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Get Custom Travel guides packed with local tipsA lion at an Oregon zoo meets his cubs for the first time, resulting in an adorable and heartwarming moment.
So, what happens when a lion at an Oregon zoo meats his wee cubs for the first time? Why, only insane cuteness, of course. Take a look at this totes adorb reunion, as captured on video.
Alright, c'mon, you have to admit, that has to be the most precious moment of family togetherness ever caught on film, right?
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Are you looking for a hike that doubles as a bird-watcher's paradise? Check out the Oregon Coast's Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge.
Tucked on the rugged shore of the vast Pacific Ocean, the Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge is easily one of Oregon's most stunning parks. Featuring towering stands of coastal old-growth forest and an array of fascinating seabirds, this destination is a perennial favorite for birders and hikers alike.
Comprising three miles of trail, Cape Meares is located just 20 minutes outside the farming community of Tillamook. Whether you're local to the area or traveling the breathtaking Oregon Coast, it's an excellent spot to spend an afternoon stretching your legs. State Audobon Society Chapters, including the influential Bird Alliance of Oregon, frequently list Cape Meares as a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. In fact, five species of nesting seabirds make their homes on its cliffs alone.
One of six National Wildlife Refuges on coastal Oregon, Cape Meares is unique for its old-growth trees. Some of these ancient spruces are well over 200 feet tall. At one time, the park contained the world's largest Sitka spruce, a behemoth called Klootchy Creek Giant. Unfortunately, Klootchy was killed in the Great Coastal Gale of 2007. Since then, however, another tree, aptly named the Cape Meares Giant, has been identified as the tallest Sitka spruce in Oregon. These colossal forests do more than impress hikers. In the trees' soaring canopies, they provide a crucial habitat for various birds, some of which are endangered and depend on mature woods to survive.
Of the fascinating wildlife at Cape Meares, few species are more charismatic than the Tufted Puffin. Thankfully, these birds aren't of concern to conservationists. They continue to thrive up and down the Oregon Coast. The best time to see them is April through early July, but lucky birders might spot them in other months as well.
The trails at Cape Meares are fairly popular, so you might encounter other visitors during your hike. Still, particularly in colder seasons, it isn't uncommon to find yourself alone. Not only is this solitude good for the soul, but it's also fantastic for bird-watching. While the park does allow leashed dogs, if you're hoping for wildlife encounters, I recommend leaving Fido at home. Otherwise, simply bring your hiking gear, a few satisfying snacks, and your sense of adventure to this remarkable destination!
Whether you're an avid bird-watcher or an outdoor enthusiast, Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge is an underrated spot on the Oregon Coast that is waiting to be explored. Boasting towering trees and breathtaking vistas of the Pacific, it's sure to become your new favorite hike.
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Adelman Peony Gardens in Salem, Oregon, offers a stunning 25-acre field of peonies, making it a must-visit spring destination.
Adelman Peony Gardens is one of the most inspiring places in the Beaver State. If you live here, you’ve probably heard of Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm, home to perhaps the most popular spring flower festival in the state. But there's another farm that shines each spring, and that's Adelman Peony Gardens in Salem. The staff at this dreamy peony farm lets you wander through a 25-acre field of incredibly beautiful blooms and is an absolutely glorious place to visit. Let's check out one of the loveliest flower gardens in Oregon.
Peonies in Oregon may not be as popular as roses or tulips, but you should definitely take notice of these flowers.
They are nostalgic, old-fashioned flowers, bringing to mind romantic gardens in an English countryside.
The blooms come in a spectrum of brilliant hues, and there are 30 known species and hundreds of varieties of this beguiling blossom.
Adelman Peony Gardens has been awarded Best of Show for 11 of the last 20 years with the American Peony Society's annual shows.
The flowers originated in Asia, and have been found in gardens there for over 4,000 years.
They're native to Asia, Europe, and Western North America - aka, the Pacific Northwest.
In Oregon, you'll find the most splendid blossoms at Adelman Peony Gardens.
This family-run farm has been in operation since 1993.
The staff grows more than 500 varieties on the 25-acre farm.
Because it’s a bit more off the beaten path, sometimes it may just be you and the flowers at the farm.
The seasonal farm is open daily from May 1 to June 15 when we encourage all to come and stroll through the resplendent fields of floral glory.
While you're there, you can also purchase cut flowers or peonies in containers, and bring the beauty home with you.
They make for charming bouquets and will last a long time in a vase.
The staff suggests taking a bucket out to the garden and getting the stems in water as soon as possible. Then cut the stems under water, and immediately put them into a vase. (And they're true experts—farm owner Carol Adelman actually co-authored this definitive guide on peonies!)
Peonies aren't fussy plants and grow well in Oregon with a little love and care. Did you know they can survive up to 100 years?!
Potted flowers can be planted any time they’re available; but in Oregon, fall is optimal.
Each year, the plants get bigger and bigger; in fact, it's easy to spot more mature plants in a field: the oldest ones are expansive bushes covered with big, vibrant flowers.
Spring is beckoning, and this peony farm in Oregon is an absolutely delightful way to welcome the season.
Adelman Peony Gardens offers more information on the website. This Oregon peony farm is the epitome of spring splendor that will inspire you to grow some gorgeous flowers in your own garden. If you want to learn about raising these beauties, read the book "How to Grow Peonies."
And while you're there, shop at three antique stores in Salem.
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