Oregon, USA

Oregon, seated in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, is worthy to be seen for valid reasons. Being one of the country’s gems when it comes to natural wonders, Oregon has become a haven for nature-lovers and thrill-seekers. The many awesome features of Oregon include lush forests, jagged mountains, and majestic waters. Because there are a multitude of activities to do and a network of attractions to see, the vibrancy of Oregon must be seen and experienced.

Crater Lake National Park, part of the Cascades Mountains, highlights a lake found in the caldera of an extinct volcano, Mount Mazama. With water that has a brilliant shade of blue, the lake invites an array of activities such as swimming, boating, fishing, and kayaking. There are also picnic areas surrounding the lake, and to fully appreciate the beauty of it, joining boat tours and hiking trails are encouraged.  Conversely, The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is a must when in Oregon. The gorge is popular for its stunning waterfalls, such as the Multnomah Falls which is named as one of the highest waterfalls in the United States. Driving through the picturesque and historic Columbia River Highway is a bonus when visiting Columbia River Gorge, as the road offers numerous viewing points exuding awe-inspiring scenes.

The Northwest of Oregon takes pride in Cannon Beach, a highly-acclaimed tourist resort that owns a long stretch of sand and gorgeous views of mountain ranges. At the mouth of the Columbia River, there is another famous resort called Astoria. For beaches that have that rustic feel, the Oregon Coast Trail is the best place to be. This part of the state takes pride in its spectacular ocean views, stunning rock formations, and wide sandy beaches. Apart from the waters, the hiking trails that surround Oregon Coast are worthy of the exploration as well. When it comes to beaches mixed with historic appeal, Newport has got to be it. Here, the wild beaches are accentuated by Victorian heritage and historic lighthouses, a perfect combination for a relaxed and laid-back setting. There are also whale-watching spots in Newport, as well as establishments such as Hatfield Marine Science Center and Oregon Coast Aquarium.

In Portland, the attraction not to miss is the Washington Park where a chain of elegant and perfectly-landscaped gardens are housed. Among the famous gardens inside the Washington Park is the Portland Japanese Garden. For families, it is a must to see the Oregon Zoo and the Portland Children’s Museum, also situated within Washington Park. Bend, another bustling city that must be a part of the itinerary, also has numerous attractions to be proud of. Here, thrilling activities such as rafting in Deschutes River, climbing in Smith Rock, and skiing in Mount Bachelor take place.  And of course, the Oregon’s landmark, the Mount Hood, must be the highlight of the unforgettable getaway. As the highest mountain of the state, this natural wonder plays host to glorious sights such as waterfalls, hot springs, hiking trails, and wide scenic viewpoints.