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Oregon 7 Day Road Trip Exploring the Coast, Mountains, Lakes, and Waterfalls!

Oregon is one of my favorite road trip destinations. It is home to some of the most beautiful coastline, mountains, waterfalls, lakes, and hot springs in the United States! To help you explore it for yourself, I’ve put together a comprehensive Oregon 7 day road trip itinerary . You will also find optional add-ons in case you want to extend your trip, a packing guide, my top road trip tips, and more!

There are so many places to explore in Oregon and in this blog post I have put together an Oregon road trip itinerary based on what I personally think makes for an EPIC week long road trip. In saying that, you can of course tailor this to your own style of travel and add-on or exclude any stops you see fit.

As far as timing goes, I would recommend taking this road trip during summer or early fall . You can still access many of the areas during winter and spring, though snow may lead to some road and trail closures. Always look up local conditions before traveling! Ok, let’s jump into the itinerary!

Disclaimer : This blog post is in collaboration with  Backcountry.com and features some affiliate links. This means I get a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). Use code RENEE15 to get 15% off your first Backcountry order (some exclusions apply). You can also learn more about my affiliate policy  here . Thank you for the support!

Scenic Oregon 7 Day Road Trip

Below you will find an itinerary map for your Oregon 7 day road trip. It features pins for each day’s locations – including scenic stops, hiking trails, and places to eat. You can use this to help gauge daily driving distances and to plan for any additional detours you may want to take.

Oregon Road Trip Day 1 – Portland to Hood River

I recommend you start and end your road trip in Portland . It’s a really fun city filled with great food and friendly people, so feel free to add on a day if you want to get a taste for the downtown area. It is also worth taking a boat trip on the river, there are options for a champagne brunch , lunch and dinner cruise each with a tour guide and onboard entertainment.

If you want to keep your feet on dry land but still explore the incredible food scene in Portland, there are some great food tours to help you discover the best the city has to offer. The food carts, pods and patios tour is great to explore and learn local history along the way, or for a boozier tour the craft brewery walking tour takes you to sample the best craft breweries in the Eastside craft brewery scene. For a more athletic take on a tour, this bridges, doughnuts, parks and roses bike tour samples history, culture, nature and art along the way. 

On your first road trip day, plan to get up reasonably early, grab some breakfast, and leave Portland by about mid-morning. Pack something to eat for lunch and fill up your coffee mug as it’s sometimes challenging to find food options along the Columbia River Gorge .

If you fly into Portland you can rent a car from the airport using Kayak to compare the best deals on the rental. I also like to use Skyscanner to see all the flights available rather than checking each airline individually. 

Where to stay in Portland

Portland has some great places to stay and is definitely worth adding a day at the start or end of your Oregon road trip.  The Park Lane Suites & Inn are a great budget option, the suites each have a kitchen and lounge area, perfect if you are looking for an apartment style. If you prefer hotels the Radisson has a beautiful hotel near the airport and surrounded by gardens and a lake, or if you prefer to stay downtown the Staypineapple offers spacious rooms with king size beds as standard.

First stop: Latourell Falls

Head east from Portland along I-84 towards the Columbia River Gorge. Drive approximately 30 minutes and take Exit #28, then turn right on the Historic Columbia River Highway and travel west for approximately 3 miles to the Latourell Falls parking lot on your left. Latourell Falls is a beautiful scenic waterfall surrounded by lush foliage and you only have to walk a few minutes from the parking lot to see it! In saying that, there is a 2 mile loop hike that leaves from the same trailhead if you feel like stretching your legs and exploring more of the area. Latourell Falls is one of the featured stops on this Columbia Gorge Waterfalls tour !

Second stop: Bridal Veil Falls

Jump back into your car and drive 5 minutes back down the Historic Columbia River Highway until you reach Bridal Veil Falls State Park. The park features two different trails: an upper interpretive trail and a lower hiking trail to the falls. I recommend taking the lower hiking trail (1 mile roundtrip) so that you can best view Bridal Veil Falls (120′ tall).

Third stop: Multnomah Falls

Head back onto the Historic Columbia River Highway drive approximately 8 minutes northeast to Multnomah Falls . Parking can be a little tough to find here and definitely expect crowds! It’s still worth stopping to see the falls if you are able to find a parking spot. You don’t have to hike to see the falls (620′ tall), they are right there by the roadside. In saying that, there are options to hike 0.2 miles up to the historic Benson Bridge or 1.2 miles to the top of the falls. You can also enjoy this area without much planning by hopping on a half-day tour from Portland.

Fourth stop: Wahclella Falls

Next head back onto the I-84 and drive approximately 11 minutes northeast to the Wahclella Falls trailhead. From here take the 2.4 mile out-and-back trail to the falls, which is a relatively easy hike through a lush canyon. At the end of the trail you will be greeted by a beautiful 350′ two-tiered waterfall… one of my favorites in the Gorge! Note: this trailhead is notorious for car break-ins, so leave any valuables out of sight or take them with you on the hike.

After Wahclella Falls you can continue along I-84 for 25 minutes until arriving in the town of Hood River . If it’s of interest, you could also stop and check out Bridge of the Gods and Cascade Locks. Hood River has various accommodation options and I can recommend Westcliff Lodge , booking a local cabin like this one with incredible views, or camping at Tucker Park Campground . For dinner I suggest checking out Solstice Wood Fire Cafe and Bar .

If you book camping book via The Dyrt and use my code  Renee90  to get a  free 90-day trial .

Oregon Road Trip Day 2 – Hood River to Bend

Wake up in beautiful Hood River and head into town to grab breakfast at Egg River Cafe . Once you are fueled up for the day, jump back into the car and prepare for another day of road-tripping. Again, consider packing a picnic lunch in a cooler  for the day so that you aren’t caught up trying to find somewhere along the way.

First stop: Trillium Lake

Head southwest on Hwy 35 for approximately 50 minutes and then turn left onto Trillium Lake road. Travel south for another 5 minutes before arriving at Trillium Lake . From here you will be treated to beautiful views of Mount Hood (11,350′) and lush foliage. There is a campground, vault toilets, picnic tables, and the easy 2-mile Trillium Shoreline Loop Trail – which I definitely recommend you hike! If you really enjoy your time at Mt Hood, you can always add on an extra day to take a full tour – this one arranges transportation from Portland which is pretty convenient.

Second stop: Smith Rock State Park

After spending a couple of hours at Trillium Lake, jump back into the car and head southwest to Smith Rock State Park (approximately 1 hour, 40 minutes driving time). This is a really unique park, with deep river canyons, rock climbing, hiking trails, and beautiful scenic views. For an easy hiking option I would recommend the Rim Rock Trail (.5 miles) or the River Trail (2.5 miles). For spectacular views and a decent workout, I would recommend Misery Ridge and River Trail (4 miles).

Once you’ve finished up at Smith Rock State Park, drive 35 minutes south to the town of Bend . You will find a range of accommodation options downtown and also on the outskirts. For hotels I can recommend Springhill Suites Bend or Tetherow Hotel , and for camping I would suggest a free campsite in the Deschutes National Forest . Grab some dinner and a beer at Deschutes Brewery and finish the night off with gelato from Bonta … so good!

Oregon Road Trip Day 3 – Bend to Crater Lake

Wake up in Bend and grab a delicious breakfast from Mackay Cottage Restaurant . Make sure to leave with a couple of extra baked goods for the road!

First stop: Pilot Butte

Drive or hike 1 mile up to the top of Pilot Butte , a scenic lookout on the eastern part of town offering 360 views of Bend and the Cascade Range. The road is open mid-April and late fall and the hiking trail is open year round.

Second stop: Sparks Lake

Your next stop will be Sparks Lake , located about 25 miles west of Bend off the Cascade Lakes Highway (40 minutes driving time). Note that the road is closed during winter and usually opens around May/June each year. Sparks Lake offers beautiful views of Mount Bachelor (9,068′) and has an easy scenic loop hike, the Ray Atkeson Loop Trail (2.3 miles). I recommend having a picnic lunch here before hitting the road again.

Third stop: Crater Lake National Park

After exploring Sparks Lake you will head south for about 2.5 hours until you hit Crater Lake National Park . There are sections of the park you can visit year round but to access all areas you will need to visit during the warmer months. It will likely be late in the day by the time you arrive at the park, so I would recommend opting for a short walk like the Sun Notch Trail . This quick 0.8 mile loop hike offers beautiful views over Crater Lake and Phantom Ship Island.

For accommodation in Crater Lake National Park, I recommend staying at the historic Crater Lake Lodge , in one of the Mazama Village cabins, or camping in one of the various park campgrounds . Both the Lodge and Mazama Village have options for dinner , as well as a grab-and-go cafe for snacks.

Oregon Road Trip Day 4 – Crater Lake

Today will be spent exploring Crater Lake National Park. You could technically drop this day from the itinerary if you were in a big rush, but I would recommend keeping it and giving yourself a day with less driving and a chance to truly see the area.

First stop: Cloudcap Overlook

Start day four of your Oregon road trip by driving approximately 32 minutes to Cloudcap Overlook , on the east side of Crater Lake. This lookout sits at 7,685 feet in elevation and provides spectacular panoramic views. In fact, Cloudcap is the highest road-access overlook on the Crater Lake rim… so a great way to orientate yourself to the lake’s grandeur!

Second stop: Cruise the lake

Next you will be heading to the northeast section of the lake for a boat cruise ! There are a couple of different boat cruise options on Crater Lake, ran by a park concessionary. I suggest taking the Wizard Island Tour that involves some cruising around the lake as well as some time spent exploring Wizard Island. Keep in mind that to get to the boat dock you will need to be able to hike the Cleetwood Cove Trail 1.1 miles downhill (700 ft / 213 m descent) and back up again after your tour.

Third stop: Watchman Overlook

Now it’s time to loop your way around Crater Lake to the west side, where you will be visiting one of the best scenic pullouts along the Rim Drive – Watchman Overlook . From there you will have the option to hike the Watchman Peak Trail . This 1.6 mile out-and-back trail leads you to the Watchman Fire Lookout and breathtaking views over The Watchman and the surrounding area.

Fourth stop: catch sunset 

Your last stop for the day will be to choose a destination to view sunset from! The most chill option is to enjoy sunset from Crater Lake Lodge’s veranda (with or without a refreshing drink in hand). Another option would be to stroll along the pedestrian only zone along the rim edge just nearby the lodge. If you are feeling adventurous you could hike the 4-mile Discovery Point Trail for beautiful views looking northwest over the lake and The Watchman.

Grab some dinner at the Crater Lake Lodge Dining Room , play some boardgames in the lobby, and then head back to your accommodation and get some shut eye.

Oregon Road Trip Day 5 – Crater Lake to Cape Kiwanda

Hit the road relatively early today because you have some decent mileage to cover. You may even want to consider catching sunrise over Crater Lake as you leave the park (a great option in the Garfield Peak Trail ).

First stop: Terwilliger Hot Springs

Terwilliger Hot Springs (also known as Cougar Hot Springs, pictured above) will be your first stop of the day, located approximately 3.5 hours northwest of Crater Lake. If you’re not a natural hot spring fan then feel free to skip this stop and head straight to the coast. To get to the hot springs you will need to hike an easy 0.25 mile trail to the natural pools. There is a $7 entrance fee per person and keep in mind that the hot springs are clothing optional. Tip: the upper pool is the warmest but I would recommend trying them all! Please read up on hot spring etiquette before going. 

MAY 2022 UPDATE : You may want to consider switching out Terwilliger Hot Springs for Wall Creek Hot Springs (also known as ‘Meditation Pool’) as it will require quite a lot less driving. To get there, navigate to Warm Springs Trail near Oakridge ( 43°48’10.1″N 122°18’37.3″W ) and walk the 0.6 mile trail to the hot springs. Find out more on AllTrails .

Second stop: tacos!!

From one of the above hot springs you will drive west to the town of Eugene and then make your way further north. I highly recommend stopping by Tacovore as you pass through town. They have a wide range of meat, veggie, and vegan options, and everything we have tried from there is DELICIOUS!

Third stop: Silver Falls State Park

You may or may not feel like you have time to include this stop in the Willamette Valley area, but I’d highly recommend it! Silver Falls State Park is a 50 minute (roundtrip) detour between Eugene and your next stop. The most popular thing to do in the park is to hike the 7.4 mile Trail of Ten Falls , but I will share an alternative time-saving option with you!

Park at the South Falls Lodge Trailhead and buy your $5 day-use parking permit. Walk a few minutes to spectacular South Falls , including walking behind the waterfall (such a cool experience!) If you’re in a real time-crunch, head back to the car and continue on to the North Falls Parking Lot . If you have a little more time, I recommend hiking from South Falls to Lower South Falls and looping back on the Maple Ridge Trail (you’ll also pass Frenchie Falls). Refer to this brochure for more guidance.

After exploring the South Falls area, drive to the North Falls Parking Lot and spend some time walking to both North Falls and Upper North Falls . Both of these are spectacular!

Fourth stop: Cape Kiwanda

Now it’s time to head to the coast! Pacific City (home to Cape Kiwanda ) will be your final destination for the day, though feel free to stop at any points of interest along the drive. If you arrive by sunset then I would recommend stopping by Pacific City Beach and watching the sun go down over the ocean… so magical!

There are a few options for Pacific City accommodations . Some great hotel options are the Inn at Cape Kiwanda and Headlands Coastal Lodge and Spa . For a more budget-friendly option you could stay at Hart’s Camp Airstream Hotel and RV Park , or camp at Winema Wayside . For dinner I recommend checking out Pelican Brewing Company .

Oregon Road Trip Day 6 – Cape Kiwanda to Cannon Beach

Head for breakfast at The Grateful Bread Bakery & Restaurant . Do yourself a favor and make sure to try their freshly baked scones…. so good! Consider grabbing a take-out hot drink to sip on as your stroll along the beach during your first stop of the day.

First stop: Cape Kiwanda

Your first adventure of the day will be to explore more of Cape Kiwanda . The area is famous for its large sea stack off the Pacific City Beach and you can even drive your car onto the sand (would only recommend doing so if you have a 4×4). Take a morning stroll along the beach and venture up the sandy hill at the end of the beach. Caution: be careful around the sandstone cliffs as they are very fragile and prone to crumbling. 

Second stop: Tillamook Creamery

Hit the road again and head north along the coast or Hwy 101. If you’re an ice cream or cheese lover then I would recommend stopping by Tillamook Creamery , located about 40 minutes from Pacific City. You can see first hand how Tillamook makes their famous cheeses and ice creams… including samples! This Oregon Coast tour includes a stop at Tillamook, as well as Cannon Beach, and some of the other must-see coastal spots.

Third stop: Elk Flats Trail

Keep driving north for another 35-40 minutes until you hit Elk Flats Trail (GPS coordinates: 45.7483926,-123.9624048 ). You can skip this stop if you’re not feeling up to hiking, but I’d highly recommend you check it out! The trail is 2.9 miles out and back and you’ll be treated to stunning views of the ocean and seacliffs. Check out AllTrails for more trail information and keep in mind that to save time you can cut out the Devils Cauldron section and just hike the more southern fork of the trail… OR there is a pull-off just before the main trailhead that allows you to hike on a social trail out to the cliffs above Elk Flats (pictured above). Remember to always leave no trace !

Fourth stop: Oswald West State Park

Onwards a few minutes further north and you’ll reach Oswald West State Park , located just off Hwy 101. The park stretches along 4 miles of coastline and is home to temperate rainforest, a beautiful sandy beach, and miles of hiking trails. I recommend walking the 0.5 mile Short Sand Beach Trail and the 0.2 mile Old Growth Forest Trail . You may want to take a picnic lunch to have during this stop.

FIFTH stop: Hug Point

Next it is onwards to Hug Point State Recreation Site , located only 10-15 minutes north of Oswald West State Park. Hug Point is known for its picturesque sandy cove beach, caves, tide pools, and a seasonal waterfall. Consider hiking the Hug Point Trail (1.2 miles) or the Hug Point to Arch Cape Trail (4.5 miles). I would suggest checking the area’s tide charts before venturing out on a hike.

Sixth stop: Cannon Beach

Head north towards Cannon Beach . If you are yet to have lunch then I would recommend stopping by Mo’s Resturant for some fresh local eats. Continue on to the center of town and find yourself a parking spot . Cannon Beach is a really quaint town and it’s worth spending some time wandering down the main street and checking out some local stores. I recommend heading to the Haystack Rock section of the beach for sunset… it’s definitely one of Oregon’s true coastal gems and 100% worth seeing! The best place to access the beach is here .

This will be the final night of your Oregon 7 day road trip and staying in Cannon Beach is the perfect way to end it! For Cannon Beach accommodation I recommend The Ocean Lodge or Surfsand Resort if you would like to be right on the beach. A more affordable option that is situated a little further down the beach is Tolovana Inn . For tent or car camping I can recommend Wright’s for Camping . A great place in town to grab dinner is Castaways .

Oregon Road Trip Day 7 – Cannon Beach to Portland

It’s the last chance to make the absolute most of your Oregon 7 day road trip! Wake up early and enjoy breakfast at Lazy Susan Cafe or Sea Level Bakery + Coffee (both are fantastic!)

First stop: walk the beach

Similar to yesterday, I suggest starting off your day by strolling along the beach… it’s such a great way to wake up and feel connected to nature!  Cannon Beach has many different sections you can stroll along and you could even consider exploring more of the Haystack Rock area.

Second stop: Ecola State Park

Next up you will be heading to Ecola State Park , located just 5 minutes north of Cannon Beach. Ecola Point/Crescent Beach and Indian Beach are the two main areas you will want to stop and explore. From the main parking lot at Crescent Beach you can opt to hike the Ecola Point to Crescent Beach Trail (1.25-miles) for beautiful coastal and sea stack views. Another trail to consider is the Clatsop Loop (2.8 miles) that provides stunning ocean views, wildflowers, and glimpses of Tillamook Lighthouse.

Final stop: Portland

It’s time to head back to Portland ! The drive will take you approximately 1.5 hours, so make sure to factor that in if you have an afternoon flight out. In town I suggest grabbing a late lunch or dinner from Wolf and Bear’s or Bollywood Theatre ( north or east locations), followed by ice cream from Salt & Straw or donuts from Voodoo (or Blue Star! )

More Things To Do on an Oregon Road Trip

This Oregon 7 day road trip will have given you a taste of the state’s epic mountains, lakes, and coastline. If you are still craving more then consider adding on some of the below destinations (or come back and explore them on another trip!)

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

If you enjoyed the sea stacks along the northern coastline of Oregon then you will LOVE the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor . Located just north of California along the Oregon coast, this area is famous for rugged beaches, dramatic cliffs, sea stacks, and more. Drive south from Cannon Beach and stop in Newport for lunch and then visit Heceta Head Lighthouse on the central Oregon coast. Some other must-see stops are Secret Beach , Arch Rock , and Natural Bridges Cove . I definitely recommend extending a few days for this Oregon Coast road trip!

Sahalie and Koosah Falls

Located in the Willamette National Forest , Sahalie and Koosah Falls are definitely worth stopping by if you are nearby. The Waterfalls Loop is a 2.2 mile trail that provides beautiful views of both waterfalls, the Mckenzie River, and Carmen Reservoir.

Toketee Falls

Another stunning Oregon waterfall to visit is Toketee Falls , located east of Roseburg in the Umpqua National Forest. Take the 0.4 mile out-and-back Toketee Falls Trail for scenic views, with the option to also hike down to the bottom of the falls if conditions allow.

Umpqua Hot Springs

Nearby to Toketee Falls is one of Oregon’s most unique finds – Umpqua Hot Springs . You can access these natural pools via the 0.3 mile Umpqua Hot Springs Trail (sometimes closed in winter when there is heavy snowfall). Please read up on hot spring etiquette before going.

Redwood National & State Parks

You can also head to northern California and visit Redwoods National Parks to see some of the tallest trees in the world. I have a full guide on visiting Redwoods here! If you feel like continuing your road trip down the west coast, I recommend driving through central California, visiting some wineries, and then driving the Big Sur coast . This is an epic road trip that should definitely be on your bucket list!

Olympic National Park

Okay, so also not Oregon, but worth a visit! Head north and spend a few days in Olympic National Park in Washington. With incredible mountain peaks, coastal beaches, and pacific northwest rain forests, the Olympic Peninsula is an amazing place to visit. There are my favorite things to do in Olympic National Park .

Oregon 7 Day Road Trip Packing Guide

You will want to consider a few things when packing for your Oregon 7 road trip. Specifics of what you bring along will depend on the season, though I feel that the below items are things you should bring regardless of the time of year. Even the summer months can get chilly in the mountains and along the coast… and it can rain any time of year in Oregon!

Below you will find my recommended gear items for an Oregon road trip. Backcountry.com is my go-to retailer for all things outdoors and travel. Use code RENEE15 to get 15th off your first order (some exclusions apply). Click here to shop my gear favorites .

As far out outwear goes I would recommend a rain jacket and some sort of insulated jacket . My husband and I own both the jackets featured below and can definitely recommend them for road trips, hiking, and everyday use.

Hiking Layers

For hiking and everyday wear I would recommend layers that are comfortable and practical. You can’t really go wrong with a classic t-shirt, pants, and fleece combo. For bottoms, I tend to opt for leggings whereas my husband prefers lightweight hiking pants… choose whatever you like best! Depending on the time of year you are traveling you may want to pack shorts , a lightweight wind layer , and/or thermal baselayers .

Footwear will vary depending on what time of year you are traveling. For winter you may want to add in some traction such as snowshoes or microspikes , and for peak-summer you may opt for slightly lighter options. Both my husband and I wear the below hiking boots year round and reach for our outdoorsy sandals during the summer road trips.

We also both usually pack a pair of casual shoes for any dinners we may want to have out or other instances where our muddy hiking boots may not be appropriate. Blundstones are a great option for this as they are casual yet you could still wear them on a hike if needed. See below!

Don’t forget to use code RENEE15 to get 15% off your first Backcountry.com order! (some exclusions apply) Click here to shop my favorites .

Hot Spring Essentials

Many Oregon hot springs are clothing optional, but if that’s not your thing then I would recommend packing a swimsuit . You’ll also want to throw in a travel towel and dry bag for when you hop out of the water.

Travel Must-Haves

I pack these travel essentials on every trip I take, and this Oregon road trip is no exception! I recommend taking along a reusable water bottle , coffee mug , cutlery set , day backpack , sun hat , blister plasters , sunscreen , and mosquito repellent .

Car Camping Gear

If you’re planning to camp then you will obviously need to pack a few extra items! For sleeping in your car you will only need a sleeping pad , sleeping bag , pillow , and any cooking essentials . You will also need a tent if you are planning to sleep outside in designated campsites. These are some of my favorite car camping gear options.

Want more packing & gear tips?  Check out our guides on what to wear hiking , car camping gear essentials , how to plan a national parks trip , and the best hiking shoes .

Oregon Road Trip Tips

When planning your Oregon 7 day road trip you will want to consider the following:

• Some state parks and recreation areas require permits/passes to enter or use the parking lot. Be sure to carry some $1, $5, and $10 bills on you for those instances.
• During the summer months you may want to consider booking ahead of time for accommodation or camping, especially for Crater Lake and Cannon Beach .
• Renting a 4×4 vehicle will likely make your trip more enjoyable, especially for instances when accessing forest roads or dispersed campsites. Consider renting a van or RV for your road trip, this is a really fun way to take a trip!
• Packing car-friendly snacks in a cooler is always a good idea… no one likes a hangry road trip partner 😉
• Flying in and out of Portland is usually relatively affordable. Another option would be to fly into Seattle and road trip south (including stopping at a few other PNW gems along the way!) Use Skyscanner for finding the best flights and deals.
• If you do decide to take an Oregon road trip during the winter months, I would suggest looking up any road and trail closures ahead of time and factoring that into your route. Also be sure to pack hiking shoe traction such as microspikes and extra clothing layers. My car camping checklist has all the essentials you will need.
• I would highly recommend that you download Maps.Me for offline driving navigation when you don’t have phone service, and Gaia GPS for offline hiking maps. Use this link to Gaia to get 20% off a premium membership.

Be Responsible on Your Oregon Road Trip

Please take the time to educate yourself on appropriate outdoor etiquette and Leave No Trace principles before you head out on your Oregon 7 day road trip. Some of the basics include:

• Know the local regulations and special concerns for the area you are visiting.
• Stay on established trails and durable surfaces.
• Pack it in, pack it out (never leave trash on trails).
• Examine, but do not touch cultural or historic structures and artifacts.
• Leave rocks, plants and other natural objects as you find them.
• Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires.
• Burn all wood and coals to ash, put out campfires completely, then scatter cool ashes.
• Control pets at all times, or leave them at home.
• Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience.
• Be courteous. Yield to other users on the trail.
• Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow or approach them.
• Never feed animals.

Looking For More Road Trip Inspiration?

I hope this Oregon itinerary helps you start planning your next trip! If you’re looking to add on a bit more, I definitely recommend visiting more of the pacific northwest on your road trip, and traveling down the west coast if you have time. There are so many incredible destinations for hiking, sightseeing, and eating in Oregon. I hope you plan a trip soon!

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26 comments

“Your writing always leaves me feeling inspired and motivated. This post, in particular, resonated with me deeply. Thank you for consistently delivering valuable content!”

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“I appreciate how you back up your points with relevant data and examples. It adds a level of credibility to your content that I find extremely valuable.”

“I’d love to hear your thoughts .Do you plan on covering it in a future blog post?”

Thanks for writing this great article. I’ve been using some of these techniques on by blog. But I didn’t know the phrase “Social Proof”. Thanks for sharing.

So many helpful tips and information in this post. Thank you so much !

What’s the best time of the year to visit Oregon?

I love Oregon and have always wanted to see more of it! Love this guide, thank you for sharing. Id definitely try to extend the trip to add in some wine tasting in Willamette Valley, heehee. Thanks for sharing!

My name is Jenna Taylor, and I am a travel writer. I have been following your blog content with great interest and would like to propose a guest blogging collaboration. With extensive experience in crafting original travel articles that rank well on Google searches and drive traffic to their respective websites, I believe my skills can add value to your platform. Furthermore, my collaborations with other businesses often lead to mutually beneficial, ongoing partnerships. If you are interested in exploring this opportunity further, please feel free to reach out, and we can discuss the details. Best regards, Jenna Taylor Travel Writers

Where in the itinerary would you add on the Redwood National Forrest? My husband and I would Like to replicate this itinerary and add on a trip to the Redwoods.

So many helpful tips and information in this post. Thanks!

What time of year did you go? Im thinking of going in November you think there would be snow in bend!

Love your site! We are taking your suggestions and headed to Oregon on 4th of July. We plan to do almost everything on your 7 day itinerary except for Crater Lake. We think it might be too far. Everything has worked out for us except finding a place for one night on Friday, July 8th. Wondering if you could recommend a place or area to stay as we head back from Trillium Lake and Mount Hood as we are headed to Pacific City and Cannon Beach area. Thought we might stop in Portland, but would prefer to keep heading to coast but having difficulty finding a place.

Hello! Would this itinerary be okay to do around the second week of September? Thanks!

Is there any current activity?

Hello! Thank you for this post! It has been very helpful. If we wanted to add a day of wine tasting in the Willamette Valley to this itinerary at what point would you suggest adding it in?

Hi Joelle! I think adding a day in between Crater Lake and the coast would make the most sense. It’s actually on the way for the most part 🙂

I am flying in and out of Portland in October for 7 days. Really love the coast and want to spend more time there but visiting the forest and some hot springs are definitely on our list. Any suggestions?

Follow this road trip! haha

This post is so detailed, I feel like you have covered legit everything! It is on my bucket list to make it to the west coast and Oregon is up there! BTW, your photos are stunning!

Thank you for the kind words Sam!

I have driven from San Francisco to Portland Oregon (mainly along the coast) and really enjoyed it – your blog has inspired me to do another one to the places you have highlighted – thks for sharing such great info !

Such a beautiful part of the country to road trip!

Loved all the incredible photos in this blogpost. I haven’t visited Oregon, so going to have to put it on the list for my next trip to the USA. Thankyou for all the hard work and many hours that must have gone into this itinerary.

It was a long one to write haha! Glad you liked it 🙂

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The Complete Oregon Road Trip Itinerary (50 Stops & 4 Unique Routes!)

Post Summary: The Ultimate Oregon Road Trip Itinerary According To A PNW Local

Oregon. That magical spot in the corner of the United States where roaring waterfalls, epic coastlines, and mysteries in the forest all thrive next to each other. 

It’s an incredible place that requires the guidance of PNW experts (that’s us!) to divulge all the best stops in the state. We’ve been exploring Oregon for years , so you can count on us to provide well-rounded tips to give you the best experience!

In this post, we’re sharing the most epic Oregon road trip route , including our favorite stops and custom trips of 2-weeks, 10-days, and 1-week to cater to your specific needs. Scroll all the way to the bottom to find a free Oregon road trip itinerary download , too!

Okay, enough talking, let’s get exploring!

The Ultimate Oregon Road Trip Itinerary (Exactly Where To Find The Best Spots!)

First of all, where is oregon.

Oregon is located in a region called the Pacific Northwest , which is located in the northwest corner of the contiguous United States.

Fixed between its northern neighbor, Washington , and its southern neighbor, Northern California , Oregon is a unique mix of giant redwood trees, raging waterfalls, high desert, and beautiful coastal wilderness.

It’s got a little bit of everything , which is why taking an Oregon road trip will probably be the most incredible thing you will do this year!

Here’s a little bit about Oregon to start…

Oregon is broken down into seven distinct regions, each with its own unique spin on Oregon culture and iconic destinations . Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect from each:

• The Oregon Coast: 363 miles of accessible beaches, historic lighthouses, sea stacks, and gorgeous little Oregon beach towns . 
• Central Oregon: A High Desert escape including popular spots like Sisters, Bend, and Smith Rock State Park . 
• Eastern Oregon : Lonely vast desert with incredible geological features scattered across the area. Known for the Alvord Desert, Pendleton, and the Painted Hills. 
• Portland Region: The urban center for creatives, makers, and foodies. Known for its epic food culture, bridges, and accessibility to nature.
• Mt. Hood & The Columbia River Gorge: Home to the highest mountain in Oregon (Mt Hood), and some of the most famous Oregon waterfalls like Multnomah Falls. 
• Southern Oregon: Home to Crater Lake National Park, this region also boasts adventurous caves, gorgeous forests, and hidden hot springs (Umpqua Hot Springs). 
• The Willamette Valley: Known for its amazing wine, tulips, and orchards, this farming community is a hub for a perfect weekend getaway.

Great…So Where Do I Start My Oregon Road Trip?

The easiest place to start your Oregon road trip is in Portland . This is the biggest city, where you will find the most options for car rentals, flights into the state ( Portland International Airport – PDX ), and stores to pick up any last-minute supplies.

Our Oregon road trip itinerary has you starting in Portland and heading east, but you can always fit the route to suit your own needs and desires! Keep scrolling to see all the stops so you can make your decision.

How Do I Get Around On My Oregon Road Trip?

The easiest way to get around on an Oregon trip is to drive in a car . It’s unreasonable to believe that you can fly from place to place. The biggest major airport is in Portland (PDX) and the rest are smaller local airports.

It’s easiest to get around Oregon in a car , and we highly suggest this mode of transportation! If you are hoping to do some camping along the way, we recommend checking out the company Outdoorsy to rent a campervan . It’s like having your transportation AND accommodations all in one place.

Outdoorsy does local recreational vehicle rentals (kind of like Airbnb but for cars!) so you can travel around Oregon in style with a cool vintage VW bus or cute teardrop trailer!

Where Do I Stay During My Oregon Road Trip?

The good thing about Oregon road trips is that they are completely customizable! You can stay at some of the coolest lodges and hotels in Oregon, explore backcountry roads for camping, or do a little mix of both!

Finding Epic Campsites in Oregon: There are so many amazing campsites in Oregon that the topic requires its own blog post! However, one of our most coveted tools for finding the best camping spots is through The Dyrt . The Dyrt is a campground finding app , and one of the best ones we’ve used! It’s got great reviews with photos, offline maps, road trip routing tools, and more! Our readers get to try it free for 30-days by using our code Mandagies !

Our favorite lodges & resorts in Oregon: Some amazing accommodations stand out among the others, and we think that some of these places deserve their own recognition! Here are some of our favorite lodges in Oregon that we recommend checking out!

FivePine Lodge – Sisters, OR (Central) Bay Point Landing – Coos Bay, OR (Southern Coast) Headlands Lodge – Pacific City, OR (Northern Coast) The Independence Hotel – Willamette Valley (Northwest/Central ORegon)

The Mega Oregon Road Trip Itinerary (All The Best Stop In Oregon)

This two week Oregon road trip will bring you to all the best spots!

Stop 1: Portland, Oregon

Before departing the city, spend some time visiting Portland’s coolest locations! Some of the most popular outdoor places to visit in the city include the Portland Rose Garden, Washington Park, the Pittock Mansion (with its view of the city!), and Forest Park.

Grab a bite to eat at one of the several food truck communities around town. Click here to locate all the food truck pods around Portland!

From here, make sure to stock up with snacks at your favorite grocery store, fill up with gas, and hit the road!

Stop 2: Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway

Begin your Oregon road trip in Portland and head to Interstate 84 East to start your Columbia River Gorge Scenic Drive . This is a great start to any Oregon road trip itinerary for its iconic stops like Multnomah Falls, Latourell Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. 

If you want to go hiking in this area, consider Wahclella Falls Trail (only 1.9-miles long) or Munra Point Trail for incredible panoramic views.

To spend more time checking out cool waterfalls in Oregon , consider taking the Historic Columbia River Highway (that parallels I-84), which provides easy access to many of them. Don’t forget to drive a little farther than Hood River to check out Rowena Crest , that famous hairpin road!

Note: The Eagle Creek Fire of 2017 devastated much of this area, and hikes/waterfall trails are slowly opening after restoration efforts. Click here to be updated on real-time trail openings in the Columbia River Gorge . 

Extra Stops Between Portland and Hood River:

• Vista House – A museum, observatory, and rest stop
• Bridge of the Gods – Many of the Pacific Crest Trail Hikers cross here!
• Beacon Rock State Park (on the Washington side)
• More than 25 Columbia River Gorge waterfalls to see!

Stop 3: Hood River, Oregon

Hood River, Oregon is the perfect place to stay after a day of planning fun things to do in the Columbia River Gorge ! Placed conveniently on the river’s edge, there is easy access to Mount Hood directly south, water activities like windsurfing , and Washington waterfalls right across the river in the Gifford-Pinchot National Forest to the north.

If you want a little more adventure, consider crossing the toll bridge ($2) to Washington and venturing on nearby trails to Falls Creek Falls , Panther Creek Falls, or Lower Lewis Falls.

Cool Places To Stay in Hood River, Oregon

Modern Townhome in White Salmon, WA (just across the river) MtAdamsView in Hood River (TONS of gorge and mountain views, sleeps 6) Best Western Plus in Hood River (great value, free breakfast)

Stop 4: Mount Hood

Route your Oregon road trip from the river’s edge to the mountains, more specifically to all the cool things to do in Mount Hood !

Watch a sunrise at  Trillium Lake – one of the easiest lakes to reach on Mount Hood. On a clear day, you will be able to see the reflection of the picturesque Mount Hood beautifully framed in the distance! Other Mount Hood lakes include Frog Lake,  Lost Lake,  and  Mirror Lake –  each with their own unique reflection of the mountain. 

If you are interested in discovering some cool hiking trails around Mout Hood, consider  Ramona Falls trail. This gorgeous horsetail falls is hidden deep in the forest, but the payoff is huge once you see it with your own eyes. Care for a short waterfall hike for your Portland day trip? Consider  Tamanawas Falls , an easy 3.3-mile trail with a gorgeous view!

Want to challenge yourself? Here are some other longer hikes in the Mount Hood area.

• Tom Dick and Harry  (9 miles out and back)
• Bald Mountain  (6 miles out and back)
• McNeil Point Trail  (9.6 miles out and back)

Stop 5: The Painted Hills

After stopping at Mount Hood (overnight or just for a day trip) take the 3.5-hour drive from Mount Hood to the Painted Hills to catch a gorgeous sunset in the Oregon desert. 

The Painted Hills gets its name from the exposed layers of colorful soil that are revealed in the rolling hills of the John Day Fossil Beds . Make sure to stay on the boardwalks as you explore the Painted Hills. The hills are extremely fragile!

In the morning, return to the John Day Fossil Bed units and see the Painted Hills as the sun rises! This is a gorgeous time of day in the hills, and you’ll likely get it all to yourself in the early hours of the morning. 

Need a place to sleep? Consider these nearby campgrounds (or click here to discover FREE campsites nearby too! )

Stop 6: Smith Rock State Park

From the Painted Hills through the Ochoco National Forest , take the 1.5-hour drive to Smith Rock State Park . Smith Rock is a hub for climbers , but there are several other things to do here, including hiking, biking, and taking photos!

To stretch your legs on this Oregon road trip, take the short but *very* steep Misery Ridge Trail . This 0.68-mile trail climbs 600 feet giving even the most experienced hiker a run for their money! The views at the top are worth it though, especially during sunrise or sunset!

Stop 7: Bend, Oregon

The city of Bend is an excellent stop on any good Oregon road trip! It’s an outdoor-loving town that connects Western Oregon and Eastern Oregon, making it a great pit stop to pick up last-minute gear, groceries, and maybe even tune ups for your car.

For a little relaxation from the road, grab a beer in town at any of the iconic stops on the Bend Ale Trail . If you are visiting in the summertime, floating the Deschutes River is a popular activity on a hot day. Make sure to bring your PFDs, water sandals, and a garbage bag!

In the morning, grab breakfast in Bend at The Sparrow Bakery, (their ocean rolls are famous!), and some to-go coffee at Spoken Moto and make some fun stops around Bend on your way south. Lava Island Falls and Lava River Cave are both easy and accessible places to see along your Oregon road trip route going out of town.

More adventures near Bend, Oregon

• Hiking to Tumalo Falls (6.5 miles out-and-back)
• Go backpacking in the Three Sisters Wilderness
• Take a road trip detour on the Cascades Lake Highway

Read More: How to Spend 4 Days In Bend, Oregon

Oregon Road Trip Bonus Route – Eastern Oregon!

Psst…want to spend a lot more time in Eastern Oregon? Check out our Eastern Oregon Road Trip route right here !

From Bend, you have the option of extending your Oregon Road trip going east , or continue south and west towards the coast! Either option is great, it really just depends on how much time you have.

Stop 8: Oregon Waterfalls

The drive from Bend to Crater Lake National Park is pretty short, about 1.5 hours. This gives you plenty of time to make some fun stops along the way , most notably, to waterfalls in Oregon !

For longer Oregon waterfall hikes, make your way west on Highway 58 for a fun hike at Salt Creek Falls and Diamond Creek Falls . Continue your drive south and divert north on Highway 138 for a stop at Watson Falls before making your way to the Crater Lake North Entrance. 

More Oregon Waterfalls Near The Area:

• Proxy Falls (Highway 242 – North of Bend)
• Chush Falls (Near Sisters, Oregon)
• Dillon Falls
• Benham Falls

Stop 9: Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park is one of the most iconic stops on an Oregon road trip, and the ONLY national park stop in the state. Spend sunset capturing the iconic Wizard Island on Crater Lake, and top it off by spending the night at the historic Crater Lake Lodge .

In the morning, spend an entire day hiking around Crater Lake on Watchman Peak Trail, Cleetwood Cove Trail, or Cloudcap Overlook.

At Crater Lake , you can spend the morning driving the Rim Drive , which takes about 2 hours to go all the way around. Hike to Plaikni Falls in the afternoon and in the evening watch the sunset at Garfield Peak or Sinnott Memorial Observation Station.

Bonus Oregon Road Trip Stop: Oregon Hot Springs

Now, this is the part of your road trip route in Oregon where you can choose where you’d like to spend your time! You can opt to continue driving east to explore some of the famous Eastern Oregon hot springs . 

If you decided to check out some hot springs in Oregon , we highly suggest booking an overnight stay (Summer Lakes Hot Springs and Crystal Crane have lodging available!) or bringing your camping gear to find some free camping nearby . 

Here are some Oregon hot springs you should be checking out on this leg of your Oregon road trip itinerary:

• Crystal Crane Hot Springs – Hot spring pond and private soaking tubs
• Summer Lakes Hot Springs – Communal bathhouse
• Hart Mountain Hot Springs – Structured underground pool and open springs, both natural
• Have an extra day? Drive farther east and check out Alvord Hot Springs , and Willow Creek Hot Springs !

Stop 10: Umpqua National Forest

Another iconic destination on your Oregon road trip is an adventure in Umpqua National Forest . You’ve probably seen pictures of those cliffside hot springs pools, or the rushing waterfall flanked by towering basalt cliffs. Well, these places are Umpqua Hot Springs and Toketee Falls !

Both places are easy to reach, each with a short hike to the final destination. Come with a national forest pass to hang in your car’s rearview mirror. You can pick one up at the Diamond Lake Ranger Station nearby if you need one. See the difference between Pacific Northwest forest passes here to find the correct one.

Leave No Trace Notes: Umpqua Hot Springs is notorious for garbage . Please pack out your trash, and consider taking other garbage with you, too. Hiking to the base of Toketee Falls is prohibited , no matter how many pictures you see of people doing so. It is possible to get cited for climbing down to the bottom, so don’t risk it!

Stop 11: Southern Oregon Coast

Finally, the first ocean stop on your Oregon road trip!

The Southern Oregon Coast is arguably the most beautiful area of an Oregon road trip. If you love seaside cliffs, hidden coves, and gorgeous beaches, this is the place for you!

Spend some time exploring the 12 miles of protected coastline at Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor . This part of your road trip in Oregon will take an entire day, between stops, viewpoints, and even a hike to a place called Secret Beach .

Finally, end your day in Gold Beach for the evening. Here, you can find tons of amenities, hotels, and beach rentals for a quiet and relaxing evening. Make sure to stop at our favorite beach, Myers Creek Beach to enjoy a beautiful Oregon coast picnic to end the day!

Read More: The 25 best beaches in Oregon (From North to South!)

Stop 12: Central Oregon Coast

Central Oregon is full of adventurous destinations and unique curiosities. If you like thrills, try renting an ATV to ride across the Oregon Dunes, stretching 40 miles across the coastline.

You can also check out incredible places like Cape Perpetua , which is filled with churning coves, sea spouts, and lots of tide pools along the Oregon Coast .

Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area is another great place to explore, with a giant sea cave and surfing opportunities!

In the evening, splurge to go glamping and one of Coos Bay’s coolest spots – Bay Point Landing ! This luxury camping resort has plenty of pull-in sites for RVs and trailers. You can also rent a standalone cabin , airstream , or renovated RV of your own to enjoy upscale camping. The grounds have amenities like a pool, lounge room, upscale bathrooms, and a cute camp store.

Stop 13: Eugene, Oregon

If you wanted to go inland to explore the Cascade Mountains, this is the part of your Oregon road trip to make that decision! Drive away from the Oregon coast to go inland to Eugene, Oregon, and explore this upbeat college town.

But before leaving the coast, consider stopping by Heceta Head Lighthouse and Cape Perpetua for one last adventure by the water. The lighthouse can be seen up close with a short hike, which is incredible at sunrise and sunset!

Cape Perpetua is best explored during low tide, where you can access the many tide pools and curiosities that dot the shore. If you do come during high tide, don’t fret! You can see the waves push up through Thor’s Well for a dramatic display, and the Devil’s Churn to watch the waves crash around this small cove. 

Stop 14: Willamette National Forest

Heading inland from Eugene, there are a ton of beautiful places to see in the Willamette National Forest . The first stop is Terwilliger Hot Springs (often called Cougar Hot Springs) for a lovely natural soak. Keep driving to choose a waterfall adventure – Proxy Falls , Sahalie and Koosah Falls , The Blue Pool , and Tamolitch Falls .

You’ll want to spend at least a full day in this area (or even go camping overnight!) because the trails here are packed with adventure! Keep driving on Highway 126 as it continues on Highway 22 north to Silver Falls State Park and Salem, Oregon to continue on your epic Oregon road trip.

Stop 15: Salem and The Willamette Valley

If you like good food, you’re going to love this stop on your Oregon road trip. The Willamette Valley is full of wineries, farms, and beautiful vineyards! There are lots of options to enjoy farm-to-table dinners, wine tastings, and all-day experiences. Consider staying nearby at the Independence Hotel .

For a little adventure, head to Silver Falls State Park where you can hike the Trail of Ten Falls . This Oregon hike is exactly what its name entails – ten beautiful falls in an 8.7-mile trail. Come enjoy this condensed version of many iconic Oregon waterfalls all in one place!

Stop 16: Northern Oregon Coast

Refueling in Salem, it’s time to get back to the coast! The final stops on your Oregon road trip include classic North Oregon Coast stops and beautiful Oregon beach towns , hikes, and plenty of dreamy overlooks.

Beginning in Cape Kiwanda , spend the day hiking up the sand dunes to watch the dory boats dock onshore and paragliders sail down to the beach. Make sure to stop and eat lunch at Pelican Brewing . They have incredible beer and pub food, with an outdoor patio overlooking Pacific City’s own Haystack Rock.

Continuing north to another iconic “Haystack Rock” (arguably the most popular one too) Cannon Beach is the best place to grab a coffee and take a walk along the beach. During low tide, you can get close to the rock and spot puffins in their natural habitat!

If you want a little more adventure in your day, drive up to Ecola State Park to hike Crescent Beach Trail , the trail to Indian Sands, or Tillamook Rock Lighthouse Viewpoint. These lush Oregon Coast hikes are sure to leave you breathless!

Stay either at the Headlands Lodge in Pacific City , Oregon Coast Modern Cabin in Manzanita , or affordable hotels in Cannon Beach !

Stop 17: Finish Your Oregon Road Trip Back to Portland, Oregon 

On your way back to Portland to finish your Oregon road trip, you can take the short way on Highway 26, or the long way through Astoria, Oregon, and heading back to the city on Highway 30.

The detour through Astoria won’t disappoint! Filled with great restaurants, antique and vintage shops, and lots of history, it’s a perfect final stop on the Oregon coast road trip section of your drive.

For outdoorsy activities, stop by Fort Steven’s State Park to check out the historic military installation, as well as the famous Peter Iredale shipwreck . For hiking, stay close to town and check out the Cathedral Tree Trail and the Astoria Column .

And you’ve done it! You’ve completed the coolest Oregon road trip to see all the best highlights, hikes, and iconic locations in the state.

Oregon Road Trip Itinerary Examples

Below, we’re sharing some Oregon road trip itinerary examples to help you customize it exactly to fit your needs. For even more resources, we created this road trip itinerary in Oregon to print out and take on your journey!

(We’re running some email maintenance – this download will be back soon!)

Two Week Oregon Road Trip

See the detailed breakdown of our two-week Oregon road trip itinerary above!

10 Day Oregon Road Trip

You can see a lot with 10 days in Oregon! This route is a compressed version of our two-week road trip, with just a little less time in each spot but plenty of stops for an epic and interesting route!

• Day 1: Portland to Hood River
• Day 2: Hood River to Bend, Oregon
• Day 3: Bend, Oregon to Crater Lake National Park
• Day 4: Crater Lake to Umpqua National Forest
• Day 5: Umpqua National Forest to Samuel H. Boardman
• Day 6: Samuel H. Boardman to Coos Bay
• Day 7: Coos Bay to Eugene, Oregon
• Day 8: Eugene, Oregon to Salem, Oregon
• Day 9: Salem, Oregon to Cannon Beach
• Day 10: Cannon Beach to Portland, Oregon

One Week Oregon Road Trip

One week for an Oregon road trip will introduce you to Oregon’s vast and diverse landscape! From Crater Lake to Bend, Coos Bay to Cannon Beach, this route will bring you to some of the best of Oregon photography locations. 

• Day 1: Portland to Hood River
• Day 2: Hood River to Bend, Oregon
• Day 3: Bend, Oregon to Crater Lake National Park
• Day 4: Crater Lake to Samuel H. Boardman
• Day 5: Samuel H. Boardman to Coos Bay
• Day 6: Coos Bay to Cannon Beach
• Day 7: Cannon Beach to Portland, OR

5 Day Oregon Road Trip

With 5 days in Oregon, you can see the highlights! This quick trip averages about 3-4 hours of driving per day, and takes you through mountains, by waterfalls, and meets up with some of the most scenic views along the Oregon Coast.

• Day 1: Portland to Bend
• Day 2: Bend to Eugene
• Day 3: Eugene to Samuel H. Boardman
• Day 4: Samuel H. Boardman to Yachats
• Day 5: Yachats to Portland

Have you ever experienced an Oregon road trip? What Oregon itinerary is your favorite? Tell us in the comments below!

Amazing! I know nothing about traveling all over the country, what a wonderful looking place to explore.

I’m really glad you liked our Oregon road trip route! I hope you et a change to travel across this beautiful state!

WELCOME TO OREGON

The State of Oregon is home to some of the most diverse landscape and scenic views in the entire United States. A beautiful coastline, over 360 State Parks, and home to some of the top rated breweries and restaurants in the nation, you will never run out of things to do while you’re here. Here at Visit Oregon, we’re passionate about those we get to share our great state with. We are your one stop shop for what to do, what to see, and where to stay. We may be biased, but we’d like to think Oregon has it all – come visit us and make memories to last a lifetime.

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Travel Oregon Shines Spotlight on Guided Experiences with Launch of ‘Travel Oregon with Travel Oregon’ Campaign

Portland, Ore. (August 1, 2023) – The Oregon Tourism Commission, dba Travel Oregon, launched today a new advertising campaign platform called ‘Travel Oregon with Travel Oregon’ that promotes the idea that the best way to experience Oregon is with an Oregonian—a guide, a podcast host with in-the-know recommendations or perhaps even a state park ranger with knowledge of Oregon’s dark skies. The campaign will allow Travel Oregon to drive more personal connections between visitors and the state’s people, cultures and must-see, but less-traveled, destinations while making Oregon feel welcoming to all.

“The Travel Oregon with Travel Oregon campaign celebrates the fact that Oregon is best experienced with a guide,” said Todd Davidson, CEO of Travel Oregon. “There’s so much to do and see here, so many incredible destinations and activities, that it can be hard to scratch the surface. Guides take visitors deeper, offering closer connections to welcoming, inclusive and immersive travel experiences.”

Developed by creative agency Wieden+Kennedy Portland, the campaign centers on Travel Oregon’s newest team members—guides who are definitely not inanimate objects, but real Oregonians. Each guide brings their own expertise and all are united by their eagerness to connect a diversity of travelers with Oregon’s wide variety of activities and local guides. The strategy behind the campaign was based on consumer research by Wieden+Kennedy that found that while there is an overall positive association with the state, there isn’t a deep knowledge of what there is to do in Oregon or how to do it. ‘Travel Oregon with Travel Oregon’ addresses the need to broaden the aperture of Oregon to make the state attractive and relevant to new audiences and subcultures who may not have felt confident that Oregon was accessible to them in the past.

The campaign ecosystem will allow the agency to shift between seasonal messages such as promoting responsible recreation or wildfire awareness in the summer and promoting niche tourism experiences in rural destinations during less-traveled seasons. This evolution in strategy marks a shift in how Travel Oregon markets the state to visitors, moving away from launching one-off campaigns and into an “always on” mode of marketing and communications that directly supports the agency’s 10-Year Strategic Vision.

The initial launch of the campaign will focus on broad-reaching channels to build excitement and drive the notion that it’s always good to go with a guide. This includes placements of a :30 second campaign anthem in the World Cup and NFL games, stunning outdoor advertisements across top West Coast markets and engaging video and custom content across a variety of trusted channels and media partners such as Hulu, Peacock and YouTube as well as popular social platforms.

“I am incredibly proud of this team and excited to be part of this campaign,” said SustainaBill, Travel Oregon’s resident expert in sustainable travel. “It’s given me an opportunity to celebrate the things that are most important to me–the state of Oregon and sustainable practices. Creation of this campaign was incredibly straightforward and there wasn’t anything unexpected about it at all. We just traveled around the state and got to do what we do best: welcome people to Oregon.”

Meet Travel Oregon’s new guides:

SustainaBill , our resident expert in all things sustainable travel. Boots , whose knowledge of Oregon’s greenways and trails is second to none. Kayakyak , the perfect companion for whatever water recreation you want to get into. Dark Sky , who’ll point out all of Oregon’s stargazing and cosmic events. Telephone Paul , the guy to ask when it comes to live events, festivals or concerts. Rosa , who’s always in the know on the latest seasonal trends for wine, food, or music.

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Travel Oregon TV Spot, 'There's More to Oregon'

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Check out Travel Oregon's 15 second TV commercial, 'There's More to Oregon' from the Cities & Destinations industry. Keep an eye on this page to learn about the songs, characters, and celebrities appearing in this TV commercial. Share it with friends, then discover more great TV commercials on iSpot.tv

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Pro-Palestinian protesters paralyse roads in US cities over war on Gaza

Demonstrators block highways and shut down travel in Illinois, California, New York and the Pacific Northwest.

Pro-Palestinian protesters have blocked major roads in the states of Illinois, California, New York and the Pacific Northwest, temporarily preventing travel into some of the United States’s most heavily used airports, onto the Golden Gate and Brooklyn bridges and along a busy West Coast highway.

In Chicago, protesters linked arms and blocked lanes of Interstate 190 leading into O’Hare International Airport at about 7am (12:00 GMT) on Monday in a demonstration they said was part of a global “economic blockade to free Palestine”, according to Rifqa Falaneh, one of the organisers.

Keep reading

Israel’s war on gaza: list of key events, day 192, photos: thousands in gaza head north after ‘open checkpoint’ rumours, palestinians come under israeli fire as they attempt return to north gaza.

Protesters say they chose O’Hare in part because it is one of the largest airports in the US. Dozens were arrested, according to Falaneh. Chicago police said that “multiple people” were taken into custody after a protest where people obstructed traffic but did not provide a detailed count.

In California, demonstrators blocked lanes on the northbound I-880 in Oakland by chaining themselves to barrels, while a separate group of protesters with banners disrupted traffic on the southbound lanes. On the Golden Gate Bridge, protesters impeded traffic in both directions, displaying a banner that read, “Stop the world for Gaza.”

In Eugene, Oregon, protesters blocked Interstate 5, shutting down traffic on the major highway for about 45 minutes.

Meanwhile, on the East Coast, protesters marching into Brooklyn blocked Manhattan-bound traffic on the Brooklyn Bridge.

Antiwar protesters have held demonstrations in Chicago nearly every day since Hamas’s October 7  attack on southern Israel , which killed about 1,200 people, triggered an Israeli assault on Gaza that has killed more than 33,700 Palestinians , according to the Gaza Ministry of Health.

O’Hare warned travellers on social platform X to find alternative ways to get to the airport, with car travel “substantially delayed this morning due to protest activity”.

Some travellers stuck in standstill traffic left their cars and walked the final leg to the airport along the freeway, trailing their luggage behind them.

“This was an inconvenience,” Madeline Hannan from suburban Chicago said in a telephone interview as she was heading to Florida. “But in the grand scheme of things going on overseas, it’s a minor inconvenience.”

Inbound traffic towards O’Hare resumed at about 9am (14:00 GMT).

Arrests and calls for Gaza ceasefire

Near Seattle, the Washington State Department of Transportation said a demonstration closed the main road to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Social media posts showed people holding a banner and waving Palestinian flags while standing on the highway, which reopened about three hours later.

About 20 protesters were arrested at the Golden Gate Bridge demonstration and traffic resumed shortly after noon, according to the California Highway Patrol. The agency said officers were making arrests at two points on the highway, including one spot where roughly 300 protesters refused orders to disperse.

“Attempting to block or shut down a freeway or state highway to protest is unlawful, dangerous, and prevents motorists from safely reaching their destinations,” the agency said in a statement.

Oregon State Police said 52 protesters were arrested for disorderly conduct following the Interstate 5 protest in Eugene, Oregon, about 177km (110 miles) south of Portland. Six vehicles were towed from the scene.

New York Police made numerous arrests, saying 150 protesters were initially involved in the march at about 3:15 pm (19:15 GMT) but that the crowd grew quickly.

In San Antonio, protesters holding Palestinian flags obstructed both sides of the Valero Energy Company headquarters, causing traffic congestion on the city’s northwest side.