Oregon Tourism - A guide for the motorcycle touring enthusiast Weather Wise

Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway

This byway cuts a path through the mountains, lakes and forests of central Oregon. Volcanism and glaciation formed more than 150 lakes for which the region is well known. See outstanding examples of lava flows, alpine lakes and meadows. Cross paths taken by such historic figures as Kit Carson.

Hells Canyon Scenic Byway

Journey from river's edge to mountain-top and down to valley floor. Savor panoramic views of rugged basalt cliffs and fertile fields, rimmed by snow-tipped peaks. Tour foundries, galleries and museums. Touch the weathered track of the historic Oregon Trail. Watch the majestic Snake River tumble through North America's deepest canyon.

Historic Columbia River Highway

Travel to magnificent overlooks that provide views of the Columbia River and waterfalls, including Multnomah Falls. Springtime has magnificent wildflower displays, including many endemic plants. The Columbia River formed the last leg of the Lewis and Clark Expedition and was part of the early route of the Oregon Trail.

McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway

Experience dramatic views of the snowcapped High Cascade Peaks. The panorama of lava fields and six Cascade peaks is made more striking by the contrast between the black lava and white snow. The mountains are mirrored in crystal-clear lakes, and the byway passes beautiful waterfalls, including Sahalie and Koosah Falls.

Mt. Hood Scenic Byway

On this byway, volcanoes once erupted and mammoth floods scoured deep gorges. Discover geologic wonders, waterfalls, temperate rain forests and wild rivers. Explore pastoral valleys with farm-fresh produce. Experience the formidable last leg of the Oregon Trail, the Barlow Road. Enjoy this bountiful wonderland that the pioneers called "paradise."

Outback Scenic Byway

"Outback" refers to land with a natural ruggedness. Though people come here seeking independence, they know each other's first names. Community is paramount. Jonathan Nicholas, publisher of the Oregonian, said it is "a star-spangled landscape of marsh and mountain, of reflection and rim rock, of seamless vistas and sage-scented dreams."

Pacific Coast Scenic Byway - Oregon

Starting in Astoria and traveling south to Brookings, the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway provides views of amazing coastal scenery. The road winds by estuarine marshes, clings to seaside cliffs, passes through agricultural valleys and brushes against wind-sculpted dunes. Charming small towns, museums, state parks, overlooks, historic bridges and lighthouses ensure a delightful journey.

Rogue Umpqua Scenic Byway

From rolling, oak-covered hills to towering coniferous forests, from roaring white water rapids to incised intercanyon lava flows, the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway invites you to experience 172 miles of diverse river and mountain landscapes. Drive alongside the Upper Rogue and North Umpqua Wild and Scenic Rivers that contain world-class fisheries.

Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (Oregon, California)

Explore the wonder and beauty of a dramatic volcanic landscape from Oregon's Crater Lake National Park to California's Lassen Volcanic National Park. Encounter ancient natural forces that shaped exquisite mountain lakes. Amid spectacular scenery, you'll enjoy charming towns, abundant wildlife, world-class birding, and extraordinary recreational, historical and cultural opportunities.

West Cascades Scenic Byway

This byway offers some of the best up-close views of thundering waterfalls, ancient forests, rushing whitewater and cool, placid lakes. The drive begins in the historic logging city of Estacada, immersing you in old growth forest. Continue and see snowcapped volcanic peaks and the breathtaking Wild and Scenic Clackamas River.

Oregon Motorcycle Touring - Crater Lake National Park - Crater Lake, OR
Phantom Ship  Crater Lake has inspired people for hundreds of years. No place else on earth combines a deep, pure lake, so blue in color; sheer surrounding cliffs, almost two thousand feet high; two picturesque islands; and a violent volcanic past. It is a place of immeasurable beauty, and an outstanding outdoor laboratory and classroom. Crater Lake is located in Southern Oregon on the crest of ...

Oregon Motorcycle Touring - Fort Vancouver National Historic Site - Vancouver, OR,WA
Visitors enjoy the park's annual Children's Culture Parade  Nestled snugly today in the Vancouver/Portland metropolitan area and enveloped by its highway, rail, air, and maritime commercial networks, Fort Vancouver is a gem of a park whose story as an economic and cultural center - told, in part, through engaging programs and a world-class archaeology collection - fascinatingly portends that of the modern-day Pacific Northwest.

 Oregon Motorcycle Touring - John Day Fossil Beds National Monument - Kimberly, OR
Image of Painted Hills with rain on a lake.  A visit to the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is like taking a journey into ancient Oregon. Whether you tour the museum at Sheep Rock, hike a trail at the Painted Hills, or picnic at Clarno, Oregon's exciting past will be revealed. Learn about the park before you visit by exploring our new virtual tour!

Oregon Motorcycle Touring - Lewis and Clark National Historical Park - Astoria, OR
Dismal Nitch - Megler, Washington  The Park is made up of 12 park sites located on a 40-mile stretch of the Pacific coast from Long Beach, WA to Cannon Beach, OR. Visit the sites in any order you wish; we recommend starting at Fort Clatsop or the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center at Cape Disappointment. Both offer rangers, gift shops and exhibits on the region. Events and Programs 

 Oregon Motorcycle Touring - Nez Perce National Historical Park - four states, ID,MT,OR,WA
The site of the Nez Perce encampment at Big Hole National Battlefield, one of thirty-eight units of Nez Perce National Historical Park  Since time immemorial, the Nimiipuu or Nez Perce have lived among the rivers, canyons and prairies of the inland northwest. Despite the cataclysmic change of the past two centuries, the Nez Perce are still here. Join us in exploring the park's thirty-eight sites and experiencing the story of a people who are still part of this landscape.

Oregon Motorcycle Touring - Oregon Caves National Monument - Cave Junction, OR
Ranger programs at Oregon Caves National Monument.  Be the first in line. Download the 2009 season schedule of cave tours. Oregon Caves National Monument offers family focused opportunities to explore a marble cave, visit a National Historic Landmark (the Oregon Caves Chateau), hike trails through ancient forests, and earn a Junior Ranger Badge.