Sometimes, as much as we want to get away, we really only have time enough for one day of adventure. So if you've been wondering, "Are there any day trips near me in Oregon?," don't worry because Oregon has many opportunities for totally worthwhile day trips. Whether it's the beach, wine country, the desert, or Columbia River Gorge, we've picked out a few unique spots you really need to check out.

1. Take a covered bridge tour in Cottage Grove.

Unofficially known as the "Covered Bridge Capital of Oregon," Cottage Grove is a great place to explore the history of covered bridges. There, you'll find Dorena Bridge, Currin Bridge,

Chambers Railroad Bridge, Centennial Bridge, Swinging Bridge, and (pictured here) Stewart Bridge.

You can learn more about Cottage Grove in our previous coverage.

2. The Oregon Trail

We've all learned about the Oregon Trail in history books, but why not see where it ended firsthand? Head over to the Columbia Gorge on Highway 30, where you'll see signs of actual sections of the trail. And visit the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, one of the most informative must-visit places in Oregon, to explore the trails and outdoor exhibits.

You can learn more about National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center on the BLM website.

3. The Oregon Coast

Just take off along the 101 that hugs against the coast and stop off in any number of beach towns and lookout points. It's one of the best road trips in Oregon you can take. Pictured here is Arch Rock.

You can learn more about Highway 101 in our previous coverage.

4. Astoria

This coastal city sits at the intersection of the Columbia River and Pacific Ocean. Visit the Victorian house made famous by the Goonies movie, check out the historic downtown, and grab a piping hot bowl of clam chowder. It's one of the most beautiful places to visit in Oregon.

You can learn more about Astoria on the Travel Astoria website.

5. The Columbia River Gorge

Explore the expansive, picturesque wonders of the Columbia River Gorge, which straddles the lush green of the western side of the state with the calm desert region of the east.

You can learn more about The Columbia River Gorge on the Travel Oregon website.

6. Bonneville Lock and Dam

The century's-old ritual of salmon swimming upstream to spawn can be witnessed at this dam at key moments throughout the year. Bonneville Lock and Dam is less than an hour's drive east of Portland and is one of the most fascinating must-visit places in Oregon.

You can learn more about the Bonneville Lock and Dam in our previous coverage.

7. Catherine Creek Universal Access Trail

Technically on the Washington side, Catherine Creek Universal Access Trail is just across the bridge from Hood River. After you've taken in the city's local charm, head over to the trail, where you'll marvel at a colorful landscape of wildflowers.

You can learn more about the Catherine Creek Trail on the USDA Forest Service website.

8. Deschutes River Trail

Get out of the perpetual rain and soak in some sun at the Deschutes River State Recreation Area in Eastern Oregon.

You can learn more about the Deschutes River Trail on the USDA Forest Service website.

9. Portland

If you do not already live here, a day trip to Portland is usually a fun excursion. It's one of the best must-visit places in Oregon. There are always new restaurants to try, as well as shopping, such as the Saturday Market, pictured here.

You can learn more about Portland on the Portland Business Alliance website.

10. Tide pool exploring

Beachcombers can dive into coastal marine life at the tide pools along the beaches. Haystack Rock, Ecola State Park, and Oswald West State Park are just a few to check out.

You can learn more about the some of the beautiful beaches of Oregon in our previous coverage.

11. Wine Country, Dundee

Get a taste of one of the 350 or so wineries that dot the state. Pictured here is a vineyard in Dundee.

You can learn more about the wineries of Dundee on the Dundee Oregon website.

If you've ever searched for "day trips near me in Oregon," you now have a few ideas in mind. What are your favorite day trips to take in Oregon? Tell us in the comments!