West Cascades Itinerary
The West Cascades Road Trip starts in Portland, Oregon and ends in Oakridge, Oregon. This 436km route takes you through the picturesque towns of Estacada, Rainbow, and Devils Canyon. Along the way, you will be able to take in the stunning views of the Cascade Mountains and the lush green forests of the Willamette Valley. The best time to take this road trip is during the spring or summer months, when the weather is the most pleasant and the roads are the least hazardous.
The road conditions can be quite challenging in some areas, so it is important to take caution when driving. However, the scenery and the experience of being able to explore the area make this road trip well worth the effort. This is a great road trip for any driver, regardless of experience level, and can be completed on a moderate budget. So, why not take a chance and embark on the West Cascades Road Trip? It's sure to be an adventure you won't forget.
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number of days
436 km
route length
fair
budget
explorer
good for
on the right
traffic direction
fair
accident level
START
Portland
Distance 436 km
Driving time 7.5 h
Pace: modest
113.4 kWh
Airports
PDX
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Portland in the United States is an ideal starting point for the West Cascades Road Trip. The city offers an abundance of attractions to explore, from the iconic Portland Saturday Market to the International Rose Test Garden. The city's art and music scene is vibrant, with numerous galleries, theatres and music venues. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, including hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking. For travelers arriving by air, the closest international airport is Portland International Airport (PDX). Car rentals are available at the airport and provide an ideal way to explore the city and the surrounding area. Those looking to experience the natural beauty of the West Cascades should make a stop at Multnomah Falls, a stunning 620-foot waterfall, or take a drive along the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. The Larch Mountain Trail is also a must-see, featuring spectacular views of the Columbia River Gorge. With its abundance of attractions, Portland is the perfect starting point for the West Cascades Road Trip.
1
Portland
- Estacada
Distance 52 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: fast
15.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for a road trip adventure? Let’s start in Portland and make our way to Estacada, a journey of 32 miles that will take us less than an hour. Along the way, we’ll be able to take in some of the most breathtaking views in the region. We’ll pass by the historic Oregon City, the Willamette Falls, and the Clackamas River. As we make our way through the countryside, we’ll be able to take in the beauty of the rolling hills and the lush forests. As we near Estacada, we’ll be able to explore the Mt. Hood National Forest and the Sandy River. Once we arrive in Estacada, we’ll be able to take a break and explore the city’s unique shops and restaurants. So don’t forget to take your camera and capture the beauty of this stage of your journey! For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” section of this stage.
Estacada - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Estacada
- Detroit
Distance 166 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: fast
49.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Starting your road trip in Estacada, United States, you will have a 103mi drive to Detroit. The estimated driving time is less than 3 hours.
In Estacada, you should visit the Clackamas River, where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and take some amazing photos. You can also explore the area's many trails, perfect for a day of hiking.
When you arrive in Detroit, you should visit the Detroit Zoo. It's a great place to spend the day, with a variety of animals, exhibits, and activities. You can also take a tour of the city and visit the Detroit Institute of Arts.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a great road trip!
Detroit - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
Detroit - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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Detroit
- Rainbow
Distance 119 km
Driving time 2.6 h
Pace: modest
31.0 kWh
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Detroit to Rainbow? This 74 mi journey will take you fewer than 3 hours, and it’s one of the stages of a larger tour. The adventure starts in Detroit, the largest city in the state of Michigan. Here you can explore the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Motown Museum, or the Detroit Historical Museum. When you’re ready to move on, head to Rainbow, where you can visit the Rainbow Bar & Grill, the Rainbow Resort, and the Rainbow Lake. Don’t forget to check out the Rainbow Falls and the Rainbow Springs. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Rainbow - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Rainbow
- Box Canyon
Distance 42 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: modest
10.9 kWh
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Welcome to the Rainbow-Box Canyon road trip! This is one of the stages of a larger tour that will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the United States. This route covers a distance of 26mi and it can be driven in fewer than 1 hour.
Start your journey in Rainbow, a small town located in the San Diego County. Here, you can visit the Rainbow Creek Park, a great place to enjoy a picnic or a walk along the creek.
Continue your journey to Box Canyon, a small town located in the same county. Here you can visit the Box Canyon Waterfall, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation. The nearby Box Canyon Trail is also a great spot to explore the area.
We hope you enjoy this stage of your journey! Don't forget to check the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route.
Box Canyon - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - www.nps.gov
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5
Box Canyon
- Devils Canyon
Distance 23 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: modest
6.1 kWh
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Welcome to the Box Canyon - Devils Canyon stage of your road trip! This scenic 15-mile drive will take you less than an hour, and you'll be able to explore some of the best sites in the area.
In Box Canyon, you'll find the Box Canyon Dam, a great spot for fishing and boating. There's also the Box Canyon Park, a great spot for hiking and camping.
From Box Canyon, you'll drive to Devils Canyon, where you'll find the Devils Canyon National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge is home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, elk, and mule deer. In addition, you can explore the Devils Canyon Trail, a great spot for hiking and bird watching.
These are just a few of the great sites you'll find along the Box Canyon - Devils Canyon stage of your road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage.
Happy travels!
Devils Canyon - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - National Park Service
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6
Devils Canyon
- Westfir
Distance 28 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: modest
7.2 kWh
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip experience? Then let's start from Devils Canyon, a stunning natural wonder located in the United States. Here you will find a great variety of outdoor activities, from hiking to rock climbing. After you have enjoyed the beauty of the canyon, it's time to hit the road and drive 17 miles to Westfir. On the way, you can take a break in Oakridge, a small town known for its beautiful mountain views. You can also take a detour to the stunning Salt Creek Falls, a waterfall that is well worth the visit. You can also enjoy the beauty of the Willamette National Forest, a great spot for wildlife viewing. The entire trip will take you less than 1 hour. Don't forget to check the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy the journey!
Westfir - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
Westfir - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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7
Westfir
- Oakridge
Distance 6 km
Driving time 0.1 h
Pace: modest
1.6 kWh
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Welcome road-trippers! We have a great stage for you, starting in Westfir, United States and ending in Oakridge, just 4 miles away and a driving time of less than 1 hour. Along this route, you will find the beautiful Willamette National Forest, which offers a wide range of outdoor activities and a chance to spot wildlife. There is also the Cougar Reservoir, where you can take a break and enjoy a picnic or a swim. Other interesting places to visit in Westfir are the Westfir Lodge, a historic lodge with a restaurant, and the Westfir Covered Bridge, the oldest covered bridge in Oregon. In Oakridge, you can explore the historic downtown area and visit the Umpqua National Forest. More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So pack your bags and get ready for the adventure!
Oakridge - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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Oakridge
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Oakridge, Oregon is the perfect ending point for the West Cascades Road Trip. Situated in the Cascade Mountains, the town is surrounded by the stunning beauty of nature. The Willamette National Forest, the Deschutes National Forest, and the Three Sisters Wilderness Area are all nearby.
The town itself has plenty of activities to offer. If you’re looking for outdoor adventure, try the Middle Fork Trail. It’s a great place to hike, bike, or explore the forest. Other outdoor activities include fishing, kayaking, and rafting on the nearby Willamette River.
If you prefer to stay in town, there are plenty of attractions to explore. The Salmon River Trail is a great place to take a stroll, and the nearby Charlotte Owen Memorial Park offers a tranquil spot for relaxing. The historic Old Town district is full of interesting shops and restaurants, and the town’s art galleries are a great place to find unique pieces.
Oakridge is also a great place to experience the culture of the area. The Oakridge-Westfir Museum features displays on the town’s history, and the local theater group puts on performances throughout the year.
For those flying in to end their road trip, the closest international airport is the Eugene Airport (EUG). From there, it’s a short drive to Oakridge and the perfect way to end a West Cascades Road Trip.
West Cascades at a glance
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Start:
Portland
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End:
Oakridge
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Distance:
436 km
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Stay:
2 days
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Getting there:
Portland International Airport (PDX)
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When to drive:
July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the West Cascades Scenic Byway, a breathtaking journey stretching from the vibrant city of Portland, Oregon, to the serene town of Oakridge, Oregon. This 436-kilometer (271-mile) route winds through the heart of the Pacific Northwest, offering a tapestry of natural wonders, historical sites, and outdoor activities. As you travel, you'll pass through enchanting towns such as Estacada, Detroit, and McKenzie Bridge, each with their own unique charm, and traverse landscapes that showcase the majestic beauty of the Cascade Range and the fertile Willamette Valley.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- In Estacada, witness the harmony of art and nature at the Artback Artists Cooperative's annual Outdoor Mural Event.
- Visit Detroit Lake State Recreation Area for water sports and family fun.
- Journey through the old-growth forests at the Aufderheide Scenic Drive and marvel at the mesmerizing Sahalie and Koosah Falls along the McKenzie River.
- Don't miss the historic Goodpasture Covered Bridge in Vida, one of the most photographed covered bridges in Oregon, dating back to 1938.
Best Time to Go:
The prime time for this picturesque voyage is from late spring through early fall. May through October offers the most favorable weather for outdoor excursions and clear, safe driving conditions. Late spring brings an explosion of wildflowers, while autumn cloaks the landscape in vivid hues of red, orange, and gold.
Potential Risks:
Mountain Roads can be unpredictable, and adverse weather conditions such as snow and ice can pose risks outside of the summer months. Parts of the byway may also be closed due to seasonal conditions or maintenance work. It's essential to check Road status, carry chains in the winter, and stay updated on weather forecasts.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
The West Cascades Scenic Byway is a journey that caters to a variety of interests and budgets. Whether you're a solo traveler seeking solitude or a family looking for an educational and fun Road Trip, this route delivers. You can explore numerous hiking trails, campgrounds, and fishing spots, making it an ideal adventure for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. For a more comfortable experience, quaint inns and bed-and-breakfasts provide cozy accommodations along the way.
A good choice for:
The West Cascades Road Trip is an invitation to discover the splendor of Oregon's diverse landscape. From the lush vineyards of the Willamette Valley to the snow-capped peaks of the Cascade Range, this journey offers a captivating blend of relaxation and adventure. It's a Road Trip that promises lasting memories for anyone who takes on the open Road in search of Oregon's hidden gems.
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