Fodor's Travel Talk Forums - Trip Report Oregon -- from the Columbia River Gorge to the coasts and in between

Ten days in Oregon at the end of September left us wanting more – can’t wait to return. Thanks so much to all of the Fodors folks (Gardyloo and many others) whose comments over the years provided us tremendous insight. We are from the East Coast, so all of the threads about this region were valuable in making the best use of our time.

We spent three days in the Columbia Gorge area, based in Hood River, which turned out to be a perfect place to explore the gorge, the area wineries, Mt. Hood, and Timberline lodge. Some terrific places to eat and drink in Hood River: Brian’s Pourhouse and the Pfriem brewpub topped the list. And we were delighted with the Marchesi winery, where we spent the afternoon tasting their wares (brought outside to us) in between playing “fetch” with the resident dogs, who were quite happy to see us.

We also spent wonderful days on the Oregon coast, starting in Cannon Beach at the Tolovana Inn, another place that came recommended by the posters on this site. When we managed to tear ourselves away from the local beach, there were plenty of interesting places up and down the coast. In Newport, the sea lions were entertaining and the sunsets were sublime. The Oregon Dunes were impressive, and those of us who are used to crowded beaches on the Atlantic really appreciate the relative solitude you can find on the Pacific.

Crater Lake was on the list as a must-see, and it was worth the detour, especially approaching via scenic route 138 through Roseburg. Wish there was more time to take a few of the hikes along the way.

Finally, I’m looking forward to my next afternoon in Portland, when I can settle down with a good book from Powell’s over a beer down the block at Deschutes.

Great time of year to see that part of the country.