Oregon Overview

Overview

Oregon is the central of three Pacific coast states, sandwiched between Washington State and California. Most visits are to the damper and milder western third of the state, where heavily forested mountains give way to large areas of sand dunes and empty beaches, with estuaries choked by fallen trees. Craggy rocks off shore make for a dramatic coastline and for over 600 kilometres one can drive the length of the State, stopping off at small resorts along the way. There is a wide range of recreational activities. If kite flying is one of your loves you will be in your element. For the more adventurous the Rogue River in the south gives the opportunity for white-water rafting, as does the Snake River in the east. Here Hells Canyon, on the Idaho border, flows through the deepest gorge on the continent.

In the north, the mighty Columbia River forms a large part of the state boundary. The Historic River Highway provides a scenic tour of the gorge with Oregon's most visited attraction, the Multnomah Falls (the second highest in the USA), cascading down from the slopes of glacier covered Mount Hood, the highest point in the state.

The Cascades, the chain of volcanic mountains, dividing the state from north to south, provide a haven for the lovers of snow sports in winter, with plenty of spectacular walking and driving at other times. The brilliant blue waters of Crater Lake are a very scenic example of the remnants of a once mighty volcano.

With the spectacular backdrop of Mount Hood, Portland is the largest city in Oregon. It is an important freshwater port near the junction of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers. Aptly named "City of Roses" it has a large rose festival in June and the International Rose Test gardens, in the extensive Washington Park.

For those interested in bird watching, there are large wildlife refuges in the Klamath area to the south. Watch out for bald eagles, the American national bird!

With the spectacular backdrop of Mount Hood, Portland is the largest city in Oregon. It is an important freshwater port near the junction of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers. Aptly named ?City of Roses? it has a large rose festival in June and the |International Rose Test gardens, in the extensive Washington Park.

For those interested in bird watching, there are large wildlife refuges in the Klamath area to the south. Watch out for bald eagles, the American national bird!