Margot Bigg

If you’re looking to explore Oregon’s winter wonderland beyond Mt. Hood this season, you’ll find that Central, Southern and Eastern Oregon get some of the heaviest snowfall in the state. After a long day on the mountain skiing, snowboarding, sledding or tubing you’ll probably have worked up an appetite for some hearty food and drinks — preferably served up by a roaring fire. Here are some of the coziest spots to kick back, from casual breweries with outdoor fire pits to old-timey bars and restaurants... More

Winter is upon us, and with shorter nights and colder temperatures, it’s tempting to hunker down at home. Yet Oregon offers plenty of excuses to get out and about during the coziest time of the year, or at least connect with the community via a virtual winter event. From bedazzling light displays to celebrations of the arts, here are some Oregon events that will have you ready to bundle up and head out the door. More

With a prime location on the banks of the Clackamas River, at the western edge of the Mt. Hood National Forest, Estacada is an ideal spot for recreation lovers. The compact city’s riverfront location has made it popular among swimmers, whitewater rafters and anglers for generations, but even those who prefer staying dry won’t find a lack of things to do — from cycling through the woods to foraging for wild mushrooms. Here are but a few ways to play outdoors in Estacada any time... More

When temperatures drop and leaves change to hues of red and gold, it’s a signal of some of the best opportunities to get outside. Here’s a secret: Autumn is the best time for harvesting your own bay clams and crabs in Oregon, since it’s when crabs have molted and grown larger. It’s also a key season for migratory bird-watching, a beginner-friendly way to get out and enjoy nature without the need for fancy equipment or expensive guide services. More

Many Oregonians can trace their heritage to India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Bhutan, and Oregon’s South Asian community has long played an important role in shaping the state’s cultural and culinary scenes. There are many ways to celebrate the diverse cultures of South Asia, right here in Oregon. You can dine on Sri Lankan curries or Himalayan momos, load up a grocery cart full of Indian snacks and spices, shop for elegant sarees, watch a Bharatanatyam dance performance or boogie the night away... More

With a prime location on the banks of the Clackamas River, at the western edge of the Mt. Hood National Forest, Estacada is an ideal spot for recreation lovers. The compact city’s riverfront location has made it popular among swimmers, whitewater rafters and anglers for generations, but even those who prefer staying dry won’t find a lack of things to do — from cycling through the woods to foraging for wild mushrooms. Here are but a few ways to play outdoors in Estacada any time... More

Happy Valley is one of the Portland area’s best-kept secrets. This compact city 10 miles southeast of downtown Portland offers outstanding international dining options and more than its fair share of forested nature parks and hiking trails. A bonus: You can skip the car for a hassle-free experience. Happy Valley is easily accessible from downtown Portland via Trimet’s Max Green Line to Clackamas Town Center. Here are five awesome spots where you can experience the best of what Happy Valley has to offer. More