Summer in Oregon means floating on shimmering rivers, devouring triple scoops of ice cream in fresh waffle cones and sipping frosty pints of craft beer during rooftop concerts. But at the state’s most iconic sites, it can also mean crowds. The scores of folks traveling here is understandable given the undeniable beauty and buzzing activity of the season. Still, summer isn’t for taking the paths most trodden — it’s prime time for uncovering the state’s best-kept secrets and discovering a fresh side of spots you think you know well.
Float the Grande Ronde
The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act is more than 50 years old, and Oregon’s 30-plus designated waterways remain as stunning as ever. Adventurers in search of crisp currents and breathtaking views will revel in the Grande Ronde River, whether you choose to raft in rugged solo kayaks, in sturdy flotillas made for floating parties or via guided tours. Find more river adventures here, and consider booking an expert-led, all-inclusive regenerative tour, where you can help leave the place better than you found it. Go Wild: American Adventures and First Nature Tours offer a variety of river- and land-based experiences across the state.
Chase Waterfalls
Have a hankering to witness thousands of gallons of freshwater cascade in lush Pacific Northwest forests? You’re in luck. While there is a seemingly endless number of waterfalls to see in Oregon, Southern Oregon has at least 13 in close proximity that are perfect for bringing the kids. Round out the nature-focused trip by reserving campsites at Oregon State Parks in the area. Wherever you set out on a trail, make sure to bring your 10 Essentials for hiking with you.
Stargaze ‘n’ Sip
There’s no better time of the year to scope the star clusters than in summer, with warm weather and clear skies to boot. Astronomy enthusiasts in Central Oregon will proudly help you understand the universe — and the area’s beer scene. Hopservatory perfectly pairs craft brews with stellar observation amid three floors, all jam-packed with science, curiosity and outer space. Grown-ups and kids alike are sure to leave giddy. Get inspired and book a guided stargazing experience in Oregon, held year-round.
South Coast Secrets
Plot 3 days of adventure along this southern stretch of Oregon’s 363-mile-long coastline. Take selfies with life-sized dinosaurs at the Prehistoric Gardens, bust out the binoculars for wildlife spotting at Harris Beach State Park and catch sorbet-colored sunsets at the aptly named Secret Beach (within Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor). Plan even more local adventures through South Coast Tours, where the expert guides take the guesswork out of the planning and logistics. You can paddle, fish, scuba, snorkle, surf, take a scenic boat ride or go mountain bike riding — you can even do a pedal and paddle combo tour, and bike and kayak in the same day through some of the most epic landscapes on the South Coast.
Car-Free in the Valley
Ride the rails and leave the car behind as you explore the vineyards, decadent farm-to-fork dinners and picturesque parks of the Willamette Valley wine country without a car. Hop on and off the regional Amtrak Cascades line, and get ready for an excursion full of history, views and, of course, pinot. Find more ways to travel across Oregon by train.
Keep Portland Weird
Take Portland’s unofficial slogan to heart by scoping some of the city’s quirkier sites. Standouts include the Freakybuttrue Peculiarium and a tour of Oregon’s sweetest doughnut shops. Outdoor enthusiasts can trot along these lesser-known Forest Park trails, and for movie buffs, a Saturday night stopover at the Clinton Street Theater for The Rocky Horror Picture Show — reoccurring weekly for more than 40 years — is a neighborhood tradition. Find your inspiration in this ultimate guide to summer events in Portland.
Hike the Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge is a wonderland for hikers, with many iconic and lesser-known trails leading to panoramic viewpoints and misty waterfalls: Wildflowers at Tom McCall Nature Preserve stay in bloom well through the end of June, and you can careen through the chartreuse, lichen-covered basalt toward Latourell Falls (just be sure to arrive early or visit on weekdays to avoid crowds). Summer is an ideal time to explore the quieter trails in the eastern stretch of the Gorge, including soaking up the sweeping views on the easy-to-access Mosier Plateau Trail.
Pro tip: Look to visit the gorge without a car, to avoid parking and traffic hassles, avoid timed-entry permits and truly enjoy the ride.
