Eileen Garvin

For some trips you want to take the road less traveled, get off the beaten path and explore unknown back roads and hidden byways. Other times, well, you just want to get there already. Whether you’re looking to maximize your time or don’t feel like facing the drive (especially in winter, when road conditions can be unpredictable), why not fly into or near your destination? I More

The first time I ventured into this secret winter wonderland, I went big — circumnavigating Crater Lake on skis. That meant three days and nights of snow camping. The unencumbered night skies and bluebird days exceeded my wildest expectations in their beauty. More

Since I first heard of it, I’ve wanted to explore this 79-mile trail winding through the Umpqua National Forest between Diamond Lake and Roseburg. Completed in 1997, the trail follows the high ridgeline above the river, snakes through towering forests of hemlock, fir and pine, and skirts multiple waterfalls as it follows the shining rapids of the river. More

I’m walking slowly with my eyes trained on the ground. I’m noting the wildflowers scattered along the path — huckleberry blossoms, bear grass and avalanche lilies. I’m “wandering” through this patch of woods, which is exactly what the Pacific Northwest Bumble Bee Atlas project says I should do in my role as citizen scientist. Here in the Mount Hood Wilderness, I scan the woods for furry winged bodies as part of the organization’s tri-state effort to survey the habitat of these important and often unrecognized... More

From the depths of Hells Canyon to the heights of Steens Mountain, Eastern Oregon’s ancient landscapes burst at the seams with rugged beauty and teeming wildlife. And spring just might be the perfect time to visit. More

The Willamette Valley has a wintry secret: When the cool ocean air hits the backbone of the Cascade Range, the west-facing slopes transform into a powdery playground. Mountain peaks tower above the Willamette National Forest, with its hidden caches of snow. The rushing McKenzie River and companion creeks burble along, laced with ice. While most people head to Oregon’s better-known winter destinations, the Willamette Valley lures adventurous travelers to a quiet wonderland with fewer crowds and plenty of stoke. Whether you seek vertical velocity, groomed... More

The pioneer spirit is alive and well in Oregon. Get out and experience it for yourself during Oregon Wine Month. More

Sweet with your salty? Savory with your sugar? We’re known for pushing the gustatory envelope around here, and Oregon treat makers are no exception. Take Salt & Straw, for example. The ice cream empire now with three Portland locations — plus its whimsical spin-off, a soft-serve scoop shop called Wiz Bang Bar at Pine Street Market,… More

This winter, she came early and with fury: The siren song of snow. While we’ve had great flurries of powder where we live and work, it’s a true winter wonderland at Oregon’s ski areas, with their snowy peaks, loaded cornices and deep powder stashes. Around the corner, there’s a layer of white carpeting the bunny… More

Located less than 4 miles from Oregon’s capital city, the town of Keizer is often thought of together with Salem. But this independent little community has an identity all its own. Originally named for two immigrant farmer brothers, Keizer has become regionally known for its annual iris festival in May — a flower-focused celebration with a… More