Oregon Celebrates Its 150th Birthday

Oregon is celebrating 150 years of statehood in 2009 and you're invited to its birthday party! In honor of the sesquicentennial milestone, each of the state's seven distinctive regions is hosting special events and activities throughout the year. Even without these extra festivities, though, Oregon's scenic corridors are always something to celebrate. Whether you're a windshield tourist or wilderness explorer, now's the time to head for the Beaver State. Don't forget your camera!

THE COAST- The Pacific Coast Scenic Byway (Highway 101) can be driven in about 12 hours, but it's best not to rush. Begin up north by exploring Astoria, America's first permanent settlement west of the Rockies. Also visit nearby Fort Clatsop National Memorial where Lewis and Clark spent the wet winter of 1805-1806. Fort Stevens State Park is Oregon's largest campground and because of its WWII gun batteries and museum, it's also a real treat for military history buffs. Tour Tillamook Cheese (free samples!) and admire hulking Haystack Rock from the beaches around the artsy town of Cannon Beach. As you drive south, stop at a lighthouse or two-especially postcard pretty Haceta Head. Save time for a visit to Sea Lion Caves in Florence, home to wild Stellar sea lions that really raise a ruckus! Shore Acres State Park is another wonderful campground for RVers and features a lovely Japanese Garden in summer and outstanding holiday lighting display in the winter.

PORTLAND METRO- "Going Green" isn't a buzzword in Portland. It literally describes the abundant natural spaces found throughout the City of Roses. Overlooking downtown, hillside Washington Park encompasses a zoo, forestry center, Japanese gardens, miles of forested hiking trails, and the International Rose Test Gardens. Two-mile long Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park is perfect for strolling and watching ships sail the Willamette River. When it's time for a coffee break, sip your latté in open air Pioneer Courthouse Square, and watch the quirky Weather Machine make its prediction.

COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE AND MT. HOOD- Oregon's most popular natural attraction, 620-foot Multnomah Falls, is the literal highlight of the Gorge. Several smaller, but no less dramatic waterfalls are also found along Interstate 84. The views from cliff top Vista House can't be beat, and the octagonal stone structure itself is a recently renovated work of art. Driving the "Fruit Loop" (Route 35) out of Hood River offers fantastic views of majestic 11,235-foot Mt. Hood, plus the chance to buy fresh apples and pears direct from growers. Perched at the 6,600-foot level on Mt. Hood, Timberline Lodge is an elegantly rustic National Historic Landmark that has welcomed visitors for over 70 years. Camp at nearby Trillium Lake and enjoy the view!

WILLAMETTE VALLEY- Interstate 5 is the main route through the verdant Valley, but the region's natural beauty becomes more apparent by driving down its back roads. Through flat farmland and over rolling forested hills, you'll pass hazelnut and fruit orchards, grass seed and hop fields, and in the spring, acres of bright tulips and iris dazzle the eye. Small towns and covered bridges are tucked into the scenery and over 200 wineries welcome visitors to stop in for a taste. The historic capital city of Salem is also located along the banks of the Willamette River. For a bird's eye view of the city and a close-up look at the gilded Oregon Pioneer statue atop the capitol building, hike up 121 spiraling steps to the dome's outdoor viewing area.

SOUTHERN OREGON- 1,932-foot Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the country, but what you'll remember most is its electric blue hue. Oregon's national park also offers camping, hiking, boat tours, and 33 miles of pure scenery along Rim Drive. To do a little spelunking, visit nearby Oregon Caves National Monument. Dress warmly for the cave tours; year-round temperatures hover at 44 degrees. Whitewater rafters will love challenging the legendary Rogue River, and Roseburg has a river running through it, too-both the north and south branches of the Umpqua River-plus more than a dozen waterfalls and half as many covered bridges dot the scenic area.

EASTERN OREGON- When prospectors first discovered gold in 1861, Oregon's gold rush was on! Get a feel for those richer days at the Sumpter Valley Dredge State Heritage Area. See inside a massive 1,240-ton YUBA style gold dredge, and ride the rails of the restored Sumpter Valley Railroad. Historic Baker City is a gold rush town at the base of the Blue Mountains. An impressive 80.4-ounce gold nugget, found in the area in 1913, is on display at the US Bank in town. Just outside of the city, walk in original wagon wheel ruts at the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center and learn about the hardships faced by pioneers who didn't travel in luxurious motor coaches! Cowboys will love Pendleton's annual "Let 'er Buck" rodeo, and while there, tour the famous Pendleton Woolen Mills.

CENTRAL OREGON- Spend much of your time in this region looking UP- at the snowy peaks of Mt. Jefferson, Mt. Bachelor, and the Three Sisters, and at the climbers hugging the rock faces at Smith Rock State Park. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, that's still not enough daylight to take advantage of all the outdoor pursuits available in Central Oregon-hiking, biking, boating, golfing, fishing, rock climbing, snow sports, and of course, camping. Stop in the western town of Sisters, famous for its boutique shopping and fun family festivals, and nearby Camp Sherman is the perfect respite for reconnecting with nature. The icy Metolius River rushes through Camp Sherman, so bring your waders and your fly rod.

For over 150 years, native Oregonians and visitors alike have marveled at the state's fine forests, waterways, unpretentious cities, and mountain vistas. Make 2009 your year to plan a few day trips, long weekends, and an extended vacation or two in honor of the state's sesquicentennial... and see for yourself!