Ten Classic Oregon Adventures

Whether you're visiting Oregon for the first time or the fiftieth, here are ten iconic experiences that capture the magic of Oregon right here in the Eugene, Cascades & Coast region.

1. Hayward Field at University of Oregon

Eugene is TrackTown USA, and anyone looking for a classic Oregon adventure should put Hayward Field on their list. Athletes worldwide know about Hayward magic, a term used to describe the electricity in Hayward on meet days, where athletes and fans alike know that history-making moments are within reach. Experience Hayward magic yourself at a meet during track season (April-September) and be sure to check out Hayward Hall, the museum tucked under the grandstands, and get to know more about local legends like Steve Prefontaine, how Nike was born in a garage in Eugene and the world records that have been set here. 

2. Heceta Head Lighthouse

One of the most iconic sights on the Oregon Coast, Heceta Head Lighthouse has been a fixture of the coastline for over a century. Still a working lighthouse, it is the brightest light on the Oregon Coast, and its beam reaches 21 miles (33.8 km) out over the sea. Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint is a perfect place for whale watching, tide pooling and spending time on the beach any time of year. Stay in the former assistant lighthouse keeper's house, which is now a bed and breakfast, to see the lighthouse shine after dark.

3. Dee Wright Observatory

Fields of lava rock as far as the eye can see may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Oregon, but 65 square miles (168 sq km) of lava fields in the Cascade Mountains would like to be submitted for consideration. The volcanic activity in this region created the otherworldly landscape hundreds of years ago. In the 1930s, Dee Wright Observatory was built, offering panoramic views of the lava beds in addition to a relief map of the area, perfectly placed with a view of the Three Sisters Mountains to the south. 

4. Covered Bridges Scenic Tour Route

Oregon's covered bridges are living landmarks, each inviting you to discover unique architectural stories crafted from local timber and time-honored building traditions. No Oregon bucket list is complete without covered bridges; luckily, there are plenty to choose from. Find Office Covered Bridge in Oakridge, Belknap Covered Bridge on the McKenzie River, Wildcat Creek Covered Bridge on the way to Florence and 17 other bridges between them.

5. Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

All 363 miles (584 km) of Oregon coastline are open to the public, and the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is just the place to appreciate the uncrowded beauty. The perfect playground for thrill-seekers, you can learn to sandboard here, or kick it up a notch and rent an ATV or take a guided dune buggy tour across the constantly shifting landscape. These dunes are so iconic that they inspired Frank Herbert's "Dune", a classic science fiction novel and movie franchise. 

6. McKenzie River Trail

Nothing is more classic Oregon than trails through dense, green forests and the McKenzie River Trail really takes the cake. The brilliant blues of the McKenzie River wind in and out of view as you trek through the Cascade Mountains. Don't miss Sahalie and Koosah Falls cascading over lava rock cliffs and Clear Lake, with crystal clear water and petrified forest at the bottom. The photos you grab here will be of some of Oregon's most recognizable landmarks.

7. Sea Lion Caves

Take an elevator down 200 feet (61 m) to a cave the size of a football field at this classic Oregon Coast roadside attraction. Local sea lions flock to Sea Lion Caves year-round for a spot to rest and socialize. From the viewing overlook, you'll see them lounging on rocks, playing in the waves and living their best lives. Explore the visitor portion of the cave to learn more about sea lions and the history of the cave, and to get a unique view of the Heceta Head Lighthouse from the north end of the cave. And the gift shop is the perfect place to grab souvenirs and snacks. 

8. South Willamette Valley Wine Country

In Oregon, wine country is home to mild climates, views for days and casual tasting rooms. Your Birkenstocks will fit right in as you taste stellar Pinot at the vineyards where it was grown or any of the urban tasting rooms and local wine shops. Bring on your questions – local vintners are happy to discuss what makes their winery unique, from salmon-safe certifications to biodynamic growing methods to the pigs that call the vineyards home. Bring a picnic or order some farm-to-table food with your tasting and explore even more locally-grown flavors.

9. Terwilliger Hot Springs

Forest bathe while you soak in a natural hot spring at Terwilliger (also known as Cougar) Hot Springs. Unwind in one of six pools as the light filters through the trees above you and let the mineral water ease your cares away. Terwilliger is the perfect blend of wild and civilized, with natural pools and maintained facilities in a quiet part of the Willamette National Forest. The pools are clothing optional, so be prepared for other visitors to be embracing a more natural state. 

10. Salt Creek Falls

One of the highest waterfalls in Oregon, Salt Creek Falls is pretty much all bang and for very few bucks. A short, paved path from the parking lot (day-use fee) leads to a wheelchair-accessible viewing platform where you can take in the falls and the basin at the bottom and watch the river wind away through the valley. A steeper, dirt path leads to a lower viewing platform and a trail at the top will lead you past Too Much Bear Lake and to Diamond Creek Falls. In the winter, rent snowshoes to make the hike and spend some time at Salt Creek Sno-park just up the way.