The Electric Adventure Begins
Eager for an electric vehicle (EV) road trip through Oregon? Buckle up! It’s an adventure of a lifetime lined with snow-capped mountains, serene forests, and rugged coastline. As a seasoned local, the love for Oregon illustrates its exploratory tale. You’ll get some tips on the best charging stations, routes, and the kind of experiences one should not miss.
Starting Off in Portland
Portland, a city known for its eccentricity, is an ideal starting point. The city is studded with a large number of EV charging stations. Companies like ChargePoint and Electrify America have set up fast charging stations that give your EV a juice-up while you enjoy sipping on some local coffee at Stumptown, or buy local goods at the Portland Saturday Market. Remember, planning ahead for the route is prudent to avoid any inconvenient hitches along the way. For instance, you’ll often find better prices on electricity during off-peak hours, typically late night to early morning. So a little bit of pre-planning goes a long way.
Venturing to Willamette Valley
Head south onto the I-5 from Portland, and in no time you’ll be cruising through the heart of Willamette Valley. Here, locals love the AVA Oregon City charging station, located just right to explore Oregon’s illustrious wine country. Keep in mind, many of these wineries are by appointment only during winter months. However, they often offer different experiences than in the summer, like fireside tastings, that locals absolutely adore.
Considering Coastal Route to Southern Oregon
After immersing oneself in the soothing vineyards, coastal weather is an appealing change. Try to get to the coast early in the morning, as coastal weather changes quickly in the afternoon. The scenic Hwy 101 South tenders the most picturesque views in this part of the world. Stop by Tillamook, the cheese lover’s paradise, and seize the chance of visiting the famous Cheese Factory.
PlugShare app, known to every insider, shows several charging stations along this route. One loved by locals is Fred Meyer in Newport. Gain some more miles, and pause at the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area where you can rent an electric dune buggy for a little off-road thrill. Isn’t that amazing?
Making Way to Ashland
Heading inland to Southern Oregon, the little town of Ashland comes up. It’s brimming with culture, packed with remarkable theatres, art shops, and boasts one of Oregon’s largest lithium-ion battery EV fast charging station located at the Ashland Hills Hotel and Suites. Try catching a play at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, but remember, it’s mostly seasonal from March to October.
Soaking in Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake National Park, the gem of Southern Oregon, is an unmistakable stop. Head east on the OR-62. The park doesn’t have a charging station, but fear not, The Charging Resort in Prospect is a handy station for EVs before reaching the park. While here, avoid Rim Drive – it’s typically closed during winters due to snow. Locals love to snowshoe there during winters while summer months are perfect for boat rides in the lake.
Returning to Portland via Bend
Journey back to Portland through Bend. The city’s strategically located EV charging stations makes it convenient for EV owners. Urban energy stations in downtown Bend make it easier for you to explore local breweries, specifically Deschutes Brewery known for its Black Butte Porter. During winter, Bend streets can get snowy, remember to drive slow and brake gently just as locals do.
Ending the Electric Odyssey
An EV road trip through Oregon is unlike any other and is a growing trend among locals and tourists alike. Besides being a green option, it allows you to see the corners of Oregon intimately, revealing its quintessential beauty bit by bit. Safe travels, and remember, keep your charging cables handy. And don’t forget to stop, look around and take in the remarkable beauty that is Oregon, the eco-friendly way.
The idea of setting off into Oregon’s landscapes with nothing but the hum of an electric engine and the road as company, is compelling. This guide gives some much-needed practical insight to plan a successful EV road trip. Happy journeying with a dash of eco-consciousness!