The Seven (Breathtaking) Wonders of Oregon (+6 to Add ASAP)

As a lifelong Oregonian, I’ve spent years exploring every corner of this incredible state—and I can confidently say the Seven Wonders of Oregon live up to the hype. From misty coastlines to towering mountains and high desert marvels, each wonder showcases a different side of what makes Oregon such a great place to live.

I’m Antonina, and I was born and raised in Oregon. I’ve spend the better part of twenty years adventuring around the state. As someone who grew up with these landscapes in my backyard, I’m here to share why theses chosen wonders are worth experiencing firsthand and what makes them so special to locals.

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What are the Seven Wonders?

Back in 2013, playing off the concept of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Travel Oregon launched the Seven Natural Wonders of the World campaign—and it struck a chord.

The idea was simple: highlight seven jaw-dropping natural wonders to inspire both locals and visitors to get outside and experience the state’s diverse landscapes.

Of course, narrowing Oregon’s natural beauty down to just seven is a near-impossible task (we’re spoiled for choice here!), but ultimately it was decided that the following made the cut:

• Crater Lake National Park,
• Mt. Hood
• Columbia Gorge
• Oregon Coast
• Painted Hills
• The Wallowas
• Smith Rock

Every year since, these iconic spots draw crowds in droves—and for good reason. They showcase the best of what Oregon has to offer, from rugged coastlines to volcanic peaks and everything in between.

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Who am I and why should you trust me?

Fair question, and don’t worry – I don’t offend easily. As mentioned, my name is Antonina and I’m a lifelong Oregonian. I was raised in Portland and spent most of my childhood exploring the natural wonders of Oregon.

Shortly after meeting my husband we embarked on a whirlwind tour of Oregon state, visiting every corner and popping off at every small town we passed. We both thoroughly enjoy hiking and took it upon ourselves to explore these wonders firsthand.

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The 7 Wonders of Oregon

Table of Contents: The 7 Wonders of Oregon

Table of Contents: The Seven Wonders of Oregon

• Who am I and why should you trust me?
• The 7 Wonders of Oregon
  • Crater Lake National Park
  • The Painted Hills
  • The Oregon Coast
  • The Wallowa Mountains
  • The Columbia River Gorge
  • Smith Rock State Park
  • Central Oregon Road Trip Idea
  • Mount Hood
• Additional Natural Wonders of Oregon
  • The Oregon Dunes
  • Owyhee Canyonlands
  • Waldo Lake
  • Tamolitch Blue Pool
  • Hell’s Canyon
  • Steens Mountain
  • Article Summary
  • Seven Wonders of Oregon Map
  • Love Oregon? Me too. Here’s some articles you may find interesting

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Crater Lake National Park

Clocking in at astounding depths of 1,943 feet, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in America and the ninth deepest lake in the world.

This iconic lake formed thousands of years ago when a volatile volcano by the name of Mount Mazama erupted and collapsed. The cooled caldera filled with rainwater and snow melt and eventually formed the lake we see today.

If that’s not impressive enough, Crater Lake is also one of the purest and clearest lakes in the world. There’s no inlets feeding the lake, so neither sediments nor mineral deposits enter the lake, keeping it pure.

Things to do at Crater Lake National Park:

• Drive the scenic 33-mile Crater Lake Rim Drive and pop off at interesting spots along the way for interesting vantage points.
• Swing by Watchman Overlook and take in the views from the most popular viewpoint in the park.
• Hike the Cleetwood Cove Trail to reach the lake and take a dip, but heads up: the water is chilly!

Did you know that you can fish at Crater Lake National Park?

Fish were introduced to the lake in 1888 and have become self sufficient. Here’s what you need to know if you’re interested in fishing at Crater Lake.

Best time to visit: Crater Lake National Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is between July – September when the temperatures are favorable, there’s less snow on the ground and the chance of rainfall is minimal.

But beware the mosquitoes! As soon as the snow melts they hatch in droves. Typically August is safer than July.

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The Painted Hills

Oregon’s Painted Hills are part of the three units that make up John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. The hot and arid conditions aren’t enough to keep visitors away, everyone is eager to get their eyes on these colorful hill formations in the high desert of central Oregon.

It’s no wonder that such a breathtaking and unique sight would be considered one of the 7 Wonders of Oregon. Well, stratification is the name of the game here.

The colors on the hills are attributed to ancient eruptions that caused ash layers to deposit over many years and caused different minerals to reach and solidify into various colored bands over time.

Talk about mouthful, right?

But the Painted Hill are special because they are a window to the past. The rock layers have been ardently studied to determine geological time scales of these ancient hills and some of the soil is believed to date back millions of years.

Why the Painted Hills made the cut: The geological wonderland that is the Painted Hills is unique to the Pacific Northwest. There’s only a handful of other places in the world that have colorful hills akin to the Painted Hills, the fact that they’re in our backyard is hard to believe.

Things to Do at the Painted Hills:

• Hike the Painted Cove Trail, arguably the most popular trail at the Painted Hills. A short wooden boardwalk meanders through jutting hillsides that engulf you in their splendor.
• Hike the Painted Hills Overlook Trail to get sweeping views of the entire valley below you.

Read: A Stunning Guide to Oregon’s Painted Hills

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The Oregon Coast

Oregon’s nearly 400-mile coastline is famous nationwide for a reason. Our striking shoreline is lined with massive rock formations, the largest coastal sand dunes in America, and seemingly endless sweeping views of the chilly Pacific Ocean.

But what makes the Oregon Coast so special? Well, for starters, every inch of the coastline is public property (and therefore freely accessible to all). Thanks to the Oregon Beach Bill from 1967, it is unlawful for any entity to privatize any stretch of Oregon’s breathtaking shoreline.

There’s so many fun ways to explore the Oregon Coast. You can start by driving down the Pacific Coast Highway, which is considered one of the most scenic drives in the country. Pop off at every charming coastal town and make time to visit the 11 lighthouses at the coast.

Arguably the most iconic town at the Oregon Coast is Cannon Beach, people flock here to see the iconic Haystack Rock – it’s definitely worth a visit.

But don’t miss the fun that comes with exploring the incredible sand dunes in Florence or seeing the jaw-dropping views from the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor.

Why the Oregon Coast made the cut: The Oregon Coast is home to the largest expanse of coastal sand dunes in the country. Spanning an impressive 40-miles in length, it’s one of the largest expanses of temperate coastal sand dunes in the entire world, with some dunes rising to heights of 500 feet!

Things to Do at the Oregon Coast:

• Rent a dune buggy in Florence, Oregon
• Visit Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor
• Explore Cannon Beach (Haystack Rock)
• Rent a boat and spend the day crabbing with friends
• Click ahead if you’re looking for a full list of things to do at the Oregon Coast

Read: 15 Quaint Oregon Coast Towns You Can’t Help But Love

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The Wallowa Mountains

During my visit to the Wallowa Mountains I couldn’t help but notice how much the sweeping mountain views reminded me of the breathtaking alpine wilderness in Switzerland.

For first timers, I suggest exploring the Eagle Cap Wilderness where alpine meadows and granite peaks engulf you and transport you to paradise. With breathtaking alpine landscapes like this it’s no wonder this is considered a wonder!

Do yourself a favor before visiting the Wallowas and read up on Chief Joseph, the beloved Native American Chief of the Nez Perce tribe who led his tribe through the darkest periods in Native American History. The story of this compassionate leader is just as fascinating as the land you will be exploring.

Why the Wallowas made the cut: The Wallowas easily earn their place among Oregon’s Seven Wonders thanks to their jaw-dropping beauty and dramatic, varied landscapes. This remote range in the northeastern corner of the state offers a little bit of everything—towering alpine peaks, rolling high desert, lush forests, and the sparkling waters of Wallowa Lake.

Things to Do in the Wallowa Mountains:

• Hike to Maxwell Lake (the views are jaw-dropping)
• Visit the M.Crow General Store
• Explore Wallowa Lake by boat
• Wallowa Lake Tramway

Location: Joseph, Eastern Oregon

Read: An easy-going 4th of July spent with close friends in the Wallowas

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The Columbia River Gorge

Few know that the Columbia River Gorge is America’s largest National Scenic Area. And once you drive through this stunning landscape it won’t take long for you to realize that the honor is well deserved.

Take the Historic Columbia River Highway, known as the “King of Roads,” which was the first scenic highway in America to be designated as a National Historic Landmark, an incredible achievement.

The highway was constructed with the intent of working with the natural wonders of this area, not against them and the end result is a beautiful thing. The route follows the Columbia River and passes numerous cascading waterfalls. This is bound to be one of the most beautiful drives you’ve ever done.

Make sure you pop off to see Multnomah Falls otherwise no one will believe you were actually here! I should also confess that the breathtaking Columbia River Gorge is one of my favorite day trips from Portland, because there’s no shortage of adventurous things to do.

I especially like spending warm summer days at the numerous award-winning wineries in Hood River while sipping cold Chardonnay and watching the sun set over Mt. Hood.

Things to Do at the Columbia River Gorge:

• Visit Multnomah Falls
• Hike to Oneonta Falls
• Partake in the Hood River Valley Fruit Loop

You might enjoy reading: 20 Wildly Beautiful Oregon Waterfalls Completely Worth the Effort

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Bonus Points: Hood Valley Fruit Loop

The Hood River Fruit Loop is one of the best things to do in Oregon during the summer and fall seasons when the various farms open their doors to eager u-pickers and offer seasonal fruits and veggies.

Visitors are encouraged to go on a self-guided 35-mile scenic driving tour and pop off at 29+ fruit stands and farms along the way. Not all of the stands are open at the same time since some of these farms are seasonal, so make sure you check out this resource before heading out.

Located in the heart of Hood River Valley, you won’t find a more scenic way to spend the day.

My favorite season to enjoy the Fruit Loop is the fall when the weight of crisp apples and ripe pears hanging from trees are an invitation to pick too many and make pie for friends.

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Smith Rock State Park

Volcanic activity is the culprit behind a fantastic rock outcropping called Smith Rock, that juts seemingly out of nowhere, smack dab in the middle of the arid desert landscape that is Central Oregon.

My favorite hike at Smith Rock State Park is the beloved (and very popular) Misery Ridge Trail Hike. The trail takes hikers past Monkey Face, which is considered one of the toughest rock climbs in the world. It attracts thousands of avid rock-climbers annually.

The first mile of this scenic Oregon hike is challenging, but you must preserve because the views from the summit are worth the effort. Think jaw-dropping and sweeping views of the Cascade Range in full display.

If you’re not in the mood for a high elevation hike near Bend, I suggest the River Trail because it offers phenomenal views and lacks elevation.

The landscape in this part of Oregon is so beautiful. An early morning wake-up call is well worth the effort to avoid crowds. We hiked the Misery Ridge Trail at sunrise and watched a hot air balloon take in the splendor of the sun greeting the valley floor. Hot air balloon ride over central Oregon? Now that’s an idea I can get behind!

Read: Hiking Report: Misery Ridge Trail at Smith Rock

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Central Oregon Road Trip Idea

Interested in extending your adventurous Seven Wonders of Oregon road trip? May I suggest adding the Deschutes National Forest after your stop at Smith Rock State Park? My husband was commissioned to create a video on the forest and it features some of the most breathtaking hikes near Bend.

You might see an appearance from yours truly. 😉 Hope you enjoy!

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Mount Hood

Reaching an impressive height of 11,250 feet, Mt. Hood is the tallest volcano in Oregon and the fourth tallest in the Cascade Range. As you can imagine, every inch of Mt. Hood National Forest is bound to impress but make a special effort to visit McNeil Point, Paradise Parks and Elk Meadows.

You’ll instantly see why visitors consider this one of the most beautiful places in Oregon. Make sure to hike the Tom, Dick, and Harry Trail while exploring Mt. Hood National Forest, it’s my favorite hike in the area.

Tom Dick and Harry mountain is located near Government Camp, 11 miles from Mount Hood. Due to the hike’s close proximity to Portland, Oregon, crowds are all but guaranteed during the summer months. Fun fact: Mt. Hood is the third most climbed mountain in the world.

Why Mt. Hood made the cut: The rich volcanic soil that lines the Hood River Valley is considered one of the largest regions in the country for growing produce.

Things to do near Mt. Hood:

• Catch sunrise at Trillium Lake
• In the summer, participate in the Hood Valley Fruit Loop
• Go apple picking at Kiyokawa Apple Orchard
• Get a Christmas Tree from Mt. Hood National Forest

Read: The 10 Best Lavender Farms in Oregon

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Additional Natural Wonders of Oregon

Listen, I get it. With only seven places to choose, competition is fierce. But I’ll let you in on a few gems that definitely would make the “11” Wonders of Oregon list.

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The Oregon Dunes

As I mentioned earlier, the Oregon Dunes are the largest expanse of coastal dunes in North America and one of the largest in the world. Surely we shouldn’t overlook the treasure we have in our own backyard.

These dunes are mesmerizing. On a sunny day (that’s asking a lot on the coast) the shades and hues of blues, greens, and white sand make for a stunning scene.

Because the dunes area is so massive, finding the best access point can be tricky. This boardwalk trail is my favorite spot to pop onto the dunes.

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Owyhee Canyonlands

The comments made it clear, the Owyhee are worth consideration if there’s ever an expansion to the seven wonders of Oregon. This place is out of this world. Folks not from here don’t often think of the desert when they think of Oregon, but so many of the state’s most beautiful sites are desert wonders.

My first exposure to the Owyhee Canyonlands was on a road trip my husband and I did touring the state a few years back and based on my experiences I can’t wait to go back. It’s amazing. Rolling green hills, striking canyons, towering rock spires, and (lovely) sandy trails are the name of the game here.

The Owyhee Canyonlands are also so uncrowded which makes them especially worth a visit – you’ll have the place to yourself!

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Waldo Lake

It’s no surprise that the second largest freshwater lake in the state should be a contender for the prestigious designation as a wonder, no?

The wild Cascade Mountains offer a stunning backdrop to this high-elevation lake that is easily accessible by car. This nearly 10-square-mile Oregon lake is one of the purest lakes in the world (nearly as pure as distilled water).

There are no inlets carrying nutrients to the lake, therefore plants don’t grow – which is the reason for the lake’s clarity. On a calm day, you can see to impressive depths of 120 feet.

To preserve the purity of the water, motorized boats were banned in 2010.

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Tamolitch Blue Pool

Why it should be one of the wonders of Oregon: First, the clear topaz-blue color of the water is truly unbelievable (you’ll know what I mean when you see it in person). The glass-like water is misleading — making it seem like the pool is only a few feet deep (when in actuality it reaches depths of 30 feet).

Secondly, when you reach the Blue Pool you might ask yourself where the water comes from, since it appears to pool up out of nowhere. Believe it or not, the Tamolitch Blue Pool is where the McKenzie River rises to the surface through underground lava tubes – how cool is that?

Read: Local’s Guide to Tamolitch Blue Pool

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Hell’s Canyon

The name is intimidating but the landscape is sheer bliss, which is why I think everyone should make an effort to see one of the most beautiful landscapes in Oregon.

Found on the border between Oregon and Idaho, the Snake River cuts through Hells Canyon and offers visitors ample outdoor recreational opportunities in the deepest canyon in North America (deeper than the Grand Canyon by almost 2,000 feet!).

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Steens Mountain

Steens Mountain is the highest point in southeastern Oregon and it has a hold on visitors that few can explain. Once you visit, you will instantly feel compelled to return. Looming at an elevation of 9,733 feet, Steens Mountain feels like an island in the surrounding desert landscape — a sight few can fathom.

Various trails lead to breathtaking viewpoints that make you feel like you’re at the edge of the world. The other-worldliness of Steens Mountain, coupled with the isolation and solitude makes this one of the prettiest places in Oregon to me.

The road leading up to Steens Mountain Gorges Loop is considered the most spectacular road in Oregon so you can believe the views from this Oregon trail will not disappoint. The “gorges loop” portion in the trail’s name refers to the connection between the two gorges — Big Indian Gorge and Little Blitzen Gorge.

Further Reading: Exploring Steens Mountain & the Alvord Desert (Like a Pro)

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Article Summary

And there you have it! A round up of the Seven Wonders of Oregon. Looking over this list makes me realize how fortunate I am to call this beautiful state home. If you have any questions or would like to offer your two cents, let me know in the comments below. It’s always nice to hear from you!

1. Crater Lake National Park
2. Mt. Hood
3. The Oregon Coast
4. The Painted Hills
5. The Wallowa Mountains
6. Columbia River Gorge
7. Smith Rock State Park

Seven Wonders of Oregon Map

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Love Oregon? Me too. Here’s some articles you may find interesting

• 20 JAW-DROPPING Places in Oregon You Have to See to Believe
• 20 Wildly Beautiful Oregon Waterfalls That Are Completely Worth the Hype
• 12 Legendary Oregon Lakes Perfect for Escaping the Summer Heat

Until next time,
Antonina