Top Scenic Drives Across Oregon: Exploring Waterfalls, Mountains, and Majestic Coastlines
There’s just something about Oregon. This enchanting state, with its majestic waterfalls, serpentine roads, and breathtaking coastline views, has a charm that can make anyone fall in love. Dive into this guide featuring Oregon’s top scenic drives, curated by a seasoned local.
1. Historic Columbia River Highway
This iconic drive is known for its scenic beauty. As you make your way along the Historic Columbia River Highway, you’ll be greeted by amazing sights like the flame-colored Dogwood trees and the awe-inspiring view of Multnomah Falls. Don’t forget to stop at the Crown Point Vista House—an observatory where you can enjoy panoramic river views.2. Mt. Hood Scenic Byway
As you navigate the drive around Mt. Hood, Oregon’s tallest peak, you’ll be rewarded with changing landscapes from thick forests to sprawling orchards. A visit to the Timberline Lodge, a National Historic Landmark, is a must! It offers ski slopes, historic displays, and some hearty Oregon cuisine to die for.
3. Pacific Coast Scenic Byway
This spectacular drive stretches along the entirety of Oregon’s shoreline. The Pacific Coast Scenic Byway offers small coastal towns like Astoria, Cannon Beach, and Newport, up-close views of stunning sea stacks, and the famous Haystack Rock. Just remember, the weather can be unpredictable, so always pack a raincoat!4. McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway
Spanning the majestic Cascade Mountain Range, this drive gets you up close to some of Oregon’s most famous volcanic landscapes. Take a break at Dee Wright Observatory, a structure made of lava rock, offering an unbeatable view of surrounding volcanic peaks.5. Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway
Dubbed the ‘Highway of Waterfalls,’ the drive offers 15 awe-inspiring waterfalls, including the 272-foot Watson Falls! Crater Lake, Oregon’s only national park, is a must-visit along this route. Rogue-Umpqua is also a paradise for fishing enthusiasts, with the Rogue River famed for its salmon runs.6. Outback Scenic Byway
This drive takes you through the heart of Oregon’s outback. Bask in the vast, open landscapes. Fort Rock, a striking volcanic landmark, is a highlight. And if you fancy a hearty meal or place to rest, drop by the rustic Silver Lake Mercantile and Cafe.7. Hell’s Canyon Scenic Byway
This drive offers breathtaking views of Hell’s Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America. Be sure to check out the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center in Baker City, and don’t miss the chance to ride the vintage Sumpter Valley Railway (yes, it’s operational!).8. Journey Through Time Scenic Byway
This tranquil route will transport you to Oregon’s past. It stretches through small towns brimming with historical landmarks like the Kam Wah Chung State Heritage Site in John Day City. Fossil fans must visit the Painted Hills at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument—a geological spectacle like no other.9. Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway
Witness diverse volcanic landscapes along this spectacular route, including Crater Lake’s serene blue waters and the Lava Beds National Monument’s surreal lava tube caves. Klamath Falls could be a great pit-stop, boasting impressive bird-watching opportunities at the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuges.10. Oregon Outback Scenic Byway
Experience serene isolation on this lesser-known route. Spanning from Lakeview to La Pine, it unveils Oregon’s “outback” side. At the Warner Canyon Ski Area, enjoy some perfect winter fun, and end your journey with a relaxing soak at Summer Lake Hot Springs.Oregon, with its magical landscapes, offers drives that are nothing but indulgent journeys. These scenic routes, each with their unique appeal, present the true essence of Oregon. So roll down the windows, feel the wind in your hair, and take in the jaw-dropping beauty that’s quintessentially Oregon.