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The Wonders of Oregon

Along the stretch of rocky coastline are nine majestic lighthouses, standing guard as beacons of light and safety during storms or fog. Five of these picturesque structures are still in use. The others are monuments to sailors who brave the wild Oregon waters. Yaquina Head Lighthouse, Newport © Hise Studio

The Pacific Ocean on one side, a series of lakes on the other -- with a vast beach right in the middle! The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area beckons you to its warm and inviting sand dunes. Visitors can hike, camp, and ride off-road in designated areas for escapades through the ever-changing drifts. Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, © Robert Potts

Portland is a marvel of urban planning -- visit its rejuvenated downtown area and soak up the laidback, historic atmosphere. Grab a coffee, listen to live music, and enjoy an afternoon of people-watching. Portland’s Pioneer Square, © Rick Schafer

Known as "The City of Roses," Portland lies at the junction of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers. High above the city, wander through fragrant paths of rose bushes at the International Rose Test Garden. More than 500 varieties have been cultivated continuously since 1917. Portland International Rose Test Garden, © Oregon Tourism Commission

Snow-capped and serene, Mount Hood is actually a dormant volcano. The mountain is surrounded by an immense national forest, making it the perfect area for snowsports, trekking, and other recreational activities. At 11,239 feet, Mount Hood stands the tallest peak in Oregon. Mt Hood and Trillium Lake, © Bob Pool

Travel the Historic Columbia River Highway Scenic Byway and wind your way along the water trail, complete with falls, locks, dams, and more. The spectacular Columbia River Gorge also offers superb hiking trails through the dense wilderness. Rowena Loop, west of The Dalles, © Jeffrey Torretta

Silver Falls State Park is Oregon's largest state park, featuring several looped hiking trails meandering past ten waterfalls, many of which you can walk behind. Spend an afternoon or a whole week exploring the lush expanse of this forested park. Silver Falls, east of Salem, © Larry Geddis

The McKenzie River Valley in late spring is a magnificent sight -- blooming rhododendrons create a riot of color across the Cascade foothills. The river itself is one of Oregon's most popular white-water rafting trails, offering thrills and chills to willing adventurers. The McKenzie River, east of Eugene, © Shirley Petersen

Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States, formed more than 6,500 years ago in the mouth of a collapsed volcano. The lake is renowned for its phenomenally crystal-blue waters. Crater Lake National Park is open year round at its southern entrance. Crater Lake, © Rick Schafer

Naturally carved within an outcropping of solid marble, Oregon Caves National Monument comprises a series of large rooms and corridors exquisitely decorated with stalactites, flowstone curtains, and columns. Discovered in 1874, the caves are one of southern Oregon's oldest attractions. Oregon Caves National Monument, near Cave Junction, © Steve Terrill

Mount Bachelor is well-known for its skiing and snowboarding areas. But even during the offseason, the mountain offers a myriad of outdoor recreations. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, ride a chairlift to the top and admire a panoramic view of the Cascades. Mount Bachelor, west of Bend, © Ray Atkeson Image Archive

Smith Rock State Park is home to some incredibly craggy and rough formations, luring rock-climbers from around the globe to test their skills. The park is at its most mysterious during sunrise and sunset when the outcroppings seem to glow. Smith Rock State Park, north of Redmond, © Dale Horchner

A favorite of photographers, the Painted Hills of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument feature nature's watercolors at their best. The unusual stripes of colors in the hills are actually layers of weathering volcanic ash, deposited up to 40 million years ago. John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, northwest of John Day, © Ray Atkeson Image Archive

Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, the deepest river gorge in North America, lives up to its name during the scorchingly hot summer months. It is a popular spot for boaters, swimmers, and hikers, all of whom enjoy the cool waters and challenging trails. Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, east of Enterprise, © Jeffrey Torretta