20 Amazing Oregon Secrets You Never Knew Existed

When people think of Oregon, images of Crater Lake, Multnomah Falls, and Mount Hood tend to come to mind. And for good reason! While these attractions are all nothing short of incredible, the Beaver State is so much more than a few superlative superstars. It's also full of countless natural wonders that are a bit more off the beaten path, and equally worth exploring. From secluded alpine lakes and hidden waterfalls to desert hot springs and under-the-radar trails, here are 20 hidden places in Oregon that are sure to take your breath away, and leave you in total awe of the beauty of the Beaver State!

1. Lost Lake

Located in the Mount Hood National Forest, this secluded lake boasts amazing views and reflects Mount Hood in its mirror-like water. While more are "finding" Lost Lake, it still remains a place that's uncrowded and intriguing -- and wonderful for camping!

2. Opal Creek

Opal Creek is a stunning, turquoise creek that weaves through the Willamette National Forest. The creek has many small waterfalls and swimming holes that are heavenly on hot summer days.

3. Pillars of Rome

The Pillars of Rome are amazing rock formations located near Rome, Oregon. This stunning place is roughly five by two miles wide, full of intricate geological formations made up of fossil-laden clay and other sediments. Many of the pillars reach as high as 100 feet tall!

4. Hart's Cove

Hart's Cove is an enchanting rugged cove on the Oregon Coast. The lookout can be found at the end of a beautiful 5.4 mile (round trip) forest hike. This is one of the best treks on the Oregon Coast!

5. Waldo Lake

Waldo Lake is a gorgeous natural lake nestled into the Cascade mountains. This crystal-clear lake is absolute paradise for kayakers!

6. Terwilliger Hot Springs

Also known as Cougar Hot Springs, this amazing natural geothermal hot spring is located in the Willamette National Forest near the Cougar Reservoir. The soaking pools are absolutely lovely and serene. It's a delightful place to soak away all your stresses!

7. Natural Bridges Cove

Located in the Samuel Boardman State Park, The Natural Bridges are an amazing coastal feature that can be accessed by a short hike. This unique natural wonder was formed over thousands of years by the gradual shifting of sea and stone, resulting in beautiful natural arches nestled into a secluded cove. The viewpoint overlooking the Natural Bridges can be reached on a short, easy stroll just off Highway 101, and makes for a truly magical day trip destination!

8. Owyhee River Gorge

The Owyhee River is a tributary of Snake River. It weaves majestically through the dramatic landscape of eastern Oregon. This stunningly beautiful area has been hailed as the Grand Canyon of Oregon, as it is truly wondrous!

9. Leslie Gulch

This stunning canyon in Malheur County has otherworldly rock formations and stunning scenery.

10. Toketee Falls

Toketee Falls is a gorgeous waterfall located on the Umpqua River near Roseburg. The waterfall cascades beautifully down an ancient basalt wall into a deep blue basin. One of the most unique and wondrous waterfalls in Oregon, Toketee Falls is absolutely breathtaking to behold in person, and it’s a perfect destination for your next unforgettable excursion into nature.

11. Dee Wright Observatory

The Dee Wright Observatory is a peculiar (and wonderful) lookout at the summit of McKenzie Pass. The fairy tale-like structure is made of lava stone and it's windows frame amazing views of the surrounding Cascade mountains. It really is one of the coolest hidden places you can visit in Oregon!

12. Summer Lake Hot Springs

This unique mineral hot spring is located in a secluded, rustic building near Paisley. It's a tranquil little oasis that's sure to completely relax and recharge!

13. The Wallowas

The Wallowa Mountains are one of Oregon's 7 Natural Wonders, but due to their remote location they have remained off-the-beaten-path. But let's put this place on your path, because it is an absolutely wonderful area for wildlife viewing, nature photography, and hiking.

14. Valley of the Giants

The Valley of the Giants is a 51-acre forest located in northwest Oregon. The forest is full of enormous, ancient trees that are real-life giants. These Western hemlock and Douglas fir trees are absolutely massive! Some of the largest are bigger than 20 feet in circumference. Even the most devout tree hugger can't get his arms around these giants!

15. Klamath National Wildlife Refuge

The Klamath National Wildlife Refuge is a wonderful place to observe wildlife, especially if you're a bird lover.

16. Newberry National Volcanic Monument Big Obsidian Flow

The Newberry National Volcanic Monument is a fascinating place in the Deschutes National Forest. The Big Obsidian Flow was created more than a thousand years ago, covering the landscape with shiny, surreal-looking obsidian rocks. It's a place that will totally leave you spellbound by nature's prowess.

17. Koosah Falls

This lovely hidden-gem waterfall is located in the Willamette National Forest. Waterfall chasers: be sure to check out the nearby (and also lovely) Sahalie Falls while you're in the area!

18. The Oregon Garden

Located in Silverton, the Oregon Garden is a beautiful botanical garden that spans 80 acres. The garden includes more than 20 different specialty gardens; each is unique in its own way, and highlights a different theme. Allow yourself a few hours to fully explore and appreciate this picturesque place.

19. Steens Mountain Wilderness

The Steens Mountain Wilderness is located in southeastern Oregon. The rugged landscape is absolutely jaw-dropping, and made even more magical by the presence of wild horses!

20. Tamanawas Falls

The gorgeous Tamanawas Falls is located near the base of Mount Hood, and it is truly a sight to behold. The Tamanawas Falls Trail is located in one of the most glorious parts of Mt. Hood National Forest, and it runs parallel to the Hood River in the majestic Cascade Mountains. Swoon!

How many of these hidden places in Oregon did you know about? Have you been to any of these destinations? What are some other hidden places in Oregon you'd like to share with fellow readers? Let us know in the comments below, or nominate your top picks here!