Oregon is a state on the west coast of the USA. It borders
Washington to the north,
Idaho to the east, Nevada and
California to the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west.
Its capital is Salem and its most populated city is Portland. It
is located in the Western region of the country, Pacific
division and borders to the north with the state of Washington,
to the east with Idaho - a large part of this border is formed
by the Snake River - to the southeast with Nevada, to the south
and southwest with California and to the west with the Pacific
Ocean. With 254,805 km² it is the ninth largest state, behind
Alaska, Texas, California, Montana, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada
and Colorado. It was admitted to the Union on February 14, 1859,
as the 33rd state.
The Columbia and Snake Rivers form
most of its northern and eastern borders, respectively. The
Willamette River Valley in western Oregon is the most densely
populated and agriculturally productive region. The area was
inhabited by many indigenous tribes before the arrival of
traders, explorers and settlers who formed the self-governing
government of Oregon Country in 1843. The Oregon Territory was
created in 1848 and became the state of Oregon on February 14.
of 1859.
Oregon has one of the most diverse landscapes
that includes the windy Pacific coast, with volcanoes, glaciers
and rugged mountains of the Cascade Range. It is known for its
tall, dense forests that cover a third of the north of the state
and half of the south. Other areas include plains and deserts
that cover about half of the state in the east and north
central, and less dense pine forests in the northeast.
Mount Hood (3,429 m) is the highest point in the state. Crater
Lake National Park is the only national park in Oregon.
Oregon's diverse geography is shaped predominantly by its striking
natural landscapes, especially the prominent mountain ranges like the
Cascades and Coast Range. These not only serve as natural boundaries but
also influence unique microclimates across the state, from rainy coastal
areas to arid high deserts. Visitors traversing multiple areas often
encounter such dramatic shifts in scenery and weather that a single trip
can feel like exploring several different destinations, offering
everything from urban vibrancy to remote wilderness adventures. For
instance, the western side tends to be wetter and more temperate, while
the east is drier and more extreme in temperatures.
The state mostly
observes Pacific Time (UTC-8 standard, UTC-7 during daylight saving),
aligning with much of the West Coast. However, a notable exception is
most of Malheur County in the southeast, which follows Mountain Time
(UTC-7 standard, UTC-6 daylight) due to its closer economic and cultural
connections to Boise, Idaho, rather than Portland. If you're driving
along Interstate 84, the time zone changes right at exit 353, so adjust
your clocks accordingly to avoid confusion with schedules.
Portland Metropolitan Area
As the bustling heart of Oregon both
culturally and economically, this region houses roughly half of the
state's 4.2 million residents, centered around the vibrant city of
Portland. Known for its eclectic food scene with famous food carts,
world-class breweries, and spots like Powell’s City of Books—the largest
independent bookstore in the world—it's a hub for arts, music, and
innovation. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby Forest Park, one of
the largest urban forests in the U.S., or Washington Park with its
Japanese Garden and International Rose Test Garden blooming
spectacularly from May to September.
Central Oregon
This area
boasts expansive views of the towering Cascade Mountains to the west and
the vast High Desert to the east, making it a prime spot for outdoor
pursuits throughout the year. Key highlights include the city of Bend, a
growing hub for whitewater rafting on the Deschutes River, hiking at
Tumalo Falls or Smith Rock State Park (famous for its dramatic rock
formations and climbing routes like the Misery Ridge Trail), and the
scenic Cascade Lakes Byway with alpine lakes ideal for kayaking or
backpacking. Winter brings skiing at Mount Bachelor, while summer offers
brewery hopping at places like Deschutes Brewing.
Mt. Hood and
Columbia Gorge
Featuring towering waterfalls, sheer cliffs, and gusty
winds along the mighty Columbia River, this region attracts both casual
tourists and adventure seekers, particularly windsurfers and
kiteboarders in Hood River. Iconic sites include Multnomah Falls (a
620-foot cascade), Wahclella Falls, and the Historic Columbia River
Highway for scenic drives. The area also offers the Fruit Loop trail
through orchards and wineries, plus hiking options like the Tamanawas
Falls trail near Mount Hood, which provides year-round skiing and summer
wildflower meadows.
Eastern Oregon
With its thinly settled
expanses of desert plateaus and jagged mountain chains, this remote part
of the state promises peaceful isolation and unexpected discoveries for
adventurous travelers. Standouts include the Painted Hills in the John
Day Fossil Beds (with colorful layered rock formations best viewed in
afternoon light), the Wallowa Mountains for backpacking trails like the
Wallowa River Loop, and the Alvord Desert—a vast, dry lake bed perfect
for stargazing and hot springs soaking. Towns like Joseph offer cultural
touches with art galleries and rodeos.
Oregon Coast
Oregon's
dramatic, rocky shoreline features abundant public-access beaches and
charming seaside communities, perfect for those seeking relaxed beach
walks, tide pool exploration, or souvenir hunting in quaint shops.
Must-sees span the Three Capes Scenic Route (including Cape Lookout for
whale watching hikes), Cannon Beach with its famous 235-foot Haystack
Rock and puffin colonies, Cape Perpetua for ocean geysers like Thor’s
Well, and the Samuel H. Boardman Corridor in the south for hidden
beaches and arches. The central coast around Newport boasts the Oregon
Coast Aquarium and sea lion caves.
Southern Oregon
Diverse
draws here range from ancient forests and premier fishing spots to
stunning cascades and a burgeoning wine scene, all set against a
backdrop of mountains and rivers. Crater Lake National Park stands out
as the state's only national park, with its vivid blue caldera lake (the
deepest in the U.S.) and hikes like Cleetwood Cove to swim in its
waters. Other gems include Ashland's Oregon Shakespeare Festival in an
Elizabethan-style theater, the Umpqua River Scenic Byway with waterfalls
like Toketee Falls, and the Rogue River for rafting. The region also
features hot springs and the Pendleton Round-Up rodeo in September.
Willamette Valley
Urban centers in this fertile valley deliver a
mix of creative arts, live music, and cultural experiences, complemented
by rolling farmlands and a renowned wine country specializing in pinot
noirs. Cities like Eugene and Salem offer universities, museums, and
events, while Silver Falls State Park features the Trail of Ten Falls
with 10 waterfalls (including walk-behind ones like South Falls). Wine
enthusiasts can tour vineyards in McMinnville or Newberg, and the
McKenzie River Scenic Byway provides fly-fishing, blue pools, and hot
springs. It's also home to family-friendly spots like the Enchanted
Forest theme park.
Salem: Oregon's vibrant capital and its third-largest urban center,
this city is nestled in the heart of the fertile Willamette Valley, a
premier agricultural hub renowned for its cherry orchards and diverse
crops. It is also home to the historic Willamette University, the oldest
university in the Western United States. With a population of around
180,406 as of 2024 estimates, Salem boasts key attractions like the
Oregon State Capitol with its iconic golden pioneer statue, the
Willamette Heritage Center showcasing pioneer history, and Bush's
Pasture Park for outdoor recreation. Founded in 1842 as a Methodist
mission on land originally inhabited by the Kalapuya people, it became
the territorial capital in 1851 and has endured two capitol fires, with
the current building completed in 1938. Nicknamed the "Cherry City," it
hosts events such as the Oregon State Fair since 1861 and is a center
for food processing and government employment.
Ashland: This charming
southern Oregon city is famous for hosting the renowned Oregon
Shakespeare Festival each year and is the location of Southern Oregon
University, drawing culture enthusiasts and students alike. With a
population of 21,360 as of the 2020 census, Ashland features attractions
like the scenic Lithia Park along Ashland Creek, a network of historic
buildings and districts on the National Register, and a popular
intercity bike trail. Settled in 1852 and originally named Ashland Mills
after local mills, it grew through rail trade in the 19th century, with
the Shakespeare Festival starting in 1935 from a July 4th celebration.
Known for its liberal politics and Mediterranean climate with moderate
rainfall, the city thrives on tourism, galleries, and outdoor activities
amid its warm summers.
Astoria: A picturesque historic fishing
community situated at the Columbia River's mouth where it meets the
Pacific Ocean, Astoria is celebrated for its numerous shipwrecks nearby
and as the filming location for the beloved movie The Goonies. Home to
about 10,181 residents per the 2020 census, key sights include the
Astoria Column for stunning views, the Columbia River Maritime Museum,
and the Astoria–Megler Bridge, the longest continuous truss bridge in
North America. Founded in 1811 as Fort Astoria—the first permanent U.S.
settlement west of the Rockies—by John Jacob Astor's fur company, it
played roles in the War of 1812 and the 1846 Oregon Treaty. The city has
endured major fires in 1883 and 1922, shifted from fishing and lumber to
tourism and microbreweries, and hosts events like the Fisher Poets
Gathering; it's also tied to films like Kindergarten Cop and features
U.S. Coast Guard operations.
Bend: Serving as a gateway to the high
desert landscape, Bend offers breathtaking panoramic views of several
Cascade mountain peaks, making it a prime spot for outdoor adventurers.
With a 2020 population of 99,178 (estimated at 104,557 in 2023),
attractions include Mirror Pond on the Deschutes River, over 30 craft
breweries, and nearby Mount Bachelor for skiing, alongside activities
like mountain biking, rafting, and rock climbing in Deschutes National
Forest. Originally a logging town platted in 1904 and incorporated in
1905, it transitioned from timber dependency in the mid-20th century to
a booming recreational and retirement destination. Notable for its rapid
growth, Bend is home to the last Blockbuster store and emphasizes
tourism, with a tragic mass shooting event in 2022 highlighting
community resilience.
Corvallis: Positioned on the western edge of
the Willamette Valley, this city is best known as the base for Oregon
State University, a major research institution fostering innovation and
education. Its 2020 census population stands at 61,087, including many
university students, with highlights like the 420-acre OSU campus, Peavy
Arboretum, and William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge for nature
lovers, plus events such as the da Vinci Days Festival and Corvallis
Fall Festival. Founded in 1845 as Marysville by Joseph C. Avery during
the Gold Rush era and renamed Corvallis (Latin for "heart of the
valley") in 1854, it briefly served as Oregon's territorial capital in
1855. As part of the Silicon Forest tech region, it ranks high in bike
commuting and education, with major employers in health services and
technology.
Eugene: As Oregon's second-largest city and the site of
the University of Oregon, Eugene is recognized for its strong commitment
to social issues and environmental sustainability, earning nicknames
like "Track Town USA" for its athletics heritage. With a 2020 population
of 176,654 (estimated 179,887 in 2022), attractions encompass Skinner
Butte for hiking, the Hult Center for performing arts, and community
events like the Eugene Saturday Market since 1970, along with natural
spots like Spencer Butte and rafting on nearby rivers. Founded in 1846
by Eugene Skinner on land once inhabited by Kalapuya peoples devastated
by 19th-century epidemics, the city incorporated in 1862 and saw the
university established in 1876. It has a rich counterculture history
tied to figures like Ken Kesey, hosted global events like the 2022 World
Athletics Championships, and is a hub for tech (once called "Silicon
Shire") and activism, including recent protests.
Hood River: Tucked
within the scenic Columbia River Gorge and exposed to powerful winds
funneling through the area, Hood River has become a paradise for
windsurfers and kiteboarders from around the world. Boasting a 2020
population of 8,313, key features include Waterfront Park, the "Fruit
Loop" trail of orchards and wineries, and outdoor pursuits like mountain
biking, skiing on Mount Hood, and golfing. Originally settled in 1868 as
Dog River by Mary and Nathaniel Coe and incorporated in 1895, it became
the county seat in 1908. A poignant historical event was the 1944 Hood
River Incident involving anti-Japanese discrimination during WWII, with
names of Nisei soldiers removed from a honor roll before being restored.
The city's economy blends agriculture (fruits like apples and pears),
tourism, and high-tech sectors, with a unique policy allowing public
alcohol consumption in parks.
Newport: Centrally situated along the
rugged Oregon Coast, Newport captivates visitors interested in marine
life through its acclaimed aquarium and marine science center, offering
insights into oceanic wonders. With a population of 10,256 as of the
2020 census, standout attractions include the Oregon Coast Aquarium,
Hatfield Marine Science Center, historic Yaquina Head and Bay
Lighthouses, and the Newport Sea Lion Docks, plus it's the end of U.S.
Route 20, the nation's longest highway. Inhabited by the Yacona tribe
for millennia before white settlement in 1864, it was named by
postmaster Sam Case in 1868 and became Lincoln County's seat in 1952
after a vote from Toledo. Home to NOAA research vessels and the state's
largest fishing fleet, Newport experiences a mild but wet climate with
heavy rains and occasional severe storms, like the 1962 Columbus Day
Windstorm.
Portland: Oregon's bustling largest city and a dynamic
cultural epicenter, Portland stands out as one of America's most livable
metropolises, featuring a mosaic of unique neighborhoods and abundant
educational institutions such as Lewis & Clark College, Reed College,
University of Portland, Portland State University, Oregon Health &
Science University, and Portland Community College. Its 2020 population
is 652,503, with a metro area exceeding 2.5 million, and attractions
abound including the International Rose Test Garden, Portland Art
Museum, Oregon Zoo, Forest Park (the largest urban forest in the U.S.),
and over 600 food carts alongside 139 microbreweries. Founded in 1845
and incorporated in 1851 after a coin toss named it after Portland,
Maine, it grew as a 19th-century port amid Chinookan lands, boosted by
the 1905 Lewis and Clark Exposition that cemented its "Rose City"
moniker. Known for sustainability with an urban growth boundary since
1979, a thriving arts and music scene (birthplace of bands like The
Dandy Warhols), and events like the Portland Rose Festival, it has
navigated challenges like 2020 protests and homelessness while hosting
pro sports teams and emerging as a tech and outdoor gear hub (e.g., Nike
headquarters).
Crater Lake National
Park: Nestled in the Cascade Mountains of Oregon, this is the
state's only national park and home to Crater Lake, the deepest lake in
the United States at 1,943 feet, formed about 7,700 years ago from a
massive volcanic eruption that collapsed Mount Mazama into a caldera.
The lake's striking blue waters are exceptionally pure, fed solely by
rain and snow, making it one of the clearest bodies of water on the
planet. Visitors can enjoy ranger-led trolley or boat tours for
insightful views, challenging hikes like the 1.1-mile Cleetwood Cove
Trail with a 700-foot elevation drop, camping options nearby, and
stunning fall foliage. Best visited in autumn for clearer skies, but
always check webcams for visibility, current conditions, air quality
(especially during wildfire season), and pet restrictions before heading
out.
Lewis and Clark National Historical Park: This park
encompasses 12 distinct sites spread across a 40-mile section of the
Pacific coastline in Oregon and Washington, marking the western terminus
of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. It commemorates the
famous 1804-1806 expedition led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark,
which explored uncharted territories, interacted with Native American
tribes, and reached the ocean. Activities include exploring historic
forts, hiking coastal trails, and learning about the journey's endpoint
through exhibits and ranger programs. Plan for variable weather and
check for site-specific hours.
Mount Bachelor: A prominent
stratovolcano in central Oregon, Mount Bachelor rises to 9,068 feet and
is a premier destination for winter sports, with skiing and snowboarding
available from November to May, thanks to its reliable snowfall and
varied terrain for all skill levels. In summer, it transforms into a hub
for mountain biking, hiking, and scenic chairlift rides offering
panoramic views of the surrounding Cascades. The area features modern
facilities like lodges and rentals, with year-round appeal for outdoor
enthusiasts.
Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve: Located
in the Siskiyou Mountains, this site features an intricate marble cave
system that has drawn visitors since its discovery in the late 1800s by
Elijah Davidson. Formed over millions of years through acidic
groundwater dissolving limestone, the caves boast unique formations like
stalactites, flowstone, and rare minerals. Guided tours (three options
available) explore the subterranean wonders, lasting 90 minutes to
several hours, with highlights including the "Ghost Room" and fossil
evidence of ancient life. Above ground, the preserve offers hiking
trails through old-growth forests teeming with wildlife such as black
bears, deer, and diverse bird species. Camping is available at 17
first-come, first-served sites, though the historic Chateau lodge is
currently closed for repairs—book tours in advance, wear sturdy shoes,
and note the cool 44°F cave temperature year-round.
Oregon
National Historic Trail: Symbolizing the dawn of America's push westward
in the 19th century, this over 2,000-mile route from Missouri to Oregon
served as a vital corridor for over 400,000 pioneers, including fur
traders, gold rush prospectors, missionaries, and families seeking new
opportunities between the 1840s and 1860s. Traversing diverse landscapes
across seven states, it features preserved wagon ruts, historic markers,
and sites like Independence Rock. Today, visitors can hike sections,
visit interpretive centers, or drive auto tours to relive the emigrants'
hardships and triumphs, with interactive maps and resources available
for planning.
Painted Hills: As a highlight of the John Day
Fossil Beds National Monument, this 3,132-acre unit lies about 75 miles
east of Bend and is renowned as one of Oregon's most iconic photographic
spots. The layered hills display vibrant stripes of red, gold, black,
and tan, revealing 35 million years of geological history through
fossil-rich soils that shift hues dramatically with sunlight and
moisture—making dawn or dusk visits ideal for capturing the changing
colors. In late April to early May, vivid yellow wildflowers cascade
down the slopes like colorful rivers. Trails like the Painted Cove
boardwalk offer close-up views without disturbing the fragile terrain,
and the area is perfect for extended stays to observe light variations.
Willamette National Forest: Covering over 1.6 million acres along
the western Cascades, this expansive forest provides a wealth of
recreational pursuits amid rugged mountains, deep canyons, rushing
streams, and dense woodlands. Highlights include hiking extensive
trails, sailing or kayaking on crystal-clear Waldo Lake (one of the
purest in the world, with motorized boats restricted), and camping at
scenic sites. Winter brings cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and snow
play at passes like Santiam and Willamette, while eight wilderness areas
offer backcountry adventures. Recent updates include Christmas tree
permits for 2025, prescribed burns in fall, and reduced fire
closures—always secure forest product permits for activities like
mushroom foraging.
Wallowa Lake: Regarded as one of Oregon's
premier lakes, this glacial body of water in the northeast part of the
state is surrounded by the dramatic Wallowa Mountains, often called the
"Alps of Oregon," offering stunning alpine scenery. The area supports a
range of activities including camping at lakeside sites, boating and
kayaking on the clear waters, fishing for trout and kokanee salmon,
hiking trails to viewpoints and waterfalls, and winter snowshoeing. The
charming nearby town of Joseph provides cozy lodging options, diverse
dining from casual eateries to fine restaurants, and access to art
galleries showcasing local bronze sculptures. Ideal for a relaxing
getaway with family or friends.
Golden Ghost Town is an abandoned settlement situated in Josephine County, OR. First community was established here in 1840's.
Hardman Ghost Town is an abandoned community in Morrow County of Oregon. It was originally found in 1870s.
Today, Oregon in a study in contrast and diversity was one of the first
States to give citizens the power to pass laws by initiative and
referendum. Ballot measures in the state run the gamut from very
conservative to very liberal, showing a wide variety of opinions. The
waterfalls both geographically and culturally divide the line between
East and West. In the West Cascades in the Willamette Valley, there are
progressive opinions such as environmentalism that prevail, while in
Eastern Oregon political thinking tends to be rather conservative.
Oregon, however, has a reputation for innovation by being the first
state to allow initiative and referendum, was the first state to
establish a beverage container deposit law, the first to legalize
physician-assisted suicide, one one of the first to legalize medical
marijuana.
The vast majority of air travel in Oregon is through Portland
International Airport (IATA: PDX), located on the north side of the city
along the Columbia River. The airport has won several awards for
traveler satisfaction and offers relatively quick entry and exit due to
its moderate size and lack of downtown services. Quick access to
transportation of all types is readily available.
Domestic
services are provided by major US airlines, with direct flights
available from more western airports. International service is limited
to direct flights from Vancouver, Amsterdam, and Tokyo plus seasonal
flights from some cities in Mexico.
move
Oregon has numerous
highways in its neighboring state:
•California is the Interstate
5 freeway coming from northern Shasta across the Siskiyou Mountains and
into the upper Willamette Valley and most of the state's largest cities.
If you are traveling to the Oregon Coast, USA. Highway 101 is a more
scenic option connecting the northern California coast with Oregon. On
the east side of the Cascades, the U.S. Highways 97 and 395 offer good
quality roads to access Central and Eastern Oregon.
•From
Washington, the most common is via the Interstate 5 and Interstate 205
bridges in the Portland Metropolitan Area. There are several other
crossing points on the Columbia River shared states border for regional
travelers, including the Awesome Causeway into the US. Highway 101, at
the mouth of the Columbia River in Astoria. Further east, if coming from
the Spokane or Yakima areas, Interstate 82 crosses into the state near
its northeast corner. A very scenic route also runs along the Columbia
River on Hwy 12 (north end) and Hwy 730 (south end). This joins
Interstate 84 in eastern Oregon.
•Idaho's Interstate 84 is the
primary route into the state, crossing the Snake River in Ontario and
continuing through the Blue Mountains and the Columbia Gorge into
Portland. Additionally, United States Highways 20 and 26, which enter
the state near Nyssa, offer routes through the eastern half of Oregon,
crossing the Cascades and the Willamette Valley and ending at the Oregon
Coast. Several smaller roads cross the border for local access.
Long-distance rail service is available only along the
Portland-Salem-Eugene-Klamath Falls route. Greater Portland has nearly
62 miles of MAX Light Rail, a hybrid of a commuter rail and streetcar,
and a Western Suburbs (WES) commuter rail system. Furthermore, a few
narrow-gauge railways, each with a few kilometers of track, serve as
tourist attractions (e.g. Mount Hood Railroad, Astoria Riverfront
Trolley), but they do not make any serious contribution to the transport
system.
Apart from that, you have to rely on the car.
The etymological origin and meaning of the choronym "Oregon" is
disputed. The Columbia River was called "Ouragan" (French hurricane,
hurricane, storm) by Native Americans because of the high flow speed,
while the Wisconsin River was called "Ouaricon-sink" on maps (from which
the name Wisconsin came). The Shoshone words for "river of the west"
("ogwa pe-on") or "land of plenty" ("oyer-un-gon") could also be a
source. The name Oregon first appeared in 1778 when explorer Jonathan
Carver wrote of "the Oregon or the River of the West," possibly as a
corruption of the words "Ouragan" or "Ouaricon."
Oregon is
nicknamed Beaver State. Forestry, which used to dominate, has lost its
strong influence. Today, Oregon's economy is primarily shaped by the
technology companies in the so-called Silicon Forest.
TAnother theory is that the name comes from Spanish. The popular history of Oregon relates the term Oregon to Aragon, after King Ferdinand of Aragon. Some authors maintain that the toponym comes from orejón, a name given by Spanish explorers to some indigenous people of the territory, with the mutation of the letter j for g. Another version states that it takes its name from the Spanish oregano, a plant that grows wild in the south of the region. In fact, the place name "Oregón", derived from oregano, exists in Spain, for example the "Arroyo del Oregon", in Campo de Montiel (Ciudad Real), a tributary on the left of the Jabalón River and which passes through Santa Cruz de los Hemp and through Alcubillas. A final version proposes a derivation of the French form ouragan, derived from the Spanish word, which in turn has Taíno origin: hurricane.
West of the Cascades, speed limits on freeways are typically 65 miles per hour outside urban areas, while others are limited to 55 miles per hour. As of March 1, 2016, Interstate 84 east of The Dalles and Interstate 82 now have speed limits of 70 miles per hour and many of the rural roads east of the Cascades now have speed limits of up to 65 mph. Oregon has a reputation for strict speed limit enforcement, especially compared to some other Western states. Fines start at $110 (2014) for exceeding the speed limit by 1 to 10 MPH and increase very sharply from there.
Oregon is bordered to the north by Washington, to the east by Idaho,
to the south by Nevada and California, and to the west by the Pacific
Ocean. With almost 255 thousand square kilometers, it is the ninth
largest American state in terms of area in the country.
The
Columbia River forms most of the border between Washington and Oregon.
The Columbia and its tributary, the Willamette River, form Oregon's
largest navigable waterway system. The Snake River forms much of the
border between Oregon and Idaho. In addition to the Columbia, Willamette
and Snake, other important rivers are the Deschutes and Hohn Day. The
rugged terrain of the Cascade Mountains allows for the formation of
several large waterfalls, many of which have a free fall of more than 60
meters in height. height. The highest waterfall in Oregon is Multnomah
Falls, which has a free fall of 161 meters, and a second drop of 21
meters, totaling 182 meters.
The state also has hundreds of
lakes. One of them, Crater Lake, is the deepest lake in the United
States, measuring 589 meters deep. As its name suggests, the lake is
located over a volcanic crater, at the top of an extinct volcano.
Oregon's coastline is 476 kilometers long. Much of the state's
coastline is rugged, made up of cliffs that end abruptly at the ocean.
Forests cover about half of Oregon.
Oregon can be divided into
six distinct geographic regions:
The Klamath Mountains are located in
extreme southwest Oregon. This region is characterized by its dense
forests, home to the richest mineral deposits in the state, and its
rugged terrain.
The Coast Mountains stretch from the central Oregon
coast to southwestern Washington. Most of this region is covered in
forests. It is characterized by its rugged terrain and low-altitude
mountain range.
The Willamette Plains stretch along the Willamette
River valley. It is characterized by its fertile soil and favorable
climate, which make this region the most important for the state's
agricultural industry. It is also the most populous region in the state,
home to about half of the population of all of Oregon.
The Cascade
Mountains stretch from British Columbia to northern California and
Nevada. It extends immediately east of the Coast Mountains and Klamath
Mountains. It is characterized by being a region that has several active
volcanoes. The region is characterized by its high altitude, having the
highest points in Oregon, including Mount Hood, which, at 3,426 meters
high, is the highest point in the state. This mountain range is the main
component of the Rocky Mountains.
The Columbia Plateau occupies all
of central and eastern Oregon, making it easily the largest of the six
geographic regions by area. It is characterized by having altitudes that
vary between 150 and 600 meters, surrounded by other regions of higher
altitude; and for its relatively uneven terrain, with some notable
geographical features, in particular, the deep valleys of the
The
Basin and Range Region occupies south-central Oregon. It is
characterized by its slightly rugged terrain and high altitude.
Mild, moist winds from the Pacific Ocean give Oregon a relatively
mild climate, much warmer than one would expect for a northern state.
The climate is temperate, with four distinct seasons. The state's
summers are relatively mild, while Oregon's winters are relatively mild,
warmer than any other northern state in the country. Much of western
Oregon has very high rates of average annual precipitation, while the
east has a drier climate.
In winter, average temperatures are
higher along the state's coastline with the Pacific Ocean and in low
altitude regions. The average temperature is 4°C in the west, 0°C in the
central region, and -4°C in the east. The average minimum temperature is
2 °C and the average maximum temperature is 8 °C on the coast. In the
central-west region, the averages are -7 °C and 1 °C respectively.
Minimum temperatures vary between -32 °C to 11 °C, maximum temperatures
vary between -20 °C and 17 °C. The lowest temperature ever recorded in
the state was recorded in Ukiah, on February 9, 1933, and in Seneca, on
February 10, 1933, where lows of -48 °C were recorded.
In summer,
the average temperature varies according to the region, increasing in
lower altitude regions and as it moves away from the coast of the
Pacific Ocean. The average temperature in summer is 17 °C in the west
and central region of the state (which has very rugged terrain), and 23
°C in regions far from the coast, at relatively low altitudes,
especially along the east. Minimum temperatures vary between 6 °C and 15
°C, maximum temperatures vary between 17 °C and 36 °C. The average
minimum is 12 °C on the coast and in the central region, and 15 °C in
the east, while the average maximum is 24 °C on the coast and in the
central region, and 29 °C in the east. The highest temperatures ever
recorded in the state were recorded in Prineville, on July 29, 1868, and
in Pendlenton, on August 10 of the same year, where a maximum of 48 °C
was recorded.
Average annual precipitation rates in the state
vary greatly from region to region. These averages are very high along
the coast, and can exceed 330 centimeters per year (average of 170
centimeters), while in the east, the average is less than 30 centimeters
per year, due to the Rocky Mountains, which make the largest part of the
humid winds from the Pacific precipitate on the coast. In the Rocky
Mountains, the average annual precipitation is 180 centimeters.
Several Native American tribes already lived in the region where the
state of Oregon is currently located thousands of years before the
arrival of the first Europeans in the region. When the first European
explorers landed in present-day Oregon, several Native American tribes
lived in the region, including the Chinook, Clackhama, Kalapuya,
Multormahh and Tillamook in the north and the Mannock, Cayuse, Paiute,
Umatilla and Nez. perce in the south.
The first European
explorers to land in present-day Oregon were Spanish explorers, in the
16th century, around 1543. The Englishman Francis Drake possibly landed
in Oregon, on his expeditions in search of a northern passage between
the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. After Drake, the region would remain
unexplored for approximately two centuries, until 1778, when British
explorer James Cook explored the Oregon coast in detail, naming it
Foulweather Bay. In the same year, the British William Broughton would
explore the Columbia River at the behest of George Vancouver, having
advanced further up the river to the Sandy River, in the current
Canadian province of British Columbia.
The first Americans to
land in Oregon were members of an American merchant fleet, led by Robert
Gray, in 1788, prior to the explorations of Cook, Vancouver, and
Broughton. Gray and the members of his fleet were the first Americans to
navigate the Columbia River, having named the river its present name in
honor of their ship, the Columbia. In 1805, Americans Meriwether Lewis
and William Clark became the first people to undertake a
transcontinental journey on land, reaching the west coast at the mouth
of the Columbia River, now Oregon.
The first attempts to create
permanent settlements in the region of present-day Oregon were organized
around 1811, when American John Jacob Astor and his company, Pacific Fur
Trade, created a trading post in Oregon - the first permanent settlement
in Oregon, which is currently the city of Astoria. However, with the War
of 1812, the British would conquer Astoria.
In August 1818, a
ship (U.S.S. Ontario) sent from Washington landed on the Columbia River,
through which the USA took possession of the Oregon territory. The
British Empire had granted sovereignty, but the Russian and Spanish
Empires also claimed the area.
Astor and his company continued to
operate in Astoria and the region, but the company was merged in 1821 by
the British Hudson's Bay Company, which controlled the region for about
20 years. The company, led by John McLoughlin, would encourage
settlement in the region during this period. McLoughlin would later
become an American citizen, and would continue his efforts to bring more
settlers to the region. Thanks to his efforts, McLoughlin would become
known as the "Father of Oregon." The first American settlement in Oregon
would be founded in 1834 by Methodist missionaries. The first large wave
of settlers would come in 1843, when 900 Americans settled in Oregon.
These same settlers installed Oregon's first government, on a
provisional basis.
American expansion westward resulted in
increasing numbers of American settlers settling in the region beginning
in the 1840s. The United States began to claim all land south of the 54º
40' meridian and west of the Rocky Mountains . The British demanded that
the border would be the 49th meridian, and this border would continue
southwards, following the course of the Columbia River, west of the
Rocky Mountains - in this case, much of the west of the current State of
Washington would be under British control . In 1846, the United States
and the United Kingdom reached an agreement, which delimited the border
between the United States and the British colonies in the region along
the 49th parallel. Therefore, the region where Oregon is located
definitively came under American control.
In 1848, under pressure
from American settlers installed in the northwest of the United States,
the American government created the Oregon Territory, and implemented a
government in the region. This territory incorporated all of the current
states of Oregon, Idaho and Washington. The capital of this territory
was originally Oregon City, but was moved to present-day Salem in 1851.
Population growth in the region was then very low but gradual. This
growth would increase dramatically with the discovery of gold in
southwestern Oregon in the early 1850s. Thousands of people began to
settle in Oregon. In 1853, Oregon would acquire its current territorial
limits, when the Washington Territory was created. Oregon's population
would continue to grow rapidly, thanks to the Gold Rush and the Land
Grant Act. This last act specified that any male person over the age of
18 who had settled in Oregon before December 1850 would be entitled to
129 acres of land if he cultivated the land for at least four years. If
this person had a wife, she would also receive 129 hectares in her name.
Between December 1850 and December 1855, requirements changed the
minimum age to 21, and the amount of land to be received to 65. Because
of the large population growth, Oregon would be elevated to statehood on
February 14, 1850. 1859, thus becoming the 33rd American state.
Oregon's first years as a U.S. state were difficult. The state was
shaken by successive wars between Native American tribes and American
inhabitants. These attacks began two years before the creation of the
Oregon Territory, in 1847, when Native Americans killed 14 American
settlers in northern Oregon, near the current city of Walla Walla,
Washington, causing the start of the Cayusa War between American
settlers. and the Native American Cayusa tribe, which would last until
1848, plus the massacre of five Cayusa natives found guilty of the
massacre. The discovery of gold in the early 1850s and subsequent
drastic population growth only increased conflicts between indigenous
people and American settlers. In 1852, a war between Oregon miners and
the Rouge Indian tribe began, and would last until 1856, resulting in
the defeat of the indigenous people, who were confined to an Indian
reservation.
Oregon would not suffer any attacks from Confederate
forces during the American Civil War, although it increasingly suffered
from attacks by Native Americans. Tensions between the white population
and the indigenous people rose throughout the 1860s, and in November
1872, the Modoc War began, which would last until May 1873, being the
last major war between indigenous people and native Americans.
Caucasian. The indigenous people would continue to carry out small
attacks until the mid-1880s, although they were never a threat again,
having been confined to small indigenous reservations in isolated
regions of the state.
The American Civil War and the wars against
the Indians encouraged Oregon's large population growth between 1860 and
1890, as many American soldiers sent westward against the Confederates
and Indians settled in the state. The opening of the first railroads in
Oregon, connecting the state with the rest of the country, was also
another primary factor. These factors caused the state's population to
grow from 52,465 inhabitants in 1860 to 317,704 in 1890. The importance
of mining in Oregon would gradually decline, and the timber industry and
agriculture would become very strong industries in the state.
In
1902, the Oregon government adopted the initiative and referendum
process, political procedures that allowed the state's population to
pass laws without the approval of the Oregon Legislature. In 1912,
Oregon granted women the right to vote. With the Great Depression of the
1930s, the governments of the United States and Oregon provided funds
for the construction of several hydroelectric plants on the Columbia
River, such as the Bonneville and Owyhee, which employ thousands of
workers, increasing Oregon's arable area by western region of the state,
and improved navigation in the region.
Oregon would prosper
economically with the United States' entry into World War II, given its
strategic location on the American West Coast, close to the American
battlefront with Japan. The manufacturing industry became a major source
of income, and hundreds Factories were built in the state, starting to
manufacture war material, sent to the American battle fronts in the
Pacific or as supplies for the Soviets, thus attracting thousands of
people from other American states.
After the end of the war,
Oregon would install several hydroelectric plants in the state. Two were
opened in the 1950s, and five more in the 1970s, on the Columbia River
or Snake River, which began to provide low-cost energy, encouraging the
growth of the manufacturing industry, which in turn, accelerated the
process of urbanization of the state. In the 1960s, for the first time
in the state's history, more people lived in urban areas than in rural
areas. This urbanization process was also caused by changes in the
state's agricultural industry. Prior to the World War II years, most
farms were subsistence farms. After the end of the war, many of the
farmers turned to the food processing industry, which, combined with
urbanization and the modernization of the agricultural industry,
decreased the number of farms and people living in rural areas and
increased the size average of the state's farms.
In the 1960s,
the Oregon government passed laws that forced companies in Oregon's
timber industry to reforest areas deforested for logging, increasing
these companies' operating costs. The state government also adopted
other measures aimed at protecting Oregon's natural features.
In
the 1980s, Oregon was hit by a major economic recession, the worst since
the Great Depression. This recession was caused primarily by the
relocation of several companies connected with the timber industry to
other states where operating costs and anti-deforestation laws were
lower, as well as the decline in the real estate industry in the state.
Oregon's economy would recover in the late 1980s, with the increasing
diversification of the state's economy. Tourism, high-tech manufacturing
and finance have become the state's main sources of income, while
Oregon's timber industry continues to decline.
The current Oregon Constitution was adopted in 1857. Amendments to
the Constitution can be proposed by the Oregon Legislature, and to be
approved, they must be approved by at least 51% of the state Senate and
House of Representatives, in two successive votes, and then by 51% or
more of Oregon's voting population in a referendum. Amendments can also
be proposed and introduced by constitutional conventions, which must
receive the approval of at least 67% of the votes of both chambers of
the Legislature and 51% of the state's voters in a referendum. A third
method is the initiative and referendum process, where the state's
population can approve laws without the consent of the Legislature,
where the amendment to be made is proposed by a given number of
inhabitants - through a petition - and then placed for voting in the
state, in a referendum, where the amendment, to be approved, must
receive the support of at least 51% of voters, in a referendum.
The top official in Oregon's executive branch is the governor. This is
elected by the state's voters for terms of up to four years in length.
The state's population also elects a number of officials, such as the
Secretary of State, the Oregon Labor and Industries Commissioner, and a
treasurer, also for terms of up to four years in length. There are no
limits on the number of terms a given person may serve in any state
government position.
The Oregon Legislature – officially called
the Oregon Legislature – is made up of the Senate and the House of
Representatives. The Senate has a total of 21 members, while the House
of Representatives has a total of 42 members. Oregon is divided into 30
legislative districts. Voters in each district elect a senator and two
representative members, who will represent that district in the Senate
and the House of Representatives. The term for senators is four years,
and for members of the House of Representatives, two years.
The
highest court in the Oregon Judiciary is the Oregon Supreme Court, which
is made up of seven justices. The state's second main judicial court is
the Court of Appeals, made up of ten judges. All Supreme Court and Court
of Appeals judges are elected by the state's population for terms of up
to 6 years in length. Oregon also has 19 district courts, each employing
one or more judges, elected by the population of their respective
judicial districts for terms of up to 6 years in length. Each county and
all primary cities also have their own judicial courts. All judicial
candidates cannot have political affiliation.
About 50% of Oregon
government budget revenue is generated by state taxes. The rest comes
from funds received from the federal government and loans. the state
does not collect income tax from its inhabitants. In 2002, the state
government spent 18.029 billion dollars, having generated 14.815 billion
dollars. Oregon's government debt is $7.668 billion. The per capita debt
is $2,178, the value of state taxes per capita is $1,467, and the value
of government spending per capita is $5,122.
Politically, the
Republican Party has dominated Oregon since its creation as a territory
in 1848 until the mid-1970s. However, the Democratic Party has gained
increasing strength in the state since the 1950s, and elections have
been held in the state in recent times have been very heated. Oregon is
divided into 36 counties. These counties are governed primarily through
a council and an administrator. Most Oregon cities with more than 5,000
residents are governed by a city manager and city council.
According to the 2000 national census, Oregon's population in 2000
was 3,421,399 inhabitants, an increase of 19.9% compared to the state's
1990 population of 2,853,733 inhabitants. An estimate carried out in
2005 estimates the state's population at 3,641,056 inhabitants, an
increase of 27.5% in relation to the state's population in 1990, 6.4% in
relation to the state's population in 2000, and 1 .4% in relation to the
estimated population in 2004.
Oregon's natural population growth
between 2000 and 2005 was 75,196 inhabitants - 236,557 births minus
161,361 deaths - population growth caused by immigration was 72,263
inhabitants, while interstate migration resulted in a gain of 77,821
inhabitants. Between 2000 and 2005, Oregon's population grew by 219,620
inhabitants, and between 2004 and 2005, by 49,693 inhabitants. 309,700
inhabitants were born outside the country (8.7% of the state's
population), of which it is estimated that 90,000 are illegal immigrants
(2.5% of the state's population).
Oregon's motto is Alis volat propriis / ella She flies with her own
wings, referring to the days of independence.
The official state tree
is the Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii).
The official animal is
the beaver (Castor canadensis).
The official flower is the Oregon
grape (Mahonia aquifolium).
The official nut is the hazelnut (Corylus
avellana). Oregon produces more than 99% of the United States'
hazelnuts, and is the only state with an official nut.
Among the state's universities are the University of Oregon and
Oregon State University.
Many movies have been filmed in Oregon.
Among others, The Goonies, Kindergarten Cop, Teenage Mutant Ninja
Turtles III, Short Circuit, Free Willy and The Ring were filmed in
Astoria, in Portland Twilight (Twilight, 2008), in Salem Replay and in
Eugene, Stand by Me.
The Disney series Gravity Falls is set in a
town of the same name, in Oregon.
The video games Life is Strange
and Life is Strange: Before the Storm are set in a fictional town in
Oregon called Arcadia Bay.
It is the birthplace of the popular
screenwriter and cartoonist Matt Groening, who is a native of the city
of Portland.
The city of Portland has two sports teams in the major professional
leagues: the Portland Trail Blazers of the National Basketball
Association since 1970 and the Portland Timbers of Major League Soccer
since 2011. In 2015 it won its first title after beating Columbus 2-1.
Crew in the 2015 MLS Cup. The Trail Blazers won an NBA title in 1977.
The two major college sports teams are the Oregon Ducks and the
Oregon State Beavers, rivals in the NCAA Division I Pacific-12
Conference and winners of the Rose Bowl.
Portland International
Raceway hosted motorsports races for CART, the IMSA GT Championship, the
American Le Mans Series and the NASCAR Truck Series.
Portland has
hosted the 1946 PGA Championship, 1947 Ryder Cup and US Veterans Open,
as well as the PGA Tour's Portland Open Invitational and currently the
LPGA Tour's Portland Classic.