Trip Planners

1859’s Trip Planners are your source for exploring the great state of Oregon. Whether you are a local looking for a weekend family getaway or just visiting, each article is an insider’s guide to the best trips in Oregon.

The giant sequoia of Queen of Angels Monastery

The giant sequoia of Queen of Angels Monastery written and photographed by Betsy L. Howell More than 700 miles from its native range in California, a 125-year-old giant sequoia tree welcomes visitors to the Queen of Angels Monastery in Mount Angel. In 1893, Sister Protasia Schindler found the seedling growing beside the railroad tracks. She immediately dug it up to plant next to the monastery’s entrance. Many years later, she said that if she’d known how large it would grow, she never would have planted it so close to the monastery. The tree now dwarfs the building as well as the other trees on the grounds, including one of its progeny planted in 1982. In 2004, the giant sequoia was designated an Oregon Heritage Tree. This honor is bestowed for an individual tree’s historical significance, accessibility to the public, and general health. The Benedictine Sisters at Queen of Angels welcome…

Crater Lake Trip Planner

The facilities at Crater Lake are buried under fathoms of snow for much of the year, and even in July surprised tourists arrive in shorts and T-shirts only to shiver against the wind.

The Best Oregon Coast Hikes You’ve Never Heard Of

The lure of the Oregon Coast and the Coastal Range is strong for hikers. But even if you get out regularly, there are probably a number of stellar paths you haven’t discovered yet.

Oregon Lodging: Atticus Hotel

The sweet old-fashioned wine country hamlet of McMinnville has plenty going for it—the thriving main street, vibrant farmers’ market, up-and-coming Granary District, uniquely beautiful AVA and abundance of first-class restaurants, from venerable Nick’s Italian Cafe to romantic Thistle.

Yaquina Head Lighthouse Oregon Coast photo by Sparkloft courtesy of Travel Oregon

Oregon Travel: Lighthouses

Our definitive guide to Oregon lighthouses. A grand coastal trip every Oregonian should experience

Troutdale

Oregon Travel: Troutdale Oregon

Troutdale, just 15 miles east of Portland, is a charming small Oregon city known for its rich historical past and as the gateway to the Columbia River Gorge.

Baker City Oregon Trip Planner

Oregon Travel: Baker City

Baker City, Oregon is an historic, charming downtown straight out of an old Western. Add good local beer, friendly people and stunning scenery.