The 13 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Oregon

Located along the northern border of Oregon, the Columbia River Gorge is a magical landscape full of dramatic views, hiking trails, and breathtaking waterfalls.

Unknown to many, Oregon is home to numerous beautiful, historic lighthouses that dot the rocky shore of the spectacular Oregon Coast. Here's a photo of Heceta Head Lighthouse, located near Yachats, which happens to double as a bed & breakfast.

One great day trip activity for anyone feeling adventurous is to take a hike on the legendary Trail of Ten Falls at Silver Falls State Park. This 8 mile trail winds through a stunning, forested canyon, passing (and sometimes passing behind) stunning waterfalls along the way.

The Willamette Valley is a beautiful expanse of rolling hills where you'll find miles and miles of bucolic scenery. There are lots of scenic country roads that weave through the area (including Sip 47 and HWY 99W) passing vineyard after vineyard. Wine lovers can take a self-guided tour, stopping by tasting rooms and wandering through vineyards along the route. If you'd like a little more structure, you can also book an excursion on one of the many wine tour shuttle services.

Did you know that Oregon has more ghost towns than any other state? Exploring ghost towns (respectfully, of course) is an unforgettable experience that will bring the past to life. Arguably, Oregon's coolest ghost town is Shaniko, which was once the "Wool Capitol of the World", and which even to this day is full of fascinating abandoned buildings including a blacksmith, a jailhouse, town hall, a hotel, and more.

Located in Northeastern Oregon, this stunning mountain range is positively magical. There's so much to do and see in this dramatic landscape, including hiking, sightseeing, riding a gondola to the top of a mountain, swimming in Wallowa Lake, and more.

The Oregon Coast is stunning from top to bottom. That's why taking a road trip along OR Highway 101 is always a fun activity. You can do the whole thing or just a section, stopping at beautiful beaches, seaside towns, state parks, and more along the way.

Bagby Hot Springs is a beautiful, rustic hot spring bathhouse where you can relax in carved wooden tubs full of hot mineral water, located deep in the Mt Hoot National Forest. There's a short hike from the parking area to get there.

Located in Oregon's high desert is an amazing hidden gem. The Painted Hills, part of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, is a natural wonder consisting of ancient, colorful hills. Numerous short trails and boardwalks wind through the delicate scenery. It's truly a sight to behold.

Located in the high desert of Central Oregon, Smith Rock State Park is a one of a kind Oregon destination. This stunning state park is full of amazing, rocky scenery and is a fabulous place for hiking, camping, and especailly rock climbing.

Cannon Beach is easily the most iconic place on the Oregon Coast. This lovely stretch of sand, sea, and sky is home to the massive Haystack Rock (which you may recognize from the movie The Goonies). Cannon Beach also a perfect place for a beach day, and is located adjacent to a charming small town that shares its name.

Mt Hood is not only Oregon's tallest mountain, it's also one of the state's most beloved locations. There are three ski resorts located near the summit and the terrain will impress any snow sport enthusiast. For those less inclined to ski or snowboard, you can also visit the historic Timberline Lodge or take a scenic walk through wildflower fields in the warmer months.

Crater Lake is one of the most spectacular locations in Oregon, and perhaps in the world. Located in the caldera of an extinct volcano, it's the deepest lake in the country, and its pure waters have a startlingly blue hue.