Title: A Local’s Guide to an Electric Vehicle Road Trip Through Oregon: Charging Stations and Routes
There’s something wonderfully invigorating about cruising down Oregon’s scenic roads, windows down, with lush greenery, towering mountains, and pristine waters as your backdrop. Electric vehicles (EVs) now give us the opportunity to enjoy our picturesque state while also minimizing our carbon footprint.
A. Start your Electric Journey: Portland
Kickoff your environmentally-friendly adventure in the state’s most populous city, Portland. Known for its creative and progressive vibe, this city offers a wealth of charging options for the EV travelers. Portland General Electric has numerous stations sprinkled through the city. Most notable is their hub dubbed ‘Electric Avenue’ near the World Trade Center downtown, outfitted with six quick-charge ports and just a stone’s throw away from some of the city’s popular attractions.
Before hitting the open road, consider indulging in the city’s renowned foodie scene. Portland’s food carts, bakeries such as Ken’s Artisan Bakery, and unique farm-to-table eateries like Farm Spirit are worth exploring.
B. The Wine Route: Willamette Valley
Heading south from Portland, route yourself through the elegant vineyards of the Willamette Valley, known as Oregon’s wine country. The region is dotted with EV charging stations, so you’ve got no worries there. Newberg, for instance, has a ‘Greenlots’ station conveniently located in the city center.
As for the local tip, avoid visiting this region in late autumn! That’s when the wineries become crowded with tourists, and the locals know it’s better to enjoy a quiet glass of Pinot Noir against the backdrop of changing leaves in early fall instead.
C. A Touch of History: Eugene
Now, point your EV towards Eugene, a historically rich city surrounded by natural beauty. The city is home to several charging points, such as at the Valley River Center and the public library parking lot.
While in Eugene, take some time to visit the historic district; have a stroll along the Riverbank Trail System or visit the Saturday Market, America’s oldest weekly open-air crafts market. Remember, the best times to visit are from late spring through early fall.
D. The Coastal Route: Florence to Astoria
Switch gears, literally, to embrace Oregon’s dramatic coastline from Florence to Astoria. Charge your EV at Florence’s Siuslaw Public Library before feasting on mouthwatering seafood at Waterfront Depot. Do check the weather before setting off, as coastal weather can be thrillingly unpredictable.
Along the coastal route, consider adding stops at iconic places like Heceta Head Lighthouse in Yachats, the remarkable Cannon Beach, and finally charming Astoria. Charging won’t be an issue as Seaside, a fun-packed family holiday resort town, offers a Tesla Supercharger in the heart of town, and Astoria has a station near its famous Riverwalk.
E. Head North: Mt. Hood
Finally, trek north towards the majestic Mt. Hood. Make your way to a charging station in Hood River before setting off for breathtaking views at Columbia River Gorge. If it’s winter, drive cautiously as the weather near Mt. Hood can become harsh.
Take a breath of fresh air at Ramona Falls, get lost in the charming small town of Government Camp, or carve out some powder time on Mt. Hood itself. Bear in mind though; charging options are fewer in the Mount Hood Area, so make good use of the stations in Sandy, Government Camp, and Hood River.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re Ol’ Oregonian looking for a new adventure, traverse the state at your leisure and bask in the glory of Oregon’s natural beauty. In an EV, you have the added bonus of making a choice that benefits our planet. Enjoy the scenic routes, keep an eye on the weather, and remember to keep to the road less traveled – local attractions are often better than the touristy ones. Happy journeying!