Embarking on an Electric Vehicle Road Trip Through Oregon
A warm welcome to fellow EV enthusiasts planning an adventure through our verdant valleys, quaint towns, and rugged coastline of Oregon! Navigating your way through the Beaver State with an electric vehicle isn’t just possible – it’s a wonderful journey to undertake.
Navigating the I-5 Corridor
Starting your journey, Interstate 5 is your best friend. The main spine of Oregon, I-5 runs North-South from Washington to California. There are an abundance of charging stations along the route especially near major cities like Portland, Salem, and Eugene. The Woodburn Supercharger station is a personal favorite, located in the Woodburn Premium Outlets shopping center; it’s a great excuse to indulge in some shopping while your car charges up!
The much-appreciated Springfield Supercharger station, just outside of Eugene, is conveniently located near The Shoppes at Gateway. Just remember, these stations get busy during the peak holiday travel seasons, so plan ahead.
Discovering the Oregon Coast: U.S Route 101
There’s no greater pleasure than taking your electric vehicle on a spin along the enchanting Oregon Coast. The coastal ride on U.S Route 101 is both spectacular and well-equipped with charging stations. While EV infrastructure is not as dense as the I-5 corridor, towns like Astoria and Cannon Beach, as well as larger cities like Newport and Coos Bay, have readily available public EV charging points. Locals know the weather on the coast changes swiftly, especially in the afternoons. Indeed, it’s all part of the adventure. So, don’t forget to pack some warm clothes!
En route, be sure to take the detour to Tillamook. The area is renowned for its cheese – the Tillamook Creamery is rather popular among Oregonians and a must-visit for foodies. The creamery also has a few Level 2 ChargePoint stations for those who need a boost while sampling some dairy delights.
Exploring the High Desert: U.S Route 26 and Route 97
The stretch of U.S Route 26 and Route 97 that winds its way through central Oregon is a different beast altogether. Here, the lush greenery gives way to sandy soils and rocky terrain. Bend, an outdoor enthusiasts’ paradise which collects more sunshine than any other place in the state, is dotted with numerous charging points not too far from popular spots like the Deschutes Brewery.
Remember that high desert weather can change between extremes from daytime to nighttime, and EV battery efficiency decreases in colder temperatures. Spring and autumn are the most amenable seasons to explore this area in an EV.
Trekking Through the Columbia River Gorge
Driving through the Columbia River Gorge, don’t skip a hiking break at the mesmerizing Multnomah Falls. As for charging stations, there are many options in nearby Hood River and The Dalles.
While these stations are convenient, they are also popular, particularly in July and August during the peak of the windsurfing and kiteboarding seasons. A friendly piece of advice, try to avoid these peak times if you can.
Cruising the Cascades: U.S Route 20
Transversing the Cascades on U.S Route 20 is a treat for the eyes. Picture-perfect postcard views await at every corner. The few charging stations here are located near the cities of Corvallis and Bend, as well as the Sisters area. Be aware, the Sisters to Salem stretch can seem long, especially in winter when the pass frequently closes for snow.
Enduring charm of Southern Oregon: Highway 101 and I-5 Look out for Grant’s Pass down in Southern Oregon on I-5, it’s a handy place to charge and grab a bite at the many locally-owned eateries in the downtown area. If you are cruising down the Highway 101, Gold Beach is a decent place to top up that battery. Make sure to check the weather forecast during winter; the Siskiyou Mountain Pass can be treacherous.
Navigating an electric vehicle journey through Oregon needn’t be nerve-wracking or complex. With some well-thought-out planning and a little local insight, the adventure can be immensely enjoyable. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination.
So, buckle up, set your GPS to roaming mode, and get ready to discover the exuberant beauty that Oregon has to offer. Have a great trip, friend!