maritime history. Today, visitors can take in the town's Victorian houses, climb the 125-foot Astoria Column or dine at local breweries and bistros.

As its name suggests, this protected area is famed for having one of the most complete fossil records in the world, spanning more than 40 million years. Visitors can hike through and explore fossils and rock layers in the park's three separate units. Sheep Rock Unit, home to the monument's visitor center which features exhibits and a working lab, is the best starting point. But you won't want to miss the Painted Hills Unit, which woos visitors with distinguishing layered rocks, and the Clarno Unit, which boasts jutting Palisades (rock towers formed from volcanic mudslides).

Seaside is an exceptional vacation destination because it's a gateway to some of the most notable attractions on the Oregon Coast. From this small town of less than 8,000 residents, visitors can reach Tillamook Head, Ecola State Park and Lewis and Clark National Historical Park. All can be found within 15 miles of Seaside, presenting plenty of opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. Seaside also offers several can't-miss attractions, such as a beachfront promenade, the Seaside Aquarium and Captain Kid Amusement Park.

Florence appeals to travelers keen on spending their next vacation outdoors. One of this coastal town's best assets is its proximity to Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, but Florence is worth a visit in and of itself. Visitors can explore Sea Lion Caves, the largest sea cave in the country, ride horses on the beach, fish on the area's many lakes and play golf on a coastal course. Don't forget to save time for visiting the Heceta Head Lighthouse and Historic Old Town Florence, where you'll find shops, art galleries and the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum.

With 4,300-plus skiable acres and the highest skiable elevation in the state, Mount Bachelor is one of the country's top ski destinations . While there are plenty of trails for experienced skiers, Mount Bachelor also offers runs designed for beginners, as well as free and discounted ski lift tickets for first-timers. The mountain, which is a dormant volcano about 20 miles southwest of Bend, receives an average of 462 inches of snowfall annually from late November to May. The fun doesn't stop after ski season, though, when visitors can trade their ski poles and snowboards for mountain bikes and hiking shoes.

This endless sea of sand is best described as otherworldly. In fact, this locale inspired Frank Herbert to write his sci fi book, "Dune." To catch an eyeful of the park's tallest dunes, hike the John Dellenback Dunes Trail. Once you've exhausted yourself from walking on dry sand (trust us, it won't take long), opt for a high-speed ATV or dune buggy ride, or hop on a sandboard. Then, enjoy some shade in the coastal forest at Tahkenitch, or look for wildlife at the Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area.   

Foodies and outdoor lovers will love visiting Tillamook. This small town in northwestern Oregon is an outdoor recreation hub where you can enjoy hiking, kayaking, crabbing, clamming and fishing, among other activities. After an active day, you'll find no shortage of places to satisfy your appetite. Tillamook is perhaps most famous for its dairy industry, so no trip here would be complete without touring the Tillamook Creamery and sampling its cheese and ice cream. Also save time for trying local brews at one of downtown Tillamook's breweries.

Situated roughly 12 miles south of Bend in the Deschutes National Forest, Newberry National Volcanic Monument features one of Oregon's most unique landscapes. The monument's nearly 55,000 acres are filled with lava flows and other fascinating geological features, including a lava river cave and a lava field where NASA astronauts trained to walk on the moon in the '60s. There's also Paulina Peak, which you can climb to the top of for incredible views. When you're not hiking, go biking, boating or fishing.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Lincoln City

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

You may be interested in.

Best Places to Visit in Maine

Best Places to Visit in California for 2024

Best California Beaches for 2024

Best Places to Visit in Georgia

Best small towns to visit in the usa.

Best Oregon Beaches

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

Situated in the northwest just north of California and Nevada, the state of Oregon has one of the most diverse landscapes of any state in the USA. Apart from its famous forests, the state boasts towering mountain ranges, arid scrublands, wide prairies, deserts and a stunning coastline.

The salmon-rich Columbia River meanders along the state's northern boundary, and the surrounding fertile Willamette Valley is home to around 70 percent of Oregon's population. The state has over 50 mountain ranges, and adventure seekers will find lift-serviced alpine skiing operators south of the valley in the Calapooya Mountains, west at the Oregon Coast Range, and east in the snow-capped volcanic peaks of the Cascade Range.

Most of Oregon's countryside is remarkably unspoilt, from pristine beaches and lush valleys to rugged mountain peaks. It boasts natural attractions such as Hells Canyon, the deepest gorge in northern America, as well as hundreds of miles of rivers and around 1,400 named lakes. This includes Crater Lake, the deepest in the USA.

In addition, more than half of the state is covered in natural forest. This makes it a delight for nature lovers, although its merits as an outdoor adventure tourist destination are slightly marred by an exceptionally rainy climate.

It is far easier to head west on the Oregon Trail today than it was for the historic pioneers in their covered wagons, but visitors are no less delighted by the charms of this destination than those gutsy emigrants of the mid-1800s.

Straddling the Willamette River, the largest city in Oregon is Portland. Although Salem is the state capital, Portland is modern, compact, vibrant, and the commercial and tourist hub of the state. It is famous for its locally brewed beer and is known as the City of Roses, owing to its abundance of the flower.

Dialog title

Are you a travel professional.

Sign up to send personalised, advertisement-free versions of our travel guides to your customers.

Register for a free trial

Already a member?

Oregon Hikers

Skip to content

• Field Guide
• Find a Hike!
• Board index
• Trail Talk Topics Posts Last post
• General Hiking Topics General discussions on hiking in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest 3671 Topics 41735 Posts Last post Re: Aurora Forecast by BurnsideBob Fri May 10, 2024 8:13 am
• Introduce Yourself! Introduce yourself to the group! We welcome novice and expert alike! We especially love hearing from those new to Portland and those new to hiking 1126 Topics 4722 Posts Last post Re: Vancouver/Portland by retired jerry Tue May 07, 2024 7:47 pm
• Events and Announcements Use this forum to see or share information about upcoming events, hikes, speakers or trail-tending opportunities from Portland-area clubs and organizations. Posts to this forum will automatically delete after 90 days. 630 Topics 1259 Posts Last post Re: Extraordinary Oregon Book… by mattisnotfrench Tue Aug 01, 2023 9:20 am
• Hiking in the News Use this forum to post links to news stories from other websites - ones that other hikers might find interesting. This is not intended for original material or anecdotal information. You can reply to any news stories posted, but do not start a new thread without a link to a specific news story. 905 Topics 8052 Posts Last post Re: House passes the EXPLORE … by MycoMark Mon Apr 22, 2024 4:26 pm
• Idle Chatter Chat about non-hiking topics. The least serious of the forums on the site! 893 Topics 9585 Posts Last post Re: What did you find in Sate… by retired jerry Sat Apr 27, 2024 9:17 am
• Let's see some ID The purpose of this forum is to help people identify things they've seen while out hiking: wildflowers, trees, birds, insects, small animals, animal tracks, even geographical features like buttes or streams 541 Topics 3414 Posts Last post Re: Small purple flowers by adamschneider Sun Feb 25, 2024 1:59 am
• Hiking Health & Safety Share your tips for safe hiking, surviving in the wild and managing hiking injuries! 107 Topics 1377 Posts Last post Data Insights from 10,000 Gar… by aiwetir Wed Oct 26, 2022 8:36 pm
• Lost & Found Lose something on the trail? Find something? Post it here. 101 Topics 210 Posts Last post Re: LOST trekking poles, Buck… by johnspeth Thu May 09, 2024 10:52 am
• Trips Topics Posts Last post
• Trip Reports This forum is used to share your experiences out on the trails. 11702 Topics 86756 Posts Last post Franklin Ridge CRG by EmilyK Fri May 10, 2024 8:44 pm
• Off-trail Trip Reports & Lost Trails Discussions and Trip Reports for off-trail adventures and rediscovering lost trails 1177 Topics 10796 Posts Last post Re: Shovel Trail, Cabin Railr… by EmilyK Fri Apr 12, 2024 6:46 pm
• Travels in Time This is a forum for trip reports that pre-date the Portland Hikers forum, trail photos from pre-digital era, or any other discussions that focus on trail history. 164 Topics 1386 Posts Last post Re: Historical Resources by idoru Wed Dec 13, 2023 2:56 pm
• Organize and Invite! (Upcoming Hikes) Post your plans for upcoming hikes and invite others! Look for hiking partners 673 Topics 4209 Posts Last post Mt Hood? by sgyoung Thu May 25, 2023 12:08 am
• Trail Q&A Trip recommendations, current conditions, and other trail related Q&A 3694 Topics 25201 Posts Last post Re: Visit the North Shore of … by bobcat Mon May 06, 2024 7:54 am
• Trail Rx Use this forum to report and discuss trails in need of maintenance. This will help organizations like TKO and agencies like the Forest Service get the most recent on-the-ground trail conditions. 470 Topics 2472 Posts Last post Re: Whiskey Creek on Herman C… by drm Wed May 08, 2024 8:30 am
• Gear & Goodies Topics Posts Last post
• Gear Discussion Ask questions and share your experiences with hiking & backpacking gear, and share trail recipes and gadget tips. Please see classifieds forum for buying/selling stuff. 856 Topics 8415 Posts Last post Re: Favorite PNW rain gear? by jvangeld Wed Oct 11, 2023 5:27 pm
• Photography Camera Gear, How-To, Questions 526 Topics 4068 Posts Last post Re: Website Review / Inviting… by Aimless Sat Aug 12, 2023 8:24 pm

• Classifieds Classifieds are for posting non-commercial offers of goods and services among forum members related to hiking, hiking gear and other directly related items of interest. All new topics require moderator approval. 183 Topics 442 Posts Last post Scarpa Kailash Boots for sale by BaileyBoy Thu May 09, 2024 10:06 am
• Site Support Topics Posts Last post
• Discussion Forum Support and General Site Questions/Comments Use this forum to ask questions about how to use this website, or to make any general comments about how it works 245 Topics 1843 Posts Last post Re: Server errors are getting… by gallione11 Mon Apr 22, 2024 4:29 pm
• Field Guide Support Post comments or questions about the Field Guide 236 Topics 1091 Posts Last post Re: Photo for Field Guide by derwoodynck Sun May 05, 2024 4:47 pm
• Information

Who is online

In total there are 5 users online :: 5 registered and 0 hidden (based on users active over the past 10 minutes) Most users ever online was 247 on Tue Apr 05, 2011 12:51 pm

Total posts 222970 • Total topics 28491 • Total members 12021 • Our newest member Katclowers

Free Shipping Over $50. Free 30 Day Returns. Click to Learn More.

• SHOP SHOP ALL GEAR ALL GEAR SNOW

Item added to your cart

On the Road in Oregon: An 8 Day Itinerary

Oregon truly has it all. Crashing waves, majestic tidepools, famous beach rocks and sunken ships all make the coast a must-do trip. But, there’s much more to Oregon than the coast. The innards of the state also boasts lush forests, jaw-dropping waterfalls, big mountains and winding rivers. Today we’re sharing our 8 day road trip itinerary exploring most of the beauty this must-see state has to offer. Happy trails!

Day One: Bend

We kick off our trip in Bend; an outdoor recreation hub with a solid food and beer scene. No matter the season, there is adventure to be found here. Even 10 days in this little playground alone might not be enough. During the winter, nearby Mt. Bachelor ski resort won’t disappoint. You can then explore Umpka Hot Springs to warm you up after a day on the slopes. During the summer paddleboarding at Elk Lake, hitting the Lava River Caves, or a visit to Tumalo Falls or Smith Rock gives you ample adventure opportunities.

No matter the recreation you choose, Bend’s stellar foodie scene hits the spot after working up an appetite. Spork and The Brown Owl are good choices for grub. For drink try Deschutes Brewery, Atlas Cider or Humm Kumbucha. Something for every taste. With Day One in the books, It’s time to crawl into your campsite at Tumalo State Park. Tumalo is equal parts amenities, equal parts rustic. This is the perfect place to rest your head after a day of adventure.

Day Two: Ashland

On your four hour commute to Ashland, make a pit stop to stretch your legs at the infamous Crater Lake. A must-see National Park when exploring Oregon. Be prepared for a wave of wild, artistic culture as you enter into the quaint, small town. Do not miss a jaunt through Lithia Park, which offers 100 acres of green space smack dab in the middle of town. With its many festivals and live music events offered throughout the year, finding something to do here is easy, despite it’s small size. Fill your belly at Martolli’s, a no brainer pizza joint where the ingredients are local and the sauces are homemade. End your night with a sweet treat from Zoey’s Cafe & All Natural Ice Cream. Finally, rest your traveling bones at one of the local yurts or safari tents for nightly rent in the area.

Day Three: Sunset Bay

Trade your hiking boots for your bathing suit because you’re headed to the coast today. In just over three hours, you’ll find yourself at Coos Bay - a gateway town to jaw dropping coast lines, lush forest and loud sea lions. Make your way to Sunset Bay State Park where you can chase waves, share a picnic and soak in the sun. Travel South along the coast to spot sea lions and discover endless sea creatures in secret tidepooling holes. Snag some fish & chips from the local hole-in-the-wall called Monkey Business before returning to your campsite at the water’s edge.

Day Four: Newport

In a little less than three hours, you’ll arrive at your next destination. A quintessential coastal town lined with colorful shops, more sea lions than people, and Mo’s- the best clam chowder in the state. Depending on the weather, there are a couple of ways to experience Newport. If the sun is shining, take your adventures outside to the Devil’s Punchbowl, drive over the Yaquina Bay Bridge or go out to the Yaquina Lighthouse. For inside options, the Oregon Coast Aquarium is a perfect way to spend your day before spending the night at one of the endless oceanside cottages for rent in the area.

Day Five: Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is a short two and a half hour drive from Newport. Grab a delicious breakfast-to-go from Cannon Beach Bakery before heading straight to Haystack Rock, of Goonies fame. Explore the tide pools and discover alien-colored sea life for hours. From there, make a pit-stop over at Hug Point for beautiful waterfalls and mysterious sea caves before filling up with craft beer at Pelican Brewery. End this epic day with a good night’s sleep surfside at Ecola State Park.

Day Six: Portland

Before leaving the coast for good, make one last stop to explore the shipwreck of Peter Iredale just outside of Astoria. Getting into Portland, make sure to grab an out-of-this-world donut at Blue Star. Next up, take a stroll through Powell’s City of Books, the largest used book store in the world, or soak in some green space at the Japanese Garden. Fill your evening with a brewery tour at Base Camp Brewing and then wind down watching the sunset at St. John’s Bridge.

Day Seven: Mt. Hood

With the city in your rear view, it’s time to get back to some outdoor adventures. First up, hike to the top of Multnomah Falls, the largest falls in Oregon before your stopover at Mt. Hood. After a morning of hiking, change it up with a warm soak at Bagby hot springs. From there, SUP the beautiful Trillium Lake before heading off for some scenic wine tasting and locally-sourced food at Field & Vine Dinner. Spoil yourself with a night of rest at the Sandy Salmon Bed and Breakfast.

Day Eight: Joseph

The last leg is a rewarding drive of four and a half hours. Referred to as the Swiss Alps of Oregon, Joseph is a serious gem of a small town. Spend some time exploring the breathtaking Eagle Cap Wilderness. From glacial lakes to meadows full to the brim with wildflowers, you’ll be glad you did. Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time for a cold beer and a damn good burger at Terminal Gravity Brewing. Your final destination is at the historic Jennings Hotel. But, don’t forget to grab a sweet treat from Arrowhead Chocolates on your way out of town. A reward for an adventure well done.

Published on September 24, 2018

• Share Share
• Tweet Tweet
• Pin it Pin it
• Email Email

Now gear up and get out there!

Drift snow helmet.

Roca Snow Goggles

Roca Lenses

Pipeline Snow Goggles

Be the first to see cutting-edge products, exclusive offers and limited edition gear.

• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
• Opens in a new window.

Simply Wander

curated travel guides to help you wander simply and simply wander

Meet the Youngs

• Privacy Policy

Search this site

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

North America , Oregon , Western US & Canada · December 6, 2023

The Perfect 5-Day Oregon Itinerary

Oregon has so much to offer with stunning waterfalls, rugged coastlines, farm-fresh produce, forest hikes, city life, and much more. This 5-day Oregon itinerary will help you discover the best things to do in Oregon to make the most of your trip!

* Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the link then we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. We really appreciate your support!

The Best Things to Do in Oregon in 5 Days

Table of Contents

Arrive in portland, drive to mount hood, check into your airbnb, dinner at chicali cantina, breakfast at dragonfly cafe, drive the “waterfall highway” in the columbia river gorge, discover farm-fresh food on the hood river fruit loop drive, enjoy the views at trillium lake, dinner at mount hood village, explore portland, drive to oceanside, dinner at roseanna’s cafe, morning walk on the beach, ride e-bikes on the beach in pacific city, dinner and s’mores on the beach, visit tillamook creamery, take a ride on the oregon coast scenic railroad, drive to cannon beach.

Today will be a travel day, whether you are flying or driving into Oregon.

If you are flying, you’ll want to fly into Portland and pick up a rental car. I would recommend checking RentCars or Expedia for the best rates on rental cars.

After getting a rental car, you’ll want to drive about 50 minutes east of the city and enjoy the beauty of Mount Hood, one of Oregon’s most scenic destinations.

I would highly recommend booking a cozy cabin near Mount Hood for a few nights.

We booked this cabin in Brightwood on Airbnb and especially loved soaking in the hot tub overlooking the river.

It was a great location close to restaurants and shops, but felt private and secluded.

After dropping your luggage off, head to dinner at Chicali Cantina in Mount Hood Village.

Enjoy fresh homemade guacamole and salsa and a big fat burrito on their outdoor patio.

End the evening soaking under the stars in the hot tub while listening to the babbling sounds of the creek below.

It’s the best way to end a long travel day!

Start your day with a hearty home-cooked meal at the nearby Dragonfly Cafe.

Our favorites are the giant cinnamon roll, the biscuits & gravy, the steel-cut oatmeal, the french toast, and the most delicious hashbrowns.

The Columbia River Highway is the first scenic highway in the US to be designated as a National Historic Landmark.

It crosses through some of the most scenic landscapes in Oregon and is home to countless waterfalls.

Latourell Falls is the first waterfall you’ll come to and I would recommend taking the short 0.2-mile trail to the base of the falls.

There is a longer 2.1-mile loop trail that goes up above the waterfall if you have time.

You’ll also want to stop at Bridal Veil Falls a little further up the road. Here you will find a 0.6-mile out-and-back trail leading to the base of a two-tier 120-foot waterfall.

There is also the option to take a 0.4-mile loop trail to a scenic overlook of the Columbia River Gorge.

You definitely won’t want to miss Multnomah Falls, visiting it is one of the best things to do in Oregon.

This 620-foot-tall waterfall is the tallest in Oregon and is the crowning jewel of the Columbia River Gorge.

Just keep in mind that timed reservations are required from the end of May until the beginning of September.

There are plenty of other waterfalls to visit in the gorge, but those are a few that you won’t want to miss!

The “Fruit Loop” is a 35-mile scenic drive in the Hood River Valley that can be accessed from the Columbia River Highway.

It will take you past farm-to-table restaurants, roadside fruit stands, wineries, orchards, and flower fields.

I would recommend stopping for lunch at The Gorge White House.

Order their flatbread pizza or burgers that are made with ingredients grown right at the farm.

You can also pick fresh produce or flowers in their U-pick orchards and fields.

The Hood River Lavender Farm is a great place to stop for lavender-infused products and to take photos in the summer when the lavender is in full bloom.

Packer Orchards & Bakery is our favorite spot to pick up fresh fruit and homemade goodies like pies, cinnamon rolls, jams, cookies, and so much more!

As you make your way back to the Airbnb, you’ll pass by Trillium Lake.

Take the short detour through Trillium Lake Campground until you reach the Trillium Lake Dam parking lot.

Here, you will be able to see Mount Hood perfectly reflected in the water.

The best time to visit is early in the morning or later in the evening to capture the mirrored reflection .

In the summer, paddle board rentals are available on the beach near the dam.

There are several different dining options in Mount Hood.

I would recommend Koya Kitchen for Asian-fusion dishes served in a cozy ambiance, Brightwood Tavern for hearty burgers and pizza, Skyway Bar & Grill for smoked meats and barbecue, or Al Forno Ferruza for authentic Italian dishes.

For more details and recommendations in the area, see our guide 10 Things to do in Mount Hood, Oregon.

For this 5-day Oregon itinerary, I would highly recommend spending a few days in the mountains and a few days on the coast to take advantage of all that Oregon has to offer.

While driving from Mount Hood to the coast, stop and spend a few hours in Portland exploring the city.

Mississippi Avenue is a great walkable neighborhood with trendy shops and restaurants.

Stop for brunch at Gravy and order their buttermilk biscuits that are swimming in a savory sausage gravy.

The creme brulee oatmeal is almost too pretty to eat, but tastes as good as it looks!

Powell’s Books is also worth a stop.

It is the world’s largest new & used bookstore, there’s no place quite like it!

23rd Avenue has some fun boutique shops, and be sure to stop at Salt & Straw for a scoop of their delicious hand-crafted ice cream.

There are plenty of great places to stay along Oregon’s Coast, but we love Oceanside. It is a bit of a hidden gem away from the crowds.

We stayed in this beach cottage overlooking the ocean and loved it.

A few other options for accommodations include  The Oceanside Inn , the  Coastal Comfort , and the  Blue Moon  vacation home.

Oceanside is a small community with several restaurants and cafes within walking distance from the beach.

Roseanna’s Cafe is a great option for fresh seafood and spectacular ocean views at sunset.

Mornings on the coast of Oregon are often moody with heavy mist-shrouded skies and a thick fog rolling off the ocean.

I would recommend fully embracing the quintessential Oregon weather by taking a morning walk on the beach.

The Oceanside Beach Trail is a 0.86-mile out-and-back trail that leads along the scenic coast. This is a great beach for shelling and rockhounding, so keep your eyes peeled for sand dollars and agates.

Pacific City is one of the few places in Oregon where you can legally drive a motorized vehicle on the beach.

The miles of scenic coastline also make it one of the best places to ride an e-bike right on the beach.

Fat tire e-bike rentals are located in town and there are several different rides that you can do.

We loved the 10-mile roundtrip ride along Bob Straud Beach to the end of the spit, it was one of our favorite things to do in Oregon!

McPhillips Beach is also a great place to ride and take in the stunning formations at Cape Kiwanda.

There are also several bike paths through town where you can stop and grab a bite to eat at Grateful Bread Bakery, or a sweet treat at Pacific Coast Candy Shop.

On the way back to your vacation rental, stop at a grocery store and pick up some ingredients for dinner and s’mores.

We stopped at Safeway in Tillamook and got ingredients for soup, salad, and garlic bread. After going and doing so much, it’s nice having a relaxing evening staying in.

You’ll also want to pick up a fire starter log and ingredients for s’mores.

Oceanside is one of the few beaches in Oregon that allows beach fires and you’ll find several designated fire pits in the sand.

As long as there are no fire restrictions in place, it’s such a memorable experience to roast s’mores at sunset with the ocean waves crashing in the background.

It truly was one of our favorite things to do in Oregon.

Tillamook Cheese has a reputation for being some of the best cheese on the market!

The Tillamook Creamery is located about 20 minutes from Oceanside in the small farming community of Tillamook, Oregon.

Visitors can stop in and take a free self-guided tour to witness first-hand how the cheese is made.

You can also sample fresh cheese, pick up some “cheesy” souvenirs, and try deep-fried cheese curds and housemade ice cream from the cafe.

The Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad hosts a variety of scenic coastal train rides throughout the year.

In the fall, they offer leaf-peeping train rides, and there are themed holiday train rides in the winter.

During the warmer months, the scenic 30-minute train ride from Garibaldi to Rockaway Beach is a popular option.

Once you reach Rockaway Beach, you can get out and explore the cute oceanfront town before heading back to Garibaldi. Tickets are reasonably priced and it’s a fun afternoon activity!

Cannon Beach is one of the most iconic spots in all of Oregon. It is the backdrop for many blockbuster films, including the 1980s classic, The Goonies .

Cannon Beach has also earned the title of “One of the World’s Most Beautiful Places”, according to National Geographic.

It is worth making the one-hour drive from Oceanside to Cannon Beach to see the famous 235-foot Haystack Rock that Cannon Beach is famous for.

While you are there, check out the tidepools at the base of Haystack Rock, enjoy a meal with a view at Wayfarer Restaurant, and pick up some souvenirs along North Hemlock Street.

For more details and recommendations in the area, see our guide 7 Things to Do in Oceanside, Oregon .

After you’re done visiting Cannon Beach, it’s time to head back and pack up for your trip home.

It’s always sad to see a trip come to an end, but hopefully this itinerary will help you discover the best things to do in Oregon so that you can make the most of your time there!

If you’re looking for more girls’ trip inspiration, see our guide 11 Best Girls’ Trip Destinations in the US !

*Click the button to download and print this guide to take with you on your trip!

Pin it for later:.

About Jamie

Family travel expert and content creator who has been inpsiring millions with her travel guides since 2018.

You’ll Also Love

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Copyright © 2024 Simply Wander · Theme by 17th Avenue

• Oregon Tourism
• Oregon Hotels
• Oregon Bed and Breakfast
• Oregon Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Oregon
• Oregon Restaurants
• Things to Do in Oregon
• Oregon Travel Forum
• Oregon Photos
• All Oregon Hotels
• Oregon Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Oregon
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Oregon Trip Report - Oregon Forum

• United States    
• Oregon (OR)    

Oregon Trip Report

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• United States forums
• Oregon forum

Oregon Trip Report -

Oregon is beautiful. Thank you Tripadvisor for all your help. Our itinerary was as follows:

Drove down the coast to Yachats (2 nights)

Bend (3 nights) with a side trip to Crater Lake

Mt. Hood- Timberline Lodge (1 Night)

Drove/hiked through the Columbia River Gorge area and ended in Portland (2 nights).

The itinerary worked out well but as expected we wished for more time. We could have added a day to Yachats to further explore Cape Perpetua, 3 days in Bend just touched on the area, another night at Timerberline would have allowed us to hike the area more and a night in Hood River would have allowed more hiking in the gorge. I guess we’ll just have to go back! Oregon is incredibly beautiful and the diversity of the scenery makes it extra special.

Cannon Beach Day 1:

Landed in Portland around 1:00 pm, rented from Hertz (a little disorganized) and headed to the coast. Stopped on the way at Helvetia Tavern (my husband found a blog that they have the best Burger in Oregon). I must admit it was pretty good! We reached Cannon Beach around 4:30. We stayed at Sea Breeze Court in a King studio (very comfortable bed). Very clean and met our needs. FYI: We don’t look for anything fancy (just clean) because we don't plan to spend much time in the room. It also had a frig which was convenient. We were only a block from the beach and not far from Haystack Rock so I thought it was a great location. The town is about 1/2 mile away. Very cute town with lots of restaurants and shops. Nicest town we saw along the coast. Dinner was at The Bistro in town. The restaurant was great, nice music, dim lights, very romantic.

Cannon Beach Day 2:

Started early with a walk to the Sleepy Monk (coffee place) less than a block away. We decided that a local coffee place near our hotel is a new pre-requisite for our stays. Great way to start the day. We had yogurt, granola, fruit in the room for breakfast. Headed on 101S to the South Neahkahnie trailhead. The hike is about 1.5 miles to the top of the mountain thru very dense woods with a wonderful view at the top. We heard that the North Neahkahnie trail is even better with more coastal views along the way. They both take you to the same peak. The trailhead is right off 101S just a little hard to find. After our hike we continued south to the town of Manzanita for a beer at the Sand Dune Pub (we earned it). Very cute place and the beer was good. Walked across the street to Bread and Ocean for a to-go sandwich (very good roastbeef). Started back on 101N thru Oswald State Park stopping at Short Sands beach trail. It’s only about 1/2 mile but very pretty and you end at a gorgeous cove with driftwood, surfers and surrounded by trees. Great place for a picnic. Continued north past Cannon Beach over to Ecola State Park . Stopped at the first viewpoint with beautiful long range views of Cannon Beach and a lighthouse in the other direction. This would also be a great place for a picnic. Drove to the Indian Beach parking lot to hike the lighthouse viewpoint trail. This is another 3 mile roundtrip hike which was a little tough since we already did 4 miles. I suggest you take the lighthouse trail up and the service road down. It’s quicker and easier on the knees. Headed back to Cannon Beach for some cocktails on our patio. We decided to return to the Bistro again for dinner. None of the other restaurants appealed to us (fried fish, pizza, too big, too lite up).

Cannon Beach Day 3:

Today was Lewis and Clark day. Coffee at the Sleepy Monk and then headed 101N to Fort Clatsop which is part of the L&C parks. Saw some Elk right before we turned into the park. There were 2 great videos, a replica of the fort, an interesting museum and a trail along the river. It’s hard to believe L&C were here back in 1805. We took a 3 mile hike - part of the land to sea trail. It was OK, nothing special. Afterwards we headed to Astoria , a working port city and the oldest establishment west of the MS (1811). It is located at the mouth of the Columbia River with Washington across the bridge. There is a lot of traffic, construction and I didn’t see the “charm” that I was expecting. We did drive to the Astoria Column which was closed for renovation, but it is really nice and the views are amazing. It would be worth climbing when it reopens. Parked in town and went to Ft George Brewery for lunch. We were told that this was one of the best breweries in Oregon and I agree. Awesome Fish and Chips and 3 way IPA! Back to Cannon Beach. Tonight we had dinner at the Irish Table. It is actually the same place as the Sleepy Monk. They share the space which makes total sense. You can’t make a reservation, but you can show up when it opens and put your name on a list for your desired time. A weird system but worked for us. Food was good in a cute, small atmosphere.

Yachats Day 4:

Started the day at the Sleepy Monk (of course). Headed 101S all day eventually getting to Yachats. First stop: Cape Meares to view the light house, walk to the Octopus tree and see the Champion Sitka Spruce tree. It was 40+ feet in circumference. This drive is part of the 3 Capes Loop which is a very scenic. We drove by Cape Lookout and continued on to Cape Kiwanda in Pacific City. I was a little confused, but the Cape is basically right at the Pelican Pub parking lot. This is definitely worth stopping. Some people climbed the big sand dune, but the real deal was walking out on to the cape and its sandstone cliffs. The views were amazing. Lunch at the Pelican Pub. TIP: There was a 1 hour wait so we opted for the bar which was open seating. Continued south and decided to hike Cascade Head. There is a gravel road off 101s which you drive 3 miles up (I think it’s only open certain times of the year). The hike is 1 mile thru very thick trees (like scary fairy tale woods!) and then you get to a beautiful meadow with views. Unfortunately too foggy for us so I don’t recommend the hike unless the weather is clear. It would be awesome on a clear day. Continued south thru Depot Bay (pulled off the road to look for whales), detoured on Otter Crest loop to Cape Foul weather (appropriately named since it was still foggy), decided to skip stopping at Newport because it was getting late. Reached Yachats around 5:30. If I did it again, I’d probably skip Cape Meares (added 30-45 to our day with driving and stops) and just focus on Cape Kiwanda. The other stops weren’t really out of the way. In Yachats we stayed at Ocean Cove Inn - Perpetua room. It was clean, cutely decorated and right near the restaurants. Some of the fancier hotels would require getting in the car for dinner. Yachats does not have a town center which seemed odd, but the location on the coast is beautiful and so different than the sandy beaches of Cannon. It also put you closer to Cape Perpetua which is awesome. If you like to hike, I’d rather be here than Newport. Dinner was next door at the Drift Inn. It is a lively place with live music, an outside fire place, and the food was pretty good. Again, we sat at the bar to avoid the wait. Plus you always learn something from the locals at the bar.

Yachats Day 5:

Breakfast at the Green Salmon Cafe - we found our new coffee place! After breakfast, we hiked/walked trail 804 which is in Yachats and goes along the coast line. It’s so rugged and beautiful, watching the waves crash on the rocks - highly recommend. We probably walked about 3 miles round trip. Then drove 101S about 10 minutes to Cape Perpetua. This is probably the prettiest of all the capes and I wish we had more time to do additional hikes. We stopped at Devil’s Churn and then drove over to the visitors center and walked to Spouting horn and Thors Well - all part of the Captain Cook Trail. You definitely want to hit these at high tide. I wish we had brought some lunch because I would have loved to do some more hiking but I was getting hungry. Always having a “plan b”, we decided to go back and see Newport since we just drove thru it on our way down and I had read a lot about it. According to locals, the best seafood place was on the way to Newport called South Beach Fish Market. It’s a no frills place, but the seafood was great. We had a Dungeness crab sandwich, clam chowder and clam strips. Picnic tables on the side of 101 and a line out the door! We drove into Newport Bay area - saw the sea lions (noisy) - really touristy then drove over to the ocean side. It was nicer, but glad we stayed in Yachats because it gave us easy access to hiking. Dinner: Husband was in the mood for pizza so we went to Drift Inn which has wood fired pizza. Very good. Again, they had live music which was great.

Bend Day 6:

Back to Green Salmon for Breakfast. Time to leave the coast and head in-land. We went 101s stopping at Heceda head lighthouse. They say this is one of the most photographed lighthouses - it’s location is beautiful. We parked and walked up to the lighthouse, but didn’t tour because it wasn’t open yet. Worth the stop though. Continued towards Florence and then headed east towards Eugene (home of University of Oregon Ducks). We stopped and walked around the campus - very pretty. Had lunch at The Biergarten (great steak sandwich). Continued toward Bend stopping at the Sahalie and Koosah Falls which are right off the highway. Beautiful and worth the stop - a nice little hike to stretch the legs. Continued thru Three Sisters into Bend. Bend does not have a lot of hotels downtown so I rented thru AirBnb for the first time. It was great. A little studio with a full kitchen about 2-3 blocks from downtown. Walked to dinner (Zydyco’s). It’s highly rated on tripadvisor and the food was good (great grilled artichokes), very crowded and loud, but just not the “feel” I was looking for. Tip: we sat at the bar to avoid the wait.

Bend Day 7:

Today was supposed to be our rest day, but we heard Crater Lake was expecting snow the next day so we decided to go a day early (be flexible for weather). It’s about 2 hours to the North Entrance and it’s not a hard drive - definitely worth the effort. We picked up sandwiches (and chocolate croissants) at the Village Bakery and headed to Crater Lake. We hiked Watchmen’s tower - only .8 miles up but the elevation will be felt (8800 feet)! It was also only 38 degrees. We stopped at the various pull-outs - you can’t take enough pictures. We stopped at Sinnott Memorial lookout which has a small museum. We elected this instead of driving all the way to the official visitors center. It gave us enough history (small videos) so we were satisfied. Continued on to the Crate Lake lodge. We love turn of the century lodges. Ordered a beer and ate our sandwich in the great room (balcony is amazing but too cold today). Glad we brought our food because there was a wait for lunch at the restaurant. Back to bend. After a short rest, headed to Pine Tavern (1930s) for happy hour. If you like to eat early, their happy hour will fill you up for cheap! Dinner: Barrios- a small tapas restaurant that makes the best margaritas, great tacos (pork) and green beans (trust me!)

Bend Day 8:

Walked to breakfast at Jacksons Corner (very good both the food and the atmosphere). Drove to Smith Rock Park which is about 30 minutes from Bend. One of our best hikes - Misery Ridge Trail (very appropriately named) to Monkey Face to River Trail - about a 4 mile loop. Absolutely beautiful scenery. Lunch: Terrebonne Depot outside of the park - best tomato soup and grill cheese sandwich, finished with a Boneyard IPA. Returned to Bend and walked along the river. Bend has so many pretty outdoor areas. Dinner: Back to Jacksons for pasta and a salad. All fresh, casual and only 2 blocks from our apartment.

Mt. Hood - Timberline Day 9:

Breakfast at Jackson’s Corner (no place like this at home). Walked along the river - Bend’s beauty continues to amaze us. I wish we could have stayed longer. Headed north to Mt. Hood. The day is rainy so a good day to travel. Stopped at Governments Camp before heading up to Timberline Lodge. First stop - Mt. Hood Brewery for a flight of beer (very good) and then a surprise lunch at Glacier Haus. It was cute and the food was great. (Hungarian goulash and a schnitzel sandwich) - locally owned restaurant. Drove up to the Timberline Lodge (where parts of The Shining was filmed). Our room was very basic but renovated bathrooms and the beds/bedding was really comfortable. So glad we stayed here, but wished we had one more night to hike the next day (all day!) There were about 20 Pacific Crest Trail hikers at the lodge since the trail passes right by the lodge. They had finished 2100 miles and 550 left to go! Crazy! We had dinner in the Cascade Dining room. It was so much better than expected - one of our best dinners of the trip and not outrageously expensive.

Portland - Columbia River Gorge Day 10:

Left Mt. Hood and headed to Hood River. This town is so cute and we would have definitely enjoyed a night here. We stopped at a deli/bakery and purchased some sandwiches so we wouldn’t have to worry about finding a lunch place. Turned out to be a very good idea. We were advised to take 1 or 2 good hikes in the area rather than race from parking lot to parking lot, taking a few pictures and moving on but not really experience/enjoying the area. Good advice. First hike was Wahclella Falls. A 2 mile hike right near the Bonneville dam exit. (We had to park across the street because the small lot was full). It’s a great hike along Tanner Creek (saw trout in the river) and walked to a beautiful waterfall. Nothing strenuous but very nice. Next hike started at the Wahkeena Falls parking lot. I think it was about 5 miles and it’s moderately strenuous. You see 8 waterfalls in total so you really get a lot out of this one! After viewing Wahkenna falls you head up the mountain following a stream most of the way. Eventually walk along the ridge line and then down the other side (past many waterfalls) to Multnomah falls (the big one!) There is a trail (.5 miles that takes you back to the other parking lot. Great way to spend the day (about 3 hours). If we had time, we would have stopped at the restaurant at Multnomah for a drink but we needed to turn in our rental car . I almost think the hike may be better if it reversed because there were more falls on the Multnomah side, but it is fun building the anticipation of the big fall at the end of the hike. It is really impressive. Headed to Portland, dropped off the car downtown and checked into the Westin. (pure luxury) Dinner: Oven & Shaker in the Pearl District . It’s italian and we really liked it.

Portland Day 11:

We only had 1 full day in Portland so we decided a bike tour would be the best way to see the city. After coffee at our new coffee place (more city feel, not as cute as the others), we did a little trinket shopping and then purchased sandwiches at Bunks. One of the best italian subs I’ve ever had. Sat in the park along the river - great place for people watching although I’m not real comfortable with all the homelessness. We booked a bike tour with Pedal Bikes - a 3 hour downtown tour. It was great, we biked all over including the pearl district, college area, crossed the river on the new bike/pedestrian only bridge to the other side. The city really is bike friendly. Well worth the money. Afternoon drinks at Deschuetes Brewing - a very large place and crowded. Dinner: Why mess up our last meal so we went back to Oven & Shaker for a great wood fired pizza.

If you made it to the end, I hope you enjoyed it and find it helpful in some way for your own planning.

Very nice report! Glad you enjoyed your Pacific Northwest adventure! :)

"If you made it to the end...."

Heck, you had me hooked at "stopped on the way at Helvetia Tavern". Too bad it was foggy at Cascade Head, as that view is one of my favorites on the coast.

Loved your report, your itinerary, and the pacing of your trip.

Your report can easily serve as a template/guidebook for folks who enjoy hiking -- even those who don't, for that matter. Glad you enjoyed your visit, and hope you come back soon!

I made it to the end and thoroughly enjoyed it. Thanks for the great trip report.

When you come back (that is understood- many succumb to Oregon charms and make return trips) you should try Tamanawas Falls (inbetween Mt Hood and Hood River ) You can see it on http://www.nwhiker.com - it is not a big hike but beautiful. (they are all beautiful)

Good Food - Beer - Wine and Coffee with scenery. You can't beat it.

Thanks for the comments. Thrumylens: Helvetia tavern was the only part of the trip my husband planned and the folks at the tavern were very surprised that people from NC would seek them out. We love off the beaten path!

Hiking can be found at http://www.nwhiker.com ladies.

Nice TR kmccarthync, glad you enjoyed your visit here :-)

Yes -- it is now open!

Enjoyed your report! We were in some of the same places in June & also liked Yachats, that ocean front walking path/trail AND The Drift Inn! And Cape Perpetua was a favorite along the coast as well. Thanks for a good, informative trip report.

The coast of Maine & Acadia National Park are beautiful too (don't miss walking the "Marginal Way", a cliff-top path in Ogunquit, ME)... enjoy!

• Oregan itinerary - Bend, Crater Lake, southern coast 5:36 pm
• One Night in Bangkok! yesterday
• Mother Day brunch buffet yesterday
• Portland to Bandon, big loop, need some suggestions yesterday
• Sailor Jacks Motel. May 09, 2024
• Eugene in June? May 08, 2024
• Underground City - Pendleton, OR May 07, 2024
• Wine Tastings May 07, 2024
• Itinerary Help Washington/ Oregon May 07, 2024
• Gorge 1st stop I-84 Multnomah, come back Historic Highway? May 06, 2024
• Biking Columbia River Highway May 06, 2024
• Partial itinerary May 05, 2024
• Crater Lake Lodge May 05, 2024
• Itinerary- is it too much in 5 days? May 04, 2024
• Best time to visit Oregon 57 replies
• Seattle to San Francisco, Road Trip itinerary help 14 replies
• San Francisco to Seattle along Highway 101 21 replies
• Best Oregon Coast Town/place to stay 3 replies
• Choose One - Seaside vs. Cannon Beach 14 replies
• Oregon - no sales tax? 21 replies
• Driving Oregon coast from Vancouver B.C 8 replies
• Any must-see attractions on the Oregon coast we should know? 7 replies
• Painted Hills - Suggestions on Camping 4 replies
• oregon coast tent camping 9 replies

Oregon Hotels and Places to Stay

• What is the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and is there a forum for it?

• Skip to content

The Cornell Lab of Ornithology builds the eBird global platform for communities and partners around the world to advance data-driven science, education, and conservation.

Change Region

• News & Resources
• Recent Checklists
• Trip Reports
• Illustrated Checklist
• Hotspot Map
• Rare Bird Alerts
• Printable Checklist

Recent Trip Reports

20240403 grant april 3 3 apr 2024.

• Jimi Soupir

Anyone trip CBC 5 Jan 2024

• Judy Meredith

Longer Antone 4 – 6 Jan 2024 (3 days)

20230716 phipps meadow 16 jul 2023, 20230615 phipps meadow 15 jun 2023, 20230613 phipps meadow 13 jun 2023, antone cbc jan 5 2023 5 jan 2023.

• Erik Bergman

Portland Monthly

• Eat & Drink
• Style & Shopping
• Things to Do
• Arts & Culture
• News & City Life
• Travel & Outdoors
• Home & Real Estate
• Health & Wellness

We Took Amtrak to Oregon City for $2

By Margaret Seiler April 30, 2024

Image: Ian Dewar Photography/shutterstock.com

“Sweet ride,” my daughter texts me from the bus taking her to the Oregon Zoo for a school field trip. “It has seat belts, a bathroom, overhead bins, the little buttons above that airplanes have, charging ports, and we think TVs.” How much charging, bathroom-going, and TV watching can happen on a 20-minute ride to the zoo I’m not sure of, nor do I know why  Portland Public Schools is shuttling students in such luxury instead of on a basic school bus—maybe those were all checked out and they got the field-trip equivalent of a rental-car upgrade.

But I deeply understand the just-won-the-lottery feeling of taking a quotidian trip in a more glamorous ride. That’s what has me treating myself to a day trip to Oregon City via Amtrak one Thursday in March—well, that and the fact that I could buy a ticket for $2 each way, to get me there from downtown in 24 minutes. That’s 80 cents less than the same trip on TriMet’s 35, in less than half the time. (For the round trip, Amtrak would have charged me $2 to bring a child, $10 to bring a bike, and $58 to bring a pet.)

The train even promises something my daughter’s zoo-bound motorcoach doesn’t have: a snack bar. But the café car on my particular Amtrak Cascades route, the conductors tell me, was damaged over the winter in a fatal collision with a car involved in a police chase in Eugene and has yet to be repaired. Instead of breakfast burritos and Bob’s Red Mill oatmeal for purchase, there’s a free spread of candy bars, pretzels and chips, baked goods, and bottled water. I grab a few things that are surely worth more than the price of my ticket but feel sorry for the people who are heading all the way to Salem or Eugene and were counting on a hot cup of coffee on the train, which leaves Union Station right on time at 11:08am.

Image: CK Foto/shutterstock.com

The train ambles over the Steel Bridge and through the Central Eastside Industrial District, passing a mural of Gargamel and Papa Smurf I haven’t seen on car trips, as well as the tiny homes of Clinton Triangle, one of the city’s new TASS locations (temporary alternative shelter sites). When we pause and then start backing up (due to “conflicting train movements,” an announcement tells us) I scan the QR code sticker on my tray table and am taken to a tourist website for Milwaukee, Wisconsin, a stop on Amtrak’s Empire Builder route. I’m several clicks into reading about the city that “brewed its way into the hearts of the American traveler” and am pondering something called “ Midwest poutine ” when I realize my train is already in the namesake town of Milwaukie, Oregon, pulling away from the river and heading toward Clackamas. There’s another slowdown as we pass the Bob’s Red Mill HQ and countless blackberry bushes and battered tents before we pick up speed again next to I-205. We’re 15 minutes behind schedule (but still well under the TriMet ride time) when we pull up to the platform at Oregon City . My return train is scheduled for 6:24pm, giving me just over six and half hours to wander around the city that was the Oregon Territory’s first capital.

The train station sits directly across from the End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center . While every Oregonian should visit the wagon-train-shaped museum at least once to don a floppy bonnet, dip a candle, and register a land deed, it’s not quite what I have in mind for my grown-up day trip, so I make do with a scan of the gift shop. This is where to get those pixelated “You have died of dysentery” T-shirts and hoodies, plus Davy Crockett hats, cedar-and-pale-ale-scented soap in the shape of Oregon, and a small but thoughtful selection of books on Oregon history and outdoor pursuits.

A few blocks south, Oregon City Antiques is an eras-spanning warren of Coleman lanterns, ancient beer cans, books (illustrated kids’ book The Adventures of Paddy Pork catches my eye), old-timey kitchen implements, prom-ready (and pricy) vintage dresses, and modern items like sushi-shaped Squishmallows and a Seattle Mariners lunchbox.

Image: Margaret Seiler

Continuing toward downtown, I pass Canard and wonder if I might be able to squeeze in an early dinner of steam burgers later on. (Spoiler: Nope. Next trip!) For lunch, though, I find myself overwhelmed by the choices at two dueling food cart pods across the street from each other and instead land on a different corner of the same intersection, at Tony’s Fish Market . The choices here—cod or halibut, regular or sweet potato fries—are more manageable, and the paprika-dusted salmon chowder is a real highlight. There would have been a larger drink selection at either of the pods: Corner 14 has a full bar and a varied tap list, plus a cart called the Krazy Kokonut serving a mangonada smoothie with housemade chamoy sauce, while Oregon City Brewing has a couple dozen beer choices for washing down a meal from the likes of Esan Thai and Ranch Pizza. It would take a few Amtrak day trips to try all the options at this one crossroads, let alone have any room in my stomach to spare for pizza at Mi Famiglia, Mexican plates at Don Pepe’s, or lefse wraps at Ingrid’s Scandinavian Food. There’s also serious pub-crawl potential: the no-nonsense Thirsty Duck, a four-hour happy hour at Hing’s, Nebbiolo Wine Bar, a trusty McMenamins in an old church hall, Arch Bridge Taphouse, Coney Island, McAnulty & Barry’s with its stunning back bar, Ranee’s with its giant skeleton, Trail’s End Saloon with its giant wagon wheel hanging from the ceiling….

But on this trip, I soberly stroll on. Oregon City Antiques is far from the only secondhand shop in Oregon City. Main Street offers books ( The Pig that Danced a Jig is hard to resist—what is it with kids’ book and pigs in this town?) and wedding dresses and patriotic posters at  Maizee Mae’s Antiques Retail Store and Vintage Flea Market , paperbacks and polyester at Main Street Thrift, the pristine seasonality and custom lighting of the Vintage Nest, and creepy cookie jars at the Odditorium/ Ghoul Gallery . On High Street, I wonder if the buyers for Coin Corner & Hobbies somehow time-traveled back to my childhood bedroom and snatched my old Fisher-Price record player and Anne Murray Sings for the Sesame Street Generation album. There are also bins of Pez containers, rows of Garbage Pail Kids figurines, and an extensive R. L. Stine Goosebumps collection.

Oregon City’s secondhand charms aren’t just nostalgia-flavored. The Refinery and Consignment Revolution are two well-curated clothing consignment shops—at the latter I pick up a pair of wire earrings bent into a rounded w suggesting boobs, with little gold beads for nipples. I also spot tasteful boobs, this time as drawings in tiny frames, at Imperfecta art gallery , where the owner says she stocks a variety of price points “so everyone can take home something beautiful.” Wares include jewelry from Melissa Stiles , art prints, potted cacti, and images from an Italian street artist called Blub of Alfred Hitchcock and other celebs in diving masks.  

In White Rabbit , a shop that shares space with Black Ink Coffee , a well-curated book selection joins Harry Styles mugs and pen sets, novelty candles from Malicious Woman Co.,  Spirited Away pencil sets, Pride pens, sushi earrings, and Abbott Elementary notepads. A table and chairs on the sidewalk outside Oregon City Records is a good resting spot, or a place to contemplate whether you need to buy one of the shop’s turntable T-shirts. The staffed counter at the top of the municipal elevator offers more T-shirt temptations with its limited-run artist series celebrating the landmark billed as the only “vertical street” in the US. Also at the top, the McLoughlin Promenade runs past historic homes and an Oregon Film Trail marker mentioning Twilight — the former Blue Heron paper mill, perched over Willamette Falls, was a filming location. A walkway over McLoughlin Boulevard offers a closer look at the rushing waters. The Clackamas County Historical Society’s Museum of the Oregon Territory is a little farther down the paved path, for those who haven’t frittered away the afternoon eating and shopping and can get there before its 4pm closing time.

At least the Oregon City Library isn’t closed yet. It’s been so long since I used my Clackamas County library card that I need to get a new one (yes, Multnomah County residents can use our neighbor’s library system, too, but if you don't use it for a while you need to reregister), and I score one of the while-supplies-last Baby Yoda/Grogu cards. It’s a nod to the library’s long-running May the Fourth celebration, which features a scavenger hunt, a fun-noodle lightsaber workshop, and photo ops with patient costumed characters from Cloud City Garrison. This year, the Star Wars holiday falls on a Saturday, and the library’s event runs from 4 to 6pm, which would leave just enough time to walk back to the train platform for the ride back to Portland. If the train’s late, grab a drink or snack at  Coasters Crossing , the brewpub that now occupies the station building, and watch out the window for the northbound arrival. Amtrak’s schedule says the run back to Portland takes 41 minutes, which is about how long I was on the train in the morning. But on this night it whisks me back to Portland in 24.

Related Content

Party Animals

How the Oregon Zoo Won Twitter

05/22/2018 By Amy Martin

The Other Districts

A Look at Portland’s Metro-Area School Districts—Other Than PPS

06/30/2017 By Margaret Seiler and Zach Dundas

36 Hours in Oregon City

07/07/2022 By Michelle Harris

Bob Moore of Bob’s Red Mill Turns 94

02/17/2023 By Katherine Chew Hamilton

Rare bird sighting in Oregon: Amateur photographer captures stunning images

A rare bird sighting on the Oregon Coast has bird watchers aflutter.

The sighting was made by Vancouver resident and amateur photographer Michael Sanchez during a visit to Hug Point Falls.

The wayside is five miles south of Cannon Beach and includes forested picnic areas, a restroom and trails that lead to a seasonal waterfall and the beach.

Sanchez, a band director at Skyridge Middle School east of Vancouver, is also a musician and voiceover artist who took up photography a few months ago. He went to the Oregon Coast in April to photograph landscapes and work on his photo skills.

“I was just out near Cannon Beach looking for waterfalls to photograph,” Sanchez said.

“When I was done photographing the falls, I turned around and saw this cute little bird on the beach,” he said.

He used the opportunity to play with the settings on his Sony mirrorless camera with a Tamron 18-300mm f3.5-6.3 lens and managed to capture several images before the bird flew away.

When he returned home and looked at his pictures on a computer he was surprised to see that it was much more colorful than he thought.

Curious to learn more, he posted his images on social media in hopes of identifying the bird. He soon learned to his surprise that the “little black bird” was a blue rock thrush (Monticola solitarius) and it was a very long way from home.

The blue rock thrush is common throughout southern Europe, northwest Africa, Central Asia, northern China and Malaysia. But it had only been seen in North America one other time, a sighting in British Columbia in 1997 that was ultimately dismissed by the record committee in Canada.

As word spread about the unusual sighting, Sanchez was soon flooded with messages from birders wanting to know more about the encounter.

“I never knew this little bird was going to give me my 15 minutes of fame,” Sanchez said with a laugh.

One of the people who reached out was Nolan Clements, a PhD student in the Wildlife Science Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Sciences at Oregon State University in Corvallis. Clements is a member of the Oregon Birding Association and sits on the Oregon Bird Records Committee. The committee verifies all rare sightings before posting them to an official list.

Adding a rare bird to their own “list” is a major goal for avid birders. The morning after learning of the sighting, Clements was on his way to Hug Point in hopes of seeing the bird with his own eyes.

Unfortunately, it was nowhere to be found.

“Had it been found again, there would have been thousands who would have come for that bird,” Clements said. “People have been known to take red-eyes from the East Coast to Portland for stuff like that. For some people, it turns into a lifestyle.”

But why has this particular bird turned up in the Pacific Northwest?

“That is a tough question,” Clements said. “Seeing a pattern of songbirds from northeastern Asia, from Russia, Siberia, wondering to the Pacific Northwest is not an unprecedented thing,” he said. 

Experts speculate that birds may hopscotch from island to island across the Bering Strait, fly across the Pacific Ocean or catch rides on cargo ships. Although unlikely, the bird could have escaped from a cage locally. Clements discounted that theory because the bird, while common where it is found, is not typically kept as a pet. 

Interestingly, Clements learned of another sighting of a blue rock thrush made in the Farallon Islands off the coast of California a few days after the Hug Point report. Whether it is the same bird or a second one may never be known.

Regardless, the whole episode has been a fun experience for Sanchez. 

“We have a beautiful world,” he said. “This was just one little encounter with that beauty that I feel very fortunate to have had.”

Since the sighting, the park has seen an increase in visitors.

“The parking lot was noticeably busier than usual, and people were asking questions about how to get to the waterfall, which was where the bird was seen,” said Bo Ensign, the Oregon Parks Ranger Supervisor. 

Ensign cautioned visitors to the park to be careful. The waterfall is on the north side of a headland that is only accessible at or around low tide. Park officials advise visitors to check tide tables to avoid being trapped by rising water.

Contact photographer Chris Pietsch at [email protected] , or follow him on Twitter @ChrisPietsch and Instagram @chrispietsch .

This article originally appeared on Register-Guard: Rare bird sighting in Oregon: Amateur photographer captures stunning images