Top 10 Scenic Drives In Oregon, USA

scenic drives in oregon
Edip
Edip 
Updated
| 6 min read

Oregon is one of the most desired destinations for enjoying natural scenery in the United States. Found within the Pacific Northwest region of the West Coast, Oregon is a place that is very much connected to nature. There is the presence of a diverse ecosystem, which makes driving through it a memorable activity, to say the least. The majority of the landmass is covered with a blend of evergreen and mixed forests, which makes for what one could define as a “sea of green”. In addition to its forests, Oregon is also home to significant and noteworthy mountains, rivers, lakes, a rich coastal region, waterfalls and a national park. Check out the top 10 scenic drives in Oregon, USA that we have curated for you.

1. West Cascades Scenic Byway Drive

Ruby Mountain's west aspect seen from the North Cascades Highway
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ron Clausen used under CC BY-SA 4.0

West Cascades Scenic Byway stretches for a total of 220 miles (354 kilometers). The route falls on the west side of the Cascade Mountain Ranges, which will present numerous views throughout the ride. There are four different ways of entering the route: from Portland, from south of Eugene, from Eugene and from Salem. Driving here is truly a magnificent experience, during which, one will come across the signature forestry, dazzling lakes and graceful waterfalls. There are multiple places to stop along the way, such as Box Canyon, Breitenbush Hot Springs Retreat and Cougar Reservoir. Buckle up and get ready to take in all the gifts of nature!

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2. Historic Columbia River Highway Drive

ColumbiaGorge CapeHorn
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user etliebe used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

Historic Columbia River Highway Drive is a 70-mile (112-kilometer) long journey within the state of Oregon. It ranges between Troutdale and the Gorge. The highway stands as the first-ever scenic highway constructed in the United States, which helped pave the way for many others to follow. Featuring a total drive time of between three to five hours, the route is signified by the densely present waterfalls which add a sense of excitement to this highly relaxing activity. There are several stops one should make along the way, including Exit 40 at the Bonneville Lock & Dam, where wonderful views of the underwater world are framed just by a window.

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3. Oregon Outback Scenic Byway Drive


Oregon Outback Scenic Byway Drive can be defined as a quest in a high desert climate. The presence of such climatic conditions characterizes the ecosystem of the region. The route spans over 171 miles (273 kilometers) and can be covered in about four to six hours. During the course of the drive, one is introduced to vastly open spaces as the path goes across the Great Basin. There are lots of landmarks to ponder upon throughout this experience, such as Fossil Lake, Summer Lake, Hart Mountain and Fort Rock. For those who are drawn towards the wonders of the water, a visit to Paisley’s hot spring will be well worth your time. Lastly, be on the lookout for the geysers, as they are active and do regularly go off.

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4. Hells Canyon Scenic Byway Drive


Hells Canyon Scenic Byway Drive is 208 miles (335 kilometers) as a whole and can be covered over the course of eight extraordinary hours. The homeland of the Nez Perce Tribe, the region houses a quiet, rich environment and is known to host a wide array of farming practices. The drive is launched from Elgin and proceeds to reveal numerous farms and ranches. Hell’s Canyon stretches from Joseph towards the East and runs along the Imnaha River. It is crucial that one does not miss the chance to view the deepest canyon in North America from Hells Canyon Overlook. Additionally, you can take part in rafting the mighty waters of Snake River!

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5. Mount Hood Scenic Byway Drive

Mount Hood
Source: Pixabay

Built around Oregon’s one and only Mount Hood, which stands for over 11,000 feet (3,353 meters), Mount Hood Scenic Byway Drive allows one to travel peacefully at the bottom parameter of this extravagant natural beauty. The drive is highlighted by the forests that are symbolic of the Pacific Northwest region. It is also the most desired method of getting familiar with Mount Hood. Along the way, one gets to come face to face with a number of glaciers. There are also a variety of stops to make, such as Hood River/Hood River Valley, Government Camp, Mt. Hood Skibowl Adventure Park, Timberline Lodge and Ski Area and Wildwood Recreational Area.

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6. Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway Drive

scenic drives in oregon | volcanic legacy scenic byway drive
Source: instagram

Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway Drive stretches for 140 miles (225 kilometers) and is traveled in between five to seven hours. June to October is the best time of the years for tourists to go visit it. Starting at Diamond Lake Junction, it continues towards Crater National Park, which is where the deepest lake in the United States is found. It is important to stop and take in the scenery at the overlook points, starting with Merriam Point. The road unveils itself as one enters Rim Drive, where plenty of other scenic overlooks can be located. Also, don’t forget to visit other points of interest such as Klamath Falls, Upper Klamath Lake and Fort Klamath Museum.

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7. Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway Drive

North Umpqua River

Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway Drive pans out in a way that parallels noteworthy bodies of water. The route is 172 miles (277 kilometers) in total, reaching the south end of the Cascade Mountains. It can be covered in about seven hours. There are many visits to be made along the way, starting with Rosenburg, which is acknowledged as an ideal destination for both fishing and wine enthusiasts alike. As one proceeds driving through this route, the North Umpqua River shows itself in grandeur. One can find destinations like the Steamboat Inn, North Umpqua Trail and the North Umpqua National Forest within the area. As the route advances towards the Upper Rogue River, be sure to stopover at Diamond Lake, Crater National Park or Lost Creek Lake.

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8. Pacific Coast Scenic Byway Drive

Cannon Beach, Oregon
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user DiscoverWithDima used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Pacific Coast Scenic Byway Drive is laid out along the coastal path of Oregon from its beginning to end. The entire route is 363 miles (584 kilometers) in total and has a travel time of up to 12 hours. One can launch themselves onto this adventure in Astoria, which is located on the northwest end of the state. It introduces many coastal communities and a way of living that has shaped itself around bodies of water. One gets the chance to visit an array of beaches from Seaside to Cannon Beach to Nye Beach, all of which are highly popular among visitors. Close to a few beaches, you can find some of the most significant lighthouses in the area, which are strong components of the Pacific Northwest culture. Lastly, do not miss the opportunity to visit the many state parks and bays spread out along this drive.

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9. Journey Through Time Scenic Byway

Journey Through Time Oregon Scenic Byway Sign
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Rick Obst used under CC BY 2.0

Journey Through Time Scenic Byway is one of the longer rides on our list. The entirety of the route is 268 miles (431 kilometers) long. It takes about 10 hours to complete the drive. The byway gets its name from the prehistoric fossil beds and mining towns in Oregon. As the route progresses, one finds themselves driving between the Deschutes and John Day rivers. John Day is Oregon’s longest free-flowing river. Here, spectators can witness various species of fish and participate in rafting. Fossils in this are 55 million years old. They are a concrete example of history. Feed your curiosity and observe the numerous animal and plant species for yourself!

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10. McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway


McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway offers some of the best views of the Cascade Mountain range. The majority of this 82-mile (131-kilometer) drive is covered with fir and cedar forestry. It allows for one to relish the highest mountain ranges of Oregon state. Along the way, there are countless wonders and nature’s gems that are waiting to be discovered. Make a pit stop at Camp Sherman, which parallels the Metolius River, and take a moment or two to appreciate the scenery. Do note that the roads are closed off during the winter months, and they re-open for public use starting in either June or July.

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Take time to revel in the scenery

The top 10 scenic drives in Oregon, USA are sure to surprise all your senses. An adventure through this part of the world will ignite a new level of curiosity due to the incomparable charm of the Pacific Northwest. The chosen routes are perfect excuses to broaden one’s connection with nature. Discover many of this area’s rivers, valleys, lakes, mountains, trails, beaches, reserves, fossils, canyons, and more. Planning a trip in this part of the country is a gift that one should give to themselves at any point of the year. The rich ecosystem of the region is optimal for taking an adventure you’ll never forget.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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My name is Edip Efe Ulucay - I am a designer and writer currently based out of Istanbul, TR with an academic background in architectural design. Through sharing articles, I hope to inspire others...Read more

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