Here at Only in Oregon, we love a good hidden gem. But the Beaver State isn't just home to a few hidden gems; it's a veritable treasure trove of dazzling jewels! We've mapped out the perfect road trip that will take you to some of our favorite hidden gems in Oregon. Designed to be taken over the course of a weekend, the journey is just as amazing as the destinations themselves.
Our Hidden Gems Road Trip begins and ends at the Oregon Coast. The route covers 541 miles and is designed to be taken over the course of two days -- we've even provided one of our favorite under-the-radar accommodations for you to break at after the first day!
1. God's Thumb, Otis
Our trip begins on a high note -- quite literally. Located on the northern side of Lincoln City is a natural landmark that's truly the product of a divine hand... or thumb. Known as "God's Thumb," this landmark is an imposing basalt rock formation measuring over 1,000 feet tall. It's a testament to the unparalleled power of nature, and deserves a spot on any Oregon bucket list. You'll access the landmark via The Knoll, a lush forest trail. Signs will lead you through, and out of, the forest. As you emerge, you'll be greeted with the sound of crashing waves, and get your first glimpse of God's Thumb -- and we promise, it will take your breath away.
2. Valley of the Giants, Falls City
We're feeling inspired after the trip to God's Thumb, and the only way to match such a divine destination is by visiting Oregon’s Valley of the Giants. This is a beautiful place to see some truly incredible old-growth Douglas fir and Western hemlock -- Mother Nature's magnificent giants. To explore the 51-acre area, take this 1.5-mile loop trail. It's an easy trail that takes you right past some of the largest trees you'll ever see. Just don’t try to hug these giants – you’ll never get your arms around them!
3. Little Crater Lake, Mount Hood National Forest
We've all heard of Crater Lake, the bluest, deepest, most beautiful lake in the country and one of the most unique places to visit in Oregon. But did you know Oregon was home to a snack-sized version of this grand wonder? In Mt. Hood Forest, Little Crater Lake is a pristine oasis that’s a total hidden treasure. Much like its big sibling, Little Crater Lake is a resplendent, dazzling body of clear, blue water. However, unlike Crater Lake, which is the largest lake in the U.S., Little Crater Lake is just 100 feet wide and 45 feet deep. It’s a natural wonder itself and it is definitely a bucket list must for all Oregon adventurers! The best part? The hike to Little Crater Lake is less than half a mile long, and there’s no fee to access the trailhead or lake, making it one of the most accessible adventures in Oregon!
4. Blockbuster, Bend
It's been a busy day, so why not make it a Blockbuster night? Because guess what? The last remaining Blockbuster on the entire planet is right here in Bend, Oregon. This beloved place has become a point of pride for the town; an attraction offering a nostalgic experience people seek out. Pick up a movie and head to the next stop to enjoy a relaxing evening in! (But if you rent -- not purchase -- a flick, definitely return it the next day to avoid those shameful late fees!)
5. Campfire Hotel, Bend
After a long day spent exploring some of Oregon's most glorious natural wonders, it's time to camp for the night. But we're not going camping; we're checking into the Campfire Hotel in Bend! This 100-room, motor-lodge-style hotel offers edgy, affordable, and fun accommodations, for an only-in-Oregon experience sure to be the most comfortable and charming camping trip ever!
There's a lot to love about the charming town of Bend, Oregon. If you want to extend the road trip, this is a great town to spend a few days exploring! Here are some of our favorite things to do in Bend, Oregon... just in case you'd like to spend some time in this beautiful town!
6. Oregon Lava Caves - Wanderlust Tours, Bend
Bend’s lava caves have a delicate ecosystem that few have experienced to the fullest, so it's the perfect hidden gem in Oregon to explore. Wanderlust Tours specializes in satisfying even the most acute case of wanderlust, offering a wide variety of tours and trips throughout the year, exploring some of The Beaver State’s most wondrous places -- including our state's many underground expanses! In fact, the tour outfitter is the only guide company permitted in Bend's special lava caves. For this road trip, we recommend booking a 9 a.m. Lava Tube Cave Tour first thing on your second day of road tripping adventures. What a way to start the day!
7. Shelton McMurphey Johnson House, Eugene
The very definition of a hidden gem, the Shelton McMurphey Johnson House is a gorgeous Victorian-style residence from 1888 that will give you a peek into what life was like in Eugene over a century ago. Guests can take a short tour of the home's interior, which is overflowing with historical memorabilia and photographs. The home is open for tours beginning at 10 a.m. during the week and 1 p.m. on the weekends. It's closed on Mondays, so be sure to factor that into your itinerary!
8. Hobbit Trail, Florence
Hop in the car for the final stretch of our journey, which brings us back to the Oregon Coast. The Hobbit Trail and China Creek Trail Loop is an easy trek in Florence, Oregon, that features old-growth forests, winsome woodland scenery, and a completely magical experience. It's one of the most incredible hikes in Oregon, showcasing some of our state's best assets.
9. Devils Punchbowl, Otter Rock
Located on the coast of Lincoln County, the Devil's Punchbowl is an epic natural wonder in Oregon that will blow you away with its rugged beauty. The large, circular hole in the rocky coastline – thought to be a collapsed sea cave – allows visitors to peer down into the deep punchbowl. Glittering, swirling saltwater spits and foams inside as it funnels in from the sea through a small arched doorway. The sight of Devil’s Punchbowl is truly, positively mesmerizing, and we can't think of a better grand finale for our hidden gems road trip in Oregon!
What are your favorite hidden gems in Oregon -- did you discover any new-to-you places on this road trip? Share your favorite Oregon treasures in the comments below! For more awesome adventures, check out this article featuring some of the most unique places to visit in Oregon.
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