Title: Your Electric Vehicle Road Trip Through Oregon: Charged Up Routes and Stations
Let’s imagine packing up the electric vehicle (EV) for a one-of-a-kind road trip through the gorgeous Beaver State. Picture the hushed hum of the motor against the rush of water at Multnomah Falls, the smell of fresh forest air mingling with the slightly electric scent of your high-powered car.
Planning Your Route:
First things first, consider your route. Oregon has a pancake-load of EV charging stations dotted throughout the state, so it’s pretty easy to plan a trip based on what you want to see.
If the striking Oregon coastline calls your name, consider the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway. Starting from Astoria, you’ll find a newly installed EV station at the Astoria Column, perfect for that first charge. From here, hug the coast down to Brookings, where you’re never too far from an EV station. Use PlugShare or ChargePoint for a helpful map guiding you to the nearest charging points.
Fuel Up on Food While Charging:
An insider’s tip beloved by Oregon locals is to charge while chowing down. Especially along the I-5 corridor, you’ll find plenty of charging stations nestled at or near delicious local eateries. For instance, locate a charging station at the Woodburn Premium Outlets, and enjoy a hearty Mexican meal at Luis’s Taqueria while your EV powers up.
Stop and Smell the Roses (Literally!):
Don’t forget to build some time into your schedule for charging. Many of these stations are conveniently located near attractions. Take Portland for example – top up your charge at Washington Park’s EV station, then take a stroll to view the enchanting roses at the International Rose Test Garden. It’s like a ‘two birds, one stone’ scenario, Oregon style!
Be Mindful of the Seasons:
Oregon weather, while mostly mild, can be a bit of a prankster. Late spring and early fall are ideal for a road trip, offering mild temperatures and lower chances of rain. Remember, coastal weather can change quickly, especially in the afternoons. It’s just like grandma used to say, ‘pack a little bit of everything, you never know what Oregon will give you.’
Getting Off the Beaten Track:
Looking to embrace the wilderness? Drive your EV along the epic Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway. Chargers are a little sparse in these parts, but the towns of Klamath Falls and Bend offer EV stations. Just remember, locals will tell you fall is a jaw-dropper here, but winter can get a smidge, well, wintery. Look at local forecasts and road conditions before heading that-a-way.
Keeping It City-Smart:
Oregon’s cities are also a great option for EV road trips. Portland, Eugene, Salem, and Bend have plentiful charging stations and offer fantastic local attractions. In Portland, take advantage of the Electric Avenue station downtown, then enjoy the bustling, artsy vibe of the Pearl District.
Remember This Golden Rule:
Do take note, Oregonians greet people at a charging station with a friendly nod and a smile, but it’s not generally done to jump into a line for a charging spot. Patience, friendliness, and taking turns are considered the golden trifecta of Oregon charging etiquette.
Safety First:
Always keep your vehicle’s charging cable in good condition and never leave your EV charging unattended overnight or in areas you’re unfamiliar with. While Oregon’s crime rates are quite low, it’s not unheard of for charging cables to acquire legs and walk off in the middle of the night!
Let’s Wrap this Road Trip Up:
Hit the road with confidence, knowing you can zip through Oregon’s cities, hug its coastline, or delve into its forested heartland, all while staying charged up and ready. Remember to plan your route, take advantage of charging station locations, respect the state’s weather, and love your time in this magnificent part of the world.
The journey you are about to embark on, from the bustling vibe of Portland to the serene whispering pines of the Cascades and the roaring Pacific surf at Canon Beach, will be nothing short of electrifying – pun intended! Go forth, explore, and become a part of the community of Oregonians who love their state, their food, and their electric vehicles. Happy trails, friend!
Wordcount: 648