Travel Oregon

Willamette Valley Outdoor Recreation

The valley’s abundance of water—rivers, lakes and waterfalls—and mild year-round temperatures make it an excellent spot for outdoor recreation. You could probably spend a lifetime kayaking, camping, drift boating, fly-fishing and hiking the famed Willamette, Santiam and McKenzie rivers. And if you love waterfalls, paradise awaits at the 8,000-acre Silver Falls State Park, where the seven-mile “Trail of Ten Falls” leads you to spectacular views of…10 waterfalls! Farther south, canoe or sail the mythical cobalt-blue waters of Waldo Lake, hike to the picturesque summit of Mary's Peak—the highest point in the Coast Range—for unbelievable views of the Cascade Range and ocean, or take in the majesty of towering giants (500-1000 year old Douglas fir and western red cedar) along the Delta Old Growth Trail and Opal Creek Wilderness Area.

View all Willamette Valley outdoor recreation


  • Bike Oregon

    Designated lanes in bicycle-friendly Corvallis and Eugene and meandering country roads make for amazing rides in this pastoral valley.

    Bike Oregon
  • Camp Oregon

    Spectacular campgrounds, cozy yurts and cabins overlooking lush forests, rolling hills and rivers are bound to make you a happy camper.

    Camp Oregon
  • Fish Oregon

    Grab your rod and head for valley’s legendary rivers—the Santiam, McKenzie and Willamette—that are inhabited by celebrated fish.

    Fish Oregon

  • Golf Oregon

    Varied courses, uncrowded greens and picturesque backdrops—not to mention great Pinot noir—makes the wine country a ideal place to tee off.

    Golf Oregon

  • Hike Oregon

    The valley’s parks (including the gorgeous Silver Falls) and Douglas fir canopied old-growth forests offer plentiful year-round trekking.

    Hike Oregon

  • Other Activities

    Craving more adventure? Try four-wheelin’, horseback riding and more!

    Other Activities

  • State Parks

    The valley’s 21 state parks are an idyllic playground for a host of outdoor fun, including hiking, picnicking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.

    State Parks

  • Water Sports

    Whether paddling the Willamette, rafting the McKenzie rapids or sailing Waldo Lake, this is a veritable water-world.

    Water Sports

  • Winter Sports

    Get vertical at Willamette Pass! This family friendly ski area features 29 runs, night skiing, and a variety of terrain.

    Winter Sports

Outdoor recreation data powered by Wildernet.com in association with Oregon State Parks and other federal partners. Disclaimer

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