Oregon is an ideal destination for a family road trip, with its natural beauty and stunning landscapes. With so much to see and do, it can be difficult to decide which road trips to take. To make things easier, we’ve compiled a list of the 9 best road trips in Oregon that your family will surely enjoy.
1. Columbia River Gorge
First up, is the Columbia River Gorge. This place boasts some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the country, including Multnomah Falls, Horsetail Falls, and Wahclella Falls. The drive is a scenic one, and it only gets better. You can take a hike through the lush forests and marvel at the natural beauty of the Gorge.
2. Oregon Coast
Next, head to the Oregon Coast and witness the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. Drive along the scenic Highway 101 and stop at quaint towns like Newport and Cannon Beach. Don’t forget to try some of the fresh seafood, too! This is one road trip in Oregon that you definitely wouldn’t regret.
3. McKenzie Pass
For a more scenic drive, take a trip through McKenzie Pass. This winding road takes you through the stunning Cascade Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Make sure to stop at the Dee Wright Observatory to learn about the area’s history and take in the panoramic views.
4. Crater Lake
No trip to Oregon would be complete without a visit to Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the United States. It is one of the most popular tourist places in the world. Towering cliffs surround this natural wonder and offer breathtaking views. Take a boat tour or hike one of the many trails around the lake.
5. The Painted Hills in Eastern Oregon
Looking for a more off-the-beaten-path adventure? The Painted Hills in Eastern Oregon offer a unique landscape of colorful hills and rock formations. This area is perfect for hiking and exploring, and the colors of the hills change throughout the day, making for a constantly changing landscape.
6. Alvord Desert
Another hidden gem in Oregon is the Alvord Desert. This dry lake bed offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and is perfect for stargazing at night. Make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as this area can get hot during the day.
7. John Day Fossil Beds
If you have an avid interest in history, it would be highly recommended to pay a visit to the John Day Fossil Beds. This location boasts some of the most well-preserved fossils in the world, offering valuable insights into Oregon’s prehistoric era. You can either opt for a guided tour or explore the area at your own pace, independently.
8. Portland
For those seeking an urban escapade, Portland is the ultimate destination. This bustling metropolis boasts an array of exceptional culinary experiences, one-of-a-kind boutique stores, and a thriving artistic community. Explore the city’s captivating scenery via a bike tour or embark on an adventure through its numerous parks and gardens.
9. Oregon Vortex
Finally, for a truly unique experience, take a trip to the Oregon Vortex. This mysterious area is said to have strange gravitational anomalies and optical illusions that will leave you feeling dizzy and disoriented. Sounds, exciting right!
No matter which route you choose, we can assure you that these are some of the most beautiful and stunning road trips in Oregon. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique attractions, it’s the perfect destination for families looking for a fun and adventurous road trip.
Also, you can read how to Escape the City: 6 Best Family Road Trips from Chicago.
