Outdoors & Nature
In Oregon, there is always something great to do in the outdoors. The distinctly different regions offer completely unique experiences: the coast that is completely accessible to the public, the snow covered volcanic peaks of the Cascades, the wide open spaces of the high desert in the East and the mighty Columbia River that over thousands of years has cut a deep gorge through mountain ranges. Even within the cities you will find an abundance of green spaces - Portland alone has over 1,000 parks and natural areas.
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7,700 years ago, the almost 12,000 feet (4000 m) high volcano Mt. Mazama erupted in an enormous explosion leaving nothing but a deep crater. Over hundreds of years, the crater filled with rain... |
Hiking is the best way to explore the outdoors of Oregon and experience the immense diversity of the state. Trails will take you to cliffs high over the sea on the rugged coast, to volcanic peaks,... |
About 40-65 million years ago, saber-tooth tigers and other early mammals roamed the John Day Fossil Beds, which were then tropical plains. The fossil remains of more than 2,200 different animal... |
The mighty Columbia River cuts more than a 4,000 feet (1000 m) deep gorge through the Cascade Mountains. Along the river, the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area stretches for 80 miles (130 km) and... |
Oregon?s dramatically diverse landscape is in part the result of millions of years of volcanic activity. One of the most fascinating and accessible volcanic sites is the Newberry National Volcanic... |
The Oregon Coast is truly special: unlike other states, the entire coastline is publicly accessible. State parks dot the coastline and no gates, fences or private property keep anyone from walking... |