Posted in Oregon Nature August 10, 2021 by

13 Hidden Gems In Oregon Most People Don’t Know Even Exist

Oregon has no shortage of beautiful nature scenes to take in. And while we all have our favorite places to visit when we want a secret refuge, it’s hard to really summarize why some are the best of the best. Here are 13 hidden gems in Oregon that might be off your beaten path, but are totally worth discovering for yourself!

During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
1. Thor's Well, Cape Perpetua
Thor's Well, Oregon, USA
Bill Young/Flickr
How can you not be taken in by this beautiful act of nature, right on the coast? Cape Perpetua is one of the most scenic overlooks in all of Oregon.
2. Anthony Lakes, near La Grande, and Baker City
Anthony Lakes, Oregon, USA
Sadie_Girl/Flickr
This spot is a skiing paradise, as it's far less-traveled than say Mount Hood or Mount Bachelor. Visit during the winter and stay at this charming resort!
3. Spencer Butte
Spencer Butte, Oregon 97405, USA
Jonathan Lidbeck/Wikimedia Commons
The 1.7-mile Spencer Butte Trail is a wonderful way to experience this hidden gem in Eugene. If you're into more advanced treks, try the more difficult route up; otherwise, take the easy route! (Both options are marked at the trailhead.) Either way, you'll be rewarded with stellar views on this easy and scenic hike.
4. Valley of the Giants, Oregon Coast Range in Northwest Oregon
Valley Of The Giants, Oregon, USA
Sylvanwilliams/Wikimedia Commons
If you haven't stood side-by-side with an old growth tree like this, we really urge you to get to Valley of Giants, stat.
5. Columbia Gorge from Angel's Rest
Evan Lovely/Flickr
Looking for that breath-taking hike? Trekking up to this exposed bluff is well worth it as you're rewarded with this striking view of Columbia River Gorge at the summit.
6. Lost Lake
Lost Lake, Oregon 97014, USA
Nwcamera1/Wikimedia Commons
Smack in the middle of Mount Hood and the Columbia Gorge, this lovely lake is home to an excellent selection of camping and lodging and is mostly off the tourist's map.
7. Sip 47
County Highway 47, Co Hwy 47, Ohio, USA
Doug Kerr/Flickr
This quiet stretch of Highway 47 is sure to be a pleasing drive as it connects you to Oregon's wine country.
8. John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
Painted Hills, Oregon 97750, USA
Bonnie Moreland/Flickr
The hypnotizing qualities of the Painted Hills will leave you in awe at this national monument. The beauty of this area truly is otherworldly.
9. Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuges
Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge, 4009 Hill Rd, Tulelake, CA 96134, USA
Michael (a.k.a. moik) McCollough/Flickr
This marshy refuge on the Oregon/California border is a bird watcher's paradise - with some 1.8 million of them just waiting to be spotted. It's also a haven for bald eagles!
10. Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, 855 US-101, Reedsport, OR 97467, USA
Matt Kieffer/Flickr
Although popular for dune buggy riding, these ginormous dunes are just the place to lose yourself on a long hike. These otherworldly dunes were the inspiration for a sci-fi movie, in fact!
11. Smith Rock State Park, near Redmond and Terrebonne
Smith Rock State Park, Terrebonne, OR 97760, USA
Thomas Shahan/Flickr
Located in central Oregon's high desert, these impressive formations are ideal for hiking and rock climbing. Also: those views!
12. Tamolitch Pool, McKenzie River Trail
McKenzie River Trail, Oregon 97413, USA
Thomas Shahan/Flickr
Also known as simply as Blue Pool, the rich, calming qualities of this place are something you're just going to have to experience yourself.
13. Wallowa Mountains, northeastern Oregon
Wallowa Mountains, Oregon 97846, USA
Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife/Flickr
Situated just about as far east as one can get in Oregon, this picturesque space is far removed from the crowds you may find elsewhere. WallowaLake has some truly beautiful places to go hiking, too!

We hope we’ve really highlighted some the best hidden gems in Oregon. But please do share with us some of your favorite spots in the comments below!

Looking for even more hidden gems in Oregon? We don’t blame you! Here are 11 places in Oregon that only the locals know about. Happy exploring!

The OIYS Visitor Center

hidden gems in Oregon

August 15, 2021
Sarah

What are some other cool hidden gems in Oregon?

Oregon is a splendid place to live; but sometimes, we Oregonians get into a rut where we revisit the same places again and again. And while there’s nothing wrong with playing favorites, if you do, you’d be missing out on some of the state’s most glorious hidden gems. So we designed a weekend-long road trip that visits some of the state’s coolest, most under-the-radar attractions. Our Ultimate Oregon Hidden Gem Road Trip will take you to nine incredible, little-known spots in the state; and who knows — you might discover some new favorite places.

What are the most unique places to visit in Oregon?

Oregon doesn’t try to hide its quirkiness, and it’s full of unique (and yes, weird) places. Whether you want to check out one of Portland’s bizarre museums, sip coffee in a haunted cafe with moving tables, or visit a homemade fairytale-based theme park, Oregon has that all — and more! Here are seven awesomely weird, totally unique places in Oregon that will make for the most unique outings.

Are there any hidden beaches in Oregon?

Wouldn’t you know it — there’s actually a hidden beach in Oregon called Secret Beach! Located within the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, the aptly named Secret Beach is absolutely breathtaking and well-worth discovering. This little oasis is nestled on the northernmost end of the corridor, and the easiest way to access it is via the Secret Beach Trail. At just over three miles round trip, the length of this hike isn’t too challenging, but the terrain can be. The payoff is totally worth it, though: Secret Beach is a soft sand beach that’s outlined by cragged cliffs and massive caves and rock formations. It’s peak Oregon beauty!