Oregon is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Pacific Northwest, making it a perfect destination for road trip enthusiasts. From dramatic coastlines and lush forests to snow-capped mountains and serene high deserts, Oregon offers diverse landscapes that are best explored by car. Here are the top 5 scenic drives in Oregon that you won’t want to miss on your next road trip.

1. The Pacific Coast Scenic Byway (U.S. Route 101)

Why It’s a Must-Drive: Stretching over 363 miles along Oregon’s rugged coastline, the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway offers stunning ocean views, charming seaside towns, and numerous state parks. This iconic route is perfect for those looking to experience the natural beauty of the Oregon Coast.

What to See: Start your journey in Astoria, a historic port town with Victorian-era architecture and panoramic views from the Astoria Column. As you drive south, stop at Cannon Beach to see the famous Haystack Rock and explore the quaint shops and eateries. Further down the coast, visit Cape Perpetua for breathtaking views from the highest point on the Oregon Coast and the unique Devil’s Churn. Don’t miss the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area near Florence, where you can explore the vast sand dunes by foot or on a dune buggy.

Recommended Stops: Tillamook Creamery for cheese tasting, Yaquina Head Lighthouse, and the Sea Lion Caves near Florence.

2. Historic Columbia River Highway (U.S. Route 30)

Why It’s a Must-Drive: As the first scenic highway in the United States, the Historic Columbia River Highway offers breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge, lush forests, and numerous waterfalls. This drive is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its stunning vistas and easy access to outdoor adventures.

What to See: Start in Troutdale and drive east, stopping at the iconic Multnomah Falls, Oregon’s tallest waterfall. Continue along the highway to discover more waterfalls, including Latourell Falls and Wahkeena Falls. The Vista House at Crown Point offers sweeping views of the gorge and is a great spot for photos. Don’t forget to explore the many hiking trails that start from the highway, such as the Eagle Creek Trail and the Angel’s Rest Trail.

Recommended Stops: Bridal Veil Falls, Hood River for windsurfing, and the Mosier Twin Tunnels for a unique driving experience through restored tunnels.

3. The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway

Why It’s a Must-Drive: The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is a 66-mile route that winds through Central Oregon’s Cascade Range, offering stunning views of alpine lakes, dense forests, and volcanic landscapes. This drive is perfect for those looking to explore Oregon’s natural beauty away from the coast.

What to See: Begin your journey in Bend and head west toward Mount Bachelor. Along the way, you’ll pass a series of beautiful alpine lakes, including Sparks Lake, Devils Lake, and Elk Lake, all offering opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Take a detour to the Newberry National Volcanic Monument to see the Lava Butte and Paulina Falls. The byway also provides access to several hiking trails, such as the Green Lakes Trail and the Todd Lake Loop.

Recommended Stops: Hosmer Lake for fly fishing, the Lava Lands Visitor Center, and Elk Lake Resort for a lakeside meal.

4. The Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway

Why It’s a Must-Drive: Known as the “highway of waterfalls,” the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway takes you through some of Oregon’s most spectacular river valleys, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls. This 172-mile drive is a perfect escape into the tranquil beauty of Southern Oregon.

What to See: Start in Roseburg and follow the North Umpqua River, making stops at waterfalls like Toketee Falls, Watson Falls, and Clearwater Falls. Continue along the byway to reach the Rogue River, where you can enjoy fishing, white-water rafting, or simply relaxing by the river. Don’t miss a visit to Crater Lake National Park, where you can see the deepest lake in the United States and enjoy breathtaking views from Rim Drive.

Recommended Stops: Diamond Lake for boating, hiking the Umpqua Hot Springs Trail, and the Rogue River Gorge viewpoint.

5. The Steens Mountain Loop Road

Why It’s a Must-Drive: The Steens Mountain Loop Road is a 52-mile gravel road that takes you through the remote and rugged landscapes of Southeastern Oregon. This drive offers stunning views of the high desert, deep canyons, and vast valleys, making it perfect for those seeking solitude and adventure.

What to See: Start in the small town of Frenchglen and follow the loop road up to the summit of Steens Mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Alvord Desert and the surrounding wilderness. Along the way, explore the Kiger Gorge and Wildhorse Lake for unique high-desert landscapes. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, and golden eagles.

Recommended Stops: The Alvord Desert for stargazing, Fish Lake for a serene picnic spot, and the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge for bird watching.

Conclusion

Oregon’s scenic drives offer a diverse range of landscapes and experiences, from the coastal beauty of the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway to the rugged terrain of the Steens Mountain Loop Road. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely drive with plenty of sightseeing opportunities or an adventurous route through remote wilderness, Oregon has something for every road trip enthusiast. Pack your bags, fill up the gas tank, and get ready to explore the beauty of Oregon from behind the wheel. Your next great adventure awaits!