Horseshoe Road trips in Oregon

2025 Best Road Trips in Oregon & Top Oregon Scenic Drives

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As of 2025, this Pacific Northwest US state continues to dazzle visitors with its awe-inspiring landscapes and wide-open roads. Taking scenic drives in Oregon remains one of the best ways to immerse yourself in its diverse terrain. But with so many possibilities, which are the top road trips in Oregon, and how do you plan a route? We’ve got you covered!

The well-kept Oregon scenic byways and highways guide you through lush forests, rolling farmland, scenic vineyards, and even desert landscapes. Along the way, you’ll find a gorgeous coastline, quaint small towns, and an abundance of waterfalls, rivers, and lakes—not to mention majestic, snow-capped mountains peeking out in the distance.

With so much to see, crafting your own Oregon road trip itinerary can be a challenge. It depends on how long you have, who you’re traveling with, and which must-see Oregon destinations you find most intriguing.

We’ve compiled a list of our favorite Oregon road trips—including tips from fellow Pacific Northwest adventurers. Each of these drives can be taken on its own, or you can link a few together if you have extra time. We suggest the minimal days and overnights required to get a decent taste of each area, but as with all road trips, more time equals a more relaxed adventure.

In mapping out your route, think about your starting location. Oregon residents might begin at home, while visitors from Washington State often start at Astoria, Portland, or Hood River. From Northern California, Brookings or Ashland offer logical entry points. Driving in from Idaho, you’ll pass through remote high desert before meeting up with these more traveled routes.

For those flying in, the easiest option is typically Portland International Airport, where you can rent a vehicle or rent an RV for your journey. Though you can also fly to smaller airports like Eugene, your choices might be fewer, and costs higher.

No matter where you begin, these Oregon scenic drives will give you the framework for an unforgettable adventure.

Oregon Road Trip Map

Top Road Trips in Oregon

Northern & Central Oregon Coast Road Trip 

Aerial view of Cannon Beach Oregon

Start & End: Astoria to Newport (or reverse)

Distance/Drive Time: 133 miles along Highway 101/ 3 hours

Time to Allow: Minimum 2 nights and 2 full days. 

This chunk of the Oregon coast may look short on a map, but it’s absolutely jam-packed with gorgeous scenery and memorable stops. While you could drive from Astoria to Newport in about three hours, consider taking it slowly over at least a couple of days to explore beaches, parks, lighthouse viewpoints, and small-town vibes along the way.

In Astoria, admire Victorian-style architecture and discover the filming locations of classic movies like The Goonies. You can also visit Fort Stevens State Park or Fort Clatsop if you’re keen on local history or scenic beaches. Next, head south to Seaside, known for its classic boardwalk promenade and nostalgic candy shops. Nearby, Ecola State Park offers spectacular trails through coastal forests, with vantage points over Cannon Beach’s famed sea stacks.

Driving further along the coast, Cape Meares invites lighthouse lovers; Depoe Bay claims the title of the “world’s smallest harbor”; and the fishing hub of Pacific City offers more wide beaches and the iconic Haystack Rock. You’ll then wrap up at the laid-back town of Newport, known for the bustling waterfront, the Oregon Coast Aquarium, and fresh local seafood (Moe’s is a longtime favorite!).

To find an overnight spot, you can pick from many hotels and campgrounds on Hwy 101. From July through September, advance bookings are crucial. Trust us—sunset on these beaches is worth the extra planning!

~ Read more from Sarah at Live Dream Discover

Choice Hotels on the Northern Oregon Coast:

Choice Airbnb’s on the Northern Oregon Coast:

Tip: If you’re new to Airbnb, you can sign up using this referral link to receive up to $52 off your first booking.

Southern Oregon Coast Road Trip

Thors Well at sunset on an Oregon road trip

Start & End: Yachats to Brookings (or reverse)

Distance/Drive Time: 181 miles along Highway 101/ 4 hours

Time to Allow: Minimum 2 nights and 2 full days

The southern portion of Oregon’s Highway 101 is another can’t-miss coastal journey. Stretching from Yachats down to Brookings, it’s a masterpiece of rugged cliffs, dramatic sea stacks, and photogenic ocean sunsets. While it’s possible to drive in under a day, a leisurely pace of 2+ days lets you fully enjoy stops like Cape Perpetua—home to sea wonders like Thor’s Well—and the otherworldly seascapes near Gold Beach and the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor.

For lodging, popular stops are Yachats, Bandon, Gold Beach, and Brookings. Each town offers its own charm—Bandon’s beaches feature striking rock formations, while Brookings is an excellent jumping-off point for exploring the scenic corridor, Harris Beach State Park, and local eateries like Superfly. The more time you have to wander this coastline, the more hidden gems you’ll uncover.

~ Read more from Sophie & Adam at We Dream of Travel

Choice Hotels on the Southern Oregon Coast:

Choice Airbnb’s on the Southern Oregon Coast:

Tip: If you’re new to Airbnb, you can sign up using this referral link to receive up to $52 off your first booking.

Short Road Trip from Portland

Little boy walking along Lincold City beach Oregon

Start & End: Portland to Lincoln City

Distance/Drive Time: 116 miles/ 2.5 hours 

Time to Allow: Minimum 1 full day

A direct trip from Portland to Lincoln City can be done via Highway 18 or I-5 in around two hours, but if you’re craving scenery, jump on US-26 W and then OR-6 W to Tillamook before heading south on Hwy 101. The detour adds about 30 minutes but gives you those quintessential Oregon coast vistas.

While you’re in Portland, consider strolling downtown or hitting some popular spots like Pittock Mansion, Oregon Zoo, the Japanese Gardens, or any number of famous food truck pods or local craft breweries. From there, make the scenic drive out to Tillamook for a visit to the Tillamook State Forest Center or a tasting at the Tillamook Creamery.

Continue your journey along the coast, eventually arriving in Lincoln City. This friendly beachfront spot offers oceanfront inns and plenty of vacation rentals through Airbnb. Enjoy a bonfire on the beach, visit Devil’s Lake for more water fun, or check out the Lincoln City Glass Center to make your own glass souvenir.

~ Read more from Dan Bagby at Cabin Critic

Choice Hotels in Portland

Choice Airbnb’s in Portland

Tip: If you’re new to Airbnb, you can sign up using this code to receive up to $52 off your first booking.

Willamette Valley Loop Road Trip

Vinyards and trees with a blue sky

Start & End: Portland-Eugene-McMinnville-Portland

Distance/Drive Time: 240 miles/ 5 hours

Time to Allow: Minimum 1 night and 2 full days

The Willamette Valley is the crown jewel of Oregon wine country, framed by three mountain ranges and the Columbia River. Vineyards, farm stands, historic towns, and scenic overlooks abound. To see most of it in a short trip, you can map out a loop along I-5 in one direction and Hwy 99 W in the other, starting and ending in either Portland or Eugene.

Stop by Woodburn for premium outlet shopping or colorful spring tulip fields. In the state capital of Salem, explore cultural sites and wander charming city parks. Silver Falls State Park, within easy reach, is a waterfall paradise with 10 waterfalls along scenic hiking routes.

As you continue, you’ll encounter countless wineries—many near Corvallis, Monroe, Albany, and especially in the McMinnville–Dundee area. With more than 200 wineries close by, it’s a perfect excuse to linger. McMinnville itself is a foodie mecca, boasting over 20 tasting rooms within a few blocks. Or you might choose to glamp in Oregon’s scenic countryside for an experience that blends rustic charm with wine country elegance.

~ Read more from Sarah at All About Glamping

Choice Hotels in McMinnville

Choice Airbnb’s in McMinnville

Tip: If you’re new to Airbnb, you can sign up using this code to receive up to $52 off your first booking.

Columbia River Gorge Drive/ Mount Hood Scenic Loop

Lkae in foreground with snow covered peak of mount Hood in background

Start & End: Portland-Mount Hood-Portland

Distance/Drive Time: 200 miles/ 5 hours

Time to Allow: Minimum 1 night and 2 full days

The Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood Scenic Loop is a prime choice for anyone visiting Portland. This loop is known for its dramatic waterfalls, forested trails, orchard-filled valleys, and unforgettable mountain views. While some attempt it as a (very busy) single-day circuit, two days or more will allow for a deeper experience.

Heading east on I-84, you’ll find your first major attraction: Multnomah Falls, a breathtaking 620-foot double drop that’s among Oregon’s most visited attractions. You can then stop at other waterfalls like Wahkeena, Horsetail, or Punch Bowl Falls, many requiring short hikes but providing a quieter alternative to the crowds at Multnomah.

Moving on to Hood River, you’ll see windsurfers and kiteboarders taking advantage of the area’s renowned breezes. Consider an overnight stay here to enjoy the local brewery scene—pFriem, Double Mountain, or Full Sail, to name a few—before heading south toward Mount Hood. If you have time, you can hike up in the Mount Hood National Forest or snap a perfect reflection shot at Trillium Lake. Then circle back to Portland, or continue onward to other Oregon destinations.

~ Read more from Katie and Ben at Two Wandering Soles

Choice Hotels in Hood River

Choice Airbnb’s in Hood River

Tip: If you’re new to Airbnb, you can sign up using this code to receive up to $52 off your first booking.

Crater Lake/ Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway Road Trip

Blue lake with mountain in the background

Start & End: Bend to Crater Lake (or reverse)

Distance/Drive Time: 200 miles/ 4 hours

Time to Allow: Minimum 1 night and 2 days

Central Oregon is an outdoor-lover’s paradise, with Crater Lake National Park and the Cascade Lakes region forming a spectacular route. Formed by the collapse of Mount Mazama some 7,700 years ago, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the U.S., renowned for its intense blue color and pristine clarity. In warmer months, you can hike, swim, or take a boat tour on the lake, while winter brings a quieter but equally majestic snowy wonderland.

Leaving Crater Lake, an easy add-on is Toketee Falls—a short 0.8-mile trail to one of Oregon’s most famous waterfalls. Then jump on the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway as you approach Bend. You’ll pass Crane Prairie Reservoir, Sparks Lake, and more, each offering kayaking, fishing, or simply scenic tranquility. In Bend itself, you can wander breweries, or choose trails like the route from Benham Falls to Dillon Falls along the Deschutes River.

This is also a fantastic area for camping—almost every lake has a campground. Or stay at hotels in Bend for comfort while still enjoying the backcountry by day. The options are nearly endless!

~ Read more from Jenifer at The Evolista

Choice Hotels in Bend

Tip: If you’re new to Airbnb, you can sign up using this code and get up $52 off your first booking.

Choice Airnbnb’s in Bend

Eastern Oregon Road Trip

Painted Hills of red, orange and yellow on an Oregon road trip

Start & End: Crater Lake to Painted Hills

Distance/ Drive Time: 600 miles/ 14 hours

Time to Allow: Minimum 6 nights and 7 days, ideally 10 days

Often overlooked, Eastern Oregon offers a starkly different landscape than the western side—expansive deserts, ancient rock formations, and open skies. If you’re up for a more extended adventure, consider trekking east from Crater Lake to the Painted Hills. This route covers volcanic remnants, high desert terrain, and mesmerizing badlands.

Venturing out from Crater Lake, you’ll watch the scenery shift from forests to more arid canyons. A must-stop is Summer Lake for its natural hot springs or a scenic hike up Hagar Mountain. Rolling further along, Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge draws wildlife lovers, while the Steens Mountain region and Alvord Desert present epic remote backdrops for sunsets and stargazing. Near John Day, seek out Strawberry Mountain Wilderness and wrap up your journey among the vibrant layers at the John Day Fossil Beds, including the Painted Hills Unit.

Don’t Miss: Camping at Summer Lake Hot Spring, Alvord Hot Springs, or Crystal Crane Hot Springs. Each offers its own warm-water soaking pools and rustic lodging or camping options for an unforgettable desert night.

~ Read more from Nina at Oregon is for Adventure

Choice Places to Stay in Eastern Oregon

As Nina points out, camping is a prime way to appreciate Eastern Oregon’s remote and rugged landscapes. For those seeking a bit more comfort, lodging can be sparse—so plan ahead. Below are a couple of hotel options to consider if you’re looking for something other than off-grid camping.

Oregon Outback Scenic Highway

Old cabin

Start & End: La Pine to Lakeview (or reverse)

Distance/Drive Time: 185 miles/ 3 hours

Time to Allow: Minimum 1 night and 2 days

Exploring Oregon’s Outback Scenic Byway offers a peek into the state’s high-desert ranchlands and rugged natural beauty. From La Pine down to Lakeview (or the reverse), this 185-mile journey reveals rolling sagebrush, alkali lakes, and tranquil hot springs. Two days is ideal to relax and see the best of the region.

Stop to marvel at the imposing tuff ring of Fort Rock, formed by prehistoric volcanic activity. Wander short hiking trails for up-close views. Then continue past shallow desert lakes—perfect for photography. Summer Lake Hot Spring is a must for a soothing soak; choose from a 100-year-old indoor bathhouse or rock-walled pools under open skies. Overnight options range from cozy cabins to campsites, giving you 24-hour access to those rejuvenating waters. Finish in Lakeview or add more side trips to top off your Outback adventure.

~ Read more from Erika at Erika’s Travels

Choice Hotels in Oregon Outback

Much of Oregon’s Outback region is undeveloped, so you’ll find most accommodations in towns at either end of your route. Below are a few mainstream choices for those wanting something beyond the hot springs or rustic stays.

Oregon Road Trip Tips

  • Consider spring or fall for fewer crowds and milder weather. Summer is prime road trip time for families but can get busy. Winter often brings a mix of rain and snow in different parts of the state.
  • Give yourself enough time. Oregon is bigger than you might realize, and scenic highways invite many pullovers for photos and mini-adventures. Plan accordingly to avoid feeling rushed.
  • Reserve accommodations and campsites early—especially near popular spots on the coast or around Crater Lake, which fill up quickly between late spring and early fall.
  • If you’ll visit multiple state parks over several days, consider purchasing a $30 Oregon State Parks Pass. It covers your day-use fees at most locations, saving you money if you’ll be parking and exploring often.
  • Download offline maps in advance in case your phone signal disappears in remote mountain or desert areas.

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4 images of Best Road Trips & Scenic Drives in Oregon
4 Images of Best Road Trips in Oregon

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