Oregon
America's Byways®
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This byway cuts a path through the mountains, lakes and forests of central Oregon. Volcanism and glaciation formed more than 150 lakes for which the region is well known. See outstanding examples of lava flows, alpine lakes and meadows. Cross paths taken by such historic figures as Kit Carson.
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Journey from river's edge to mountain-top and down to valley floor. Savor panoramic views of rugged basalt cliffs and fertile fields, rimmed by snow-tipped peaks. Tour foundries, galleries and museums. Touch the weathered track of the historic Oregon Trail. Watch the majestic Snake River tumble through North America's deepest canyon.
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Historic Columbia River Highway
Travel to magnificent overlooks that provide views of the Columbia River and waterfalls, including Multnomah Falls. Springtime has magnificent wildflower displays, including many endemic plants. The Columbia River formed the last leg of the Lewis and Clark Expedition and was part of the early route of the Oregon Trail.
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McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway
Experience dramatic views of the snowcapped High Cascade Peaks. The panorama of lava fields and six Cascade peaks is made more striking by the contrast between the black lava and white snow. The mountains are mirrored in crystal-clear lakes, and the byway passes beautiful waterfalls, including Sahalie and Koosah Falls.
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On this byway, volcanoes once erupted and mammoth floods scoured deep gorges. Discover geologic wonders, waterfalls, temperate rain forests and wild rivers. Explore pastoral valleys with farm-fresh produce. Experience the formidable last leg of the Oregon Trail, the Barlow Road. Enjoy this bountiful wonderland that the pioneers called "paradise."
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"Outback" refers to land with a natural ruggedness. Though people come here seeking independence, they know each other's first names. Community is paramount. Jonathan Nicholas, publisher of the Oregonian, said it is "a star-spangled landscape of marsh and mountain, of reflection and rim rock, of seamless vistas and sage-scented dreams."
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Pacific Coast Scenic Byway - Oregon
Starting in Astoria and traveling south to Brookings, the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway provides views of amazing coastal scenery. The road winds by estuarine marshes, clings to seaside cliffs, passes through agricultural valleys and brushes against wind-sculpted dunes. Charming small towns, museums, state parks, overlooks, historic bridges and lighthouses ensure a delightful journey.
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From rolling, oak-covered hills to towering coniferous forests, from roaring white water rapids to incised intercanyon lava flows, the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway invites you to experience 172 miles of diverse river and mountain landscapes. Drive alongside the Upper Rogue and North Umpqua Wild and Scenic Rivers that contain world-class fisheries.
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Explore the wonder and beauty of a dramatic volcanic landscape from Oregon's Crater Lake National Park to California's Lassen Volcanic National Park. Encounter ancient natural forces that shaped exquisite mountain lakes. Amid spectacular scenery, you'll enjoy charming towns, abundant wildlife, world-class birding, and extraordinary recreational, historical and cultural opportunities.
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This byway offers some of the best up-close views of thundering waterfalls, ancient forests, rushing whitewater and cool, placid lakes. The drive begins in the historic logging city of Estacada, immersing you in old growth forest. Continue and see snowcapped volcanic peaks and the breathtaking Wild and Scenic Clackamas River.
Other Byways in Oregon
As a service, we strive to include information on all byways or backways in Oregon on this website. This list may be incomplete or contain byways that overlap.
- Blue Mountain Scenic Byway
- Charleston-Bandon Loop Tour Route
- Christmas Valley Back Country Byway
- Cottage Grove Covered Bridge Tour Route
- Cow Creek Tour Route
- Diamond Loop Back Country Byway
- East Steens Tour Route
- Elkhorn Scenic Byway
- Emigrant Trail
- Galice to Hellgate Back Country Byway
- Grande Tour Route
- Grave Creek to Marial Back Country Byway
- High Desert Discovery Scenic Byway
- Journey Through Time Scenic Byway
- Lakeview to Steens Mountain Back Country Byway
- Lower Crooked River Back Country Byway
- Lower Deschutes River Back Country Byway
- Myrtle Creek-Canyonville Tour Route
- Nestucca River Back Country Byway
- Over the Rivers - Through the Woods Scenic Byway
- Quartzville Road Back Country Byway
- Rogue-Coquille Scenic Byway
- Silver Falls Tour Route
- Snake River-Mormon Basin Back Country Byway
- South Fork-Alsea River Back Country Byway
- South Fork John Day River Back Country Byway
- State of Jefferson Scenic Byway
- Steens Loop Tour Route
- Steens Mountain Back Country Byway