Scenic Sights of the Northwest
Whether you’re interested in enjoying the vibrant restaurant and cocktail culture of Portland or the scenic vistas and beautiful parks the Northwest has to offer, Oregon offers a little bit for everybody. While those who live in Oregon already know about the treasures the state holds, we offer this list of must see sights those of you have come to stay here at Phoenix RV Park, the best RV park in Oregon.
1. Columbia River Highway
The Columbia River Highway hold the notable distinction as being one of the first highways in the country designed specifically for scenic driving. The first section of the highway ran between the cities of Portland and The Dalles, and was opened in 1915. Since the highway was constructed with sightseeing in mind, the Columbia River Highway has plenty of scenic viewpoint stops and nearby hiking trails so travelers can take in the splendor of the area. Make sure to take note of the stretch of highway located between Troutdale and the Multnomah Falls, which offers stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge.
2. Crater Lake National Park
Located in the southern part of the state, Crater Lake was once the site of Mount Mazama prior to its eruption over 7,500 years ago. The volcanic caldera that remains from the mountain’s violent destruction has filled with water over the millennia to become one of the most scenic spots in all of Oregon. Visitors travel from all over to marvel at the lake’s stunning clarity and brilliant blue color. The lake features a scenic drive that circles the caldera, which contains a number of impressive scenic viewpoints, picnic sites, and a visitors center.
3. Oregon Shakespeare Festival
A renowned theatrical event that takes places between mid-February to late October each year, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival offers a chance for lovers of the Bard to truly immerse themselves in a variety of productions, back stage tours, workshops, and informal discussions. Hosted in the scenic town of Ashland, the Festival offers both contemporary and classic retellings of Shakespeare’s famous, and not so famous, plays. While in Ashland, take the time to enjoy the city’s fantastic local dinning, parks, and shopping.
4. Lewis & Clark National Historic Park
Known for their adventure as they mapped out the lands bought by the U.S. in the Louisiana Purchase, the Lewis & Clark National Historic Park actually comprises 12 different locations that the daring duo traversed on their way north along the Pacific coastline. From the Fort Clatsop Visitor Center to the Cape Disappointment State Park, visitors can feel as if they have recreated this historic journey as they travel from northern Oregon into southern Washington.
5. Washington Park
A hub of family friendly activities located in Portland, the Washington Park features the Oregon Zoo, World Forestry Center Discovery Museum, Japanese Garden, Portland Children’s Museum, Portland International Rose Test Garden, and the Hoyt Arboretum. In addition to these great destinations, visitors can also spend the day walking the park’s hiking trails, enjoying a family picnic, or spending time on the playgrounds.