In 1843, a thousand pioneers made the long, difficult journey west along the Oregon Trail. Over the next 25 years, more than a half a million people followed suit, lured by the prospect of land, gold, and new beginnings. Modern-day Oregon still holds the promise of great adventure, but without the drawbacks of cholera, treacherous river crossings, and a 2,000-mile trek. Head to Oregon's southern Cascades and southern coast for sublime scenic diversity and outstanding outdoor recreation.

Western Oregon offers 400 miles of Pacific coastline, all open to the public. You'll find a lovely stretch of beach down south, complete with historic lighthouses, fishing villages, and the mouth of the wild and scenic Rogue River. Follow the river's path back to its source in the western slopes of the Cascade Range and you'll flow across everything from moss-blanketed rainforest to wind-swept high-country, from narrow and winding river canyons to jagged, volcanic peaks.

Oregon's many public lands help preserve this picturesque landscape for future generations. In the southwest region of the state there are seven wildlife refuges, half a dozen national forests, and the"Gem of the Cascades," Crater Lake National Park. Go spelunking in Oregon Caves National Monument, observe bald eagles in Bear Valley National Wildlife Refuge, or hike a stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail in Winema National Forest. The toughest part of your Oregon adventure will be deciding where to go first and what to do next.