Check out these MUST SEE dog friendly spots during your next trip to the beautiful state of Oregon!
We crossed the California/Oregon border on the 5 and as soon as we did there was something about the beauty that made me want to be outside and explore. First town to explore on the way was Eugene. Known for the location of the University of Oregon, it was strange to explore during Coronavirus time without all the students out and about.
We grabbed some Voodoo donuts at their downtown shop and headed to a nearby park along one of the rivers to enjoy the scenery. In true Oregon fashion, it started raining just as we were finishing up. With some crazy heavy rain, we continued our drive on up to Portland. We drove around downtown and I learned people definitely Keep It Weird in Portland.
Just west of downtown, there are several parks with beautiful views of the city. Definitely a MUST SEE when you are here. Unfortunately, one of the popular lookout points was closed due to Covid, but luckily we were able to check out the Rose Garden and still have some pretty cool views of the city. Plus we got to smell all the pretty roses!
After Portland we headed east! Hood River is the coolest little town. A little over an hour from Portland, Hood River is on the Columbia River with Washington state just on the other side. The wind patterns created by the gorge make this spot one of the top places for kite surfing. My first day there, my friend Poppy took me out on "The Spit". I loved playing ball and swimming in the water, but as soon as I saw all those big kites everywhere, I wasn't the biggest fan.
KickStand Coffee & Kitchen was our favorite spot while we were here. Amazing coffee and friendly baristas in the morning, chill patio vibes and delicious cocktails in the evening. We also met the owners who were super nice and apparently have a couple aussies of their own. Next time, a doggy playdate will have to be arranged. They also gave us some great recommendations for hikes and activities in the area.
One thing Oregon does not lack is a never ending supply of breathtaking hikes. We did 3 during our short week stay and I loved them all! ... BUT if you only have time for 1, this is how I would rank them.
Mitchell Point
Amazing views from all angles
Steep climb at times
Trail is along a ridge that runs parallel with the Columbia River
The end point is very narrow with drop offs on both sides
Super windy at the point; definitely stay on your leash
Tamanawas Falls
Green beauty everywhere
Hike through the forest
Beautiful waterfall at the end of the hike
Popular with lots of people all day
Mostly shaded
Rowena Crest Viewpoint
Views of Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams on a clear day
Trail through knee high grass
Be on the lookout for snakes while on this trail
Depending on the time of year, check for ticks that wanted to go home with you!
Mt. Hood is about 45 minutes from Hood River and on a clear day, you can spot the mountain from several places around town. We took the drive out one afternoon to see the mountain up close. We were hoping to check out the iconic Timberline lodge for a drink, but turns out they are not dog friendly so instead we just played in the snow. Did you know that Mt. Hood is the only spot in North America that offers year-around ski lifts?!
Talk about views! We had the best time at Grateful Vineyard soaking in the views while the parents enjoyed their delicious wines. Just outside Hood River, you will find Oregon wine country. This spot was magical. The have a small patio with a couple tables, and then lots of picnic tables out in the grass. They are super dog friendly and brought me water as soon as we got there. The humans LOVED the pizza and the owner walked around checking on everyone while we enjoyed the peaceful afternoon. If you are even within an hour of this place, take the detour! I promise it will be worth it.
One of the most famous Oregon natural beauties, Crater Lake is just as amazing as everyone makes it out to be. While the lake itself is a little bit of a drive off the major highways, this attraction is worth the detour. The blueness of the lake was so beautiful and my pawrents kept telling me the water matched my eyes. I was hoping to go swimming, but we just walked around the rim. I hear that if we go during July and August, there is a trail that you can hike all the way around. I might have to go back just to check that out. 10/10 would recommend this amazing national park.
Overall, I think I would have to put Oregon in the summer at the top of my state rankings. Super dog friendly everywhere I went, amazing trails and opportunities to be outside, and the green beauty every direction I looked! Add this state to your next trip!
Comentários