Top Summer Activities to Experience in Oregon

Oregon offers a perfect blend of breathtaking natural landscapes and captivating cultural attractions. With so much to do and see, it’s essential to narrow down your options. Here are some top recommendations to ensure you have an unforgettable summer experience in Oregon. 

The bustling metropolis of Portland is a center for business and culture. You can take advantage of Portland’s acclaimed craft brew scene and tasty eats by basking in the sun at one of its many patios across the city. Portland is dotted with fantastic outdoor spaces to enjoy, from The Rambler in the North Mississippi neighborhood to Wayfinder Beer in East Portland.

The Oregon Coast’s renowned Cannon Beach is a long and sandy stretch along the Pacific Ocean. Its most distinguishing features are its fascinating rock formations. It is a natural wonderland, home to various wildlife species and coastal trails that lead to cliffs offering panoramic ocean views. This tranquil place offers a perfect way to beat the summer heat.

Mount Hood National Forest is a vast protected wilderness area stretching over one million acres in northern Oregon. It is centered around Mount Hood, one of Oregon’s tallest peaks. Mount Hood is a skiing hotspot in the winter, but in the summer, it is one of the best places for hiking in the Pacific Northwest. This area has around 1,000 miles of hiking trails winding through mountains, forests, and lakes. One of its most popular hikes leads to Mirror Lake, a scenic glacial lake that is perfect for a summer dip. 

The Pacific Northwest’s renowned Columbia River starts in the Rocky Mountains of British Columbia and flows through Washington and Oregon. Summer brings many visitors to the Columbia River for water recreation, especially white-water rafting. There are countless convenient marinas and boat launches along the river, and many anglers are attracted to its unique catches, such as salmon, sturgeon, steelhead, and bass. 

Oregon comes alive during the summer with many events catering to an array of interests, including art showcases, music festivals, and food fairs. The FairWell Festival at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds in Redmond is especially popular. The festival, with a picturesque mountain backdrop, features dozens of musical performances across three stages, encompassing many genres such as rock, country, and blues. Some of this year’s headliners include Zach Bryan, the Turnpike Troubadours, Willie Nelson & Family, Sheryl Crow, and Mt. Joy. This outdoor event also boasts an array of local vendors offering tasty foods and beverages.