Spring in Oregon is a symphony of colors and life, as lush green forests awaken after a long winter, majestic waterfalls surge, and wildflowers bloom everywhere. If you’re looking for a destination to fully enjoy the beauty of spring, Oregon is the perfect choice. Let “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel Around the World) guide you through an exciting and memorable spring itinerary in Oregon.
Discovering Spring in Oregon: Ideal Timing and Unmissable Experiences
Oregon Spring Weather: A Symphony of Transition
Spring in Oregon (from March to May) is a wonderful transition between the cold winter and the vibrant summer. The weather at this time is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C (50-68°F). Gentle drizzles often occur, bringing freshness and vitality to the scenery. This is the ideal time to explore unspoiled nature and engage in outdoor activities.
However, Oregon’s spring weather varies between regions. The coastal area is more humid and cool, while the inland area is drier and warmer. The Cascade Mountains still have snow cover in early spring, creating majestic scenery suitable for spring skiing.
Oregon Spring Itinerary: From Bustling Portland to Pristine Coastline
To fully enjoy the beauty of Oregon in spring, consider the following suggested itinerary:
Days 1-3: Exploring Portland – The City of Roses
Start your journey in Portland, Oregon’s largest city, famously known as the “City of Roses.” Spring is when roses and countless other flowers bloom brilliantly throughout the city’s parks and gardens.
- Washington Park: A must-visit destination in Portland, especially in spring. This vast park includes the International Rose Test Garden with thousands of different rose varieties, the serene and beautiful Portland Japanese Garden, the diverse Oregon Zoo, and the unique World Forestry Center.
Portland Japanese Garden in spring with cherry blossoms in full bloom
- Lan Su Chinese Garden: A peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, Lan Su Chinese Garden is designed in the classic Suzhou style. In spring, the garden is filled with blooming azaleas, magnolias, and many other oriental plants.
The peaceful beauty of Lan Su Chinese Garden in spring
- Pittock Mansion: This historic mansion on Pittock Hill offers panoramic views of Portland and the majestic Cascade Mountains. The gardens surrounding the mansion are also an ideal spot to admire spring flowers and enjoy the fresh air.
Pittock Mansion with classic architecture and vibrant gardens
- Powell’s City of Books: For book lovers, Powell’s City of Books is a treasure trove of knowledge with millions of books of all genres. It’s also a unique cultural landmark of Portland.
Powell's City of Books – A book paradise in the heart of Portland
- Portland Cuisine: Portland is renowned for its diverse and innovative culinary scene. Enjoy street food at food carts, sample local craft beers, and explore unique restaurants. Don’t miss the famous Patatas Bravas and Voodoo Doughnut.
Colorful and diverse food carts in Portland
Days 4-5: Exploring the Columbia River Gorge
Leaving Portland, head to the Columbia River Gorge, a magnificent natural wonder along the Columbia River, the border between Oregon and Washington. Spring is when the waterfalls here are most powerful and beautiful due to snowmelt from the mountains.
- Multnomah Falls: Oregon’s tallest waterfall and one of the most famous in the United States. The majestic Multnomah Falls cascades down basalt cliffs, surrounded by lush green forests.
Majestic Multnomah Falls amidst vibrant green nature
- Historic Columbia River Highway: The scenic Highway 30 winds along the gorge, offering stunning views of the Columbia River, waterfalls, and forests. Stop at viewpoints along the way to admire the scenery and take photos.
- Other Waterfalls: Besides Multnomah, the Columbia River Gorge also has many other beautiful waterfalls such as Bridal Veil Falls, Latourell Falls, and Oneonta Gorge (requires a hike to reach the falls).
Days 6-7: Oregon Coast – Pristine and Romantic Beauty
Continue your journey to the Oregon Coast, home to pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming coastal towns. Spring is an ideal time for whale watching and admiring blooming coastal rhododendrons.
- Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock: An icon of the Oregon Coast, Cannon Beach is famous for the majestic Haystack Rock and its long, dreamy sandy beach.
- Astoria Town: The historic town of Astoria is located at the mouth of the Columbia River, where the river meets the Pacific Ocean. Explore the Columbia River Maritime Museum, climb the Astoria Column for panoramic views, and stroll along the riverfront.
- Ecola State Park: Ecola State Park offers stunning views of Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock from above. You can hike in the forest and explore secluded beaches.
- Tillamook Rock Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse located on a rocky island off Cannon Beach, visible from afar or accessible via helicopter tours for a closer look.
Days 8-9: Willamette Valley – Wine Country and Tulip Festival
From the coast, move inland to the Willamette Valley, a fertile agricultural region famous for Pinot Noir wine. Spring is when the valley is filled with colorful tulips and daffodils at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival (usually held in March-April annually).
- Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival: Witness millions of tulips of all colors stretching across vast fields. Participate in fun activities, take photos, and enjoy local cuisine at the festival.
- Wineries: Willamette Valley is a haven for Pinot Noir wine. Visit local wineries, join wine tasting tours, and learn about the winemaking process.
- McMinnville Town: The charming town of McMinnville is the heart of the Willamette wine region. Explore the historic downtown, visit the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum (home to the massive Howard Hughes H-4 Hercules “Spruce Goose” aircraft).
Day 10: Bend and Central Oregon – Land of Volcanoes and Desert
End your journey in Bend and Central Oregon, a region with diverse landscapes ranging from volcanoes and pine forests to high desert. Spring is an ideal time to explore outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, and biking.
- Crater Lake National Park: Crater Lake is one of the deepest and clearest lakes in the world, formed in a collapsed volcano. In spring, snow still surrounds the lake, creating a magnificent scene.
- Newberry National Volcanic Monument: The Newberry Volcanic Monument area includes the Newberry Caldera, Paulina Lake and East Lake, Paulina Falls, and the Lava River Cave. In spring, wildflowers bloom on the volcanic slopes.
- Bend City: The vibrant city of Bend is the center of Central Oregon, known for its craft breweries, rock climbing, and mountain biking.
Oregon Spring Travel Tips
- Book Accommodation and Flights Early: Spring is peak tourist season in Oregon, especially during the tulip festival and holidays. Book hotels, flights, and tours in advance to ensure good prices and preferred accommodations.
- Pack Appropriate Clothing: Oregon’s spring weather can be unpredictable, especially in the mountains and along the coast. Bring warm layers, rain gear, and waterproof shoes.
- Rent a Car: Renting a car is the best way to explore Oregon flexibly and independently, especially if you want to discover rural areas and the coastline.
- Bring a Camera: Oregon in spring has countless beautiful scenes to capture. Don’t forget to bring a camera or smartphone with a good camera to preserve memorable moments.
- Learn About Spring Festivals: Oregon hosts many unique spring festivals such as the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival, the Portland Rose Festival (usually held in late May – early June), and the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden Festival. Check the schedules and participate in these festivals if you have the chance.
Conclusion
Spring in Oregon is a wonderful travel experience with a harmonious blend of beautiful nature, pleasant climate, and many exciting activities. From the bustling city of Portland, the majestic Columbia River Gorge, the pristine coastline, the fertile Willamette Valley, to the wild Central Oregon, each destination offers unique colors and experiences. Plan your Oregon spring itinerary today to discover the vibrant beauty of this region!