Tag Archives: driving scenic oregon

Rogue Umpqua Scenic Byway ~ Take Two

We explored the Rogue Umpqua Scenic Byway in two trips. First one, after attending a conference in Ashland, Oregon, we choose to head home via the Rogue River section of the Rogue Umpqua Scenic Byway. Due to a very snowy winter we were unable to explore as much as we’d like. Another trip we explored the Umpqua River leg of this incredibly scenic byway through the Oregon Cascades. Read about that in a previous post.

From Ashland: We caught Hwy 62 at Medford, Oregon, and headed east toward Prospect and the Historic Hotel and Dinner House where we planned to stay the night. The route ascends into the Rogue River canyon, into old-growth firs and lava flows. First stop, Butte Falls and then we traveled Butte Falls – Prospect Road to Prospect. Spent the night in The Prospect Hotel’s motel units as we were traveling with our dog. Next morning we explored the beauty surrounding the Prospect Hotel, a few waterfalls, geocaches, roaring rivers and creeks.

Said goodbye to Fred and Karen and continued travel on Hwy 62 toward Chiloquin. Stopped at the observation platform overlooking the Rogue Gorge, a collapsed lava tube where the river now courses through a 25-foot-wide, 40-foot-deep chasm or the Natural Bridge interpretive site that explains how the river disappears through an underground lava tube, forming a land bridge. Had a nice lunch at Becky’s Cafe in Union Creek. Unfortunately, there were a few more waterfalls we just couldn’t get into with the feet of snow. We’ll be back.

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.

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, when you’re ready to travel again. Not sure if your favorite inn is open? Give them a call as they just might be.

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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. Whether you choose to travel the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway north or south, there’s an Oregon Bed and Breakfast for your start/stop lodging option.

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, when you’re ready to travel again. Not sure if your favorite inn is open? Give them a call as they just might be.

quilt barn trail tualatin valley

The Westside Quilters Guild (WQG) embarked on a multi-year project in late 2013 to create a Quilt Barn Trail in Oregon’s Tualatin Valley. The Quilt Barn Trail in the Tualatin Valley consists of large painted quilt blocks mounted on barns or buildings. The blocks are mounted on barns and non-residential buildings outside the Washington County Urban Growth Boundary, with a small number of blocks inside the city limits of towns that allowed them. In 2019, they reached their goal of installing 60 blocks throughout the county. All blocks are hand-painted, 8 ft or 4 ft-square quilt blocks, made using high quality materials for longevity.

The Quilt Barn Trail highlights the county’s agricultural and historical heritage, promotes area tourism, provides public art in unexpected places, and showcases the art of quilting. Brochures and maps are available in visitor centers, libraries and other locations, as well as online. Funding for our trail was provided by Westside Quilters Guild, grants, sponsors and donations. No public money has been spent on our trail. Oregon residents and visitors can use downloadable maps to navigate the trail.

Order the Quilt Barn Trail Map & Brochure

The Innkeepers in Oregon Willamette Valley welcome you, especially those who quilt, like Sue at Yamhill Vineyards Bed and Breakfast.

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, when you’re ready to travel again. Not sure if your favorite inn is open? Give them a call as they just might be.

wonderful hikes on the oregon coast

The Pacific Coast Scenic Byway

The Pacific Coast Scenic Byway; ‘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 breathtaking viewpoints, stunning state parks and quaint coastal towns.

‘This 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. And then there’s the wind-sculpted dunes, marshes, lush agricultural valleys and majestic rainforests.’ The Oregon Coast: one of the 7 Wonders of Oregon. Thanks to Travel Oregon for sharing this information.

Yes, it’s possible to drive the entire Pacific Coast Scenic Byway in a single day.  But why would you when you have 8 member inns of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild from Cannon Beach to Gold Beach? Take a few days and enjoy the ride.

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: 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.

wonderful hikes on the oregon coast

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The Pacific Coast Scenic Byway

The Pacific Coast Scenic Byway; ‘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 breathtaking viewpoints, stunning state parks and quaint coastal towns.

‘This 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. And then there’s the wind-sculpted dunes, marshes, lush agricultural valleys and majestic rainforests.’ The Oregon Coast: one of the 7 Wonders of Oregon. Thanks to Travel Oregon for sharing this information.

Yes, it’s possible to drive the entire Pacific Coast Scenic Byway in a single day.  But why would you when you have 9 member inns of the Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild from Cannon Beach to Gold Beach? Take a few days and enjoy the ride.

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: 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.

Oregon Leaf Peepers

Oregon Leaf Peepers are sure to enjoy the vibrant fall colors

Oregon Leaf Peepers have come to expect a stunning fall color show and this year’s changing seasons will not disappoint as a variety of deciduous trees begin to change against a bold evergreen background. Visit our National forests, our orchards and vineyards, our state and urban parks and our grand, stately neighborhoods.

Typically one can expect the Willamette Valley peak color change to happen during the third week in October. The higher you go in the Cascade Mountains the earlier the color change. Road passes often peak 10 days to two weeks earlier than the lower elevations.

The earliest fall color display happens in the Wallowa Mountains and northeast region of Oregon, peaking the first part of October.

Begin planning your Fall Foliage Tour, first by choosing a region, then by calling an Oregon Bed and Breakfast Guild inn and asking when the peak near them will occur.  We may not hit it right on but since we live and play in our regions we have a pretty good idea what’s happening around us.

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. 

Lane County Covered Bridges

With 20 covered bridges, Lane County has the distinction of possessing more covered bridges than any other county west of the Mississippi. Seventeen of these bridges are listed in the National Register of Historic Places

Just last week we took a road trip for seek some of the 20 covered bridges in Lane County, a county that has the distinction of possessing more covered bridges than any other county west of the Mississippi.  Seventeen of these bridges are listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

We started our journey in Eugene, Oregon, first heading west for a couple of bridges and waterfalls, then  headed east on Hwy 58, finding 6 along this road. You could easily do them all in one day using C’est La Vie Bed and Breakfast in Eugene as your home base. Take a trip back in time and discover all Lane County, anc C’est La Vie Bed and Breakfast, has to offer.

C'est la Vie Inn bed and breakfast

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.

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.

‘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. The McKenzie River Round House would be a good mid way choice. Sections of this Scenic Byway are closed during the winter months so plan your trip before the snow falls. The West Cascades Scenic Byway ends in Oakridge Oregon and we suggest ending your day at C’est la Vie Inn in Eugene.

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. 

Wilson Ranches Retreat

Welcome, Partner, to Wilson Ranches Retreat

At Wilson Ranches Retreat, your hosts are fifth generation Oregonians, whose families homesteaded in Wheeler and Gilliam Counties over 100 years ago. A 9,000 acre working cattle and dude ranch takes you off the beaten track to a rustic hideout, located in the beautiful Butte Creek Valley three miles West of Fossil, Oregon off Highway 19.

Although the ranch has been running for over 100 years the Wilson’s opened the farmhouse to B&B guests 15 years ago. Breakfast with the Wilson’s is about much more than just good food and nourishment, it is truly a unique dining experience. The Wilson Family loves to sit down with the guests and share about ranch life, local history, and the funny and serious sides of rural living. Whatever the topic at the breakfast table, expect the conversation to be intelligent, informed and often humorous. You are likely to have a large helping of fun and laughter with Phil’s stories.

Let your inner Cowboy or Cowgirl out!  Visit Wilson Ranches Retreat for an authentic Ranch experience. Not the riding type? Not a problem. Sit under the cottonwoods, sipping lemonade while the rest of your party is out ‘working’! But you might want to join in. There may be an inner cowhand you’ve never even met!

This incredible, secluded scenic Oregon Lodging Ranch with spectacular sunsets and brilliant star-studded nights will captivate you.  Enjoy horseback riding in a geologically and historically rich area with a magnificent view of the Cascade Mountain Range or a quiet hike to view the wildlife and diverse flora and fauna on Wilson Ranches Dude Ranch. Wheeler County is home of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument and has the richest find of prehistoric fossils in the world.

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. We know Wilson Ranches Retreat is.

The Rogue - Umpqua Scenic Byway

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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.   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. Commonly known as the ‘highway of waterfalls’ we hiked to and found 7 along the Umpqua River, Hwy 138 from Roseburg toward Diamond Lake. There’s more. We ran out of time and steam!  This spring we did the second half from Gold Hill to Diamond lake.  Watch for that blog post.  ‘The Rogue – Umpqua Scenic Byway ascends from I-5 into the southern Cascades, tracking two of Oregon’s most storied rivers.’ The drive itself is only 172 miles, an easy day trip, but with all the waterfalls, hikes, and scenic visits, you may want to schedule a couple of days as we did.

C.H. Bailey House in Roseburg is an historic, luxurious “green” full service bed & breakfast set in rural Umpqua Valley, close to Crater Lake and the Umpqua River. It’s unique, private, air-conditioned, one-bedroom bungalow will be a perfect starting point if you decide to tour the scenic byway clockwise.

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.

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.