Explorer Sue • Your Guide to the Pacific Northwest - Part 3

Top 10 Destinations for Road Trips From Oregon

Must Go

This is a guest post from some great people that know exactly where all the best road trips are in Oregon – the DMV. Planning your next road trip? A road trip in Oregon is something you’ll fall in love with. Drive along the scenic coastline or pass by tranquil rivers and lakes, thick forests, majestic waterfalls, volcanoes, and desert. Stop at orchards, campgrounds, farmer’s markets, historic small towns, or go fishing and hiking while enjoying the incredible scenery. But before you plan your road trip, make sure that you have a driver’s license. To acquire one, take a DMV written test and comply with the requirements. Now here are the top destinations to consider for your epic Oregon road trip: Columbia River Gorge A drive through the scenic Columbia River Gorge is an experience of a lifetime. Here, you will get to explore as many majestic waterfalls as…

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Sisters, Oregon – A Haven for Relaxation

Guides

The town of Sisters is the sweet cherry that sits on the top of the ice cream sundae that is Bend in central Oregon. A mecca for outdoor enthusiasts year-round, there is perfect skiing and snowshoeing in winter, and all manner of mountain and water activities in summer. Things to do in Sisters, Oregon The Three Sisters Wilderness is nearby and the best way to experience it quickly is to drive the McKenzie Highway, or Route 242. It has some of the most amazing scenery – however, the road is closed from November through June due to wintry conditions. The total length of the highway is 37 miles, and you’ll find breathtaking views around every bend. Suttle Lake is 15 miles west of town and is a great day trip. You can hike around it, kayak or boat in it, swim in its cool waters, camp along the shore, and…

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Meet One of the Best Artists in the Pacific Northwest

Personal Musings

One of the great things about being a travel writer is discovering and getting to know some of the amazing people you encounter as part of your job. It is these chance encounters of meeting interesting people and getting to hear their stories – where they came from and how they came to be where they are. People like Sterling Rose Rung. The town of Bellingham, Washington, up near the Canadian border, has many artists, and Sterling is one of them. She (much like myself) worked in the corporate world for years and realized that it wasn’t for her. She did what so many other creatives have done – busted out of the 9 to 5 and followed their dreams and their passions. She doesn’t express her talents through sculpture, or with a paintbrush, or with performance. She expresses herself through the lens of her camera. But that’s not all!…

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Salvador Dali in bathroom

My Top 10 Picks of Portland’s Best Hotels

Guides

I just love staying in hotels, even in my own home town! I’m sure many of us have become fans of the staycation and if I’m going to be completely honest, I’ve been doing it for many years. It’s the perfect way to pamper yourself and pretend you’re traveling during those times when you can’t, for whatever reason (*cough*pandemic*cough*). I’ve stayed in every one of these hotels, so this is not simply a regurgitated list of all of the other “best of” lists you will see out there. These are my personal opinions and I will be the first to tell you that each of these properties is superbly and authentically Portland. The Rose City has more than its share of fun and funky hotels – it’s kind of what we’re known for! Each of these properties have their own unique definition of hospitality, and I will tell you why. **Disclaimer.…

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Bring On the Ghosts! Haunted Places in Oregon

Guides

“It was a dark and stormy night…” Which is never far from the truth in Oregon, at least in the wintertime. Do you believe in ghosts? I suppose you do, lest you would not be reading this article. The entire state of Oregon is filled with some of the world’s most notorious haunted houses and hotels, creepy roads, and hellish haunted tales. While there are lots of fake stories out there, I have delved deep into my state’s sordid past to dig up genuine hauntings that will make the hair stand out at the back of your neck. Oregon haunted houses are a thing. For real. Let’s get started. Geiser Grand Hotel – Baker City An exquisite and stately hotel which holds a commanding place in the center of eastern Oregon’s Baker City. I spent two nights here and while my room was utterly amazing, alas, I experienced no ghosts.…

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10 Best Weekend Trips from Seattle

Guides

The Emerald City is a true cosmopolitan delight, but even the most steadfast of Seattleites need to get away from the big city once in a while. Luckily, Seattle is completely surrounded by a fantastic collection unique places outside for a short or long getaway. Take a breather from the stress of the hustle and bustle, and head to these amazing Washington State vacation spots. I’ve rounded up the best weekend getaways from Seattle. San Juan Islands It’s hard to believe that such a scenic group of islands nestled in the heart of San Juan de Fuca inland water system is so close to the bustling urban city of Seattle. When you arrive by plane or ferry to the San Juans it is as though you have entered another world. Island life (and island time) rules here, so if you are expecting lots of activity, better pick another spot.…

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The Great Pacific Northwest Travel Blog Roundup 2021

Guides

If you’re looking for things to do in the Pacific Northwest, you’ve hit the jackpot! These Washington and Oregon vacation ideas are the cat’s meow. I’ve gleaned some pretty tasty ideas from these blogs myself. Oregon is for Adventure Nina (of ‘Where in the World is Nina’ fame) and Garrett are full time travelers who call Oregon their home base. In just the short time this blog has been around, they’ve amassed quite an impressive collection of incredible things to do and see around my great state of Oregon. I definitely have some blog envy here! They’ve really done a good job with this site, with loads of information, including road trip ideas, great hiking suggestions, and activities to do around Oregon all year long. Explore Washington State Explore Washington State launched in 2016 and should be your new go-to guide for everything Evergreen State related. Whether you are searching…

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8 Things I Learned in 2020

Informational

As I look towards what appears to be a very promising new year, part of my process is (duh) writing down and reflecting on the past year and what it has taught me. And boy, was it a doozy of a year. Many lessons were learned. I’ll try and sum them up here. 1. I’ve learned to appreciate LOTS of reflective moments. Is this a good or bad thing? I’m not sure. Mostly good, I guess, but then again, I tend to overthink things. Most of us have had more time to get in touch with our true selves, for better or worse. I tend to think it’s mostly for the better. 2. Social media burnout is a real thing. Never before have I gone to my phone with the intention of looking up the weather forecast for the next day, only to have the Instagram, Pinterest, or Facebook…

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Why This is the Year for RV Travel

Informational

When you think of taking your wanderlust on the road in an RV, what is the first emotion that you experience? Elation? Abject trepidation? Instant terror? Or a smattering of all three? More importantly, have you ever vacationed in an RV before? RV travel in Oregon and Washington state has seen a huge increase as of late, and it’s only getting more popular. This is thanks, in part, to our amazing natural landscape, out incredible state and national parks. Our Cascade Mountain Range playground and unbeatable coastal delights. But it is also due to the fact that people just want to take back their freedom and be able to travel safely. I mean, who wouldn’t want to drive a mammoth road hog that also happens to be a gas guzzler and can be pretty tricky to steer, especially down narrow city streets? Sounds like fun, right? Why am I all…

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6 of the Best Armchair Travel Books from the PNW

Informational

The Pacific Northwest is known for a lot of things. Incredible natural scenery carved out by the last ice age. Lots of rain. Grunge music (I’ll always love Pearl Jam, and who can forget Nirvana?), fresh salmon, and majestic mountains. Iconic landmarks like Pike Place Market, Crater Lake, and Mt. Saint Helens. Hipsters who recycle. It’s also the birthplace of that global coffee franchise that shall not be named. But the Pacific Northwest is also known to produce some great stories – both fiction and non-fiction. I may get some flack for this but I truly enjoy stories like the Twilight Series (sorry, but Ms. Meyers’ writing IS good, unlike that Fifty Shades debacle). Whether or not you are traveling, immersing yourself in a good book can be the next best thing. The Pacific Northwest has been a muse for countless authors and some phenomenal stories that have captured the…

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Come Find Your Peace in the Wallowa Mountains

Guides

Out here in Northeastern Oregon, the Wild West still reigns supreme and the Wallowa Mountains are the focal point. Carved by the Oregon Trail, not a lot has changed since the good ‘ol days when hopeful future landowners blazed the trail by covered wagon. In this remote area of Oregon, you will find working ranches owned by the same family for 100 years. The remote Eagle Cap mountains rise up from the high desert floor to dominate the horizon, creating wide-open vistas, ripe for exploration. At the base of the Wallowas are large fields of fauna, with clearings that are now, for the most part, empty. They were once occupied by mining towns, some of which are now of the ghost variety. Yes, that is a fancy way of saying ghost towns. I didn’t know this about my state of Oregon. That we have a canyon that is actually deeper…

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5 Girlfriend Getaways in Washington State (You too, Guys!)

Guides

**This article was updated February 12, 2024** Sometimes you just need to get away with your besties with day trips from Seattle. Vacations in Washington State are rich and varied, with the greenery of Western Washington, and the desert beauty of Eastern Washington. There’s a lot here to do when bonding with your gal pals. And fellas, if you want to take your lady on one the best affordable romantic getaways in Washington State, read on… In a hurry? Here are my top recommendations for tours for your girlfriend getaway: Snoqualmie Falls and Seattle Winery Tour Go Hiking and Wine Tasking All-Inclusive Day Tour from Seattle 3-Day North Cascades National Park Kayak-Sailing Whale Watching from Friday Harbor San Juan Island Olympic National Park Full Day Small Group Tour **This article contains affiliate links. When you link on any link and make a purchase, you will be helping to support my…

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Spacious living room

Be a Sophisticated Kid at the Klickitat Treehouse

Must Go

The Columbia River Gorge is an outdoor enthusiast’s playground. But most people only traverse the Oregon side. What is lesser known is all of the wonderful things that can be discovered on the Washington side… …like fantastic treehouses. The Klickitat Treehouse hits that sweet spot in between being a kid again (sleeping in a treehouse) and satisfying the very adult craving of luxurious accommodations. The exterior does not look rustic, rather, it is a modern structure that fits in surprisingly well, tucked into the trees surrounding it. Once inside, the interior design looks as though it could leap out from the pages of Architectural Digest at any moment. The space offers clean lines and a very modern approach to “roughing it.” Here you will find the best glamping in Washington State. No “Roughing It” Here All of the amenities are here: a fully stocked kitchen, full bathroom, living…

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Courtesy of Ryan Stone @rstone_design

Sustainable Travel in the Pacific Northwest – Yes You Can

Guides

Have you heard? The big trend in travel is going eco-friendly. And the Pacific Northwest is leading the charge in this area. Being such a green area of the world anyway, we Oregonians and Washitonians have made it a habit of living a sustainable, healthy life. So it’s only natural that visitors are able to easily travel green here, as well! It is so easy to travel sustainably! If you are looking for Oregon vacation ideas that are eco-friendly, here are a few ways you too, can travel while helping to preserve our planet. Eco Friendly Hotels The sustainable hotel movement is well underway. And green hotels are not only on the rise, but most of them are really stylish and comfortable. Seek out hotels that offer “green” services. This can be anything from one-time cleaning service during your stay, to free bus passes, to fillable shampoo and soap stations.…

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5 Perfect Oregon and Washington Destinations for Fall

Oregon

Twenty-twenty is the year of the road trip – no one can deny that. And if you are one of my faithful readers, you will know that I looooove road trips. What better way to usher in the coming of Autumn than to explore the open road in Oregon and Washington. Here are my best picks for indulging in some beautiful spots in the Pacific Northwest during the autumn season. Explore Bainbridge Island A peaceful oasis from the hustle and bustle of Seattle, this quaint island is an easy ½ hour ferry ride from downtown Seattle. My ultimate guide to Bainbridge Island makes for a wonderful one- or two-day trip. You have the option of either staying in the village just off the ferry landing or making a weekend of it and exploring the island in its entirety. Hike Part of the Pacific Crest Trail If you’re not up for…

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Unique Hotels in Oregon

Informational

What kind of traveler are you? For some, a chain resort is preferable. One with a lovely pool where they can just park themselves there for a week. That is SO BORING. Who wants to travel hundreds or even thousands of miles just to sit and bask in front of a pool the whole time? For others, they like to get up at the crack of dawn and head to the attraction of their choice before most people have even cracked their eyes open. And for others… Unique hotels in Oregon are a given. Half of the fun of a vacation is finding a cool play to stay. Say what you will of the chain hotels like Best Western, Hilton, Marriott, and the like. They are great to lay your head at night with some semblance of comfort. But if you really want to have the full experience of having…

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Misadventures in Olympic National Park – Part Deux

Guides

Old habits die hard, to coin a familiar phrase. What that means is, as much as I talk about taking things slowly when you are traveling, I didn’t seem to want to listen to that inner voice this time. As with my first Olympic National Forest trip, I tried to jam pack as much as I could in the span of two days. This was my second time solo hiking Olympic National Park; situated on a glorious and beautiful peninsula – kissed by the rainforest and holding so many mysteries. And again, I decided on a small one-night journey. Will I ever learn? Read about my first ONP misadventure here. A Blessing in Disguise? At least something was on my side – the coronavirus pandemic. Sounds strange, doesn’t it? But it allowed me enough time to see more things, as many of the trails were still closed to visitors. I…

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Oregon’s Glorious Road of Waterfalls

Guides

Along an unassuming highway extending east from the lumber town of Roseburg is an oasis of outdoor adventure, glorious hiking opportunities, and yes…waterfalls galore. It is one of the best southern Oregon road trips you can take and has the highest concentration of pacific northwest waterfalls along one road. This is the ancient Umpqua Forest. Not far northwest of Crater Lake, Highway 138 (also known as the Rogue-Umpqua National Scenic Byway) makes gentle twists and turns through the old-growth like a languorous guide taking her visitors on a magical journey. The Most Scenic Road Trip The epic road trip takes 2-3 days to fully explore, but you can do it in a day if you choose to stop at just 2-3 waterfalls. You can start either from the west side in Roseburg, or east if you’re coming from the Crater Lake area. I am going to be listing the waterfalls…

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How Going on a Road Trip can Save Your Soul

Guides

Chances are if you are reading this blog, you have the wanderlust bug. Go on, admit it. I have it too, so let me tell you how my need to get out and explore has made me a happier person. Going on a road trip is one of my favorite things. When things get too stressful, oftentimes just getting into a car, truck or yes, even a recreational vehicle (an RV) can be the cure for what ails me. Never been RV-ing? Well, what are you waiting for? It is said that getting out of your comfort zone is a healthy thing. I tend to agree. And guess what? You can do it safely without endangering other people! Well, you DO have to drive carefully. But y’know that whole ‘social distancing’ thing? Yeah, you can do that here. Significant other driving you crazy? Take them with you on a romantic…

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3 Awesome Portland Self-Guided Walking Tours

Guides

**This post was updated January 16, 2024** Walking in Portland makes for a fine way to spend an afternoon. Many of its main attractions are within walking distance, not to mention a plethora of restaurants, food carts, and coffee houses along the way. It is a fantastic dive deep into this city – to find its history, its surprises, and its quirkiness. **Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. When you click through a book a tour, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Rather have a guided walking tour of Portland? I highly recommend booking this professionally-guided walking tour of downtown Portland. It’s a delightful 1.5-mile stroll through Portland’s rich history and vibrant culture! You’ll get to explore iconic historical sites, lively public squares, and some truly creative city planning concepts, all while having a chuckle at some funny trivia. But if you are more of…

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