Category Archives: Scenic and Electric Byways

Chief Kiawanda Rock and Pacific city beach on the Oregon Coast

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Three Capes Scenic Drive and two Oregon Bed and Breakfasts
Three Capes Scenic Drive Map
Three Capes Scenic Drive Map

The Three Capes Scenic Drive is a spectacular one with dramatic cliffs, old growth forests, crashing waves, hidden beaches, and historic lighthouses.

This gorgeous byway connects three amazing capes: Cape Kiwanda, Cape Lookout, and Cape Meares, and loops around on a lovely inland stretch of highway 101. Along the way, you’ll pass incredible sea stacks, sand dunes, pristine beaches and charming seaside towns.
Oceanside Bed and Breakfast

At Thyme and Tide Bed and Breakfast, in Oceanside fall asleep to the sound of the surf and wake up to a delicious hot breakfast.

Oceanside is a cozy little hideaway located just off the Three Capes Scenic Route. Built upon a hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Oceanside offers the ambiance of a quaint European Village.

Also in Oceanside you’ll find turtlejanes bed and breakfast, adelightful small inn on the Oregon Coast. Nine miles west of Tillamook, home of world-famous Tillamook Cheese, the inn’s two bedrooms are beautifully appointed with spectacular views, king-size beds, private bathrooms with heated floors, and blackout shades on the windows. You’re invited to help yourself to coffee, tea, hot chocolate, microwave popcorn and Tillamook ice cream, available to guests around the clock.

Three Capes Scenic Drive on Oregon’s Rugged Coast

Just offshore is the Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge, the first National Wildlife Refuge established west of the Mississippi. Three Arch Rocks is home to the largest breeding colony of tufted puffins and the only site on Oregon’s North Coast for pupping steller sea lions. A tunnel through Maxwell Point affords access to Tunnel Beach, Agate Beach and other secluded beaches.

Sunset on Three Capes Scenic Drive and Tunnel Beach
Tunnel Beach in Oceanside Oregon

The drive only takes a couple of hours but plan on taking some extra time to explore along the way. Perhaps create a multi-day adventure, allowing our innkeepers to be your hosts.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Hospitality Update: Our inns are following COVID-19 protocol guidance from the Oregon Health Authority. 

Although mask guidelines are lifted:

● Some businesses may choose to still require masks.

● Some people may choose to still wear a mask.

We have all struggled through COVID-19 and could use a little kindness. Please be respectful of local businesses and their workers and most importantly kind to yourself.

A cemetery view over the grass with trees

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Over the Rivers and Through the Woods Scenic Byway

Over the Rivers and Through the Woods is a 66-mile scenic route beginning in the rich farmlands of the Willamette Valley, winding along rushing streams and through thick forests as it climbs into the Cascades to join the West Cascades and McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass National Scenic Byways.

Willamette Valley Bed and Breakfast – great places to start

Over the Rivers driving map

To start the journey take I-5 exit 216 about 25 miles north of Eugene east onto OR 228 toward Brownsville,  which was settled in 1846 and is Oregon’s third oldest town. During winter months, grass fields around Brownsville host wintering bald eagles and large flocks of white tundra swans. Much of the Byway parallels the Santiam Wagon Road. Take time to visit the historic museums and cemeteries along the way for a view into Pioneer life, many who traveled this road and the Oregon Trail to get to the lush, fertile Willamette Valley.

From Cascadia, the Byway continues along the South Santiam River. Thick forests are dominated by Douglas-fir, western hemlock and red cedar; big leaf maples and red alder provide contrast to the conifers, especially in the fall.

History runs deep across Oregon with fascinating, colorful and surprising stories. Oregon’s pioneer cemeteries are heritage sites and offer a peak into Oregon’s past. Many host geocaches for an added adventure. The Brownsville Cemetery, photo featured, is home to many pioneers and some very old stones. GC8T6FM Oh Lonesome Me

Time to start planning your memorable Oregon Road Trip. Oregon has more designated scenic byways and tour routes than any other state. The Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is the only State Association of B&Bs and a welcoming inn awaits you as you travel the backroads. I am presenting a series of blogs to assist you in creating amazing getaways and tours in Oregon. Thanks Travel Oregon for sharing this information.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Hospitality Update: Our inns are following COVID-19 protocol guidance from the Oregon Health Authority. 

Although mask guidelines are lifted:

● Some businesses may choose to still require masks.

● Some people may choose to still wear a mask.

We have all struggled through COVID-19 and could use a little kindness. Please be respectful of local businesses and their workers and most importantly kind to yourself.

Yaquina Lighthouse on the Oregon Coast

Plan your Oregon Vacation here on Our Scenic Byways

Looking for the most scenic drives in Oregon? Want to make all your Instagram friends a little jealous? Ahem, below are the most scenic drives in Oregon and one of them has your name on it.

animated red car on the oregon scenic bywaysOregon has 29 designated Scenic Byways! So, get in the car, take some pics, and reignite your soul. Quick note: please check for travel alerts, as well as the road and weather conditions.

Want to:

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Hospitality Update: Our inns are following COVID-19 protocol guidance from the Oregon Health Authority. Oregon’s statewide mask requirement for indoor public places was lifted on March 12.

After mask guidelines are lifted:

● Some businesses may choose to still require masks.

● Some people may choose to still wear a mask.

We have all struggled through COVID-19 and could use a little kindness. Please be respectful of local businesses and their workers and most importantly kind to yourself.

Rogue Umpqua Scenic Byway Map

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The Rogue – Umpqua Scenic Byway in the Southern Oregon Cascades

Oregon has more designated scenic byways and tour routes than any other state. The Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is the only State B&B Association and a welcoming inn awaits you as you travel the backroads. Thanks Travel Oregon for sharing this information, inspiring our traveling spirits.

‘Two Raging Rivers Run Through It.  More commonly know as the ‘highway of waterfalls’, we hiked to and found 7 on our recent trip, the Rogue – Umpqua Scenic Byway ascends from I-5 into the southern Cascades, tracking two of Oregon’s most storied rivers.’ From Gold Hill on the Rogue River in Southern Oregon or from Roseburg on the Umpqua River 85 miles north you’re only moments from enjoying this spectacular route. Follow the “Wild and Scenic” Umpqua and Rogue rivers through enchanting recreation areas in the heart of the southern Cascades.

Prospect Historic Hotel and Dinner House is Crater Lake’s closest full service town and would be a perfect spot to refuel the body and soul while exploring Crater Lake and the Rogue – Umpqua Scenic Byway. Built in 1888 as a stagecoach stop half-way between the Rogue Valley and Crater Lake, this Nationally Registered Historic Hotel has been restored to all of its glory. After a hearty breakfast set off to enjoy this breathtaking tour through the thickly forested southern Cascades.

Just outside of Roseburg, Oregon, nestled in the Umpqua Valley wine country, the Brenner Suite is a private luxurious “green” bungalow at the historic C.H. Bailey House, tastefully furnished with full amenities, luxurious linens, complimentary local wine and beer, breakfast, and fresh flowers. The suite includes a kitchen, living room with gas fireplace, walk-in closet, private bath with walk-in shower, and a variety of outdoor seating with restful views.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Hospitality Update: Our inns are following COVID-19 protocol guidance from the Oregon Health Authority. Oregon’s statewide mask requirement for indoor public places was lifted on March 12.

After mask guidelines are lifted:

● Some businesses may choose to still require masks.

● Some people may choose to still wear a mask.

We recognize that there will be mixed feelings about this change. We have all struggled through COVID-19 and could use a little kindness. Please be respectful of a person’s individual decision to wear a mask or not, and most importantly kind to yourself. Our inns are doing everything in our power to keep you safe. Not sure if your favorite inn  is open? Give them a call as they just might be.

Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach with sandy beaches

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‘Wind, Waves and a Long, Winding Road’

Yes, it’s possible to drive the entire Pacific Coast Scenic Byway in a single day. But it’s also pointless. Because you wouldn’t have time to experience any of the Instagram worthy viewpoints, stunning state parks and quaint coastal towns.

The Oregon Coast: one of 7 Wonders of Oregon

A large Puffin Sculpture on the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway‘The Pacific Coast Scenic Byway offers many natural wonders. Visit between November and June to watch the storms come in or to scan the horizon to catch a glimpse of migrating gray whales. Several rock formations are home to large colonies of seals and sea lions, and shorebirds abound in the countless estuaries. Tufted Puffins spend months floating and diving on open seas and return each spring to Cannon Beach’s Haystack Rock to lay eggs and raise their chicks. And then there’s the wind-sculpted dunes, marshes, lush agricultural valleys and majestic rainforests.’ Thanks to Travel Oregon for sharing this information.

Oregon Bed and Breakfasts along the Way

Yes, it’s possible to drive the entire Pacific Coast Scenic Byway in a single day. But why would you when could easily create an itinerary that includes stays a member inns of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild in Oceanside, Lincoln City to Port Orford? Take a few days and enjoy the ride.

Tunnel Beach Sunset in Oceanside Oregon
Tunnel Beach in Oceanside Oregon

The Oregon Coast Scenic Electric Byway

Oregon is embracing electric vehicles (EVs) with such enthusiasm we are creating Electric Byways across the state. The Oregon Coast Electric Byway allows you drive all 363 miles of the beautiful Oregon Coast and charge your EV along the way.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Hospitality Update: Our inns are following COVID-19 protocol guidance from the Oregon Health Authority. 

Although mask guidelines are lifted:

● Some businesses may choose to still require masks.

● Some people may choose to still wear a mask.

We have all struggled through COVID-19 and could use a little kindness. Please be respectful of local businesses and their workers and most importantly kind to yourself.

Sumptner Dredge

Elkhorn Scenic Byway

The Elkhorn Scenic Byway ‘packs plenty of sights into a 106-mile loop through the mountains west of Baker City, long the lucrative hunting grounds of the Plateau Indian tribes and, later, where miners came to seek their fortunes. The true treasures are the Elkhorn Mountains and Baker Valley themselves, rich in beauty and history.’ Travel Oregon

The byway passes through farmlands along the Powder River before climbing up into a beautiful area of mountain lakes and outdoor adventure. The fall foliage starting here around October is absolutely gorgeous.

Elkhorn Scenic byway map with Ghost towns of Eastern Oregon

Miners and Farmers

Around 1900, thousands of miners chiseled and dredged millions in gold from the Elkhorn Mountains and Powder River to Sumpter. The massive Sumpter Valley Dredge still floats here, and has been recently restored. The dredge left much of the rocky footprint that you’ll see on your trek along Highway 7, and is an important link to Oregon’s pioneering past and development. It is one of the largest and most accessible gold dredges in the U.S.

Ghost towns of Oregon

The town of Granite was also big during the gold-rush, and many buildings here, now abandoned, remind us of a once flourishing place in Oregon. John Cabell operated the La Bellevue Mine in Cabell City.  All that remains of the settlement is the cemetery, which houses the graves of Fred and Johanna Cabell and their 8-year-old daughter, as well as a few abandoned buildings and mining equipment.

There is plenty to do on this road trip: hiking, biking, picnicking and oh, so many photo ops. We traveled this route the first part of the week, performing some quality assurance inspections on Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild inns. We drove the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway to Wilson Ranches Retreat, then explored the Ghost Towns on the Elkhorn Scenic Byway. Quite a bit of snow over the summit so you might plan this trip for next summer. Today we’ll head up to the Bronze Antler Bed and Breakfast in Joseph Oregon,

Oregon has 29 designated Scenic Byways! So, get in the car, take some pics, and reignite your soul. Quick note: please check for travel alerts, as well as the road and weather conditions. This free guide to Oregon scenic byways might come in really handy too.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Hospitality Update: Our inns are following COVID-19 protocol guidance from the Oregon Health Authority. 

Although mask guidelines are lifted:

● Some businesses may choose to still require masks.

● Some people may choose to still wear a mask.

We have all struggled through COVID-19 and could use a little kindness. Please be respectful of local businesses and their workers and most importantly kind to yourself.

The snake river in Hells Canyon

Hells Canyon Scenic Byway

Hells Canyon is the deepest canyon in the US. And you don’t want to wait too much longer to see it before winter sets. The fall foliage is amazing right now.

Hells canyon Scenic Byway Highway signStart planning your Oregon Road Trip. Oregon has more designated scenic byways and tour routes than any other state. The Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is the only State B&B Association and a welcoming inn awaits you as you travel the backroads. Thanks to Travel Oregon and the Oregon Department of Transportation for sharing this information.

Listed in an article of the deepest, longest, tallest, etc., record-setting places to visit in the US are two Oregon Locations:  the deepest canyon, Hells Canyon and the deepest lake, Crater Lake which will be mentioned in a future Scenic Back Road blog. Both are also listed as one of the 7 Wonder of Oregon. Oregon geo-tourism at its finest!

‘A Mile-Deep Gorge and Two-Mile-High Mountains. Oregon’s northeast corner has always been wild and untamed. From the unfathomable depths of Hells Canyon to the 10,000-foot peaks of the Wallowas, much of it remains inaccessible. The middle of this incredible drive is usually closed by snow from October through May.

Joseph is the premier small town for art and culture and is home to art galleries, unique shops, interesting restaurants and the delightful Bronze Antler Bed and Breakfast, a member of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild. The Bronze Antler features three cozy guest rooms and a modern Asian Suite with many upscale amenities.

Winter and spring guests will enjoy unencumbered snowmobiling, snowshoeing and backcountry skiing opportunities. But if it’s the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway you’d like to travel now’s the time to start planning your fall trip. A reminder: The center section of the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway is seasonal – it usually closes in early November and doesn’t open again until May or June depending on the snowpack. If you’re planning to drive entire Byway, check in with the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Office at (541)426-4978 or 426-5546 or by visiting their website.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Hospitality Update: Our inns are following COVID-19 protocol guidance from the Oregon Health Authority. 

Although mask guidelines are lifted:

● Some businesses may choose to still require masks.

● Some people may choose to still wear a mask.

We have all struggled through COVID-19 and could use a little kindness. Please be respectful of local businesses and their workers and most importantly kind to yourself.

Oregon Outback Scenic Byway and Fort Rock

Oregon Outback Scenic Byway ~ A View into Oregon’s Past and Dynamic High Desert Scenery

Oregon Outback Scenic Byway MapWe recently spent a few weeks in Taos visiting our daughter. A long road trip that brought us back into Oregon from Nevada onto one of Oregon’s 26 Scenic Byways, Oregon Outback Scenic Byway.  This byway takes you through a slice of the Great Basin, an isolated diverse landscape, where lush green forests of the Oregon Cascades are replaced by sagebrush and stunning rock formations.

See striking evidence of mysterious rock formations left behind by volcanoes at Fort Rock. The Abert Rim is a 30-mile-long fault escarpment, one of the nation’s longest and most continuous fault escarpment that rises more than 2,000 feet above the Byway.

Take a few minutes to stop at Picture Rock Pass, named for ancient Indian petroglyph-decorated rocks that are within walking distance of the highway.  I discovered these while seeking Geocache GC18MWG ‘Between Basins’.  Yes, I am a cacher and, as everywhere in Oregon, there are plenty for you to hunt for. Don’t miss Lakeview Geyser Earthcache GC23CK7, the Old Perpetual Geyser.

Picture Rock Pass offers panoramic views of the lakes and forests. Stunning Winter Rim divides forest and desert and as the Geocache ‘Between Basins’ suggests, ancient lake basins.  The Paisley Caves, discovered in the cliffs above the Great Basin, have revealed fossils and evidence of human habitation as long as 14,000 years ago.

We also took advantage of a soak in the mineral baths of Summer Lake Hot Springs.  You won’t want to miss that.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Hospitality Update: Things are looking up. The CDC has updated mask wearing protocol and some inns may still be requiring masks to be worn in some situations. Please check with individual B&Bs to inquire about their specific policies. 

Let’s all be respectful and safe and follow the guidance of our individual counties, inns and businesses. Our inns will continue to do everything in our power to keep you safe. Not sure if your favorite inn is open? Give them a call as they just might be.

Yaquina Lighthouse on the Oregon Coast

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Looking for the most scenic drives in Oregon? Want to make all your Instagram friends a little jealous? Ahem, below are the most scenic drives in Oregon and one of them has your name on it.

animated image of a red car on the Oregon Scenic BywayOregon has 29 designated Scenic Byways! So, get in the car, take some pics, and reignite your soul. Quick note: please check for travel alerts, as well as the road and weather conditions. This free guide to Oregon scenic byways might come in really handy too.

You’re going to need road snacks for sure.

That’s why we included a list of Oregon food trails and several Oregon food loops that serve local fare with scenery on every side included on our map. And Food Pods, popping up across the state. All the growers and crafters along these trails are committed to sustainable practices and supporting the agricultural legacy of their regions. So, go ahead — eat your heart out!

Our innkeepers can also direct you to the best farm stands, family stores, cheese shops and coffee shops for stocking up on those road trips snacks, beverages, and picnics items.

On the Oregon Trail of Waterfalls map you’ll find information on each regional food trail, as well as links to their websites, Oregon food trail maps, print-at-home brochures, and Oregon food trail itineraries.

Our Oregon Trail of Waterfalls map leads you on an Oregon road trip to remember. We look forward to seeing you soon.

SEE A DIGITAL VERSION OF THE MAP

Want to:
Escape the Hustle and Bustle
Go on an expedition
Tour a Scenic Byway … or two

Our Oregon Trail of Waterfalls map leads you on an Oregon road trip to remember. We look forward to seeing you soon.

SEE A DIGITAL VERSION OF THE MAP

The Oregon scenic drives mentioned above are the ones closest to our bed and breakfasts but there are more. Click here to see ALL of the byways.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Hospitality Update: Our inns are following COVID-19 protocol guidance from the Oregon Health Authority. 

Although mask guidelines are lifted:

● Some businesses may choose to still require masks.

● Some people may choose to still wear a mask.

We have all struggled through COVID-19 and could use a little kindness. Please be respectful of local businesses and their workers and most importantly kind to yourself.

 

Office Covered bridge on the West Cascades Scenic Byway

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The West Cascades Scenic Byway

‘The 220 mile West Cascades Scenic Byway runs north to south, skirting the northern half of Oregon’s Cascade Range and follows four great rivers through timeless forests, where you’ll discover adventure and renewal along the way.’

Time to start planning that Oregon Fall Road Trip. Oregon has more designated scenic byways and tour routes than any other state.  The Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is the only State B&B Association of B&Bs and a welcoming inn awaits you as you travel the backroads.  I am presenting a series of blogs to assist you in creating create amazing getaways and tours in Oregon.  Thanks Travel Oregon for sharing this information.

West Cascade Scenic Byway map‘A Scenic Alternative to the Freeway. Contrary to popular belief, cruise control on Interstate 5 is not the only way to travel between the Portland and Eugene areas. If you’re in no hurry, this journey through the colorful western Cascades makes getting there all the fun. Especially because, in addition to the open road, there are miles of rivers and trails to explore.’

Consider making this a two, or three, day trip.

Take your time and enjoy the fall colors, lush forests, and spectacular views of snow capped mountains. Begin your journey after a hearty Northwest Breakfast at an Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild in Portland or the Willamette Valley. Sections of this Scenic Byway are closed during the winter months so plan your trip before the snow falls.

Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild is ready to share Oregon with you: it’s environment, culture, and heritage. Combine gracious hospitality with ambiance at an inspected and approved Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild member Inn.

Hospitality Update: Oregon is one of the top states where it looks like social distancing is working. Our inns have been proactively doing everything in our power to keep you safe, welcome you back, as travel restrictions are being lifted. Not sure if your favorite inn is open? Give them a call as they just might be.