The 45th parallel north is an imaginary line of latitude that circles the Earth halfway between the Equator and the North Pole.
In Oregon, this line passes through the state from east to west, marking an important geographical reference point. Look for the wide green sign, “45th Parallel Halfway Between the Equator and North Pole.” There are some half-dozen signposts scattered across Oregon identifying this significant geographical location. Don’t blink, you might miss them. Tag @oregonindependentinns on your Instagram 45th Parallel image.
In Oregon the 45th parallel crosses some key locations:
- On the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway, just north of Lincoln City, a 45th parallel sign is hidden among blackberry bushes
- A brick-lined monument notes the line in Keizer less than 2 miles from the Willamette River Water Trail,
- at the intersection off Adams and Water streets in Silverton, a town just outside Silver Falls State Park
- South of Mt Hood on Hwy 26
- Near the ghost town of Shaniko on Highway 97, part of the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway.
- In Fossil, Oregon, a marker stands near Wilson Ranches Retreat.
- Two 45th parallel signs stand near North Powder and Baker City — on US-30 and I-84 — making for easy detours en route to the Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway or the sites of the Oregon Trail and the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center.
Some of the 45th Parallel signs play host to geocaches. I’ve got my eye on two caches at 45.00.000, off the beaten path, a long 40 miles east off I84 in eastern Oregon. (Update: Found 45th Parallel # 1 GC13T06) The one on Hwy 26 had a cache but sadly, no more. Since it’s pretty close to our inn, the Old Parkdale Inn, I may just have to replace.
These Lincoln City inspected inns offer luxury accommodations and easy access to the highlights of the Lincoln City area of the central Oregon Coast
Baywood Shores Bed and Breakfast welcomes you to their Lincoln City inn on the shores of Siletz Bay. Relax and rejuvenate in your private suite with a king-size bed and 2-person Jacuzzi.Phone: 541-996-6700
Toll Free: 800-327-0486 Check Availability
Brey House Ocean View B&B – The ocean awaits you just across the street. Private baths, private entrances. Wonderful breakfast served in the ocean view breakfast room. Quilts, snuggy warm blankets, fluffy bath towels. Fireplaces, TV, DVD, in-room refrigerators Phone: 541-994-7123 Check Availability
Since 1989, the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild has served as a statewide information network for its member properties, providing a unified voice for the industry with state regulatory and tourism agencies.
Now known as The Oregon Association of Independent Inns, we’re the same trusted organization, with a new name, a fresh look, and an expanded focus on independent lodging properties beyond traditional bed and breakfasts. Member properties represent a wide range of accommodations, from small guest cottages, cabins, and intimate two-room B&Bs to larger country inns, boutique hotels and dude ranches.
Oregon Association of Independent Inns are ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved member of the Oregon Association of Independent Inns.
