Oregon’s diverse beauty always amazes and delights us. Whether we're soaking in the sea on the coast, hiking through the forest, or taking in a stunning waterfall, there's no shortage of places where we can surround ourselves with nature’s majesty. We can’t visit as often as we’d like, but these 13 staggeringly beautiful places will always be waiting for us.
1. Alvord Desert
The Alvord Desert gets just seven inches of rain every year on average, but this place was once a large lake. When you visit during summer months, you can drive right out onto the dried-up lake bed.
2. Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach is iconic Oregon, and the home one of our most famous natural wonders. Haystack Rock is 235 feet tall, and the tide pools at its base are full of interesting little sea creatures.
3. Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge is one of Oregon's most majestic places, and there's plenty to see along its 80-mile span. Multnomah Falls is a favorite with locals and tourists alike.
4. Crater Lake
Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the country, and its water is the cleanest and clearest. Take the drive around its rim, or hop aboard a boat tour to see some of its features up close.
5. Heceta Head
You'll find many lighthouses on Oregon's coast, but Heceta Head is truly special. The light stands high above the sea on its 205-foot-tall cliff, and the views from it are stunning.
6. Owyhee River Canyon
The Owyhee River carved this canyon into an incredible place, and it's best explored by taking a guided rafting tour so you can float past its tall cliffs to see them up close.
7. Oregon Dunes
You'll find the Oregon Dunes on the coast, just south of Florence. They're the largest temperate coastal dunes in the world, and you can explore them by hiking or riding an ATV.
8. Silver Falls State Park
If waterfalls bring you joy, this state park is surely heaven on earth. Take the Trail of 10 Falls for a scenic afternoon.
9. Smith Rock State Park
Rock climbers come from all over the world to hang out at Smith Rock State Park, but you don't have to scale a cliff to enjoy the beauty of this place.
10. Three Capes Scenic Byway
For incredible scenic vistas, hop in the car and travel the Three Capes Scenic Byway. On your 40 mile journey, you'll explore Cape Lookout, Cape Kiwanda, and Cape Mears.
11. Toketee Falls
Toketee Falls tumbles 120 feet in two tiers, and it captures the imagination of everyone who visits. You'll find it on the North Umpqua River, near Roseburg.
12. Willamette National Forest
Opal Creek (shown here), is just one of many peaceful places in the Willamette National Forest, which covers 1,678,031 acres.
13. Wallowa Lake
Oregon has no shortage of lakes, but Wallowa Lake has a special place in our hearts. It's just not summer 'til we can climb on the tramway to enjoy views from the top of Mount Howard.
What places are you excited to visit again? Tell us in the comments!
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