Seven Oregon Eco Vacations
Here are some of 1859’s favorite environmentally-friendly Oregon vacation ideas.
Explore Oregon
From Where I Stand: Gaston
1859’s From Where I Stand feature heads to Gaston, a small hamlet 30 miles outside of Portland.
Four Heart-Pumping Oregon Hikes
Four hikes that represent the state’s vast geological diversity.
Blaine Franger’s Columbia River Gorge
Photographer Blaine Franger shares his favorite images from his home in Hood River.
Nike’s Oregon Project
History was in the making in the London chill, but it wouldn’t include the usual favorites.
Oregon Loves Dogs
Our readers love their dogs.
Best Rustic Digs
Winner: Timberline Lodge, Government Camp Photo by Aubrie LeGault Everything about the 1937-era WPA Timberline Lodge says Oregon—from its hand-hewn native wood and local stone to hand-woven draperies and wrought-iron details. Declared a National Historic Landmark in 1977, Timberline Lodge records two million visitors a year—many come to ski or snowboard in the winter, or mountain climb and hike in summer. Located on the southern slope of Mt. Hood, at 6,000 feet, The lodge (timberlinelodge.com) is a living museum of Arts and Crafts, and a majestic place to visit. Plan a romantic getaway or book a girls’ weekend at the lodge, which offers cozy rooms for two or bunk-style rooms for groups. Taste an Oregon microbrew at the Blue Ox or Ram’s Head bars or reserve a table at the dignified Cascade Dining Room. When it’s time to relax, head for the outdoor swimming pool and spa (open year-round) or…
Best Camping
Winner: Beverly Beach Photo by Aubrie LeGault All paths at Beverly Beach lead to the scenic walkway under Highway 101 out to the Pacific Ocean and a beach that stretches from Yaquina Head to the headlands of Otter Rock. Look for the giant, fossilized 14,000-year-old Sitka root or take a picnic lunch and watch the kids build sand castles. Agate seekers scour the rocky shore to the north, and fossil lovers tread south. Spencer Creek runs through the campground, which has hookups for trailers and RVs, 128 tent sites, twenty-one yurts and five group tent areas. Just a couple miles north is Marine Gardens, located on a gravel path off Third Street in Otter Rock. Best experienced during low tide, the tidal pools are full of life. Observe seabird colonies and harbor seal pups. In Newport, meander the waterfront and fishing port, or on a rainy day, spend hours at…
Best Hiking
Winner: Smith Rock, Terrebonne Photo by Tyler Roemer Geologists call it welded tuff, rock climbers call it unwieldy and tough. Rising 300 to 550 feet above the high desert, Smith Rock’s vertical walls and spires attract rock climbers of all skill levels. Inside Smith Rock State Park, a thousand routes, including several on iconic Monkey Face, allow novice and experienced climbers to test their nerves. If cliff hanging isn’t for you, watch from a safe distance atop Misery Ridge Summit, which also has stunning views in all directions. Park visitors can horseback ride, mountain bike or hike miles of trails in and around the park. Keep an eye out for rattlesnakes in warm months. Runner-Up: Tam McArthur Rim, Bend Photo by Christian Heeb This moderately difficult hike within the Three Sisters Wilderness showcases the alpine volcanic environment at its best. The trailhead starts at Three Creek Lake about twenty miles…
