The Scenic Drive Along The Mary’s Peak To Pacific Scenic Byway Is Almost As Beautiful As The Destination Itself

Do you enjoy driving along scenic byways? Fortunately for us, Oregon is full of them! There are many that pass through beautiful areas throughout our great state, but the Mary's Peak to Pacific Scenic Byway in Oregon is one that you'll especially adore. It's only 72 miles long and it will only take you about two hours to drive from its beginning point near Tangent to its end in Waldport. But, along the way, you'll see many places that will remind you of why we love calling Oregon home. Read on to learn more about this wonderful drive and plan on driving it yourself soon!

1) Tangent

This scenic byway begins in the small farm town of Tangent. It's just off I-5 about halfway between Salem and Eugene.

2) Corvallis

Soon after departing on your drive, you'll pass through Corvallis. This is a lovely small city and college town. It is home to the Oregon State University.

3) William L Finley Wildlife Refuge

The William L Finley Wildlife Refuge is just south of Corvallis if you'd like to check out some of the local wildlife.

4) Mary's Peak

Continuing on, Mary's Peak will come into view. It's 4,097 feet tall, which makes it the tallest mountain in the Oregon Coast Range.

5) Top of Marys Peak

If you take the time to hike to the top, you'll see lots and lots of wildflowers during the summer months, and spectacular views all year.

6) Hayden Covered Bridge

Much of this scenic byway follows the Alsea River. You might stop at the Alsea Falls Recreational Site as you head west. Or, take a left off the main road briefly for a photo with the charming Hayden Covered Bridge. It was built in 1918 and is still in use today.

7) Missouri Bend Recreation Site

There are a number of recreation sites and waysides along this route where you can get out and get closer to the river. The Missouri Bend Recreation Site is one of them.

8) Mike Bauer Wayside

The Mike Bauer Wayside is another. Why not stop and have a picnic and gaze at the river for a while?

9) Alsea Bay Bridge

As you approach the Pacific Ocean, the Alsea River widens and you'll cross over it on the Alsea Bay Bridge. You can stop at the Alsea Bay Historic Interpretive Center to learn a bit more about the bridge and the area in general.

10. Seal Rock State Recreation Site - Waldport

This scenic byway ends in Waldport where it intersects Route 101 - the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway. Make a final stop at the Seal Rock State Recreation Site to enjoy the immense beauty of the Pacific Ocean.

This scenic byway is short and sweet and beautiful. You're going to love everything about it! It really showcases the best that Oregon has to offer. You'll see farmland, mountains, a river, and the ocean - it doesn't get much better than that. Have fun and drive safe!

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