5-Day Trip in Oregon

After my near-death experience in 2012, I was left with vivid memories that I knew I never experienced in this lifetime, but they felt so real and emotional. One memory stood out: the image of myself doing laundry and hanging it out to dry in what I believed to be Oregon. How could I be so sure, I’m not. It’s just an intuition. This memory sparked a strong desire to move there in 2015, prompting me to embark on a trip to explore the possibility. While I immersed myself in the beauty of Oregon’s natural landscapes, I didn’t delve much into its urban areas. Unfortunately, the move to Oregon never materialized; moving is undeniably daunting. Nevertheless, the beauty of Oregon left an indelible impression on me, and I long to return, but i’m not quite sure about moving there anymore. It‘s hard to believe it’s been eight years since this Oregon trip.

Day 1: Bend, Oregon

The journey began with a flight from Austin, TX, to Bend, Oregon, nestled in the heart of the Cascade Mountain Range in the Pacific Northwest. Bend is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, offering a diverse landscape that includes high desert terrain, dense pine forests, and volcanic peaks. Situated along the Deschutes River, the city boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, alongside numerous outdoor recreation opportunities. During my stay, I savored some delicious pizza and beer at Deschutes Brewery, sharing the experience with a dear friend.

Day 2: Tamolitch Falls and Proxy Falls

After picking up the rental car, we embarked on a breathtaking adventure to Tamolitch Falls, also known as Blue Pool. Tucked away in the Cascade Mountains, this hidden gem captivates visitors with its mesmerizing blue hue and tranquil surroundings. Later, we journeyed to Proxy Falls, another natural wonder nestled within the lush forests of the Cascades. The sight of the falls cascading down a moss-covered cliff left us in awe, a deeply moving experience that stirred our souls.

Day 3: Crater Lake

Our next destination was the majestic Crater Lake National Park, where we embarked on the challenging Crater Peak Trail. Despite being ill-equipped for the journey, the allure of Crater Lake’s beauty fueled our determination. As we reached the summit, we were rewarded with breathtaking views of the tranquil waters below, a reminder of the profound connection we share with nature.

Day 4: Umpqua Hot Springs & Portland

Leaving the natural wonders behind, we journeyed back to the eclectic city of Portland. Along the way, we made a memorable pitstop at Umpqua Hot Springs, a hidden oasis nestled within the lush forests of the Umpqua National Forest. As we soaked in the therapeutic waters, surrounded by the beauty of nature, we felt a sense of peace and contentment wash over us.

Upon our return to Portland, we immersed ourselves in the vibrant energy of the city, exploring its quirky shops, artisanal cafes, and colorful street art. Our day culminated in an unforgettable evening at Music Fest NW (sponsored by the creators of SXSW), where we were mesmerized by the soulful melodies of the musician Beirut and introduced to the refreshing flavors of Brew Dr. Kombucha. **Music Fest NW has been discontinued as of 2018.

Day 5: Portland & Depatures

As our time in Oregon drew to a close, we found ourselves torn between the vibrant city life of Portland and the captivating allure of the state’s natural wonders. Reflecting on our whirlwind adventure, we realized that it was the unparalleled beauty of Oregon’s nature that had truly enchanted us. With a joint in hand (weed was legalized a month prior to this trip), we savored our final moments in Oregon, cherishing the memories of our unforgettable journey and carrying with us the knowledge that this place would always hold a special place in our hearts.

The Pacific Northwest holds a special place in my heart as one of my favorite landscapes in the world. Its lushness and eerie beauty evoke a sense of familiarity that captivates me. I’ve been relentlessly urging my boyfriend, Adam, to explore the Pacific Northwest, and his eagerness matches my own. With certainty, I know I’ll return to revisit these familiar places and discover new treasures waiting to be explored in Oregon.