The Tamolitch Blue Pool via McKenzie River Trail will get your heart rate up. The entire McKenzie River Trail is quite long at 26.4 miles with several fantastic features along the way, so we’re focusing on just the section that leads to the Tamolitch Blue Pool. Choose between a 3.3-mile hike starting from the Carmen Smith Reservoir or a 2.1-mile hike from the Trailbridge Reservoir.
Trail of Ten Falls near Silverton, Oregon, is an energetic hike for sure, but the waterfall makes this 7.2-mile hike well worth the extra effort. The elevation gain is over 1,300 feet on this loop-style route. Keep in mind that this is a heavily trafficked loop, so watch out!
The Table Rock Trail near Molalla, Oregon, is known for its gorgeous wild flowers, bird watching, forest, and nature views. The lower section is also known as a difficult, 5.4-mile out and back hike with almost 800 feet in elevation gain. If you’re an intermediate level hiker, this is one of the most rewarding hikes in the state.
If you live near Camp Sherman, Oregon, then you must check out the Canyon Creek Meadows Loop. The loop covers 4.5 miles and has an elevation gain of 400-feet and features a lake. The loop will give you a good workout, but isn’t the most difficult on the list: kids are welcome, as are leashed dogs.
If you live for a challenge, then visiting Scout Lake via the Pacific Crest Trail might be the perfect hike for you. This out and back-style trail isn’t as popular as the other hikes on this list, likely because its 10.2 miles and almost 1,800 feet of elevation gain makes it a candidate for more serious hikers. However, the mountain, wild flower, wildlife, forest, and lake views provides for a diverse and rewarding landscape.
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Loon Lake in Douglas County, Oregon, is a popular camping site for its sandy beaches and proximity to a natural campground. Surrounded by red cedar trees and the Coast Mountain Range, the view is exquisite. The lake is perfect for swimming, boating, kayaking, and jet skiing. Consider renting a jet ski from Loon Lake Lodge & RV Resort in Reedsport, not far away.
Lake Billy Chinook ¬is part of the Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland. The lake covers almost 4,000 acres across 72 miles of shoreline. The lake is known for its largemouth and smallmouth bass, rainbow, brown, and bull trout, kokanee salmon, and whitefish. All of that water provides an excellent location to get up on a jet ski. Consider launching from the Cove Palisades Resort and Marina.
The Columbia River Gorge is one of the most sought-out locations in all of Oregon, having been designated as one of the “Seven Wonders of Oregon.” It is the largest national scenic area in the United States, as designated by the U.S. Congress. Bring your jet ski and zoom through the gorge, traversing an incredible array of vineyards and natural splendor. Enjoy waterfalls, wildflowers, smaller lakes, and streams along the way.
Rent a jet ski from Hood River WaterPlay and enjoy the Hood River like never before. The Hood River is right off the beach in the town of the same name, and is ideal for the entire family. The River is around 25 miles-long and has several forks that descend into the mountains, so make sure to keep an eye out and stay close to shore if you decide to go exploring.
Jet ski at the same location that Lewis and Clark ended their successful adventure to map the western United States at Warrenton, Oregon. The Warrenton Marina provides an excellent home base with delicious seafood and places to get your jet ski on the water. You’ll find several locations near Warrenton to get out on the water, including the Columbia River and the Skipanon River. It may take some looking to find the perfect jet ski spot, but they’re certainly within grasp.
]]>Situated in the remarkable Mount Hood Wilderness, the Paradise Park Loop Trail is just that—paradise. Traverse through meadows of wildflowers and soak in the views of the towering Mount Hood. Eventually, this trail leads to Paradise Park and it also connects to a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). The PCT runs 2,650 miles from the Mexican border to the Canadian border. Paradise Park Loop Trail is a sight you don’t want to miss!
The Salmon Mountain Trail is considered off the beaten path and is perfect for those that prefer less crowded hikes. The trail starts at the Plaza Trail and finishes up at a lookout by the summit of Salmon Mountain. Soak in the views of the Cascades and the Salmon River Drainage. If you’re not an experienced hiker, you may want to pass this hike up as it can be very narrow and rocky.
This trail starts at the West Fork Wallowa River Trailhead and ends at the Chief Joseph Basin. One way, the Chief Joseph Mountain Trail spans seven miles and is categorized as “more difficult” so it can be a bit of a challenge for children or inexperienced trekkers. It’s recommended to visit during the summer and fall. Along the way, you might find goats and bighorn sheep. Keep an eye out for the limestone, granodiorite, greenstone, and Columbia Basalt, the combination of which make for a colorful experience.
According to its website, people consider Silver Falls to be the “crown jewel” of state parks in Oregon. Hikers can walk behind the 177-foot South Falls—yes that’s right, you can walk behind an incredible sheet of water cascading downward. To get there, travel on the Trail of Ten Falls which is a renowned trail that takes you through a lush forested area. This loop trail is just a little over seven miles.
This tremendous park is not only for hikers, but rock climbers as well. Smith Rock State Park is characterized by incredible deep river canyons. For an easy, but beautiful hike, try out the 1.5-mile Canyon Trail. This hike begins just past the welcome center. For those with extensive hiking experience, try out the Burma Road Trail which has rugged terrain and can be very steep at times.
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The Morrow-Grant County Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) Park is one of the best. Various trails are available and open to Class I, II, III, and IV vehicles with differing difficulties depending on the trail. While one trail might experience rain and therefore have mud and moisture, another might stay dry and powdery. Besides the trails, a mud pit opens regularly, but make sure to call or check the website before coming by to make sure it’s open. Other amenities include restrooms/showers, a barbecue, fishing pond, playground, day use area, hiking trails, campsites, water, and more.
The Prospect OHV Trail System in Prospect, Oregon, is known for its incredible woods riding. With over 200 miles of trails throughout the system with lots of unique terrain, including loose dirt, mud, dust, rocks, trees, and more, the trails are beautiful and an absolute must-visit. Perfect for amateurs, the trails aren’t particularly difficult, but shouldn’t be attempted by brand-new riders. Make sure to stop by the trail known as “The Maze,” which is “a fast smooth and narrow twisty that winds through the trees near the staging areas…it’s so fun we blasted it twice.”
Crooked Finger offers 12 miles of moderately challenging ATV riding on 600 acres. Ride through the forest throughout the year and visit the nearby Camp Dakota. Situated on 45 acres, Camp Dakota is located in the Western Cascade foothills and offers yurt rentals, RV sites, tent sites, teepee rentals, cabin sites, zip lining, high ropes, paint ball, treasure hunting, and disc golf.
The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is part of the larger Siuslaw National Forest and has over 40 miles of sand dune trails. Cruise through tree islands, dunes, plains, and beaches on your favorite off-road vehicle. Six unique areas, including the South Jetty Area, Siltcoos Area, Oregon Dunes Day Use, Tahkenitch Area, Umpqua Dunes Area, and Spinreel to Horsfall Area comprise the entire recreation park, each with their own unique activities, trails, and hazards. Make sure to check a map and the weather before heading out. Consider camping along the trails to make a full weekend of it.
Part of the greater Siuslaw National Forest, the Sand Lake Recreation Area is known for its 1,076 acres of open sand dunes, forests, and view of the Pacific Ocean. The entire area is open to OHV riders, providing untold possibilities for a motor-fueled weekend. Campground access and day areas are both available year-round. Make sure to keep up with the most recent Oregon regulations before stopping by, as they are all strictly enforced. Class I, II, and III vehicles are welcome. Take note: Sand Lake is one of the most popular OHV sites in the state, and will likely be busy. Arrive early to get the most out of your trip.
*Note: Age restrictions, special licenses, and other requirements for off highway vehicles vary from state to state. Before heading out on your OHV, please consult your local regulations.
]]>Cape Kiwanda in Pacific City, Oregon, is part of the larger Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area, and is part of the Three Capes Scenic Route. Climb the beautiful Cape Kiwanda sandstones for incredible views of the Oregon Coast. The hike is just over two miles. The hike is a lollipop loop with 230 feet of elevation gain. Make sure to stop behind the cape for the Gret Dune, “a massive hill of mudstone and sandstone layers cloaked in drifting sand with a toupee of salal and stunted Sitka spruce.” The trail is open year-round.
Abiqua Falls in Scott Mills, Oregon, is just under a mile. The difficulty is moderate, but hikers should trek carefully and families should watch out for the little ones. At the end of the road is a tremendous waterfall, the 92-foot Abiqua Falls, descending torrentially into a basalt bowl. If you prefer secluded hikes in beautiful natural surroundings, then Abiqua Falls is right up your alley.
A wonderful hike for the whole family, Sweet Creek Falls offers views of four waterfalls ranging from 10 to 30 feet. The hike is only 2.2 miles, and the only hazard to speak of is slippery moss. Choose from one of four trailheads, including the Homestead Trailhead, the Sweet Creek Falls Trailhead, Wagon Road Trailhead, and Beaver Creek Falls Trailhead, each with a shorter overall hike than the previous one. Leashed pets are allowed on the trail, and it’s open year-round.
For Stevens in Astoria, Oregon, is steeped in history. “Once the primary military defense installation in the three-fort, Harbor Defense System at the mouth of the Columbia River,” the fort was in use from the Civil War until World War II. Seated on 4,300 acres, the park offers camping, beach-combing, trails, wildlife viewing, a historic shipwreck, and much more. Six miles of hiking will take you through forests, wetlands, shore pine areas, and dunes, depending on your fancy. For history lovers, Fort Stevens has it all.
Located in Southwest Washington, the Catherine Creek Natural Arch is just over two miles roundtrip and only has an elevation gain of about 250 feet. This is a perfect hike for little legs or less-experienced hikers. The terrain varies on this trip, making for an interesting hike. The big highlight of the trek is the stunning natural arch.
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Located midway between Capital Reef and Canyonlands National Parks, Utah’s Goblin Valley State Park offers much of the same type of desert-hoodoo landscape formations, as well as incredible canyoning opportunities, as its neighbors. The campground is not particularly secluded or tree-lined, but it is an excellent gateway to all that the park has to offer.
Campsite 12 is a tent-only site that is set back a little away from RVs and other campers. The site includes your own shaded picnic table and a brilliant, uninterrupted view of the rock formations that Goblin Valley is known for. Not feeling like setting up and taking down your own shelter? Grab one of the yurts available for rent in the park.
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If you’ve ever been to Hawaii—or planned a trip to Hawaii—you know lodging is not cheap. A great way to avoid exorbitant lodging costs in the Aloha State is to camp. Many of the state’s parks offer excellent camping options and facilities. Those visiting the Garden Isle of Kauai will appreciate the picturesque beauty of Koke’e State Park.
Perched 4,000 feet above the lush vegetation of the Kalalau Valley, with sweeping views out to the Pacific, Koke’e offers several tent camping opportunities in campsites that have been minimally developed. In addition, several cabins are available for rental in the park if you’re hoping for a break from tent camping.
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Lake Cascade State Park in west-central Idaho comprises 86 miles of shoreline along the edge of the eponymous lake. The park is tucked into the region’s wooded mountains near the Payette National Forest. Popular with anglers, Lake Cascade is known as a prime spot for trout and salmon fishing. The surrounding area offers miles of trails for hiking, cycling and birding. The park’s 41 square miles of surface water are ideal for paddling or boating.
Dispersed primitive camping is available at several locations throughout the park. But if you’d like a few more amenities (restrooms, for example), the Blue Heron Campground is tent-only and located on a peninsula that juts out into the lack. Site G is a lakefront site that is set back an away from the other sites, so you have your own little slice of heaven.
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Big Basin Redwoods State Park is just west of—and a world away from—the Bay Area megalopolis in California. It is the state’s first and oldest state park. The park’s main feature, as the name implies, is the ancient, coast redwood trees marching up and down the slopes. Blooms Creek Campground in the park affords the opportunity to sleep among these beautiful giants, which are up to 1,800 years old.
Site 153 is a hike-in site that is away from the main campground but close to a water source. It connects to the Blooms Creek Trail, which in turn, connects to many of the other trails in the park.
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Oregon’s Ainsworth State Park lies within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and encompasses spectacular natural features like Horsetail Falls and 620-ft. Multnomah Falls. There are many hiking trails in the park, itself, that take advantage of the fantastic beauty of the Gorge. The park also connects to several trails that lead to other points of interest like the majestic St. Peter’s Dome, which rises 2,000 feet over the river.
The campground at Ainsworth offers six walk-in tent sites that are set back and away from the main campground and connect to trails that allow you to avoid walking through the main part of the camping area. Any one of the sites puts you in the midst of all that the park has to offer but provides the illusion of a secluded site away from civilization.
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Before heading out to the Sand Lake Recreation Area, stop in nearby Tillamook, Oregon, for breakfast at Alice’s Country House. This humble eatery serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For a long day on the dunes, we recommend steak and eggs.
After breakfast, take the 15-minute detour before heading to the recreation area to enjoy Cape Lookout State Park. The spot is one of Oregon’s most gorgeous, with fantastic views of the water and plenty of nature trails to warrant a trip.
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The Sand Lake Recreation Area Dunes offer trails with varying difficulties from beginner levels all the way to experts. The area is open year-round to all vehicle classes, although not every trail is open to every vehicle class, so be sure to check their website before heading out!
After you get your off-roading fill, head back into Tillamook and experience the awesome Air Museum. The exhibit hall features World War II artifacts, plane engines, and various aircrafts. Any war buff or plane nut will have a grand time at the Tillamook Air Museum.
The beautiful Oceanside, Oregon, is only 20 minutes away from the museum, making for a scenic place to spend the night. We recommend booking a room at the relaxing Thyme & Tide Bed and Breakfast, “nestled between Cape Lookout and Cape Meares,” according to their website. The beachside house has great views and free breakfast in the morning.
]]>Situated in the breathtaking Cascade Mountains, Crater Lake National Park is a true sight to see. Birds that can be spotted at Crater Lake include ruffed grouse, Clark’s nutcracker, gray jay, white-headed woodpecker, and much more. Next time you visit, consider bringing along the bird checklist provided by the Crater Lake Institute. This list will tell you which birds are in the park and in which seasons they are commonly spotted.
The Clyde Holliday State Recreation includes a nature trail along the river, providing a perfect location to take in the waterfowl, warblers, buntings, sparrows, and more. Consider spending the night at one of their many campsites, as well.
The Audubon Society of Portland runs an impressive, 150-acre nature sanctuary. It’s free to visit, and features four miles of hiking trails with Steller’s jay, chestnut-backed chickadees, and much more.
Cape Meares, known for its gorgeous lighthouse, is a national wildlife refuge on the Oregon coast. The spot has several trails, including the Oregon Coast Trail, which runs through the center of the refuge. Tons of different bird species stick close to the coast, making for great watching.
Cottonwood Canyon is another fantastic state park in Oregon. It’s the second largest in the state, providing plenty of opportunity for keen-eyed birdwatchers to find hawks, eagles, orioles, and more.
Fort Stevens State Park on the Columbia River is a history buff go-to, as Fort Stevens, on-site, was in use from the Civil War to World War II. Today, the 4,300-acre park has many scenic hiking trails with views of many rare bird species.
The Indian Ford Campground in Deschutes County has many hiking and biking trails and is known for its excellent birdwatching. For the best views, take to the northern or western wetlands. You’ll find a variety of warblers here, from orange-crowned to yellow-rumped, as well as several species of woodpecker from white-headed to northern flicker.
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The Willamette River near Portland, Oregon, is a major tributary of the Columbia River and cuts through many large cities in Oregon, including Portland. New kayakers should stick to the main channel, as it widens and calms through the city. See Oregon’s largest city by guided tour with the Portland Kayak Co., who offers half-day guided trips and boat rentals. Wildlife, like osprey, heron, and eagles, are observable from the water. For beginners not yet ready to face the open water, the Willamette through Portland is a perfect place to get their feet wet.
Join Arrowhead Adventures on a guided kayaking trip through the Rogue River near Grants Pass, Oregon. According to the Arrowhead Adventures website, “Your journey begins on a flat, clam section of the beautiful Rogue River, giving you time to practice your new kayaking skills.” From there, your guide will take you along a few small rapids and point out the most beatific parts of the river, as well as wildlife. The whitewater provides a bit of a challenge but not enough to scare beginners.
The Alton Baker Canal, starting in Springfield, Oregon, is the perfect two-mile jaunt for families and beginner kayakers. The water is still and almost entirely flat. The canal is no deeper than four feet, and doesn’t get much wider than 30 yards, providing the perfect shallow pool to take the boat out and learn. Fishing is a major pastime at the canal, as it is regularly stocked with trout. Younger families won’t do much better than the Alton Baker Canal.
Wanderlust Tours offers an excellent guided tour of the Cascade Range. Spend two hours on the water with a professional guide. Families in particular will enjoy the tandem sit-on-top kayaks, which make learning to paddle a family experience. Younger kids might like the canoe tour, too. According to their website, kayakers should “be sure to watch for otter, mink, osprey, and eagles, and bring a camera for the best mountain views in Central Oregon!” We concur.
The Deschutes River in Bend, Oregon, is a slightly more challenging whitewater experience, but the Tumalo Creek Kayak and Canoe company offers whitewater kayaking camps to help prepare youngsters to get out on the water. Their trained professionals will teach children ages 10-15 all the best practices before taking them out onto the water, and make sure everyone is safe the entire time. Once the kids are comfortable, take them out onto the gentle stretches of Deschutes by the Old Mill and then on to Class II rapids when they’re ready for a bumpier ride.
]]>The Siuslaw Marina and RV Park in Florence, Oregon, is located right on the Siuslaw River. Stop in at their marina for boat launches, boat rentals, ice, snacks, boat parts, bait, and tackle.
Since 1972, Mazama Sporting Goods has been providing some of the best hunting and fishing equipment to the Eugene, Oregon area. Their pro fishing shop recently got a space upgrade and now offers live sand shrimp, lure building materials, and fly fishing, in addition to tackle and cure baits.
Sunrise Bait in Forest Grove, Oregon, is a mom and pop bait shop, providing fresh and cured salmon eggs to end consumers and retailers alike. You can find their bait in local shops or purchase online.
Brad’s Bait and Tackle in Madras, Oregon, is a full-service tackle shop, with featured products from Lemiglas, Fenwick, Pflueger, Okuma, and more. Check their website or call ahead to make sure they’re open as hours vary.
Fisherman’s Marine and Outdoor has three Oregon locations, one in Oregon City, one in Portland, and another in Tigard. For over 40 years, this family-owned business has provided some of the best products and customer service to fishermen and women, boaters, hunters, and campers. They sell a variety of reels, rods, lures, terminal tackle, bait, and more.
River Guide Supply, headquartered in Oregon City, Oregon, specializes in tackle, tackle craft, fishing accessories, reels, rods, and more. The store, located in “the heart of steelhead and salmon fishing country,” continues a 30-year-long business.
For over three decades, Oregon Tackle in Portland, Oregon, has provided all kinds of fishing tackle. According to their website, “we pride ourselves on being one of the largest remaining U.S. tackle manufacturers providing quality products that are still made in the USA.”
Tackle Time Charters and Bait Shop in Warrenton, Oregon, sells fresh, in-season bait. They prefer to receive orders the day before a big fishing trip for fresh bait, although they also offer frozen bait. Order online or give them a call during business hours.
Oregon Rod, Reel, and Tackle is another fantastic option in Eugene, Oregon, for all your bait and tackle needs. They sell steelhead stalkers, North Country Lures and Flies, fishing rods, and much more. Check out their website for a full listing of products and their online store.
The Great American Tackle Shop in Clackamas, Oregon, has been in business since 1993 selling fishing gear. They have a wide range of bait and tackle, as well as experienced staff happy to help you learn. If you’re planning on fishing on the Clackamas River, make sure to stop in for tips.
]]>Located in Mt. Hood National Forest, the meadows lining the trails at Bonney Meadow will make you feel as if you’ve stepped into a fairytale. The area is utilized by hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. Stay overnight for no fee at one of the six single sites at Bonney Meadow Campground. Hit the Bonney Meadows Trail for some exploration—a lightly-trafficked route that backpackers love.
The forests surrounding Timothy Lake combined with the gorgeous views of Mt. Hood in the distance make for one of the more beautiful backpack camping spots in Oregon. The lake covers 1,500 acres and boasts over 200 campsites across seven campgrounds. Campers should have no trouble finding space.
No matter the time of year, Crater Lake National Park offers a memorable backpack camping opportunity. The summer backpacking season is short due to snowy winters, but if you visit during a sweet spot, Crater Lake can be one of the best. For the most adventurous among us, the park is open for winter backpacking. Snowshoers and skiers are welcome, but make sure to check out their winter safety page before considering an overnight stay!
The Three Sisters Wilderness is part of the greater Willamette National Forest near Blue River, Oregon. The three sisters are comprised of the North, Middle, and South peaks, providing gorgeous views of glaciation, meadows, waterfalls, lava fields, and more. Backpackers can choose between several campgrounds, including the Scott Lake, Alder Springs, Limberlost, Red Diamond, Hard Rock, and Frissell Crossing sites.
Spanning over 20,000 acres, the Opal Creek Wilderness is beautifully forested with Douglas fir, Western red cedar, and other incredible lush vegetation. Backpackers will find eight trails, for a total of 36 miles, throughout the wilderness area. At Opal Creek, you will find dispersed camping areas. Camping is allowed anywhere except within 100 feet of a lake, trail or stream, or where posted as closed.
]]>Next Adventure has multiple locations throughout Oregon. Stop by any of their locations in Portland, Warren, or Sandy, for all of the best gear. They stock all the latest, greatest, and best camping and hiking equipment, including tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, and more.
Northwest Outdoor Store is Medford’s go-to place for Columbia, Mountain Hardwear, the North Face, and Hydro Flask. Check out their website for fun DIY projects and blogs, too!
U.S. Outdoor has been in business in one form or another since 1957, and today is a proud supplier of brands like Arc’Teryx, Burton, Marmot, and more. Camping equipment options includes bottles, knives, hydration, chairs, storage, and much more.
Some readers may know Poler as one of the best camping equipment brands out there, but those same readers may not know that they have a flagship store right in Portland. Visitors can expect to find much of their excellent camping equipment, including their two-person tents, hammocks, sleeping bags, and more.
Backcountry Gear is based in Eugene, Oregon, and has just about everything you might want for an outdoor adventure. That includes Hydro Flasks, Butora shoes, Mammut equipment, and much more. They’ve got too many awesome camping tools to list, so do yourself a favor and check them out yourself.
The Ashland Outdoor Store is the place to go when in Ashland, Oregon, for your outdoor product needs. Not only do they stock plenty of camping equipment in their brick and mortar store, but they host tons of events throughout the month. Check their website for a full listing of events and drop by to see what products they have in stock.
Fisherman’s Marine and Outdoor specializes in fishing equipment, but that doesn’t mean their camping stock is anything to scoff at. With locations in Oregon City, Portland, and Tigard, you’re never too far to stop by. They’ve got a wide variety of tents, canopies, cots, sleeping bags, and more.
Mountain Supply of Oregon has been in business since 1980 supplying the fine folks of Bend with all of their mountain supplies and camping needs. They offer rental rates for various equipment and stock many of the best brands, including Arc’Teryx, Boreas, Hydro Flask, Garmont, and more.
The owners of Salem Summit Company in Salem, Oregon, are motivated by “a passion for playing outdoors and enjoying all nature has to offer.” It’s that passion that gives them an edge over the competition. They stock a wide variety of equipment for campers, hikers, and climbers, including stuff from Sea to Summit, Deuter, Therm-a-Rest, and more.
Tillamook Sporting Goods is a locally-owned business stocking equipment for fishing, shooting, archery, crabbing, boating, and, yes, camping. They stock camp stoves, inflatable mats, sleeping bags, lanterns, boats, rope… the works.
]]>Vertical is Mt. Hood Meadows’ famous restaurant and bar located on the upper level of the North Lodge. They offer excellent views, entrees, microbrews, late night parties, and live music on Saturday afternoons during the winter months.
After a long day of skiing, shopping might be one of the most relaxing activities you could do. Stay on the mountain and shop at Outer Limits Sports, High Performance Center, or Mt. Hood Meadows PDX. Shop for skis, snowboards, apparel, and more.
Mt. Hood Meadows offers near-weekly events during the winter months, including a Winter Brew Fest, live music, snowshoe tours, and more funky celebrations. Check the link for an updated list and plan your skiing hours around your favorite event.
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The Timberline Lodge is one of the oldest and most iconic ski lodges in the country. Book a luxury room here, get competitive in the game room, check out the excellent dining options such as the Blue Ox Bar, or just come to experience the rustic ambiance and take in the exceptional views.
The trails at Tamanawas Falls offer moderately-difficult hikes famous for its frozen waterfalls during the winter. Grab your crew of ski enthusiasts or head out with one or two buddies to enjoy the solitude of the winter forest as you all head to the falls.
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Mt. Hood Brewing Company has several Oregon locations, including one at the gateway to Mt. Hood near Government Camp. They offer a lot more than just their notable beers. With a full menu of tapas, entrees, desserts, and more, you’ll be happy from the inside out!
The Skyway Bar and Grill is around 20 miles away from Mt. Hood Meadows, making it a place worthy of stopping on this trip. They have live music almost every day with acts ranging from funk-fusion to high energy bluegrass. Hang out, get a drink, and sample their barbecue menu.
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Mt. Hood is one of the most popular ski areas in the country, with four different resorts sharing the mountain. When you’re finished with a day of skiing at Mt. Meadows, head over to Mt. Hood Skibowl to try out "America’s Largest Night Ski Area." We know it’s a little strange to go skiing as your after-skiing activity, but night skiing is a whole new animal. Trust us.
Discover the city that is making everyone flee to the northwest and see it’s many attractions. From whimsical landmarks to themed bars, you’ll discover what makes Portland weird. Head to Toro Bravo for an après tapas and Spanish wine experience you won’t forget.
Keep the momentum going and head to Mt. Hood Lanes in Gresham for some excitement. With the Lava Lounge bar, a game room, and plenty of lanes, you won’t want the night to end! Book your game during Cosmic Bowling and you’ll be able to experience a light show and musical experience like no other.
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Alsea Falls Recreation Site is 13 miles west of Monroe, Oregon, and is characterized by beautiful forests, the Alsea waterfalls, and wildlife. Trails zigzag throughout the area, making for perfect, scenic running opportunities.
The Elijah Bristow State Park is just southeast of Eugene, Oregon, in a town called Dexter. The park has almost 850 acres of woodlands, wetlands, and meadows, with over 10 miles of running and hiking trails.
Multnomah Falls is one of Oregon’s most popular trail climbs, featuring 700 feet of elevation. For this trail, you might want to pace yourself. But if you reach the top of the first section and are ready for more, continue on to the 5.4-mile loop to get a closer look at the falls.
If you’re in the mood for an out of the ordinary run, the sea lions of Shore Acres State Park are calling for you. You can jog through the gorgeous gardens remaining from an abandoned millionaire’s estate before headed out onto the Cape Arago Pack Trail for a few miles.
The Pittock Mansion Hike is a moderately difficult, five-mile trail run through a lush forest and by a stunning Victorian-era mansion. The views of downtown Portland and Mount Hood are unmatched. The trail is out and back with a small loop, and it’s open for all seasons.
]]>Part of the Kampgrounds of America (KOA) network, the Redmond/Central Oregon KOA has a stellar record of customer happiness. KOA has camping down to a science. You always know that you and your family will have the best of the best at any KOA site. Consider camping in an RV, in a cabin, or in a more traditional tent: KOA can do it all. Amenities include amp, Wi-Fi, pool, bike rentals, firewood, and propane. This campground hosts regular activities throughout the summer, including a Glow Light Parade, Ice Cream Social, and Pebble Puppies. Check the website for a full list of amenities and upcoming events.
Lockaby Campground in Estacada, Oregon. offers perfect access to the Clackamas River. Set against the northern Oregon mountains, campers can experience the state’s best whitewater rafting and fishing. The cost is $21 per night and $5 a day per vehicle, with 30 single sites available. Anglers come from all over to fish for steelhead, coho salmon, and chinook in the river.
Cape Lookout State Park offers year-round camping along a sand spit near the ocean. Families will enjoy the eight miles of hiking trails against a forest backdrop and fishing, as well as the beach-side access. Two campsites are available with over 170 tent sites, along with one cabin and nine yurts. Make sure to climb the sand dune at Cape Kiwanda, and stop by the lighthouse near Cape Meares.
Catfish Junction RV Park is a privately-owned campground along Snake River. Enjoy 900 feet next to the river and “some of the best catfishing in Oregon.” The park has two boat ramps and a fish cleaning station, as well as a convenience store with bait and tackle and fishing licenses. Enjoy volleyball, basketball, and horseshoes, as well as weekend campouts, ice cream socials, scavenger hunts, and more regularly-scheduled events. Whether you’re traveling in an RV or pitching a tent, Catfish Junction RV Park is worth considering, especially for families.
The Crystal Crane Hot Springs in Burns, Oregon, brings the European and Japanese tradition of bathing in mineral springs to the United States. From their website: “Dissolved minerals in hot springs are absorbed by the skin. This kind of absorption through the skin is less harmful to the digestive tract and more beneficial than ingesting the equivalent in the form of mineral supplements,” and include calcium, sodium, magnesium, silica, potassium, and iron. When you’re finished soaking for the day, retreat to the campground and choose between dry and tent camping. The tent locations are close to the desert, and all sites are near the restroom, common areas, and camp kitchen. For a relaxing weekend of pampering and camping, Crystal Crane is the place to go.
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