25 Bucket List Things to Do in Oregon for Adventure Lovers!

Nestled in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, Oregon is a treasure trove for explorers. From rugged coastlines and cascading waterfalls to majestic mountains and dense forests, this diverse landscape offers an abundance of thrilling experiences and unforgettable memories.

If you’re an adventure lover looking to explore the natural wonders of the PNW, you’ve come to the right place! In this blog post, we will share 25 incredible things to do in Oregon that will immerse you in the breathtaking beauty of this remarkable state.

Perfect for solo travel, families, couples, and any level of outdoor enthusiasts, Oregon truly has something for everyone. It is easy to travel, affordable and safe. Plus, the locals are wonderful and it is super van-life/camper friendly!

Without further ado, let’s get into the good stuff. Here are all of our favourite things to do in Oregon!

Interactive Map

Cannon Beach

drive up access

Cannon Beach will forever hold a special place in our hearts and we cannot recommend it enough! On our first Oregon Coast road trip about 8 years ago, we fell in love with this charming little town. We even talked about moving here one day.

Home to the famous landmark, Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach is absolutely serene. Sunset is our favourite time to visit but it’s beautiful at any time of day. While you’re here, you can hike, surf, bike, lay on the beach or explore the local shops and restaurants.

If you’d like to stay the night, check out Wrights for Camping family-run campground. It’s only 5 minutes from the beach! There are also tons of boutique hotels and cute B&Bs to choose from.

Related Post: The Best Campground on Highway 101

Multnomah Falls

drive up access

Situated in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, Multnomah Falls is often referred to as the crown jewel of Oregon. Plummeting a staggering 620 feet in two tiers, Multnomah is the state’s tallest waterfall.

The picturesque Benson Footbridge, which crosses the falls in between tiers, provides an excellent vantage point for capturing its beauty. If you’re up for more of a challenge, you can hike the paved trail all the way to the top. In total, this hike is 4.2 kilometres with 248 metres of elevation gain.

Cape Kiwanda

1.6 kilometres & 63 m of elevation gain

This sandstone headland is famous for being one of the best places on the coast to witness the ocean’s power. We would highly recommend doing the 1.6-kilometre hike that begins from the beach.

After taking a right at the water and climbing up the sand dune trail, the short loop is relatively flat. It boasts rocky arches, unique sandstone cliffs, colourful pathways, and stunning views out over the ocean.

Crater Lake

drive up access

Nestled within the caldera of a dormant volcano, this stunning lake is renowned for its pristine blue waters and the cliffs that surround it. To fully appreciate the magnificence of Crater Lake, we would highly recommend exploring Rim Drive. This 33-mile route circles the entire lake with several vistas and viewpoints.

There are a few different hiking trails in the area, but The Cleetwood Cove Trail (3.2 kilometres & 189 m of elevation gain) is the only one that provides access to the lake’s shoreline. It takes you to a serene spot where you can dip your toes in the crystal-clear water or even jump in on a hot day!

In the winter months, you can cross-country ski, snowshoe, and hike along the rim of Crater Lake. Because of the elevation, the snow sometimes lingers here until May or June.

Umpqua Hot Springs

1.3 kilometres & 93 m of elevation gain

Nestled in the lush Umpqua National Forest, not too far from Crater Lake, the Umpqua Hot Springs were one of our favourite stops in Oregon. These natural springs, also known as Toketee Hot Springs, are surrounded by trees on the side of a hill overlooking the Umpqua River. There are several pools of different colours and temperatures, so there is plenty of space to spread out and enjoy.

To reach these hot springs in the summer, there is a 1.3-kilometre hike along a well-maintained trail. In the winter, the road to the parking lot is closed making the hike closer to 6.5 kilometres round trip.

IMPORTANT: Always remember to leave no trace and respect the environment so that we can all enjoy the beauty of the Umpqua Hot Springs for years to come.

Tokatee Falls

1.4 kilometres & 52 m of elevation gain to the viewing platform

Only a few minutes from the Umpqua Hot Springs, Tokatee Falls is a hidden gem that is 1,000% worth a visit. This 113-foot waterfall spills over a mesmerizing basalt cliff, making it different from any other waterfall in Oregon.

There is a short 1.4-kilometre trail that leads to a viewing platform. From there, we went through the hole in the fence to the right and climbed down to the falls. There are a few ropes set up along the steep sections, so this part is not recommended for beginners.

Hug Point

Drive up access

Hug Point must be visited at low tide to be fully explored, but it is very much worth the effort. The beach itself is large and scenic boasting a ton of space to spread out. Once you reach the water, go right. From there you’ll find sea caves, a small waterfall, and the old wagon road that Hug Point is named after.

In the 19th century, the only way to travel along this stretch of coastline was via the beach. The pioneers and their stagecoaches had to wait for low tide and “hug the rocks” on this wagon road in order to get around the point safely.

Devil’s Punchbowl

Drive up access

Devil’s Punchbowl is thought to be created by the collapse of the roof over two sea caves along the coast. During high tide, the ocean pours into Devil’s Punchbowl causing powerful waves to crash in all directions. At low tide, however, hikers are able to explore the cave.

IMPORTANT: It is recommended to only enter the cave if there is a negative number for the low tide. This is to protect visitors from rogue waves. If you have time, check out the tide pools on the north side of the punchbowl.

Sand Master Park

Drive up access

If you’re up for an adventure, visit the world’s first sandboarding park in Florence, Oregon. Sand Master is a fantastic place to get in a few hours of activity while enjoying the unique sand dunes in this area. You can rent a board at the shop for $18 per day (2023) or get a lesson for $50 USD per hour.

Sunset Bay Campground

Drive up access

1 hour south of Sand Master you will find one of our favourite campgrounds on The Oregon Coast. Sunset Bay Campground is beautiful, affordable, and gives you access to Sunset Bay State Park, Cape Arago State Park and Shore Acres State Park.

You could easily spend a few days here exploring the hiking trails, rugged cliffs, landscaped gardens, Cape Arago Lighthouse, and many beautiful beaches. This was the cheapest campsite of our trip and well worth the stop.

Silver Falls State Park

the trail of 10 falls: 11.9 kilometres & 351 m of elevation gain

Silver Falls State Park is a waterfall lover’s paradise, boasting ten marvellous falls along its extensive trail system. If you are a hiker, we would highly recommend The Trail of Ten Falls. It takes you to some of the most spectacular falls in the park, allowing you to walk behind South Falls, Lower South Falls, and North Falls.

With waterfalls ranging from 27 to 177 feet in height, this park offers a diverse and awe-inspiring journey. If 11.9 kilometres feels like too much, don’t worry! You can admire North Falls and South Falls from their respective parking areas with minimal hiking required.

Cape Sebastian State Scenic Corridor

Drive up access

This cape is most well known for the panoramic view it offers over the ocean and the rugged Oregon coastline. The best way to experience it, in our opinion, is to hike the Cape Sebastian Trail.

This 5.3 kilometre out and back trail gains 243 metres of elevation. There are no signs at the trailhead, so you may want to bring a map. The trail is fairly well-worn but can get muddy. There are some downed trees along the path and the last part down to the beach is a steep slide. Don’t worry, though, the views more than make up for it!

Secret Black Sand Beach

1.2 kilometres & 25 m elevation gain

Did you know that Oregon has a jaw-dropping black sand beach that is completely unheard of? We can’t even find a name for it, but you can find the coordinates HERE. After spotting this beach from the road, we decided to hike to it and are so happy we did.

There is a small area to park your vehicle on the right-hand side of the highway just after the bend. From here, it took about 10 minutes to get down to the beach. This walk is through tall grass and down beside a river, so wear runners or hiking boots.

Once you arrive, you will likely have this beautiful place all to yourself. Try not to visit at high tide as you may not have much beach to explore.

The Airplane Home

drive up access

The Airplane Home in Oregon, also known as the “747 Fuselage Home,” is a truly extraordinary residence. Located in the lush hills of the Oregon countryside, this dwelling is a repurposed Boeing 747 aircraft that has been transformed into a one-of-a-kind living space.

We flew our drone over the home for a view from above, but we hear that Bruce Campbell also allows tours of his unique property. To learn more about him, check out this video!

Meyers Creek Beach Viewpoint & South Pullout

drive up access

These two pull-offs are very close to one another and both offer fantastic views out over the water. This stretch of The Oregon Coast is incredibly scenic with Highway 101 winding through beaches, massive rock formations, and lush forest.

We spent some time at each of these pullouts exploring the beaches and taking photos. If you are travelling in a campervan, this is a perfect place to cook dinner.

Latourell Falls

0.4 kilometres & 22 m of elevation gain

Latourell Falls near Portland was one of our favourite waterfalls in all of Oregon. The 224-foot cascade is captivating with its raw beauty and unique geological features. The sheer force of this waterfall left us in awe.

Whether you’re an outdoor lover, a photographer, or are simply seeking a moment of tranquillity in Oregon’s wilderness, Latourell Falls is a must-stop on this list! The hike to the base of the lower falls is short and very easy. If you are looking for a bit more exercise, you can continue on a 3.2-kilometre loop that brings you past upper and lower Latourell Falls.

Pistol River Scenic Viewpoint

drive up access

Pistol River State Park combines sand dunes, a stunning river, and a beach for a one-of-a-kind experience. Located just off Highway 101, this viewpoint is a great place for birdwatching, sunset views, walks along the beach, and even windsurfing. Ocean windsurfing is so good here it has actually been the location for several national championships.

Secret Beach

2.6 kilometres & 114 m of elevation gain

Secret Beach is hands down one of the most spectacular stops along the Oregon Coast! The short hike down to the white sand beach is completely worth the effort and weeds out the crowds a little bit. In total, it is 2.6 kilometres with 114 m of elevation gain.

We arrived at low(ish) tide and were able to walk along the beach and through a neat little “rock doorway” until we found our own little slice of paradise. Here, we set out the towel, enjoyed some drinks and played on the beach with our dog, Bailey. We did not see another soul for over an hour!

Natural Bridges

1 kilometre & 18 m elevation gain

Natural Bridges are marvellous ocean arch rocks that tower over the rippling sea below. The Natural Bridges Viewpoint Trail is a very short ( around 1 kilometre) and easy walk to a wooden boardwalk with a great view of the bridges. If you go past this and keep an eye out for a grown-over trail on your right, you can walk right down to the bridges.

CAUTION: This area contains steep drop-offs and can be very dangerous if you are not an experienced hiker. It is not suitable for kids, pets, or people afraid of heights.

Wahclella Falls

3.1 kilometres & 68 m of elevation gain

Another stunning waterfall in the Columbia River Gorge, Wahclella Falls offers a scenic hike through mossy canyons and alongside a picturesque creek. The reward at the end of the trail is a magnificent 350-foot cascade surrounded by lush vegetation.

This trail is slightly longer than others in the area, meaning the crowds are typically smaller at any time of day. We hiked in one evening and had the entire place to ourselves for 2 hours!

Neahkahnie Mountain Trail Viewpoint

4 kilometre & 270 m elevation gain

The hike to this beautiful viewpoint can be done as a loop or an out-and-back from the trailhead. At the top, you are met with incredible views of Nehalem Bay and the Pacific Ocean. In total, the loop trail is 4 kilometres with 270 m of elevation gain.

Bridal Veil Falls

0.8 kilometres & 24m of elevation gain

True to its name, Bridal Veil Falls showers down like a delicate bridal veil. Located in the Columbia River Gorge near Portland, this 118-foot waterfall is easily accessed by a 0.8-kilometre trail. This is a great stop on your way to Multnomah Falls, the parking lots are only about 5 minutes apart.

Cape Perpetua

drive up access

Cape Perpetua is a protected scenic area in the Siuslaw National Forest. Some of our favourite places to visit include Captain Cook Point, The Cape Perpetua Lookout, and Thor’s Well. Thor’s Well is most spectacular at high tide when you can observe the waves filling it. If you are visiting at low tide, check out the tide pools!

Terwilliger Hot Springs

1.4 kilometres & 26 m of elevation gain

Terwilliger Hot Springs, also known as Cougar Hot Springs, is a beautiful geothermal spring tucked away near the Willamette National Forest. To reach Terwilliger Hot Springs, you’ll hike along a creek that leads to a series of cascading rock pools.

These springs can get quite busy and there is a $10 USD (2023) fee per person, payable in a green box along the trail. It is also worth noting that Terwilliger Hot Springs is a clothing-optional site, so be prepared for that. Make sure to leave no trace so that we can all continue to enjoy these springs for years to come!

Salt Creek Falls

1.6 kilometres & 68 m of elevation gain

As the state’s second tallest waterfall, Salt Creek Falls is a can’t miss stop in Oregon. Cascading 286 feet, it plummets into a misty pool surrounded by lush evergreen forests. An accessible viewing platform provides a panoramic perspective, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of the waterfall and surrounding area.

We hope you enjoy your time in this beautiful state. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or comment below with your favourite things to do in Oregon. We would love to hear from you!

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