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.
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.
Order Oregon Association of Independent Inns Gift Certificates Now. They are available in $50 increments and can be redeemed at any one of our member inns. With more than 20 member inns to choose from and an 18-month expiration period, recipients have ample time to redeem their stay at the inn that best suits their travel style.
Three Ways to Order Gift Certificates:
Order online. Don’t include your credit card information on that form. We will call you for payment information
E-mail info@obbg.org or call OBBG at 503-893-4210. Please leave a message as this line is monitored by our busy innkeepers. We’ll get back to you for the details: who will be the recipient of your thoughtful gift, acquire your payment method and shipping information. We’ll send them by mail, to either you or the recipient, with delivery confirmation. The recipient will have a great time getting away to a high-quality destination of their choice.
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.
