Situated in the northwest just north of California and Nevada,
the state of Oregon has one of the most diverse landscapes of any
state in the USA. Apart from its famous forests, the state boasts
towering mountain ranges, arid scrublands, wide prairies, deserts,
and a stunning coastline.
The salmon-rich Columbia River meanders along the state's
northern boundary, and the surrounding fertile Willamette Valley is
home to around 70 percent of Oregon's population. The state has
over 50 mountain ranges, and adventure seekers will find
lift-serviced alpine skiing operators south of the valley in the
Calapooya Mountains, west at the Oregon Coast Range, and east in
the snow-capped volcanic peaks of the Cascade Range.
Most of Oregon's countryside is remarkably unspoilt, from
pristine beaches and lush valleys to rugged mountain peaks. It
boasts natural attractions such as Hells Canyon, the deepest gorge
in northern America, as well as hundreds of miles of rivers and
around 1,400 named lakes. This includes Crater Lake, the deepest in
the USA.
In addition, more than half of the state is covered in natural
forest. This makes it a delight for nature lovers, although its
merits as an outdoor adventure tourist destination are slightly
marred by an exceptionally rainy climate.
It is far easier to head west on the Oregon Trail today than it
was for the historic pioneers in their covered wagons, but visitors
are no less delighted by the charms of this destination than those
gutsy emigrants of the mid-1800s.
Straddling the Willamette River, the largest city in Oregon is
Portland. Although Salem is the state capital, Portland is modern,
compact, vibrant, and the commercial and tourist hub of the state.
It is famous for its locally brewed beer and is known as the City
of Roses owing to its abundance of flowers. The city's cultural
scene is worth noting too, particularly in the Pearl District,
which has an enviable selection of art galleries, upmarket shops
and restaurants. Book lovers will owe themselves a visit to the
iconic Powell's Bookstore.
Majestic natural beauty, Wild West roots and top-class cultural
attractions make Oregon an appealing destination by measure.
Visitors can look forward to experiencing the best of the
northwest, whether their tastes lean towards the outdoors or
exciting cities.