When I was first planning a visit to Oregon, I didn’t know much about the state other than its location on north west coast of the U.S. I remember being asked by my family overseas, “What’s in Oregon?” After spending 2 weeks in Oregon, I can definitely give a better answer to that question. Let me share some of my favorite destinations in pictures to provide Oregon travel photo inspiration for you.
Oregon is a postcard-perfect destination in the Pacific Northwest. I highly recommend adding Oregon to your bucket list. Let me show you 20 photos to inspire your own trip to Oregon.
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20 Beautiful Nature Photos to Inspire Your Oregon Adventure
1. Portland view from the Pittock Mansion
If you’re looking for a place to see a panoramic view of Portland with Mount Hood in the distance, stop by Pittock Mansion. This mansion not only offers the best city views, but you can also learn about the Pittocks, who lived in the mansion, and their influence on the city of Portland.
2. Silver Falls State Park
Oregon has an abundance of waterfalls. If you travel south of Portland, you will find Silver Falls State Park, which has the greatest density of waterfalls. Explore the trail of Ten Falls to find all ten waterfalls. You can walk up close and even behind some of them.
3. The Willamette Valley
Willamette Valley is known for its production of Pinot Noir. Take a trip to one of Oregon’s wineries to take a sip and admire the beauty of the valley covered in vineyards and surrounded by mountains.
4. The Crown Point State Scenic Corridor
There are lots of ways to explore Columbia River Gorge. You can drive along I-84, or you can take exit 22 and make your way to the Crown Point State Scenic Corridor. This road will provide you with scenic views of the gorge from above. There are also plenty of lookouts, the most popular one being Crown Point Vista House.
5. Trillium Lake at Mount Hood National Forest
Mount Hood is spectacular from all directions and viewpoints. To take a closer look at this iconic volcano, visit Trillium Lake. The view of this majestic mountain is easily accessible from a parking lot, and there’s a 2-mile loop around the lake if you want to stretch your legs.
6. The Painted Hills at the John Day Fossil Beds
The Painted Hills are one of three units of the John Day Fossil Beds. They do, in fact, look as if Mother Nature took a paintbrush and painted horizontal strokes of different colors across the hills. They are quite a unique attraction of Oregon, well worth a trip.
7. Pilot Butte in Bend
Pilot Butte in the city of Bend offers 360° views of the city of Bend and its surrounding areas. It’s the perfect location to catch a sunrise or sunset. On a clear day, you can even see the Three Sisters, Mount Jefferson, Black Butte, and Mount Hood in the background.
8. Smith Rock State Park
Near Bend, you will find Smith Rock State Park. It shows you just how diverse nature is in Oregon. You can easily move from coastline to forests to canyons. The Misery Ridge trail offers the best views of the park. On a clear day, you can spot both Mount Hood and the Cascades, a mountain range.
9. Umpqua National Forest
Umpqua National Forest offers a little bit of everything. You can stop at one of the lakes, visit hot springs, or go chasing waterfalls. There is a lot of natural beauty in one spot, along with plenty of outdoor activities.
10. The McCredie Hot Springs
The McCredie Hot Springs are tucked in by the river in the Willamette National Forest. You’ll find several pools of varied temperatures on both sides of the river. Admire the natural beauty of Oregon while soaking in free hot springs.
11. Crater Lake
Crater Lake National Park has the deepest freshwater lake in the United States. Make a visit to Oregon’s national park and admire the colors and clarity of this beautiful lake.
12. The Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
The beauty of the Oregon coastline does not disappoint. The Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor offers rugged beaches, hiking trails, and rock formations that will leave you in awe. Of particular interest is the natural bridges, which are well worth hiking to explore.
13. Face Rock Scenic Viewpoint
Oregon has a lot of cute coastal towns worth visiting. The coastline remains beautiful and rugged throughout the state, offering many interesting rock formations. Right in the town of Bandon, you will find Face Rock Scenic Viewpoint. Can you spot a face?
14. Oregon Dunes
When I think of Oregon, sand dunes are not what comes to mind, yet there are plenty of them stretching from North Bend to Florence. Get an ATV rental for a fun way to explore a large chunk of Oregon dunes.
15. Agate Beach
Agate Beach located near Newport is one of Oregon’s widest sandy beaches. This beach that stretches for 4 miles gets its name from the agates found there.
16. Yaquina Head Natural Area
Yaquina Head Natural Area is located near Newport. You can see sea lions bathing in the sun, take a closer look at marine life during low tides, bird watch, and explore the lighthouse, all in one place.
17. Thor’s Well
Thor’s Well is a unique rock formation on the Oregon coast near the city of Yachats. This well fills with water and then overflows. It is best to explore during high tides.
18. Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach is an iconic small town on Oregon’s coastline. Its proximity to Portland, Oregon’s largest city, makes it a popular tourist destination. Stroll along the beach and stop by the famous Haystack Rock.
19. Ecola State Park
If you were impressed with Cannon Beach, take a trip to Ecola State Park for even better views of Cannon Beach from the hill. You don’t have to travel far, as you will find the best views of Cannon Beach near the parking lot.
20. The International Rose Test Garden in Portland
Portland is a city of roses. The variety and vastness of the rose garden is unlike any other I have seen. Go smell the roses or just stroll through the garden at the International Rose Test Garden in Portland.
Overall
There is so much more to discover in Oregon! If my 20 photos inspired you to plan your own Oregon adventure, I also share resources on the blog to help. Check out my 2-week Oregon road trip itinerary and resources in my Planning your perfect Oregon road trip article. Both articles provide detailed information to plan your trip to Oregon and fall in love with this beautiful state.
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