Once upon a time, the pioneers moved west on the legendary “Oregon Trail” to the Pacific Northwest of the USA. A popular destination was Oregon. No wonder! The state fascinates with its breathtaking nature, interesting cities and an unspoilt coast. A unique mixture of unspoilt nature and urban life – a true paradise for those seeking relaxation and adventurers alike.
Oregon offers optimal climatic conditions all year round
The US state of Oregon is located in the northwest of the USA and borders California, Nevada and Idaho as well as Washington. In addition, Oregon has an almost 600 km long Pacific coast. With an area of around 255,000 km², the state is the ninth largest state in the USA. With a little more than 4 million inhabitants, Oregon is rather sparsely populated. The capital is Salem and is one of the largest cities in Oregon, along with Portland, Eugene, Gresham and Hilsboro. The majority of Oregon’s population lives in the Willamette Valley. This is located in northwestern Oregon. It is home to the cities of Portland, Salem, and Eugene.
The climate varies greatly from region to region. The majority of the state is characterized by a mild climate. In general, it can be said that Oregon offers optimal conditions for water sports enthusiasts as well as hikers all year round.
Oregon is a true natural wonder
Oregon is a true paradise for nature lovers. Whether it’s natural coastlines, dense forests, unique and diverse wildlife, or snow-capped mountains, Oregon is dotted with natural wonders. It is not uncommon for hikers to encounter coyotes and wolves as well as bears. Typical for the state in the northwest are also the legacy of volcanic activity. These are visible everywhere and can be traced back to the formerly mighty mountain ranges such as the Cascade Mountains or the Oregon Coast Range. While Oregon has the Pacific Ocean on its western border, the state is characterized inland from north to south by two mountain ranges – the Oregon Coast Range and the Cascade Mountains. In between lies the Willamette Valley, one of the most fertile plains in the world. Mount Hood is the highest mountain in Oregon at 3425 meters.
Hikers get their money’s worth here
As mentioned earlier, Oregon is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. Several breathtaking nature parks invite you to discover. Just like the Crate Laker National Park. This is where the deepest lake in the USA is located. The lake is almost 600 meters deep. It was created during the volcanic eruption of Mount Mazama over 7,000 years ago. The lake can be experienced wonderfully by means of a boat tour. You can also see the Old Man of the Lake – a tree trunk that has been floating upright in the water since at least the 19th century.
- A wonderful hiking experience is located near the town of Bend. This is where the dense forest area of the Deschutes National Forest stretches out. A hike through this pristine nature makes you feel catapulted into another world.
- Also an excursion into another world are the Painted Hills. The different layers were formed millions of years ago and produced different shapes and colors. By the way, this is also a great place for fossil collectors.
- Climbers get their money’s worth at Smith Rock State Park. A striking rock was formed here more than 20 million years ago. Today, climbing fans from all over the world meet here. Once you have climbed the rock, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the Crooked River.
- In the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, water sports enthusiasts enjoy the many opportunities offered by the Columbia River – the second largest river in North America.
But Oregon is more than just a natural paradise
But the state in the northwest of the USA is not only known for its natural beauty. Oregon also stands for a cosmopolitan attitude to life. Such as the economic metropolis of Portland, for example. The very green city can be easily explored on foot or by bike. The center and most of the attractions can be found on the west bank of the Willamette River.
Portland is also known as the City of Roses. In the International Rose Test Garden, more than 10,000 flowering shrubs can be admired in magnificent splendor. The historic districts of the Pearl District, Skidmore and Yamhill Historic District immerse visitors in a bygone era. A visit to one of the numerous local breweries is also well worth seeing. Although Portland is quite a big city, it is also very relaxed and the inhabitants are very friendly.
Oregon offers sights for every taste
Since Oregon offers numerous sights, the decision is often not easy. In addition to the tips mentioned above, the Wildlife Safari Park in Winston, the Oregon Zoo, the Portland Japanese Garden, Silver Falls State Park or the Pittock Mansion are also popular.
Oregon is pure versatility: Whether it’s water sports on the coast, beach holidays, skiing fun in the mountains, cultural pleasure, shopping fun or simply taking a stroll in a magnificent natural landscape – Oregon offers just the right thing for every taste. Anything is possible in Oregon
