Title: Gear Up for an Electric Vehicle Road Trip Across Beautiful Oregon
Subheading: Setting Out From Portland
Oregon’s vibrant city of Portland is a great start for an electric road trip. Check your EV at the Electric Avenue, downtown, which accommodates a variety of charging plugs. Start off your journey by having a hearty meal at one of the local community-supported restaurants, like Harlow on Hawthorne Boulevard, before setting out.
Subheading: Blazing the Trail to Columbia River Gorge
Heading eastward on I-84, the Columbia River G scenic highway beckons. For a quick top-up, use the CHAdeMO and CCS fast chargers at the Fred Meyer in Troutdale. Visit the iconic Multnomah Falls – having an EV bypasses the seasonal parking restrictions at the Interstate parking lot. Just remember to bring a rain-resistant jacket even in summer; Oregon’s waterfalls generate their own microclimates!
Subheading: Dazzling Drive to Bend
Pass the majestic Mt. Hood, stopping by the Timberline Lodge, and carefully descend to the high desert town of Bend. Get charged up at ChargePoint’s CCS/CHAdeMO station on Arizona Avenue. Then, check out the Deschutes Brewery for a relaxing sip locally crafted beer or grab a bite at The Sparrow Bakery,you won’t regret it! Remember, nights in the high desert can get chilly any time of the year, so bring a warm layer with you.
Subheading: Cruising Along the Outback Scenic Byway
Heading south on Highway 97, and turning to Route 31 takes you on Oregon’s Outback Scenic Byway. The small town of Lakeview hosts the state’s only geothermally heated charging station. Drop by the Lakeview Geyser on Main Street while you wait for the EV to be fully charged. The vast night skies here are excellent for stargazing, just make sure to pack a good flashlight and blanket, as temperatures drop after dark.
Subheading: Sailing Down to Klamath Falls
Continuing on Route 31 will bring you to the lakeside city of Klamath Falls. The Level 2 EV charging stations here at the Oregon Institute of Technology are powered completely by geothermal and solar energy. The drive can be long and lonesome, so make sure you have your favorite music playlists downloaded, and keep a few snacks handy.
Subheading: Venturing Through the Awe-Inpiring Rogue Valley
As you head west on Highway 66 towards the Rogue Valley, the journey becomes quite scenic, all the way to Ashland. Charge up at the Ashland Hills Hotel and Suites before exploring local landmarks like the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. It can get pretty crowded during the peak summer season, so booking in advance is advisable.
Subheading: Heading North up the Scenic Coast to Astoria
Take the Highway 101 northwards to the charming town of Astoria. EV charging stations are conveniently located along the coast, from Brookings to Seaside. However, be prepared for changes in the weather. While the mornings can be wonderfully sunny, the afternoon may bring a thick marine layer, so carry that light jacket just in case!
Subheading: Making Memories at Cannon Beach
It’s hard to wrap up without encouraging a stop at iconic Cannon Beach. Charge the car up at Sunset Empire Transportation District while enjoying stunning views of the Haystack Rock. If you are there at high tide, be careful not to leave belongings on the beach; the tides can come in quicker than expected.
Subheading: Home Stretch Back to Portland
Finally, as the trip winds down, Route 26 will lead you back towards Portland. Before saying goodbye to the beautiful Oregon coastline, take a small detour and charge up at the Pacific City’s EV charger, located at the Tillamook County Creamery Association lot. While the EV charges, there’s time to splurge on some of Tillamook’s world-famous cheese and ice cream.
This road trip through beautiful Oregon will not only satiate the wanderlust in you but also give you plenty of extraordinary memories to take home. The vast expanse of Oregon, with its diversity and charm, is best explored at a leisurely pace. So take your time, enjoy the ride, and experience the state in a way that only locals can truly appreciate. Safe and happy travels!