Title: Explore Electric Oregon: An Insider’s Guide to EV Road Trips in the Beaver State
Electric vehicles (EVs) and Oregon’s natural beauty go together like peanut butter and jelly, or better yet, like Portland and microbreweries. The state’s forward-thinking ethos makes it a haven for EV drivers with a large number of charging stations and the backdrop of lush Pacific Northwest scenery. This insider guide will help navigate Oregon’s EV-friendly routes.
Section I: Prepping for Your Trip
An electric vehicle road trip requires an extra level of preparation. Thankfully, Oregon’s EV infrastructure is one of the best in the country. There’s a host of charging station networks including ChargePoint, Blink, and our local pride, Electric Avenue by PGE. To avoid any mid-journey hiccups, make sure to sign up and get membership cards or apps for these networks before the trip.
Planning your route and overnight stops is crucial. Oregon’s diverse geography and weather patterns can prove tricky for the unprepared. While traveling in Oregon from June through September offers fairly consistent weather, November to March promises more rain and potential snow in mountainous areas, which could impact driving speeds and charging times.
Section II: Key Routes and Charging Hubs
For EV drivers, the journey is not just about the destination but also the charging hubs along the way. Oregon features four designated Electric Byways – routes with plentiful charging options.
Begin with the popular ‘Woodburn to Central Oregon Byway’. This route cruises from Woodburn, through Oregon’s wine country in Willamette Valley, and right into the heart of Bend. While in Bend, not to miss are the local Deschutes Brewery and Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint, and make sure to charge up the vehicle at the charging station in the Old Mill District.
Next, the ‘Oregon Coast Electric Byway’ is Oregon’s version of Highway 1 in California. It stretches from Astoria at Oregon’s northern tip, and heads down the coast to Brookings. Be forewarned: Coastal weather can change in a flash, so pack a waterproof jacket even if it’s a sunny day. The Cannon Beach area offers fast charging, ideal for a beach picnic while your car gets juiced up.
Lastly, for a brush with history, check out the ‘Silk Road to Oregon Byway,’ which approximates the old Oregon trail route. The route, combining parts of I-84 and State Highway 99, takes in charming small towns and historic landmarks. Baker City is a great stop-over with several charging stations and overnight options. Remember to visit the local Oregon Trail Interpretive Center for a riveting trip back in time.
Section III: Iconic Oregon Landmarks
No trip to Oregon is complete without visiting the iconic locales scattered across the state. Thankfully, many of these are accessible and oriented toward EVs.
Multnomah Falls, just thirty minutes outside of Portland, is a must-see stop. After marveling at the waterfall, opt for a quick charge at the Troutdale charging station before heading towards Hood River.
In southern Oregon, don’t miss out on the Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, or Crater Lake National Park, the deepest lake in the United States. Charging stations abound in Ashland, and Mazama Village in Crater Lake also accommodates EV charging.
Section IV: Local Insider Tips
Remember, each region’s EV infrastructure varies. While Portland metro region and larger cities like Eugene and Salem are EV friendly, certain rural areas, despite their beauty, might not be as equipped.
In summer, popular tourist destinations like Mount Hood and Haystack Rock can get crowded, so it’s wise to arrive early. Avoid too many fast charging sessions in a row as it could strain your battery, especially in Oregon’s frequently changing weather. And yes, when you think you’ve packed enough layers for the Oregon weather, pack one more.
Final Thoughts:
Exploring Oregon in an EV is an unparalleled experience, combining cutting-edge technology with stunning natural beauty. Small town charm, breathtaking coastlines, and towering peaks beckon the intrepid EV driver. With a bit of preparation and a dash of Oregon insider knowledge, you’ll be more than ready to devour miles and build memories while reducing your carbon footprint. In Oregon, the journey of eco-friendly discovery is every bit as thrilling as the destination. Here’s to the open (and electric) road!