Top Scenic Drives Across Oregon: Waterfalls, Mountains, and Coastlines Aplenty
Welcome, fellow wanderers, to the vast and enchanting landscapes of Oregon! From majestic snow-capped mountains to quaint coastal routes, there’s a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. Let’s dive into the very best scenic drives Oregon has to offer.
1. Historic Columbia River Highway Scenic Byway
Get ready for a splendid journey along the oldest scenic highway in the US. As your vehicle winds through mossy forests and numerous waterfalls like Multnomah, punchbowl-shaped Horsetail Fall, and the lesser-known Latourell, don’t forget to pause and soak up the captivating scenery. Watch out for the Vista House, a historic observatory and rest stop with panoramic views of the river and the infamous Gorge windsurfers.2. Silver Falls Tour Route
Encased deep in the forest between Silverton and Sublimity lies the Silver Falls Tour Route. Offering an exceptional layout of ten stunning waterfalls and the infamous “Trail of Ten Falls,” it’s a spectacle not to be missed. An early morning start on a misty day provides an otherworldly ambiance.
3. McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway
With ancient lava flows and two historic wagon trails, it’s hard not to be overwhelmed by McKenzie Pass’s raw beauty. Get there in the summer to witness North America’s most massive Obsidian flow at the Dee Wright Observatory, and don’t forget that roadside huckleberry stop!4. Mount Hood Loop
Winding around Oregon’s iconic peak, the Mount Hood Loop is home to numerous scenic gems. While the snowy slopes at Timberline Lodge attract numerous winter sports enthusiasts, summer brings picnickers to Cloud Cap Inn, a historic mountain viewpoint overlooking wildflower meadows.5. Pacific Coast Scenic Byway
Experience hypnotic oceanic vistas, charming “blink-and-you’ll-miss-it” towns, lighthouses, and the stunning Haystack Rock along Oregon’s magnificent Pacific Coast. Make sure to savor local favorites like Mo’s clam chowder or the Pelican Brewing Company’s Tsunami Stout while enjoying the sea breeze.6. Hells Canyon Scenic Byway
Hells Canyon Byway traverses the northeast corner of the state and showcases a vastly different side of Oregon, near the border with Idaho. For a different kind of thrill, hop on the Hells Canyon Jet Boat and spot some bighorn sheep clinging to rocky slopes.7. Rogue Umpqua Scenic Byway
Known as the ‘highway of waterfalls,’ the Rogue-Umpqua route is a splendid drive through evergreens, past emerald rivers, and numerous cascading waterfalls. A must-visit is the Crater Lake National Park – the centerpiece of Southern Oregon, with its impossibly blue, deep lake formed by a collapsed volcano.8. Outback Scenic Byway
This boundary-pushing route gives you a giant serving of Oregon’s rural charm. Look out for the popular Paisley’s Mosquito Festival in July to experience a sense of camaraderie amidst the endless horizons of the Oregon outback. Stop by Dusty’s Café at Fort Rock for some homestyle cooking and crystallized local humor.9. Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway
Traversing the Pacific Ring of Fire, this byway showcases landscapes formed by violent volcanic activity. The highlights include the breathtaking Crater Lake and Lava Beds National Monument, a surreal underground realm of over 700 caves. Remember to bring a jacket, even in summer – it can get chilly down there!10. Journey Through Time Scenic Byway
This charming route takes you on a journey of Oregon’s rich history. Drive through John Day Fossil Beds National Monument and Ghost Towns to catch a glimpse of the bygone pioneer era. While scanning for fossils, don’t forget to grab the famous Kam Wah Chung’s healing herbal tea.So fellow travelers, buckle up and feast your eyes on the pristine beauty Oregon has to offer. With each turn and curve, a breathtaking spectacle unfolds, reminding us why we love this diverse, ever-surprising state. Enjoy the journey, and remember, the magic lies not just in the destination, but in the drive itself.