Oregon is a treasure trove of natural beauty, offering some of the most breathtaking and diverse landscapes in the United States. From rugged coastlines and dense forests to high desert plains and volcanic mountains, the state’s scenic byways provide the perfect route for an unforgettable road trip. This guide will take you through Oregon’s most stunning byways, highlighting must-see stops and fun facts along the way. Let’s hit the road and explore the best of Oregon’s scenic byways.
Historic Columbia River Highway
Length: 75 miles
Route: Troutdale to The Dalles
The Historic Columbia River Highway is a marvel of early 20th-century engineering and offers some of the most spectacular views of the Columbia River Gorge. Starting in Troutdale, this byway winds through lush forests, past cascading waterfalls, and along towering cliffs.
Must-See Stops:
Multnomah Falls: At 620 feet, Multnomah Falls is Oregon’s tallest waterfall and a must-visit spot. The short hike to Benson Bridge offers a stunning view of the falls.
Vista House: Located at Crown Point, Vista House provides panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge. Built in 1918, it’s an architectural gem and a great place to learn about the history of the area.
Horsetail Falls: Another beautiful waterfall, Horsetail Falls is easily accessible and perfect for a quick photo stop.
Fun Fact: The Historic Columbia River Highway was the first scenic highway in the United States, designed to showcase the natural beauty of the Columbia River Gorge.
Pacific Coast Scenic Byway
Length: 363 miles
Route: Astoria to Brookings
The Pacific Coast Scenic Byway runs the entire length of Oregon’s coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, charming coastal towns, and dramatic cliffs.
Must-See Stops:
Cannon Beach: Famous for its iconic Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach is a picturesque town with art galleries, boutique shops, and stunning beaches.
Cape Perpetua: This scenic area offers several hiking trails with panoramic ocean views. Don’t miss Thor’s Well, a natural sinkhole that seems to drain the ocean.
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area: Stretching for 40 miles along the coast, these sand dunes provide opportunities for hiking, dune buggy rides, and sandboarding.
Fun Fact: The Pacific Coast Scenic Byway passes through three National Wildlife Refuges, offering abundant opportunities to see a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, whales, and seabirds.
Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway
Length: 66 miles
Route: Bend to Crescent Lake
The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway takes you through the heart of Oregon’s Cascade Mountains, offering stunning views of alpine lakes, lush forests, and volcanic landscapes.
Must-See Stops:
Sparks Lake: This picturesque lake, surrounded by mountains, is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and photography.
Mount Bachelor: A popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in the winter, Mount Bachelor also offers hiking and mountain biking in the summer.
Lava Lake: Named for the surrounding lava flows, this lake offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities.
Fun Fact: The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway provides access to over a dozen alpine lakes, each offering its own unique beauty and recreational opportunities.
Hells Canyon Scenic Byway
Length: 218 miles
Route: La Grande to Baker City
The Hells Canyon Scenic Byway takes you through the rugged and remote landscapes of eastern Oregon, offering breathtaking views of Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America.
Must-See Stops:
Wallowa Lake: Known as the “Crown Jewel of Northeast Oregon,” Wallowa Lake offers stunning scenery and a variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking.
Hells Canyon Overlook: This viewpoint provides panoramic views of Hells Canyon and the Snake River, offering a glimpse into the area’s dramatic geology.
Joseph: A charming town known for its bronze foundries and art galleries, Joseph is a great place to explore local culture and history.
Fun Fact: Hells Canyon is deeper than the Grand Canyon, plunging more than 8,000 feet from the peaks of the Seven Devils Mountains to the Snake River below.
Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway
Length: 172 miles
Route: Roseburg to Gold Hill
The Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway takes you through some of Oregon’s most beautiful and diverse landscapes, from the lush forests of the Umpqua River Valley to the rugged terrain of the Rogue River.
Must-See Stops:
Toke tee Falls: This stunning two-tiered waterfall is one of the most photographed in Oregon, with a short hike leading to a viewpoint.
Crater Lake National Park: While not directly on the byway, a detour to Crater Lake is well worth the trip. The lake’s deep blue waters and dramatic caldera are unforgettable.
Natural Bridge: A unique geological formation where the Rogue River flows through a collapsed lava tube, creating a natural bridge.
Fun Fact: The Rogue River is one of the original eight rivers designated under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968, recognized for its outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values.
Conclusion
Oregon’s scenic byways offer a diverse and stunning array of landscapes, from coastal vistas and lush forests to rugged mountains and deep canyons. Each byway provides a unique road trip experience, filled with natural beauty, historic landmarks, and opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re exploring the dramatic cliffs of the Pacific Coast, the serene alpine lakes of the Cascades, or the remote wilderness of Hells Canyon, Oregon’s scenic byways promise an unforgettable journey. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the best of Oregon’s natural wonders.
