The Heart and Soul of Sustainable Travel in Oregon, Through a Local’s Eyes
At the heart of the glorious Pacific Northwest, the stunningly diverse state of Oregon opens its arms to eco-conscious travelers. This beautiful Eden, with its snow-capped peaks, evergreen forests, serene coastlines, and arid high deserts, is more than our home — it’s our proud responsibility.
Gentle Traveler, I invite you on a thoughtful journey, traversing this land of ours sustainably, while cherishing every unique ecological tapestry Oregon has to offer.
Embrace the Essence of Slow Travel
The true spirit of sustainable travel lies in appreciating the journey, not just the destination, and Oregon’s landscape lends itself remarkably well to this philosophy. Discover the art of slow travel on the legendary Historic Columbia River Highway, America’s first scenic highway. The trip from Troutdale to The Dalles is a scenic 70-mile marvel, dotted with hidden gems that would give any ‘oolie from Prineville a hearty smile.
Fill your lungs with fresh Oregon air and take in the colors that change like a magnificent living canvas as you amble from the stunning Portland Women’s Forum State Scenic Viewpoint to the picturesque Oneonta Gorge. And remember, folks, we’re all about ‘leaving no trace.’ Trash belongs in the garbage can, not our precious outdoors – a principle we Oregonians follow religiously.
Support Locally-Loved Eco-Friendly Hideouts
Oregon’s captivating landscape is not its only charm. Our state is peppered with locally-embraced businesses, eateries, and accommodation that prioritize the planet as much as we do. The Sou’Wester Lodge in Seaview, with its quirky vintage trailers and love for local arts, is a sterling example, as much a tribute to our eccentricities as a beacon for sustainable hospitality.
For conscious cuisine lovers, visit the Farm Spirit in Portland, where Chef Aaron Adams conjures gastronomic magic with locally sourced, plant-based ingredients. If you’ve been to Oregon but haven’t tasted Chef Aaron’s seasonal tasting menu, you simply haven’t unlocked Oregon’s culinary charms.
Connect with Nature and Respect the Wildlife
From the vibrant Tillamook Coast to the sundrenched stretches of Cannon Beach, Oregon’s coasts are a rich haven for marine wildlife. These aren’t just Insta-worthy spots; they are homes for our beloved wildlife. Spotting a gray whale off the coast of Depoe Bay is a sight to behold, but remember — a respectful distance goes a long way in letting wildlife thrive.
Terrestrial wonders aren’t far behind either. Trek the Mt. Pisgah Arboretum’s trails in Eugene, a stunning sanctuary with biodiverse habitats that’d make a Metolius River fly fisher feel right at home. And grizzly sightings are rare, thank goodness, but if you do spot one, remember our local saying: “A fed bear is a dead bear”. Never feed the wildlife — it’s the best kind of love you can show them.
Grow Green with the Local Communities
Oregonians have got a unique knack for giving new life to old objects, giving way to numerous enchanting thrift stores, vintage markets, and artsy craft fairs. Portland’s Art and Soul Market is a true embodiment of Oregon’s community spirit with an eco-conscious twist. Like any true Oregonian would tell you, this place is the Mecca for authenticity.
Visit the Bend Farmers Market or the famous Portland Farmers Market at the PSU campus to savor the taste of local organic produce or find yourself an emerald-green dug fir Christmas tree. Remember, buying local is a splendid way to support the environment as well as the hardworking Oregonian farmers and harvesters.
Be Water-Wise and Sun-Wise
I’d be remiss if I didn’t talk about our “liquid sunshine”. Yes, Oregon is known for its rain, and having an eco-friendly collapsible water barrel as your travel companion can help capture some of it for non-drinking purposes. A region as arid as Eastern Oregon will teach you the real value of water conservation.
And when our sunny days do grace us, remember, Oregonians never say no to the sun. Embrace solar power like my fellow Bend dwellers who illuminate their backyard shindigs with solar-powered lights, an ode to Oregon’s love for sustainability.
Feeling enthralled yet? I bet you are. Oregon’s magnificence is every bit real and steeped in a potent blend of earthy authenticity and eco-conscious enthusiasm. The idea of sustainable travel comes naturally when you tread the paths Oregonians do. As a fellow lover of this magnificent land, I invite you to open your heart to Oregon and embrace its sustainable spirit. As a local saying goes, “Be like a Douglas Fir: steadfast, robust, and always reaching for the stars.” Will you be our next committed eco-explorer?