Oregon may not always top the typical bucket lists, but for those in the know, this Pacific Northwest gem is a treasure trove of natural beauty, dramatic landscapes, and soul-stirring serenity. From rugged coastlines to volcanic lakes, ancient forests to vibrant waterfalls, Oregon delivers scenic splendor in spades.
Whether you’re craving a road trip with epic vistas, a hiking trail that rewards your effort with jaw-dropping views, or a charming town that feels like a movie set, this list is for you. Here are 15 of the most beautiful places in Oregon that will make you fall in love with the Beaver State.
1. Crater Lake National Park
At the heart of a dormant volcano lies the deepest lake in the United States—Crater Lake. Known for its rich sapphire hue and remarkable clarity, this natural marvel was formed over 7,000 years ago after the collapse of Mount Mazama. The lake is surrounded by cliffs nearly 2,000 feet high, creating a surreal and serene vista.
Don’t miss: The Rim Drive, a 33-mile scenic route encircling the lake, and a boat tour to Wizard Island, a volcanic cinder cone within the lake.
2. Columbia River Gorge
This magnificent canyon stretches over 80 miles, cutting through the Cascade Mountains and forming the boundary between Oregon and Washington. It’s a haven for waterfall lovers—there are over 90 in the Oregon portion alone, including the iconic Multnomah Falls.
Top activity: Hike the Eagle Creek Trail for breathtaking views or drive the Historic Columbia River Highway for stunning overlooks.
3. Cannon Beach
With its dramatic coastline and the iconic Haystack Rock towering offshore, Cannon Beach is the poster child of Oregon’s coastal charm. The wide, sandy beach framed by cliffs and sea stacks makes it a perfect destination for beach walks, storm watching, and sunset photography.
Tip: Visit during low tide to explore tide pools at the base of Haystack Rock, teeming with starfish, anemones, and crabs.
4. Painted Hills
Part of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, the Painted Hills look like something out of a science fiction film. Their layers of red, gold, black, and tan earth create a surreal landscape that shifts in tone with the sun’s angle.
Best time to visit: Late afternoon when the light intensifies the hills’ colors. There are several short trails that offer different perspectives.
5. Smith Rock State Park
A mecca for rock climbers and outdoor enthusiasts, Smith Rock offers a unique desert-like terrain in Central Oregon, with towering cliffs of volcanic ash and river-carved canyons.
Don’t miss: The Misery Ridge Trail (despite its name) rewards hikers with sweeping views of the Crooked River and distant peaks of the Cascades.
6. Silver Falls State Park
Known as the “crown jewel” of the Oregon state parks system, Silver Falls is home to the legendary Trail of Ten Falls. This 7.2-mile loop leads you behind, around, and under ten different waterfalls—including the majestic South Falls.
Travel tip: Wear waterproof shoes and bring a camera—you’ll want to capture every angle.
7. Mount Hood
Oregon’s tallest peak and a defining feature of the state’s skyline, Mount Hood is both a year-round playground and a photographer’s dream. Whether snow-capped or basking in summer wildflowers, it’s a sight to behold.
What to do: Ski or snowboard at Timberline Lodge, hike to Mirror Lake, or enjoy the views from the Mount Hood Scenic Byway.
8. Bandon Beach
Quieter than Cannon Beach but just as mesmerizing, Bandon Beach on the southern coast offers dramatic sea stacks, wide sandy stretches, and one of the most peaceful atmospheres in Oregon.
Don’t miss: Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint—legend has it you can see the face of a Native American princess looking up from the waves.
9. Three Sisters Wilderness
Located within the Deschutes and Willamette National Forests, this alpine wilderness is home to glacier-carved valleys, lava fields, and over 260 miles of trails. It’s named after the three volcanic peaks: Faith, Hope, and Charity.
Hiking highlight: The Green Lakes Trail, with panoramic views of the mountains and crystalline alpine lakes along the way.
10. Thor’s Well and Cape Perpetua
This natural sinkhole on the Oregon coast near Yachats is one of the most mysterious and dramatic features in the state. At high tide, the sea appears to drain into the earth and then explode upward in a spray of white water.
Safety note: Be cautious and stay back from the edge—it’s beautiful, but also dangerous.
11. Toketee Falls
Tucked into the Umpqua National Forest, Toketee Falls is a two-tiered waterfall that cascades through a stunning basalt gorge. The combination of old-growth forest and dramatic rock formations creates a fairytale setting.
Photography tip: The short hike to the viewing platform is an easy trek, and the light is best in the morning.
12. Wallowa Lake and the Wallowa Mountains
Dubbed the “Alps of Oregon,” the Wallowa Mountains in the northeastern corner of the state are a hidden gem. Wallowa Lake, nestled at the base of these rugged peaks, is pristine, peaceful, and perfect for kayaking, hiking, or just soaking in the view.
Stay: The charming town of Joseph, with its art galleries, bronze sculptures, and cowboy culture, is nearby and makes for a delightful base.
13. Alvord Desert
If you want solitude and surreal beauty, head to the Alvord Desert. This remote, dry lake bed is a vast expanse of cracked earth framed by the snow-dusted Steens Mountains. It’s one of the most unique landscapes in the Pacific Northwest.
Adventure idea: Camp under the stars—there’s virtually no light pollution, making it a dream for stargazers.
14. Opal Creek Wilderness
Home to some of the last old-growth forests in the Pacific Northwest, Opal Creek is a lush, emerald-hued world of moss-covered trees, crystal-clear pools, and quiet trails.
Must-do: Hike to Opal Pool for a swim in icy blue-green water that’s as invigorating as it is beautiful.
15. Tamaláuk Trail and Crater Lake’s Pinnacles
While Crater Lake gets the spotlight, the lesser-known Pinnacles area deserves your attention. These volcanic spires, created by centuries of erosion, stand like ancient stone sentinels against the forested backdrop.
Add-on tip: Walk the short Pinnacles Trail and pair it with the Tamaláuk Trail along the rim for views fewer tourists ever see.
Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.