Ben DeJarnette

Choosing a lake to visit in Oregon is like deciding among five-star restaurants for dinner — there are no bad choices, only differing tastes. Are you looking for a serene picnic spot that’s off the beaten path? A place to swim or kayak? An iconic, picturesque backdrop? You can find any one of these options around Mt. Hood and the Columbia River Gorge, a protected National Scenic Area east of Portland best known for its breathtaking views, towering waterfalls and year-round outdoor recreation. Here’s how... More

A city’s nickname doesn’t always tell you much about what to expect when you visit. But TrackTown, USA? Once you visit Eugene in the southern Willamette Valley, you’ll understand why so many runners of all ages and abilities make the journey here every year to experience its one-of-a-kind culture, history and outdoorsy energy. More

The Oregon22 Heritage Trail showcases the lives of Oregon athletes who have won a track and field medal at the Olympics, World Athletics Championships or Goodwill Games and meet certain criteria. Each athlete’s accomplishments are commemorated with a silver-plated brass plaque in their birthplace or adopted Oregon hometown. More

As a former University of Oregon track and cross-country athlete, I ran more than 10,000 miles on the roads and trails of TrackTown USA, from a rolling hillside trail to paths through a sprawling filbert orchard. With great routes everywhere, it’s no wonder Eugene is considered the place the U.S. jogging movement was born. So where should you start? Here are my picks for seven of Eugene’s most memorable running routes. More