Oregon reveals a natural beauty that changes with the seasons. And each time of year has its own wonders, making Oregon a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Adventures in the snow, springtime biking trips, water sports in warm weather, wine tourism in the fall... You'll be spoilt for choice. We have selected for you an activity to do every month of the year. But if you are not available in the month in question, don't worry: many websites are open for several months, or even all year round. Dive into Oregon's diverse opportunities for activities and visits. One thing's for sure: Oregon is an adventure state!
January
In winter, why lock yourself in your house? When the snow is coming, snowshoe trekking is the perfect way to get a breath of fresh alpine air. For a great view of Lake of the Woods and Mount McLoughlin, snowshoe through Great Meadow Sno-Park, nestled in the heart of the Cascade Range. Winter has never been better.
February
If a road trip on the picturesque Time Scenic Byway is spectacular at any time of the year, driving there in February really makes it seem like the road is yours alone! This typical road, punctuated with fossil sites and booming mining towns, offers a true journey back in time. Among the various surprises of such an extraordinary journey, you can admire the majestic setting of the Painted Hills, those hills that seem to have been painted, the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. Behold the brightly coloured streaks that have slowly formed over millions of years.
March
No need to leave Portland to enjoy the joys and beauty of nature. Forest Park is an incredible forest in the middle of the city with over 128 kilometers of trails. Take the Wildwood Trail, a 48-kilometre route to stretch your legs through lush vegetation and animal life.
April
Where conventional ATVs would get bogged down, fatbikes seem to float. Rent a fatbike in any season to ride through snow or sand along the Wild Rivers Coast Scenic Bikeway. April is the perfect month for biking on Oregon's south coast, where the 98-kilometre-long landscape is punctuated by dunes, ponds and spectacular rock formations.
May
The discovery of Oregon's vineyard landscapes will leave you with lasting memories. Vista Balloon Adventures takes visitors up in the air, above the Willamette Valley: you'll admire the hills, the farms, the Willamette River and, on a clear day, no less than 10 volcanic peaks! Not available in May? Don't worry, these hot air balloon tours are usually offered from April to October.
June
Climb to the treetops and zip down the Fremont-Winema National Forest zip line. Experienced guides accompany you on the Crater Lake Zipline, a zip line that offers stunning views of the Cascade Mountains. A zip line ride is a dynamic way to experience Oregon's nature. Crater Lake Zipline is open from April to November.
July
Summer temperatures are coming... Wonderful opportunity to enjoy water sports! Raft down the rapids of the Rogue River. This river is one of the 209 National Wild and Scenic Rivers in the United States. Whether you're a rafting enthusiast or a rafting novice, you'll enjoy the enchanting scenery and wildlife. You have 65 kilometers to compose your ideal trip.
August
Take a ride on the Wallowa Lake cable car. The cabin climbs to more than 1,120 metres to offer, as you approach the summit of Mount Howard, a sublime panorama of the village and its lake, Wallowa Lake Village and Wallowa Lake. The climb takes 15 breathtaking minutes, after which you can explore various hiking trails or enjoy a meal at the Summit Grill.
September
Towards the end of the summer, Oregoners are always getting their bikes out. Cycling in Oregon is a "national sport," the best way to enjoy the fall colors and get into the winter mood. Discover the Hood River Valley, as well as the farm roads between vineyards and orchards. Enjoy wine tasting and other farm experiences.
October
Dig up the souvenir to bring back from Oregon: Thunderegg agate. This tangerine-sized stone has a heart of glittering quartz. A true testament to Oregon's rich geography and mineralogy. Find yours at Richardson's Rock Ranch in Madras. During the digging season (March through October or so), try your hand at digging for gems. Otherwise, the ranch's stone and mineral shop is open year-round.
November
Explore the Oregon coast on horseback. C&M Stables offers horseback riding for all levels. Take a ride on the beach, through the sand dunes or in the forest. Give your ride a special colour by opting for a sunset ride on the beach.
December
When winter comes, snow activities and games are a must. Go tobogganing with the family on Oregon's highest mountain, Mount Hood, and enjoy 22 Sno-Park recreation areas. There's so much to do in the winter months that between snowshoeing, tobogganing and dog sledding, you may have to come back for more... And not just once!
Access
Portland International Airport (PDX) is Oregon's largest airport. There are numerous direct domestic flights to Portland from a variety of cities. Connections to smaller airports are provided, including Eugene (EUG), Medford (MFR) and Redmond (RDM). Car rentals are also available.