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

As anyone who’s driven across our beautiful Beaver State knows, Oregon’s scenery is something to behold. From vibrant coastline to snow-capped peaks, charming small towns to unparalleled wildlife, Oregon has it all. Here’s your quintessential guide to Oregon’s top scenic drives that are as diverse as the state itself.

1. Historic Columbia River Highway

Starting at Troutdale and ending in The Dalles, the Historic Columbia River Highway offers jaw-dropping views of the Columbia River Gorge. Take time to pull over and walk the trail leading to the impressive Multnomah Falls. Local tip: early mornings or weekdays are the best times to avoid the crowds.

2. Highway 101 Oregon Coast

Spanning the entire length of Oregon’s coastline, Highway 101 provides view after view of the stunning Pacific Ocean. Stop by Tillamook Cheese Factory for a quick bite, and don’t miss out the legendary Thor’s Well, near Cape Perpetua. Be sure to check the tide tables beforehand for the safest viewing experience.

3. McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway

A wonderland full of evergreen forests, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes, this highway snaking through the Willamette National Forest is an outdoor lover’s paradise. The shimmering Blue Pool, or Tamolitch Pool, along the McKenzie River, makes for an excellent mid-route hike.

4. Mount Hood Scenic Byway

On this drive, you’ll not only get awe-inspiring views of Mt. Hood, Oregon’s highest peak, but also charming fruit farms in the Hood River Valley. A visit to Trillium Lake is a must for its iconic reflection of the mountain in still waters.

5. Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway

Also known as the ‘highway of waterfalls’, this byway boasts more than fifteen cascades. Include a stop at the Toketee Falls, known for its unique basalt column amphitheater backdrop. If time allows, explore the Umpqua Hot Springs just up the road.

6. Hells Canyon Scenic Byway

Eastern Oregon locals love this Idaho-border loop for its incredible views of America’s deepest river gorge, Hells Canyon. Spotting wildlife like bighorn sheep or elk is common, hence keep those binoculars handy!

7. Aufderheide Scenic Byway

Connecting Westfir and Rainbow, this roadway winds along the Wild and Scenic North Fork of the Willamette River and the South Fork of the McKenzie River. Enjoy a picnic by the Cougar Reservoir and remember to bring your own food and drinks as services are limited on this rural drive.

8. Outback Scenic Byway

Traveling south out of La Pine, you can expect to see a myriad of landscapes like high desert, lush forests, and Hart Mountain’s stark ridgeline. The quirky Flyway restaurant in Summer Lake serves a delicious basque garlic soup – the perfect roadside pick-me-up.

9. Journey Through Time Scenic Byway

This drive lives up to its name, with historic sites like the Kam Wah Chung Museum in John Day and the ghost town of Shaniko along the route. The Painted Hills, part of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, is a must-see spectacle particularly at sunset.

10. Pacific Coast Scenic Byway

The northern segment of the Pacific Coast Highway 101 offers incredible ocean vistas. Check out Ecola State Park in Cannon Beach for views of the storied Tillamook Rock Lighthouse and one of Oregon’s most photographed points, Haystack Rock.

Hopefully, this guide leaves you itching to jump in your car and start exploring. Remember, the truth about these drives is, the journey is just as important as the destination. So slow down, breathe in that fresh Oregon air, and savor the natural beauty all around you. Because there’s no place quite like Oregon.