6 Reasons Why You Need To Visit Oregon

If there is such a thing as an ‘it’ state, then Oregon is making all the headlines in 2017. Not only has Portland emerged as one of the most exciting cities in North America, but as more people head for the great outdoors, they’re finding Oregon has some of America’s most awe-inspiring wilderness to explore.

Incredible wilderness

There’s so much to see when it comes to wildlife and, best of all, everything is within reach from Portland, so you can experience some of the best cuisine and nightlife the West Coast has to offer before unwinding in the great outdoors. The Wallowa Mountains are perfect for hiking, while Crater Lake National Park rivals any of the majestic fjords in Scandinavia. Looking for the perfect Instagram shot? Head to the lavender fields in the valley of Mount Hood (cute dog not included).

Fields of lavender in the foothills of Mount Hood

Hidden surprises

View from the Double Rainbow Bridge at Lan Su Chinese Garden in Portland, Oregon

Unrivalled adventure

From camping near Mount Hood to hot-air ballooning over the never-ending high desert of Central Oregon, you’re bound to find something for even the most hard-core adrenaline junkies. Take a scenic bikeway tour past Smith Rock and explore miles of pristine coastline using specially designed bikes that can ride on sand. For the super sporty, there’s even one of America’s most gruelling runs, which takes place every year and passes through Springwater Corridor and Willamette River trails.

Wine country

Any wine lovers out there should definitely make the trip and explore some of Oregon’s incredible wine country. Ledger David Cellars near Crater Lake in Southern Oregon is a must-visit, while McMinnville wine country in Willamette Valley is home to dozens of wineries and vineyards. Experience some new-world classics such as Oregon’s famous pinot noir, all with stunning views of the surrounding sun-soaked hillsides and some culinary treats.

Breathtaking coastline

With the Pacific Ocean stretching out to the horizon, you’ll be glad you made the trip to Oregon’s stunning coastline. If you love long walks, there are plenty of hiking trails to choose from where you can explore incredible phenomena such as Haystack Rock on Cannon Beach. It’s accessible by foot during low tide and home to some incredible wildlife. Why not rent a car and take a drive down the coastal US Highway 101.

Experience the Wild West

You can’t visit Oregon without experiencing some West Coast traditions from the days of the Wild West. Pendleton Round-Up, one of America’s largest rodeo festivals, has events including competitive barrel racing and horse relays. There are gold rush ghost towns to explore, not to mention stunning canyons and open plains, where campers can’t help but feel as though they’ve been transported to the past.

landscape with balloons floating in the air

KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?

Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.