- Oregon offers many treasures and scenic routes for your enjoyment
- Look for wildlife, beautiful landforms, and unique vistas as you go
- Make sure you’re prepared beforehand with adequate insurance coverage
- Don’t forget to pack for any unexpected events
Oregon is a beautiful state that is full of surprises, beautiful landscapes, and wildlife.
Whether you want to take in the beautiful scenery that Oregon offers or view some of the interesting wildlife that abounds in the natural terrain, Oregon is an exciting place to visit.
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What stands out in Oregon as unique?
There are many undiscovered treasures in the state or Oregon that you may find interesting.
– Thor’s Well
Thor’s Well is a unique formation of water and a natural well that drains the overflow of the incoming tide of the Oregon Coast into a seemingly bottomless pit.
It resembles a small Niagara Falls coming together in a circular pattern of endless water flow.
– The Painted Hills
Located at The John Day Fossil Beds, the Painted Hills feature layers of colorful soil that create the landscape there.
– Pillars of Rome
The Pillars of Rome lie in the heart of the Jordan Valley, and they are made of fossil-bearing clay. Their golden color makes them a site to behold.
– Crater Lake
Crater Lake is a much-talked about landmark of Oregon and is considered one of Oregon’s “crowned jewels.” One look at it and you’ll know why.
These are just a few unique formations and landforms you will enjoy when traveling Oregon.
Diverse Landscapes
When driving in Oregon, you may see many of these landforms as well that are excellent opportunities for photos and digital albums.
- Mountains – There are many beautiful landforms you can see in Oregon including tall mountains such as Mt. Hood and many others.
- Deserts – Oregon features many desert areas as well that you may encounter while driving through the Beaver State.
- Rivers – Rivers abound in Oregon such as The Columbia River, Snake River, and others.
- Lakes – Crater Lake, Crescent Lake, and Waldo Lake are three of many lakes you can see while traveling the state.
- The Ocean – As you travel the Oregon coastline, there are plenty of opportunities to catch pristine views of the Pacific Ocean.
- Remnants of Volcanoes – Volcanoes leave ash and solidified rock behind. You’ll also see much of this in various places in Oregon.
Animals and Wildlife
Oregon also has a vast array of wildlife you may see during your scenic drives.
- Porcupines – Learn about porcupines and see them in their natural habitat.
- Wolves – The mysterious wolf can be roaming free in many areas of Oregon.
- Foxes – The sly fox may pop up his head anytime as you traverse across the state.
- Bears – Bears abound in various place in Oregon. So be alert!
- Seals – Seals and sea lions bask in the sun near the rocks along the coast. You can view them in various coastal spots.
- Badgers – The vicious badger calls Oregon it’s home as well.
- Otters – Otters like to play in the ocean and lakes and make their life there.
- Mountain Lions, Bob Cats, and Cougars – Big cats are happy in the state and you may come across some if you know where to find them.
- Whales – Whales can often be seen along the Oregon coastline.
- Dolphins – Dolphins play happily in the ocean and often come close to people.
- Porpoises – Look for giant porpoises too.
Top 10 Scenic Drives in Oregon
The following drives are great to keep on your bookmark list as some of the greatest places to visit as you travel.
#1 – Mount Hood Scenic Byway
Mount Hood Scenic Byway features a summit of Oregon’s highest peak.
It is made of glacier ice and features a 100-mile route that cuts through the mountain of fruit valleys and a thick fir forest.
It also takes you close to the Hood River below and is close to the Cascade Mountain Range.
#2 – Leslie Gulch – Succor Creek Back Country Byway
The Leslie Gulch-Succor Creek Back Country Byway is a fascinating view of towering cliffs of volcanic remnants made of ash that has eroded. The landforms have been said to resemble that of Bryce or Grand Canyon.
The landscape changes in color with the seasons, making it a unique spectacle to behold year-round.
#3 – Charleston Harbor, Seven Devils Loop
Charleston Harbor, Seven Devils Loop features seven different ports of interest that you’ll see as you pass.
You can begin at the North Bend Information Center or any other point that you choose and work your way through them all.
You can fish from a dock or even ride a charter boat on your voyage or explore unique tide pools and other highlights.
#4 – Gold Beach to Brookings
Gold Beach to Brookings takes about 30 minutes to drive between Gold Beach and Brookings.
There are beautiful capes and coves, arch rock formations, and overlooks that will move your spirit as well as your imagination.
There are also plenty of hiking and beach opportunities along the way.
#5 – Historic Columbia River Highway
The Historic Columbia River Highway features a drive by the famous Columbia River Gorge. You’ll see the magnificent Columbia River as you travel.
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This route is considered one of America’s first scenic highways and a National Historic Landmark as well.
It covers 70 miles of beautiful landscape and roadway that is referred to as “King of Roads.”
#6 – The Santiam and McKenzie Pass Route
The Santiam and McKenzie Pass Route features a drive alongside snowcapped volcanoes and glaciers and a scenic view you won’t soon forget!
See Broken Top Mountain and the Three Sisters as well as gorgeous waterfalls along this route.
#7 – Cottage Grove Covered Bridge Tour Route
The Cottage Grove Covered Bridge Tour Route features a relaxing 20-mile trip through Lane County, which features the largest number of covered bridges in the old West.
This route also takes you close to North Shore Dorena Lake and North Shore Dorena Lake.
If you like covered bridges, you will love this experience.
#8 – Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NGNTenSrfc
Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway features a 140-mile drive where you can see the remnants of ancient volcanoes and lava flows in the form of cinder cones, pumice plains, and Crater Lake, which is one of the Seven Wonders of Oregon.
You’ll also enjoy seeing thousands of migrating birds.
#9 – Pacific Coast Scenic Byway
The Pacific Coast Scenic Byway offers 363 miles of road that can be traveled from border to border. It’s known as The People’s Coast and access is always open to the public.
If you love ocean views, this is the route you won’t want to miss!
You’ll also see crashing waves, tide pools, and sandy beaches and fishing villages along the way.
#10 – Blue Mountain Scenic Byway
Blue Mountain Scenic Byway takes you through several ranching communities that meander through beautiful forests and wilderness areas of the Blue Mountain area.
Preparing for Your Scenic Drive
One thing you should do before traveling is to prepare. Here are some things you should always do before hitting the road.
- Vehicle inspection
- Check your supplies and emergency kit
- Take extra clothing and medications if needed
- Charge batteries of your mobile devices
– Emergency Kit
Double-check your emergency kit to make sure you have the right supplies.
Some of the essential elements to include are:
- Extra food and toiletries
- Emergency phone numbers
- Extra clothes and blankets
- Car charger
What kind of car insurance do you need in Oregon?
One of the most important things you should do is to make sure you have sufficient insurance coverage before traveling.
Know the minimum required amounts for Oregon and remember that Oregon is a “fault state,” which means that you will have to pay if you cause an accident.
Some of the types of coverage you should consider are:
- Minimum required coverage
- Body injury liability
- Personal injury protection
- Underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage
Shop and Compare for Car Insurance
Before you hit the road, know your insurance choices and think about the importance of having enough coverage.
Premium amounts are a factor but remember you should consider more than just the amount of the cost when purchasing insurance.
The key is to shop around until you find the best coverage and a company you can trust before you venture down life’s highways. Life is a journey and you never know what bumps you might encounter along the way.
Start comparison shopping today for the best auto insurance rates in Oregon! Enter your ZIP code below!