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 suggestions for things to do this spring, along with popular springtime blogs.

Spring Road Trips

Cruise the back country roads to see spring casting its misty green veil across the local farms. Follow the South Willamette Valley Food Trail to see where the region's food is locally sourced. Along the way, discover freshly baked bread made from grain milled in Junction City, and honey gathered from bees feasting on our local wildflowers. Book a weekend getaway in wine country, in the mountains or on the coast — wherever your wheels roll!

Oregon Coast Play

Just an hour west of Eugene, the Oregon Coast awaits with the promise of wide-open beaches, salty breezes and dramatic vistas. 

April Showers...

It may be occasionally wet out there, but that has never stopped anyone from Oregon from enjoying this amazing place. All you need is the right layers, dry socks and a positive outlook.

... Bring May Flowers

Discover spring wildflowers! The Willamette Valley is lush and green, blessed with budding flowers in area wetlands, parks and forests. Look for local flowering favorites including daffodils (the first bloom beginning in March), rhododendrons, cherry blossoms, wild iris and camas. As warmer months continue, flowering trees and plants burst into bloom at higher elevations. By mid-summer, mountain hikes will also include bright bursts of color.

Spring Hiking & Outdoor Adventures

Notice the spring in your step as you venture out to the region's hiking trails, bike paths or golf courses. Nature is waking up everywhere, which makes spring birding particularly rewarding. Fern Ridge Reservoir is a popular birding destination, with a diversity of habitat from marsh to grasslands to woodlands. So is Oakridge, up in the mountains.

From coastal lakes to rushing rivers in the Cascade Mountains, springtime fishing is promising. The shallow waters are warming up, insects are hatching, weather conditions are gentler on anglers and the fish are on the move. Cast out your line for trout, Spring Chinook and Steelhead. Local outfitters can provide gear, instruction and even take you to their favorite spots.

If you are driving along the coastal highway, keep a look out over the ocean because the whales are migrating. This is the prime season for whale watching from scenic coastal viewpoints. Pack along a picnic!