To really know our state, you have to get out and experience it.
Oregon is a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering endless ways to enjoy the state’s natural beauty on foot, by bike or by paddle. Whether you’re hiking to a hidden waterfall, cycling through valleys, birding in a coastal refuge or kayaking a crystal-clear lake, Oregon invites you to get outside and experience adventure at your own pace.
What makes outdoor recreation in Oregon so unique? It’s the incredible variety of landscapes (rugged coastline, high desert, dense forests, alpine peaks and wild rivers) that are all within a day’s drive. You can bike the Oregon Coast Bike Route one day and hike among towering lava formations the next. Spot bald eagles, herons and migrating shorebirds in world-renowned birding areas or paddle through the calm waters of Cascade lakes beneath snow-capped mountains.
This is why Oregon is one of the best places in the world for outdoor adventure, year-round. If you’re looking for world-class golfing, cycling, kayaking, skiing, rafting, windsurfing or just relaxing, Oregon is the place for you.
Order your free travel guide today.
Top tips for enjoying Oregon’s outdoors:
- Before venturing out, check road and weather conditions at TripCheck.com.
- Always stay on designated trails, know your abilities, carry your Ten Essentials for hiking and know how to use them.
- Read up on what you need to know about wildfires in Oregon and be on the lookout for wildfire-related closures, smoke advisories and wildfire-impacted areas.
- If you’re planning a water adventure, here are important rules that just may save your life.
- Never swim alone, know your limits and don’t mix alcohol with recreation.
- Wear a properly fitted life jacket — it’s required for ages 12 and under on boats and highly recommended for others regardless of age, especially in cold water temperatures. Many lake areas have free life jacket loaner kiosks if you don’t have your own.
- When you’re paddling, beware of changing winds or other boats creating large waves or wakes. Know how to maneuver into waves to avoid being swamped.
- Ask an expert about the right type of leash to purchase for your paddleboard, since the wrong type can be fatal if you fall and get tangled. Quick-release leashes attach to your life jacket and board, and are highly recommended when paddling on any moving water.
- Stay close to shore and avoid fast-moving waters if you’re newer to water sports.
- Paddlers are required to purchase and have on hand a Waterway Access Permit, which can be purchased online.
