Trip Ideas

Taj Morgan, Director of Content Strategy
Author
Taj Barnhart Morgan

Taj Barnhart Morgan is the Director of Content Strategy for Travel Lane County. A journalism graduate from the University of Oregon, Taj has two decades of special event management and hospitality marketing experience in San Diego, CA and Maui, HI. Passionate about mothering, and back to her Oregon roots, she is discovering the Eugene, Cascades & Coast region all over again through the eyes of her daughter.

Oakridge in Spring

As the snow starts to melt in the Cascades, springtime in Oakridge is invigorating with its lush greenery, rushing creeks and frisky wildlife. This is your destination for amazing birding, fishing and waterfalls! While the towns of Oakridge and Westfir are likely to be snow-free, be prepared for…

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Top Things to Do in Spring

It feels good to get outside! Spring brings clear and sunny weather mixed with clouds and rain – and the occasional warm, sunny days that hint at the glorious summer that will come. March, April and May are a wonderful time to explore the region's natural and agricultural landscapes. We've compiled…

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Junction City Wine Country

The northern stretch of the popular "Territorial Wine Trail" winds through the Lower Long Tom AVA in Junction City. This corner of the Willamette Valley's wine country is known for its scenic countryside and agricultural farmlands. Gentle rolling hills dotted with sheep and vineyards are framed by…

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"Animal House" Movie History

National Lampoon's irreverent and slapstick comedy "Animal House" was filmed in the Eugene, Cascades & Coast region in the late 70s. Today, this both hilarious and present-day politically-incorrect movie has become a cultural centerpiece in Eugene. Singing "Shout" is a beloved football tradition…

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Road Trip: Oakridge

At 1,200 feet elevation, these mountain communities are starting to thaw in the spring weather. Put on your mud boots to scout the trails. Forests will be sporting a fresh veneer of green, rivers and creeks will be bursting and the birds will be singing! Spring is not the time for mountain biking…

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Road Trip: Florence

Driving out to Florence for a springtime getaway is an Oregon tradition. As the days get longer, it's a chance to take in fresh ocean air, feel the cold sand on your feet and relax with only the sound of the ocean waves to keep you company. While you'll want to be sure to pack plenty of layers…

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Plan Your Garden

It's that time of year to start bringing your yard to life — from flowers to trees, from veggies to fruit. The Willamette Valley is a bountiful destination for gardeners seeking heritage seeds and plants, tools, supplies, and tips from master gardeners. Our many small farms and vineyards paired…

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Heceta Head Lighthouse Shines Year-round

This is a lighthouse for all seasons! An Instagram-worthy lighthouse on the Oregon Coast, the Heceta Head Lighthouse is a year-round attraction for visitors traveling Highway 101. Close to Florence, the Oregon dunes and the famous Sea Lion Caves, the lighthouse is a must-visit site. Here you can…

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Rainy Day Hikes

Hiking in the rain is an invigorating Oregon experience. All you need are some good hiking boots for puddles, a steady step (it can be slippery on the trails), a water bottle (always) and a rain jacket with a hood. See our Adventure Checklist for more hiking tips. Once you are out in the rain, on a…

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Plan a Spring Break Road Trip

You've got a week off, a car, some gas money and hopefully good spring weather. It's time to go exploring! Remember before hitting the open road to check off our adventure checklist so that you'll be ready for whatever spring weather rolls in and whatever fabulous adventures you encounter. Here are…

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Explore Our Communities

Visit the Eugene, Cascades & Coast Visitor Center in downtown Eugene. Find information on things to do and see in Lane County, purchase park passes and locally-made gifts and souvenirs, and…