There's No Better Place To Spend Your Summer Than These 11 Hidden Oregon Spots
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Sarah McCosham
Author
Summer’s in full swing here in Oregon, and we could all use a break from the typical stomping grounds — and the oppressive heat! Luckily, the Beaver State is full of hidden gems and treasures, many of which make for perfect summer adventures. Here are 11 hidden spots in Oregon, all of which offer a much-needed reprieve from the heat and crowds.
Hug Point Falls is a winsome waterfall that’s located on its very own Oregon beach. This 15-foot fall gently cascades down a sandstone drop-off to a secluded beach along the Oregon Coast, for a postcard-perfect scene that's positively heavenly.
Cavitt Creek Falls is an idyllic Oregon waterfall swimming hole. Surrounded by lush forest, the turquoise swimming hole at the base of the small Cavitt Creek cascade is an inviting oasis when temperatures rise!
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One of most beautiful hikes in Oregon, the Hobbit Trail winds through lush, old-growth forest; the sinuous, moss-covered trees tower above you, creating a natural canopy unlike any other. The trail ends at a beautiful private beach that's simply perfect for relaxing.
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Leach Botanical Garden is an unexpected oasis just minutes from the hum and buzz of Portland. It's a secret garden full of lush forests, enchanting architecture, and total peace and quiet.
Operated by Oregon State University, Peavy Arboretum is 40 acres of peak Oregon beauty. Hike through the cool, verdant forest canopy, and you'll feel as though you're in another world.
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This 54-foot cascade is quite spectacular to see in person, with the water flowing fluidly down the basalt canyon walls. The deep-blue pool at its base is cool and calm, and downright irresistible after a sweaty hike!
Located in the beautiful Oswald West State Park, Short Sands Beach is a hidden treasure of a spot in Oregon. The beach feels like a world unto itself; it lies in a cove sheltered by tall pines and sandstone cliffs.
Up near The Dalles, White River Falls State Park is a lesser-known state park that’s a true hidden gem. The park features a waterfall swimming hole that's nothing short of spectacular; the waterfall plunges 90 feet into a cerulean blue pool that's simply breathtaking.
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With a sandy beach and swimming hole (and Columbia River access!), Hood River Waterfront Park is quite possibly the best place to go on a hot day in Oregon. For outdoor enthusiasts into wind surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, and kayaking, this park offers a less-crowded alternative that's also incredibly scenic!
In Mt. Hood Forest, Little Crater Lake is a pristine oasis that’s a total hidden treasure. Much like its big sibling, Little Crater Lake is a resplendent, dazzling body of clear, blue water. This diminutive lake is just 100 feet wide and 45 feet deep; don't resist the urge to sit in the shade of a large spruce or pine tree, and stare into its cool blue waters all day.
For the ultimate off-the-radar retreat, venture to Oregon's very own Secret Beach. Located in the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, Secret Beach is one of the park's numerous beaches -- but as its name implies, finding this hidden treasure isn't easy! This little oasis is nestled on the northernmost end of the corridor, and the easiest way to access it is via the eponymous Secret Beach Trail. It's absolutely worth the effort, though!
Now the only question is: which of these hidden spots in Oregon will you explore first?
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Featured Addresses
Hug Point State Recreation Site, Beach Access Rd, Arch Cape, OR 97102, USA
Cavitt Falls, Oregon 97457, USA
Hobbit Trail Trailhead, 91892-91974 Oregon Coast Hwy, Florence, OR 97439, USA
Leach Botanical Garden, 6704 SE 122nd Ave, Portland, OR 97236, USA
Northwest Peavy Arboretum Road, NW Peavy Arboretum Rd, Oregon 97330, USA
Youngs River Falls, Oregon 97103, USA
Short Sand Beach, Oregon 97102, USA
White River Falls State Park, White River Rd, Maupin, OR 97037, USA
Hood River Waterfront Park, 650 Portway Ave, Hood River, OR 97031, USA
Little Crater Lake, Oregon, USA
Secret Beach, Brookings, OR 97415, USA