The two P-towns of Oregon are so different but also have much in common. They both take pride in being unique maybe even weird but both have strong identities and are Oregon. The 209 mile trip will amaze and delight those who love a road trip. You can do it in 3 ½ hours or 3 weeks depending on your level of interest in stopping along the way! Of course we recommend several trips choosing different stops along the way. Below I have listed just a few of our favorite stops, please feel free to share with us your own as we know there are many jewels along the way.
1. Troutdale – Known for inexpensive gas prices and
great outlet mall shopping. We think the true jewel is its historic downtown. http://traveloregon.com/see-do/attractions/shopping/historic-downtown-troutdale/
2.
Multnomah Falls - At 620 feet, only three falls
in the nation are higher, and none are more beautiful. You can make this as big
an adventure as you like be just viewing it from the bottom to hiking to the
top. (Tip: the exits for the fall can be tricky keep your eyes on the signs.) http://traveloregon.com/see-do/attractions/outdoors-nature/multnomah-falls/
3.
Cascade Locks – Our personal favorite is Marine
Park. A great place to stop and just
enjoy the history of the Columbia River. http://traveloregon.com/cities-regions/mt-hood-the-gorge/cascade-locks/
4. Hood River – One of our favorite cities in
Oregon with its windsurfer vibe, adorable downtown shops, Full Sail Brewery and
best of all the historic Columbia Gorge Hotel. http://traveloregon.com/cities-regions/mt-hood-the-gorge/hood-river/
5.
The Dalles – Yes it is not Dalles but The
Dalles. My newest favorite is Nichols Art Glass http://www.nicholsartglass.com/ but
The Dalles offers a lot of history and has joined Pendleton as one of the top
True Western Towns of the U.S. http://traveloregon.com/cities-regions/mt-hood-the-gorge/the-dalles/
6.
Big Horn Sheep in the Columbia River Gorge-
Although we have caught site of them at different times of the day morning and
early evening give the best opportunities to view these beauties, living in the
rugged terrain as the Columbia River Gorge changes from Forest to High Desert. Have
a passenger start watching just after Rufus all the way to Arlington my
personal hotspot has been around milepost 129. If you decide to stop along the
Highway please be careful. Here is a beautiful winter video http://vimeo.com/2694894 and some great
photos on Flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/ndomer73/2942839419/in/photostream/
7.
Arlington – Home of Doc Severinsen for those of
you that remember the great Trumpet man and band leader of the tonight show http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doc_Severinsen.
Highlights, great city sponsored Park and rest area (hey rest stops are
important!) and the gateway to the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway which is a day
trip in itself! http://traveloregon.com/trip-ideas/scenic-byways/blue-mountains-scenic-byway/.
8.
Boardman – This is where you can truly get a
feel for the Eastern Oregon Columbia River! Enjoy it from the Marina Park or
the River Lodge & Grill. The River Lodge is a great place to stay or just
stop and have a meal in their dining room where the river view is the art and
the food is delicious. http://traveloregon.com/cities-regions/eastern-oregon/boardman/listing/
As you leave Boardman don’t miss the Poplar Tree Farm, this is Oregon
sustainability at its finest. There are some amazing photos on flickr http://www.flickr.com/search/?q=boardman%2C%20oregon%20Poplar%20tree%20farm
9.
Echo – This town epitomizes the small rural towns
in Eastern Oregon that are not only surviving but thriving due to the
determination of the residents that love it. http://www.echo-oregon.com/index-3.html
With just 30 minutes left until you arrive in Pendleton Echo makes a great
choice to soak up some local charm while picking up some great wine at Sno Road
Winery http://piercyfamilyvineyards.com
