Top Scenic Drives Across Oregon: Waterfalls, Mountains, and Coastlines

Ah, Oregon! Home to a myriad of enchanting landscapes, this northwestern haven will leave you breathless at every turn. Wind through evergreen forests, glimpse fantastic waterfalls, skim majestic coastlines, and traverse awe-inspiring mountains—all from the comfort of your car. Let’s journey together through the top ten scenic drives of this incredible region.

1. Historic Columbia River Highway

Start your journey on the Historic Columbia River Highway, Oregon’s oldest scenic byway where you can admire the majestic Multnomah Falls. Connect with nature by venturing out on the 2.4-mile round trip hike to the top. Don’t forget to stop by the Multnomah Falls Lodge for a well-deserved snack before hitting the road again.

2. McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway

Next up, the panoramic views of McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway. This 82-mile drive offers unobstructed mountain vistas. If you’re up for it, the Proxy Falls hike is a can’t miss. Be sure to wander across the eerily cool, jet-black lava beds at the Dee Wright Observatory. It’s an alien landscape!

3. Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway

Travel through the remnants of prehistoric volcanic activity on the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway. Crater Lake National Park is a must-see landmark, and Klamath Basin is the perfect spot for bird lovers. Make sure to have your cameras ready for this out-of-the-world scenery!

4. Silver Falls Scenic Byway

This idyllic route leads you to the impressive Silver Falls State Park, with no less than 10 cascading beauties hidden within its bounds. The 7.2 mile hike known as Trail of Ten Falls is recommended for the adventurous. Unwind afterwards at the South Falls café and gift shop.

5. Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway

Known locally as the ‘highway of waterfalls,’ the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway offers an array of dazzling falls. Don’t miss the Thundering Waters trail, a collection of varied hikes that bring you face-to-face with these monumental natural features.

6. The Coastal Route: Highway 101

Driving the length of the Oregon coastline on Highway 101 is an exhilarating experience. Find peace at Cannon Beach’s Haystack rock, a habitat for many marine birds. Grab a meal at Mo’s Seafood & Chowder in Lincoln city, a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

7. Hell’s Canyon Scenic Byway

Journey through the deepest canyon in North America on Hell’s Canyon Scenic Byway. Start at Baker City, browse local shops like Peterson’s Chocolates, and finish the trip with a Hells Canyon Jet Boat Tour for a thrilling change of pace.

8. Mount Hood Scenic Byway

Enveloped by alpine forests, the grandeur of Mount Hood Scenic Byway is exceptional. Be sure to sample the culinary delights at Mt. Hood’s Timberline Lodge and don’t miss Hood River County Fruit Loop, stocked with local orchards and wineriess.

9. Pacific Coast Scenic Byway

Get your beach fix on the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway. Enjoy the stunning views of Cape Perpetua and recharge your batteries at The Waterfront Depot in Florence. Make sure to visit the Sea Lion Caves for a peek at these frolicsome marine animals.

10. Outback Scenic Byway

Finally, explore the remote landscapes of the Outback Scenic Byway. Bring extra fuel and water, as this desolate drive is short on services but long on stunning solitude. Don’t miss the pictographs at Hart Mountain Antelope Refuge, a testament to Oregon’s history.

These drives really capture the heart of Oregon. Each one is a journey brimming with beauty and unrivaled scenic diversity. So strap in, fuel up, and prepare to be inspired by Oregon’s surprising and enchanting routes. From our mountains to our coastlines; we’re not just showing you the way, we’re sharing our home. Gotta love Oregon! Safe travels, friends.