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Discovering the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuges
The Klamath Basin covers a large swath of northern California and southern Oregon. A relatively undiscovered area, it is among the best birding destinations in the United States. Or so I’m told. I’m not a birder. Nor do I pretend to be. In fact, during our ‘birding’ trip to the Klamath Basin, Dan and I mostly referred to species with vague descriptive names. We pointed out ‘spindly white birds’ and ‘scoop-beaked birds’ and ‘yellow-headed birds.’ In other words, we had no idea what we were talking about. But still, as…
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The Three Capes Scenic Loop in Oregon
Oregon’s Highway 101 is among the most unforgettable road trip destinations in North America. As it hugs the Pacific coastline, the route showcases soaring cliffs, windswept beaches, and charming seaside towns. But between Tillamook and Lincoln City, the famous coastal road winds inland, away from the water’s edge. In doing so, it bypasses some of the Oregon Coast’s most awe-inspiring scenery. The Three Capes Scenic Loop seeks to include the northern coast’s compelling off-highway attractions. A popular side tour from the US 101, it leads visitors to spectacular panoramic viewpoints,…
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The Best Columbia River Gorge Hikes and Viewpoints
The Columbia River Gorge divides Oregon and Washington in spectacular fashion. A national scenic area and magnet for recreation enthusiasts, it encapsulates much of what makes the Pacific Northwest so special. The gorge is a microcosm of many of the region’s most alluring features—showcasing verdant wonderlands, arid plateaus, and one of the mightiest waterways in the United States. The outdoor wonderland attracts hikers, kiteboarders and windsurfers from around the world. Its hiking trails feature fern-lined canyons, gushing waterfalls, wildflower-strewn fields, and grand vistas of snow-capped peaks. With its plethora of…
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Driving Oregon’s McKenzie-Santiam Scenic Byway
In Oregon’s Cascade Mountains, two geologically fascinating ecosystems collide. On the west side of the Cascades, lush Douglas fir and red cedar forests conceal waterfalls and glimmering lakes. On the drier east side, ponderosa pines prevail and cloudless skies abound. Oregon’s two halves clash in everything from climate to politics to scenery. The area of their convergence reveals a place that is at once hot and cold, wet and dry, living and dead. Charred forests give birth to new life. Frigid streams contain pockets of boiling water. Lava fields adjoin…
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Central Oregon Coast Road Trip Attractions
The central Oregon coast is a land defined by its natural diversity. It is a sprawling patchwork of forests, lakes, dunes, and marine gardens. Along its tumultuous expanse, rocky headlands loom high above the ocean, providing astounding vistas of craggy rocks and offshore islands. While the northern coast receives most of the tourists and the southern coast is considered to be Oregon’s darling, the central coast is the section I hold closest to my heart. It is my childhood playground and the location of my elopement. I could go on…
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Hiking in the Oregon Badlands Wilderness
Bend Oregon is blessed with an abundance of nearby natural wonders. The town sits on the dry side of the Cascade Mountains, where forests and desert converge. Head west out of town, and you’ll be greeted by shimmering lakes, towering ponderosa forests, and snow-clad peaks. Head east, and the desert unfolds outward, as far as the eye can see. It isn’t difficult to understand why tourists flock to the mountains and lakes west of town. The area is a dreamland for hikers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts. But when crowds inundate…
