11 Underrated Destinations In Oregon To Avoid Summer Crowds
Summer is a time for people to get out and enjoy the delightfully warm weather while partaking in their favorite pastimes. Oregon has many unique, off-the-beaten-path locations offering the perfect getaway from the routine life schedule. Whether looking to explore a small, unheard-of town for the weekend or camp in a discreet destination surrounded by nature, there is something for everyone. The only thing is that summer is synonymous with crowds thronging all the top spots and turning them into a madhouse, which can dampen any holiday experience. Fortunately, Beaver State is full of underrated places and hidden gems that allow travelers to skip the crowds while promising them a magical experience. For those looking to spend their time in isolated settings away from the inconvenience of large masses, here are Oregon's 11 underrated destinations to explore.
Manzanita
The tiny, underrated town of Manzanita is home to a little over 600 residents but impresses first-timers with pleasant weather and a friendly community. Devoid of summer crowds, it is the ideal escape for outdoorsy tourists exploring the abandoned trails of West State Park and the Nehalem Bay State Park. Admire the breathtaking panoramas of the Bay while wandering the expansive beach on one of the cutest small towns in Oregon, or take a day trip to nearby Cannon Beach. Manzanita hosts a series of small family-owned businesses worth scoping out, and wine lovers can stop by the Manzanita Winery Wine Bar to sample its sweet offering.
Silverton
Sharing a name with one of the friendliest towns in the Colorado Plateau, Silverton is the ultimate getaway from the Oregon capital. It was deservedly dubbed "Garden City" for its numerous green delights and exciting nature pursuits. It is home to The Oregon Garden, which harbors lush botanicals on a beautifully-landscaped 80-acre property, allowing visitors to be one with nature. The Children's Garden is particularly a favorite for families, where the young can play around amidst nature and form friendships with cute animals in the Pet-friendly Garden. For the more adventurous travelers, hit the nationally renowned "Trail of Ten Falls" in the nearby Silver Falls State Park, stopping at the 177-foot falling South Falls to marvel at the gorgeous cascades.
Mount Hood
Mount Hood is a famous Oregon landmark and one of the few locations in the United States where enthusiasts can ski during the summer. It has the highest peak in Oregon and is home to the iconic Timberline Lodge, which boasts North America's longest snowboard and ski season. The venue maintains skiable conditions for approximately ten months of the year, allowing skiers to go against the grain by hitting the slopes when everybody is thronging coastal destinations. Several other activities, such as hiking, keep guests entertained, and the rolling mountains making up the surroundings spoils adventurers with epic views.
Cove Beach
Located in a deserted section off Highway 101, close to a forested waterfront neighborhood near Cape Falcon, Cove Beach is an idyllic setting for those looking to skip the summer crowds. This rarely-visited beach delights with stretches of volcanic cobble that make for great long walks along the coast to free up the mind. The atmosphere is peaceful and quiet, with a steady stream of cool breeze drifting from the water. Meanwhile, the magical sound of waves crashing against the shores of Cove Beach offer visitors unprecedented natural therapy.
Lost Lake
Situated just an hour's drive from Portland, this hidden gem inside Mount Hood National Forest is the ideal summer escape from the hullabaloo in the capital. Lost Lake is a picture-perfect setting, surrounded by lush green vegetation and a calm, tranquil atmosphere with spectacular vistas of the iconic Mount Hood. Perfect for camping, tourists can set up base on the many campgrounds on site to make the most of Lost Lake's shimmering waters with fun activities like swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Alternatively, simply soak in the scenes and admire the meteor showers while sleeping under the starry night sky in one of the many affordable summer vacation spots in Oregon.
Tillamook Coast
Looking for a deserved break from the mounting stresses of daily life? Oregon's picturesque Tillamook Coast provides tourists with an amazing getaway experience. Enjoy a relaxed drive through the Three Capes Scenic Loop or hike along the pristine coastal rainforest in Oswald West State Park. Also, sample some of Oregon's sumptuous cuisine on a culinary cruise along the North Coast Food Trail, beginning with a bite of sweet cheese at the Tillamook Creamery. Although plenty of summer events are held in the area, the crowds are not as intense as in other places.
Wallowa Mountains
Wallowa Mountains is one of the most underrated destinations in Oregon to avoid summer crowds. Tucked away in the state's northeast corner, it is safe from the rigors of Portland's Metro area and rewards tourists with some of the most stunning and awe-inspiring scenes. Popularly referred to as the "Alps of Oregon", the imposing Wallowa Mountains provide the perfect backdrop for an outdoor expedition. Wallowa Lake is also an excellent destination for travelers yearning for peace and quiet amidst nature's bounty.
Agate Beach
Agate Beach is an undiscovered gem inside Otter Point State Recreation Site that shields guests against annoying summer crowds. Located about 2.5 miles from Gold Beach, this calm waterfront in one of the most charming towns on the Pacific coast offers epic sea views, which travelers can admire while walking on its gravelly shores. The discreet nature of Agate Beach and the soothing sound of tides crashing against the rocky coastline make one feel like being trapped on a deserted island. Also, there are numerous critters and crawlers to check out in the tide pools that reflect the rich marine life at Agate Beach.
Terwilliger Hot Springs
Popularly known as Cougar Hot Springs, this scenic natural space in the middle of the Willamette National Forest beckons vacationers to take advantage of its alluring atmosphere. It is an idyllic setting for a fun day out with family or friends that allows visitors to explore hidden trails through the forest and enjoy a refreshing dip in the bubbly waters of Terwilliger Hot Springs. The best part is that it is devoid of crowds, offering plenty of space to sit back, unwind, and soak in the laid-back scenes. And when it's to rest after a wild adventure, the nearby Eagle Rock Lodge offers fantastic accommodation.
Pillars Of Rome
The Pillars of Rome is a series of intricate and awe-inspiring rock formations in the high desert landscape of southeast Oregon. Laden with fossils and reaching imposing heights of almost 100 feet, this natural wonder feels like a scene out of a movie, serving as the perfect destination for outdoor lovers. Travelers can discover this isolated piece of heaven and hike along the famous Oregon Trail and the nearby Owyhee Crossing. Although this landmark has existed for centuries, only a few people come here, and adventurers need not worry about unruly crowds.
Bates State Park
Bates State Park is a sprawling 131-acre outdoor space in the green valley of the famous Blue Mountains that allows guests to get lost in nature. There are numerous adventures at Bates State Park, including fishing or swimming in the clear waters of Middle Fork John Day River, Clear Creek, and Bridge Creek. Alternatively, hit the over three miles of trails on the venue to hike its primitive and deserted paths through the wilderness. Meanwhile, historians can inspect the interpretive panels on site for a glimpse into the history of the once-thriving lumber mill.
Bottom Line
Hitting the cold spots at the peak of the summer is an excellent way to avoid jostling for space and amenities with disruptive crowds. While there are a handful of sites in Oregon that vacationers can visit to enjoy the peace and seclusion they offer, only a few people know about them. To get started, these 11 underrated destinations in Oregon to avoid summer crowds promise an unforgettable experience.
