Oregon: Crater Lake, Caves and Waterfalls

Crater Lake lies in southern Oregon on the crest of the Cascade Range and is the deepest lake in the United States. Its caldera formed when Mount Mazama collapsed after a major eruption 7,700 years ago. Wizard Island rises 767 feet above Crater Lake. The lake, caldera and island give the landscape a distinctly volcanic character.

Volcanic Landscapes and Caves

The Oregon Caves also tell the story of geological processes: over millennia, acidic water seeped into the marble, creating and shaping the caves, also known as the “Marble Halls of Oregon.” The Discovery Cave Tour lasts 90 minutes and is led by a ranger. It takes you to a large chamber 220 feet below the surface. Tickets for cave tours are sold at the Oregon Caves Visitor Center. The center also has park information, exhibits about the Oregon Caves and the Siskiyou Mountains, Junior Ranger programs, and a bookstore.

Waterfalls, Trails and Wildlife

The Trail of Ten Falls in Silver Falls State Park is designated a National Recreation Trail. Its full route forms a 7.2-mile loop. At four waterfalls in the park, you can walk behind the falls; fishing is possible there in Silver Creek. Different activities take center stage at Smith Rock State Park: it has several thousand climbing routes and miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. You may see golden eagles, prairie falcons, mule deer, river otters or beavers.

A Historic Site to Explore

Fort Clatsop was the winter camp of the Corps of Discovery from December 1805 to March 1806. A second replica of the fort was completed in 2006 and can be visited at the original site. Visitors can walk through the rooms of the replica. The Fort Clatsop Visitor Center has a museum, a bookstore and two films. The historic site, replica and visitor center offer different ways to connect with history and explore the area during your trip.

Cycling Routes, the Columbia River Gorge and Wine

For cyclists, the routes described differ in length and character. The Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway is 135 miles long one way. Another official Scenic Bikeway route starts in Sisters and follows an 1860s wagon route; the route offers views of Mount Washington and lava flows. Water sports are possible on the Columbia River in the Columbia River Gorge. The Gorge is a National Scenic Area and is considered the largest area of its kind in America. Dozens of waterfalls plunge from basalt cliffs along the Historic Columbia River Highway.

Oregon’s wine country is divided into seven regions, each with wine and tourism information. Wine tourism includes more than 500 tasting rooms statewide. May is Oregon Wine Month; during this time, wineries across Oregon offer private tastings and festive celebrations. If you travel during this period, check the current dates of the events before making plans.

The Oregon Food Trails are self-guided culinary routes. They showcase regional offerings from farmers, fishers, brewers and chefs across the state. Recommended destinations include restaurants, bakeries, markets and breweries. Some businesses may have seasonal opening hours, so check their hours before visiting.

If you’re looking for a hotel in Oregon, your travel focus can guide your planning: first consider whether natural history, a historic site or a particular activity should be the main focus. This helps you tailor your search to the experiences that matter most for your trip.

Discover More Destinations

Polk County, Harney County, Wasco, Sherman, Josephine County, Gilliam County, Linn, Lincoln, Umatilla, Benton, Douglas, Yamhill County, Lake County, Klamath County, Tillamook County, Grant County, Coos County, Union County, Jackson, Deschutes, Baker, Marion, Clackamas, Washington, Morrow County, Columbia County, Jefferson County, Wallowa County, Lane, Clatsop, Curry, Multnomah, Hood River and Crook County.

For the main travel overview: USA.