Oregon Road Trip – Best Places to Visit, 10 Days Itinerary, and Map
Always wanted to go for an Oregon Road Trip but was not sure how to plan it. Don’t worry, I have you covered! Embark on an unforgettable journey through the diverse landscapes of Oregon, where every turn reveals a scene more breathtaking than the last. In this article, let’s look at Oregon Road Trip covering the best places to visit, 10 Days Itinerary, and Map.
From the awe-inspiring Multnomah Falls to the serene Sparks Lake, the rugged beauty of Smith Rock State Park to the tranquil waters of Crater Lake, an Oregon road trip is a feast for the senses.
As you traverse this enchanting state, you’ll encounter charming coastal towns, towering sand dunes, and hidden hot springs, each with its own unique allure.
This isn’t just a road trip; it’s an adventure that etches itself into your heart, leaving you yearning for more.
Oregon Road Trip Overview
An Oregon road trip is a journey through a tapestry of diverse landscapes, each with its own unique allure.
Imagine starting your adventure with the mesmerizing cascade of Multnomah Falls, then winding your way through the vibrant hues of the Painted Hills.
Feel the thrill of exploring the rugged terrain of Smith Rock State Park, and the tranquility of soaking in the Umpqua Hot Springs.
Picture yourself marveling at the deep blue waters of Crater Lake and the stunning rock formations of Cannon Beach.
From the serene Sparks Lake to the dramatic cliffs of Oswald West State Park, an Oregon road trip is a feast for the senses.
Each stop on this trip unveils a new chapter of Oregon’s natural beauty, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.
So, if you’re yearning for an adventure that combines breathtaking landscapes, outdoor activities, and unforgettable experiences, an Oregon road trip is the perfect choice.
Get ready to hit the road and let the magic of Oregon captivate your heart.
Oregon Road Trip Route and Stops
| Location | The tallest waterfall in Oregon is located in the Columbia River Gorge. |
|---|---|
| Multnomah Falls | The tallest waterfall in Oregon, located in the Columbia River Gorge. |
| Rowena Crest | A drive-up spot with a view of the Columbia River Gorge. |
| Painted Hills | Known for the striations of colors in the hills. |
| Smith Rock State Park | A climber and hiker’s haven with stunning views. |
| Tamolitch Falls Blue Pool | A short hike through a Douglas fir forest and old lava flows leads to this stunning blue pool. |
| Sparks Lake | A favorite spot for sunrise, offering beautiful views. |
| Umpqua Hot Springs | A crowded and fragile spot, but worth a visit for the hot springs. |
| Toketee Falls | A stunning waterfall featuring Basalt cliffs and blue water. |
| Crater Lake National Park | The deepest lake in the USA, known for its vibrant blue color. |
| Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor | Includes Natural Bridges, Secret Beach, and Whaleshead beach. |
| Sharkfin Rock at Gold Beach | Known for its rock formations. |
| Face Rock State Scenic Beach | Known for its wild rock formations. |
| Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area | One of the largest areas of coastal sand dunes in the world. |
| Oswald West State Park | Known for its dramatic cliffs. |
| Cannon Beach | A classic spot to end the Oregon road trip, known for its beautiful sandy beaches and iconic Haystack Rock. |
Oregon Road Trip Itinerary
Although it depends on how much time you want to spend in each location and your convenience, here is a suggested Oregon Road Trip Itinerary you can follow.
Day 1:
- Start your trip to Portland.
- Visit Multnomah Falls in the morning.
- Drive to Rowena Crest for a panoramic view of the Columbia River Gorge.
- Overnight in The Dalles.
Day 2:
- Drive to the Painted Hills, part of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument.
- Overnight in Bend.
Day 3:
- Spend the day exploring Smith Rock State Park.
- Overnight in Bend.
Day 4:
- Visit Tamolitch Falls Blue Pool in the morning.
- Spend the afternoon at Sparks Lake.
- Overnight in Bend.
Day 5:
- Drive to Umpqua Hot Springs for a morning soak.
- Visit Toketee Falls in the afternoon.
- Overnight in Roseburg.
Day 6:
- Drive to Crater Lake National Park and spend the day exploring.
- Overnight in Klamath Falls.
Day 7:
- Drive to the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor.
- Visit Sharkfin Rock at Gold Beach.
- Overnight in Gold Beach.
Day 8:
- Visit Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint in Bandon.
- Drive to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.
- Overnight in Florence.
Day 9:
- Drive to Oswald West State Park and spend the day exploring.
- Overnight in Cannon Beach.
Day 10:
- Spend the day at Cannon Beach, visiting Haystack Rock and exploring the town.
- Drive back to Portland in the evening.
Please note that this is a suggested Oregon Road Trip Itinerary and can be adjusted based on your personal preferences and the amount of time you want to spend at each location.
Multnomah Falls
We start our Oregon Road Trip from Multnomah Falls.
Multnomah Falls is a sight to behold, a towering waterfall that cascades down in two major steps, split into an upper fall of 542 feet and a lower fall of 69 feet, with a gradual 9-foot drop in elevation between the two.
The total height of the waterfall is a staggering 620 feet, making it the tallest waterfall in Oregon.
The waterfall is nestled in the verdant landscape of the Columbia River Gorge, a canyon of the Columbia River, which presents an awe-inspiring backdrop.
The falls attract millions of visitors each year, drawn to its natural beauty and the easy accessibility from the Historic Columbia River Highway.
The best time to visit Multnomah Falls is during the spring and summer months when the water flow is at its peak due to the melting snow.
However, the falls have a consistent flow throughout the year, thanks to underground springs from Larch Mountain.
One of the unique features of Multnomah Falls is the Benson Bridge, which spans the falls at the first tier’s base. It allows visitors to cross the falls and provides a perfect vantage point for some stunning photography.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing some walking. If you’re up for it, take the 1.2-mile trail that leads to an overlook at the top of the falls. The climb is worth it for the panoramic views of the Columbia Gorge.
What I liked: The sheer power and majesty of the falls are breathtaking. The sound of the water crashing down, the mist on your face, it’s a truly immersive experience in nature.
Rowena Crest
The next destination in our Oregon Road Trip is Rowena Crest.
Rowena Crest is an overlook along the Historic Columbia River Highway, offering panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge.
The crest is characterized by a horseshoe-shaped road, which is a popular spot for photographers due to its unique shape and the stunning backdrop of the river and surrounding hills.
The area is also known for its wildflower blooms in the spring, with a carpet of balsamroot and lupine transforming the landscape into a vibrant palette of yellows and purples.
The Tom McCall Nature Preserve, located nearby, offers several hiking trails that meander through these wildflower fields and provide even more breathtaking views of the Gorge.
The best time to visit Rowena Crest is in the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom.
However, the views are spectacular year-round, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light casts a magical glow over the landscape.
Tip: Be sure to bring your camera and take advantage of the golden hour for some stunning landscape photography. Also, remember to stay on the trails to protect the delicate wildflowers.
What I liked: The view from Rowena Crest is nothing short of spectacular. The combination of the unique horseshoe-shaped road, the expansive views of the Columbia River Gorge, and the wildflower blooms in the spring make it a truly special place.
Painted Hills
The next destination in our Oregon Road Trip is Painted Hills.
Painted Hills is one of the three units of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, located in Wheeler County, Oregon. Named for the delicately colored stratifications in the soil, the hills get their hues from ancient floodplain deposits.
Layers of black lignite, grey mudstone, siltstone, and red laterite soil combine to form a painter’s palette of color across the rolling mounds.
The Painted Hills are best visited in the late afternoon when the sun low in the sky highlights the reds and yellows in the hills and casts long shadows, adding depth and texture to the landscape. The colors are most vibrant after rain.
Tip: Stick to the trails and boardwalks to protect this delicate landscape. Also, remember that collecting fossils is not allowed.
What I liked: The Painted Hills is a testament to the beauty that nature can create over millions of years. The colors and patterns in the hills are like an ever-changing painting, with the light and weather continually altering the landscape’s appearance. It’s a place that truly feels like no other.
Smith Rock State Park
The next destination in our Oregon Road Trip is Smith Rock State Park.
Smith Rock State Park is a unique natural wonder in Central Oregon, known for its towering volcanic ash formations that rise dramatically from the surrounding landscape.
The park is a haven for rock climbers, with over a thousand climbing routes that cater to all levels of experience.
But it’s not just climbers who are drawn to Smith Rock. The park also offers miles of hiking and mountain biking trails that wind through the rugged landscape, offering stunning views of the Crooked River and the Cascade Mountains.
The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including golden eagles, prairie falcons, mule deer, and river otters.
The best time to visit Smith Rock State Park is in the spring and fall when the weather is mild. Summers can be hot, and winters can be cold and snowy.
Consider reading: Best Things to Do in Smith Rock State Park
Tip: If you’re planning on climbing, remember to check in at the park office for the latest information on route closures and conditions. Also, bring plenty of water, as it can get hot in the park, especially in the summer.
What I liked: Smith Rock State Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re scaling one of the park’s many climbing routes or simply enjoying a leisurely hike through the stunning landscape, there’s something for everyone at Smith Rock.
Tamolitch Falls Blue Pool
The next destination in our Oregon Road Trip is Tamolitch Falls Blue Pool.
Tamolitch Falls Blue Pool, also known as Blue Pool, is a gem tucked away in the Willamette National Forest. The pool is the result of a lava flow that redirected the McKenzie River, creating a clear, blue pool that’s a sight to behold.
The pool’s vibrant blue color is due to the depth of the water and the purity of the water from the underground springs.
The trail to the Blue Pool is a relatively easy 4-mile round-trip hike through a beautiful old-growth forest. The trail offers several vantage points of the river, and the final reveal of the Blue Pool is a breathtaking sight.
The best time to visit the Blue Pool is in the summer when the weather is warm, but keep in mind that the water in the pool is very cold due to the underground springs, and swimming is not recommended.
Tip: The trail can get busy, especially on weekends, so try to go early in the day or on a weekday if possible. Also, remember to pack out what you pack in to keep this beautiful area clean.
What I liked: The Blue Pool is a stunning natural wonder. The color of the water is unlike anything I’ve seen. It’s a peaceful and serene place that’s perfect for a day hike and a picnic.
Sparks Lake
The next destination on our Oregon Road Trip is Sparks Lake.
Sparks Lake is a high-altitude body of water located in the Deschutes National Forest in Central Oregon. The lake is known for its stunning views of the South Sister and Broken Top mountains, which reflect beautifully on the lake’s calm waters.
The lake is a popular spot for canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding, with several islands and inlets to explore.
The area around the lake offers several hiking trails, including the Ray Atkeson Loop Trail, which winds around the lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The lake is also a popular spot for bird watching, with a variety of waterfowl and birds of prey frequently seen in the area.
The best time to visit Sparks Lake is in the early morning, especially at sunrise when the light is magical, and the lake is calm. It’s also less crowded at this time.
Tip: If you’re planning on paddling on the lake, remember to bring your life jacket. Also, be aware that the lake’s water level can drop significantly in late summer, making some areas inaccessible.
What I liked: Sparks Lake offers a perfect blend of tranquility and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re paddling on the lake, hiking on the trails, or simply enjoying the stunning views, it’s a place that truly captures the beauty of Oregon outdoors.
Umpqua Hot Springs
The next destination on our Oregon Road Trip is Umpqua Hot Springs.
Umpqua Hot Springs, located in the Umpqua National Forest in Oregon, is a collection of natural hot springs that have become a popular destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
The hot springs are located on a mineral deposit above the North Umpqua River, offering stunning views of the surrounding forest.
The hot springs consist of several pools, each varying in temperature, allowing you to find the perfect spot to soak. The pools are terraced, with the uppermost pool being the warmest due to the hot water flowing from the source.
The best time to visit Umpqua Hot Springs is during the weekdays when it’s less crowded. The springs can be accessed year-round, but keep in mind that the road can be snowy and icy in the winter.
Tip: Remember to pack out what you pack in to keep this beautiful area clean. Also, be respectful of other visitors and keep noise levels down to maintain a peaceful atmosphere.
What I liked: Umpqua Hot Springs offers a unique and relaxing experience. Soaking in the warm water while surrounded by the beauty of the forest is a truly rejuvenating experience.
Toketee Falls
The next destination on our Oregon Road Trip is Toketee Falls.
Toketee Falls is a stunning two-tiered waterfall located in the Umpqua National Forest in Oregon. The waterfall cascades down a total of 113 feet, with an upper fall of 28 feet and a lower fall of 85 feet.
The falls are known for their columnar basalt formation, which frames the waterfall and creates a unique and picturesque sight.
The trail to Toketee Falls is a relatively easy 0.8-mile round-trip hike through a beautiful old-growth forest. The trail ends at a viewing platform that offers a perfect view of the waterfall.
The best time to visit Toketee Falls is in the spring when the water flow is at its peak due to the melting snow. However, the falls are beautiful year-round.
Tip: The trail to the falls can be slippery, especially after rain, so wear sturdy shoes and take your time on the trail.
What I liked: Toketee Falls is a hidden gem in the Oregon wilderness. The combination of the columnar basalt formation and the cascading waterfall creates a truly unique and beautiful sight.
Crater Lake National Park
The next destination on our Oregon Road Trip is Crater Lake National Park.
Crater Lake National Park is home to the deepest lake in the USA, with a depth of 1,943 feet. The lake was formed over 7,000 years ago when a violent eruption triggered the collapse of a tall peak.
Fed by rain and snow, it’s considered one of the cleanest and clearest lakes in the world.
The lake is known for its vibrant blue color and the surrounding cliffs of up to 2,000 feet high. The park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, and boat tours. In winter, you can enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
The best time to visit Crater Lake National Park is during the summer months when all park facilities and roads are open, and boat tours are operating.
Tip: Don’t miss the opportunity to drive around Rim Drive, a 33-mile scenic road that encircles the lake, offering stunning views from various vantage points.
What I liked: Crater Lake National Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. The deep blue of the lake, contrasting with the surrounding cliffs and forests, offers a truly breathtaking sight.
Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
The next destination on our Oregon Road Trip is Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor.
The Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is a 12-mile, forested linear park with a rugged coastline interrupted by small sand beaches.
This park was named in honor of Samuel H. Boardman, the first Oregon Parks superintendent. He and others of his generation felt this shining coastline should be saved for the public.
The park is known for its natural bridges, secret beaches, and the iconic Arch Rock and Thunder Rock Cove. The park’s dense forest includes towering Sitka spruce trees and salal shrubs, and the coastline offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
The best time to visit the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is during the spring and summer months when the weather is mild and the park’s flora is in full bloom.
Tip: Be sure to bring your camera and take advantage of the golden hour for some stunning landscape photography. Also, remember to stay on the trails to protect the delicate ecosystem.
What I liked: The Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor offers a perfect blend of forest and ocean, with stunning views and beautiful natural formations. It’s a place that truly captures the rugged beauty of the Oregon coast.
Sharkfin Rock at Gold Beach
The next destination on our Oregon Road Trip is Gold Beach.
Sharkfin Rock at Gold Beach is a unique coastal feature that stands out against the rugged Oregon coastline. As the name suggests, the rock formation resembles a shark’s fin, jutting out from the ocean.
The beach is known for its stunning sunsets, where the sky is painted with hues of orange, pink, and purple, creating a beautiful contrast with the dark silhouette of Sharkfin Rock.
Gold Beach itself is a small coastal town with a rich history. It was named after a beach near the mouth of the Rogue River, where hundreds of placer mines extracted gold.
Today, it’s a popular destination for outdoor activities, including fishing, beachcombing, and exploring the nearby Rogue River.
The best time to visit Sharkfin Rock at Gold Beach is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the days are longer, allowing for stunning sunset views.
Consider reading: 9 Best Things to Do in Gold Beach
Tip: Be sure to check the tide tables before your visit. At low tide, you can explore the tide pools around the base of Sharkfin Rock.
What I liked: Sharkfin Rock at Gold Beach offers a unique coastal experience. The rock formation is a natural wonder, and the sunsets here are truly breathtaking. It’s a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Oregon coast.
Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint
The next destination on our Oregon Road Trip is Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint.
Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint is located in Bandon, Oregon, and is known for its unusual rock formations. The most famous of these is Face Rock, which, according to local legend, is the face of an Indian maiden frozen in stone.
If you look closely, you can see the face in profile, with the nose and chin jutting out from the water.
The beach at Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint is a great place to explore, with several other interesting rock formations, including the Cat and Kittens Rocks and the Wizard’s Hat.
The beach is also a popular spot for picnicking, beachcombing, and wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of seals and sea birds.
The best time to visit Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the days are longer. However, the views are spectacular year-round, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light casts a magical glow over the landscape.
Tip: Be sure to bring your camera and take advantage of the golden hour for some stunning landscape photography. Also, remember to respect the wildlife and keep a safe distance from any animals you might see.
What I liked: Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint offers a unique blend of natural beauty and local folklore. The rock formations are fascinating, and the beach is a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Oregon coast.
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
The next destination on our Oregon Road Trip is Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.
The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is a unique area of windswept sand that is the result of millions of years of wind and rain erosion on the Oregon Coast.
These are the largest expanse of coastal sand dunes in North America, with some dunes reaching up to 500 feet above sea level.
The dunes cover 40 miles along the coast, offering a variety of recreational activities, including off-road vehicle use, hiking, photography, fishing, canoeing, horseback riding, and camping.
Consider reading: Best ATV Rentals in Florence
The area is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including Roosevelt elk, bald eagles, peregrine falcons, and western snowy plovers.
The best time to visit the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the area is less crowded.
Consider reading: 7 Best Things to Do in Florence
Tip: If you’re planning on using an off-road vehicle on the dunes, be sure to familiarize yourself with the area’s rules and regulations to protect this unique ecosystem.
What I liked: The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area offers a unique landscape that’s unlike any other on the Oregon Coast. Whether you’re exploring the dunes on foot or by vehicle, it’s an adventure that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
Oswald West State Park
The next destination on our Oregon Road Trip is Oswald West State Park.
Oswald West State Park, named after Oregon’s 14th Governor, Oswald West, is a 2,484-acre park that offers a variety of natural attractions.
The park is known for its dramatic cliffs that overlook the Pacific Ocean, offering stunning views and excellent opportunities for bird watching and whale watching.
The park is home to a beautiful sandy beach known as Short Sand Beach, or more affectionately as “Shorty’s,” nestled in a cove surrounded by cliffs. The beach is a popular spot for surfers, as well as families who enjoy the sheltered, sandy beach.
The park also offers several miles of hiking trails that wind through the dense forest of Sitka spruce, western hemlock, Douglas-fir, and western red cedar. One of the highlights is the Cape Falcon trail, a 2.3-mile trail that offers stunning views of the coastline.
The best time to visit Oswald West State Park is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the park’s flora is in full bloom.
Tip: If you’re planning on surfing, remember that the water can be cold, so a wetsuit is recommended. Also, be aware that there are no lifeguards on duty.
What I liked: Oswald West State Park offers a perfect blend of forest and ocean, with stunning views and beautiful natural formations. It’s a place that truly captures the rugged beauty of the Oregon coast.
Cannon Beach
The next destination on our Oregon Road Trip is Cannon Beach.
Cannon Beach is a small coastal city in northwest Oregon known for its beautiful sandy beaches and iconic Haystack Rock, a 235-foot sea stack close to shore.
The rock is a marine sanctuary, home to many bird species, including the tufted puffin, and tide pools teeming with marine life.
The beach is a popular spot for beachcombing, picnicking, and kite flying. The town itself is known for its art galleries, specialty shops, and seafood restaurants. The Ecola State Park, located nearby, offers several hiking trails with stunning views of the coastline.
The best time to visit Cannon Beach is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the days are longer. However, the views are spectacular year-round, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light casts a magical glow over the landscape.
Consider reading: Best Things to Do in Cannon Beach
Tip: Be sure to check the tide tables before your visit. At low tide, you can explore the tide pools around the base of Haystack Rock.
What I liked: Cannon Beach offers a unique coastal experience. The combination of the sandy beach, the iconic Haystack Rock, and the charming town make it a perfect destination to end an Oregon road trip.
Final Thoughts on Oregon Road Trip
An Oregon road trip is more than just a journey; it’s an immersion into a world of diverse landscapes, each with its own unique charm.
From the cascading waterfalls to the tranquil lakes, the rugged cliffs to the serene hot springs, every stop on this trip is a testament to nature’s grandeur.
As you traverse the winding roads, you’ll find yourself captivated by the state’s beauty, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.
So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time explorer, an Oregon road trip is a must-add to your bucket list.
Because in Oregon, every mile is a story waiting to be discovered. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and let the magic of Oregon captivate your heart.
FAQs on Oregon Road Trip
How many days do you need on the Oregon Coast road trip?
The ideal length for an Oregon Coast road trip is 14 days, but 10 days is sufficient to see all the sights. Our route covers major attractions as well as hidden gems. Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Oregon Coast and make the most of your trip. Plan wisely to ensure a memorable adventure.
How to spend 7 days in Oregon?
If you have a week to explore Oregon, consider a more concentrated road trip. Start with the picturesque Columbia River Gorge, Mount Hood, and Hood River. Return to Portland and venture towards the captivating Oregon Coast, focusing on the Astoria to Tillamook stretch. This itinerary ensures you experience the best of Oregon in 7 days.
How many days do you need in Oregon?
To fully experience the wonders of Oregon, it’s recommended to allocate at least two weeks. Begin your journey along the scenic Oregon Coast, then visit the captivating Crater Lake, known for its vibrant blue waters. Don’t miss the majestic Smith Rock, which can be reached through the Sisters to Smith Rock Scenic Bikeway, providing a beautiful and crowd-free experience.
