Top Scenic Drives Across Oregon: Lavish Waterfalls, Majestic Mountains, and Pristine Coastlines
As a local Oregonian, there’s a feeling of pride that washes over you when you gaze at the beauteous landscapes that surround us. The smell of pine needles, the thunderous roars of waterfalls, the humbling size of our mountains, and the feel of the sand between our toes makes every driving journey here more than the mere process of reaching a destination — it’s also enjoying every endearing scene and moment along the way. So fasten your seat belts, grab your favorite local brew from OnPoint Community, and get ready to cruise through ten of the most awe-inspiring scenic drives across our splendid Oregon.
1. Historic Columbia River Highway
Beginning in Troutdale and extending to The Dalles, this highway offers mesmerizing views. Be sure to make time for the iconic Multnomah Falls and Crown Point Vista House. Local tip: bring a packed lunch from Troutdale’s Sugarpine Drive-In with you for a scenic picnic.2. Crater Lake Rim Drive
Enthrall yourself with an exhilarating drive across the Crater Lake rim. With over twenty viewpoints, it gives an impressive panorama of Oregon’s deepest lake. Try to schedule your drive in the midday to avoid foggy conditions that can obscure the splendid view.
3. Mount Hood Scenic Byway
This 105-mile journey delivers not just a jaw-dropping view of Mount Hood, but it passess through charming small towns and vibrant orchards as well. Hood River’s pizzeria, Solstice Wood Fire Café, serves as the perfect pit stop for a snack.4. Pacific Coast Scenic Byway
Embarking on this drive, you’ll experience everything from rugged cliffs to peaceful sandy beaches. Be sure to stop by the beloved Tillamook Creamery for some much-needed fuel in the form of delicious ice cream.5. McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway
This drive captures the beauty of the Cascades with varied landscapes from lush forests to lava fields. The Dee Wright Observatory is an absolute must-see on this route, for a closer look at this unique volcanic landscape.6. Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway
This ‘highway of waterfalls’ takes you past more than a dozen dazzling falls. Grab a coffee from Roseburg’s Old Soul Coffee to enjoy whilst taking in the Toketee Falls’ breathtaking sights.7. Oregon Outback Scenic Byway
Travel through the heart of Oregon’s high desert, and witness how landscapes change from dense forest to rugged desert. The Cowboy Dinner Tree Restaurant in Silver Lake is great for those who crave worthy sustenance after a long day’s drive.8. Hells Canyon National Recreation Area
Penetrate deep into America’s deepest river gorge, through a winding, twisting journey that stimulates your sense of adventure. Utilize Imnaha Store and Tavern for refreshments before embarking on this remote route.9. Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway
Drive through towering volcanoes and quiet forests on this epic route. Be ready to capture unforgettable pictures of the diamond-like Crater Lake views before ending your journey in Fort Klamath stargazing at the Crater Lake B&B.10. Oregon Coast Highway 101
The majestic coastline of Oregon offers an array of hauntingly beautiful sights from beaches, cliffs to sentinel-like lighthouses. Enjoy a tasty meal at the Pacific Way Cafe in Gearhart as a perfect way to conclude or start your journey.In closing, as Oregonians, we take pride in our state’s natural beauty. Each of these drives encapsulates a different piece of our diverse landscape. Buckle up, and be prepared to be enveloped in the scenic magnificence of Oregon. Whether you are accompanied by solemn silence or the cheerful chatter of companions, these stretches of road promise to sweep you up in our Oregon story. And oh, don’t forget that cup of your favorite coffee on the go!