DISCOVER OREGON WINE COUNTRY INSPIRATION GUIDE
yes OUR HISTORY HAS A HISTORY! We have: 1841 home that tells the story of missionaries and settlers 1896 woolen mill - designated an American Treasure by the National Park Service 1926 theater with a Shakespearian connection Queen Anne estate boasting stained glass, gardens designed by the first female landscape architects Children’s museum located in the historic home of Olympianturned-inventor A.C. Gilbert AND we have everything else you’re coming to Oregon for. Visit TravelSalem.com to plan your trip! THE MOST OREGON PART OF OREGON
willamettevalley.org | 1 ITINERARIES Experience all the Willamette Valley has to o er. These detailed itineraries include top attractions as well as must-visit wineries, breweries and distilleries. Pick one for a weekend getaway, or plan a week (or more!) to see them all. 20 Yamhill County 22 Mt. Hood Territory 24 Salem Area 26 Albany Area 28 Corvallis Area 30 Eugene, Springfield & Cascades Area Any visit to the Willamette Valley should be planned with respect and safety for you and our communities. Please visit willamettevalley.org for health and safety advisories and to learn more about your responsibility to our communities, our environment and ethical business practices. FEATURES 4 SIP & SAVOR With world-class wineries and bountiful farmland, Oregon Wine Country is a culinary gem. 6 ADVENTURE AWAITS From hiking and biking to paddling and birding, outdoor explorations abound. 10 FUN FOR ALL AGES Drive a go-kart, pick peaches or pumpkins, ride an antique carousel, and more! Here you’ll find activities the whole family will enjoy. 12 TWO WHEELED TOURING Home to the nation’s first o cial scenic bikeway and boasting routes of all types, the Willamette Valley is a cyclist’s haven. 16 NATURAL WONDERS At times the Willamette Valley can feel like a fairy tale with its nearly two dozen picturesque waterfalls in the Oregon Coast Range and across the West Cascades. 19 ACCESSIBLE TRAVEL Accessible travel planning is made easier with detailed information about accessibility at restaurants, hotels, and attractions across the region. Funded in part by: The Willamette Valley Inspiration Guide is provided as a service by the Willamette Valley Visitors Association (WVVA) in partnership with MEDIAmerica. Every e ort was made to ensure the accuracy of the information here within. WVVA and the publisher assume no responsibility for errors, changes or omissions. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. RESOURCES 32 WILLAMETTE VALLEY MAP Cover: Dukes Family Vineyard photo by Andréa Johnson
Block 15’s endless pursuit of the perfect pint + three distinct Corvallis locations to share it in = one very good reason to stay longer. block15.com Sip your way through 19 unique wineries in the Willamette Valley with the 2026 Heart of Willamette Wineries Digital Passport. heartofwillamette.com Keep local history, culture & arts alive. Tour galleries, rotating and permanent exhibits, and a growing digital collection at both iconic museum locations. bentoncountymuseums.org An eclectic community full of urban hikes, rich arts, globally inspired cuisine, experimental beer, and the most easygoing wine scene in the Willamette Valley. Find your version of Corvallis at visitcorvallis.com Plan Less, Giggle More.
YOUR GUIDE ON WHERE TO STAY IN THE NORTH WILLAMETTE VALLEY LODGING WITH A UNIQUE VIEW Staying somewhere with a truly unique view — the kind that transforms a simple getaway into a memorable experience — is what makes vacations so special. In the Mt. Hood Territory area of the Willamette Valley, you’ll find lodging options with views that range from sweeping farmland to tranquil pondside scenes tucked deep in the woods. These one-of-a-kind vantage points make each stay feel special, turning every view into part of your Oregon adventure. Camp Colton Advertisement SCAN TO FIND YOUR PERFECT PLACE TO STAY omht.us/valleylodging CAMP COLTON Nestled among tall firs and cedars, lush greenery and rushing creeks is Camp Colton. Featuring a variety of lodging choices, including a tiny home, tent and RV camping, cabins and yurts. Lodging options are scattered throughout the property and offer wonderful views of the pond, forest and waterfalls. Guests enjoy hiking trails, and the property is located where the valley transitions to the Mt. Hood foothills. WHISKEY HILL STORE The guestroom at Whiskey Hill Store is named the Mountainview Suite for a reason. It features views of three Northwest mountains, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Hood and Mt. Jefferson. This room is spacious and includes a coffee nook so you can curl up and enjoy the quiet of the country. Guests also enjoy views of the adjoining farmland. This is the closest lodging option to the famous Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival. OUR SWEET RETREAT Our Sweet Retreat is a beautifully restored 1910 vintage farmhouse that blends timeless charm with modern comforts. Tucked just outside the farmhouse, a restored vintage camper adds an extra touch of charm. The spacious yard invites guests to unplug and play, with lawn games that make it easy to spend afternoons laughing, relaxing and enjoying the slower pace of this peaceful Wilsonville retreat. PRAIRIE HOUSE INN Discover the allure of the Willamette Valley countryside at Prairie House Inn in Molalla. This lovingly restored 1900s inn offers six rooms, including the standout Cottage Suite with two private patios. Grab a Cowboy Coffee from the inn’s coffee shop and head out for a hike and to explore the nearby Molalla River Recreation Area, a haven for outdoor recreationists.
WILLAMETTE VALLEY: HOME TO A WORLD CLASS WINE SCENE For decades, vintners and winemakers throughout the Willamette Valley have brought unmatched levels of craft and care to every bottle and glass. Today more than 700 wineries and tasting rooms dot the valley, bordered by the Oregon Coast Range to the west and the towering Cascades to the east. That topography—along with nutrient-rich soils and a mild climate—makes the Willamette Valley a world-renowned region for growing wine grapes, often with innovative methods that embrace the rhythms of each season. Pinot noir is our most famous export, but you’ll also sample awardwinning Chardonnay in sun-dappled tasting rooms, try sparkling wines on expansive patios and enjoy balanced Pinot gris in estates that look out over vine-covered hillsides. The wine-tasting experience even extends to curated food pairings, behind-the-scenes tours, annual festivals and family-run grape stomping events during the autumn harvest. OREGON WINE COUNTRY IS A CULINARY GEM Around the Willamette Valley, good food and drink are always in season. More than 170 crops and livestock items are produced in the region alone—from wine grapes and berries to Christmas trees and hazelnuts. The family-run farms and vineyards growing these crops have given rise to world-class wineries; farm-to-table eateries; renowned craft breweries, cider makers and distilleries; and a bounty of markets and food trails that bring it all together. Here are all the ways you can savor the Willamette Valley’s rich rewards. Sip & Savor 4 | Willamette Valley Inspiration Guide 4 Spirits Distillery, Corvallis The Thyme Garden, Alsea
FARMERS MARKETS & ARTISAN FOODS FROM THE LOCAL BOUNTY The Willamette Valley is one of the most agriculturally diverse regions on earth, so you’re never far from enjoying the area’s bounty. Several farmers markets serve fresh fare straight from the farm. The Corvallis–Albany Farmers’ Markets run April– December, as does the Lane County Farmers Market in Eugene. The McMinnville Downtown Association Farmers Market runs May-October. Each boasts dozens of vendors selling cheeses, meats, produce, baked goods and other items. In addition to fresh produce, you’ll enjoy artisan foods at markets, farm stands, restaurants and other appetizing stops. Caravan Co ee roasts ethically sourced beans, a level of care that visitors can taste at its shop in Newberg. Outside Dundee, Briar Rose Creamery crafts a spreadable fromage blanc and other small-batch cheeses—available at an onsite farm store and local markets. In St. Paul, try one of the region’s biggest exports at Ken & June’s Hazelnuts. Around Eugene, Euphoria Chocolate Company produces tru es and other decadent confections. willamettevalley.org | 5 CRAFT BEVERAGE PRODUCERS FIND SUCCESS IN THE WILLAMETTE VALLEY Wine isn’t the only thing we’re sipping here in the Willamette Valley. Whether growing apples for awardwinning ciders, hops for qua able craft beers or even plants for handcrafted tea, the Willamette Valley boasts an acclaimed array of craft beverages. Salem is home to a thriving Latinx population, and that influence is at the heart of the city’s La Familia Cider Company. The craft cider maker, noted for ciders influenced by Mexican agua fresca fruit drinks, has earned a devoted fan base with its inventive flavors—including a Jamaica hibiscus cider and another sporting tropical notes of guava. Dozens of craft breweries dot the Willamette Valley, pouring a variety of styles sure to please even the pickiest of palates. For instance, since opening in 2016, Eugene’s ColdFire Brewing has produced some of the region’s most popular ales and lagers—including pilsners, IPAs, stouts and barrel-aged o erings. Since 1988 Minto Island Tea Company has cultivated some of the area’s best-loved tea varieties—all certified organic—on one of Oregon’s only dedicated tea farms, just outside Salem. In fact, each of Minto’s teas are grown, picked and processed at the company’s farm. Since 2011 the veteran-led 4 Spirits Distillery has poured a variety of small-batch spirits—like its habanerospiced rum and cucumber gin—at the southern edge of Corvallis. Founded in memory of four Oregon National Guardsmen, 4 Spirits routinely donates to statewide veteran reintegration programs. FARM TO TABLE EATERIES DISH THE BEST OF THE REGION With fruits, vegetables, herbs and more growing around the Willamette Valley, it’s no wonder restaurateurs have made “farm-to-table” the cornerstone of their outposts. Since 2013Pura Vida Cocina has served Latin American-inspired food and drinks from several countries— including Costa Rica, Cuba, El Salvador and Argentina—in downtown McMinnville. Each dish on the restaurant’s seasonal menu is prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. The Salem-based Willamette Valley Pie Company processes more than 10 million pounds of fresh, locally grown fruit every summer; hosts a local store and cafe; and ships its desserts to grocery stores, farm stands and restaurants all over Oregon. Just about everything is scratch-made at Sybaris Bistro in Albany—even the ketchup. The award-winning restaurant prepares a popular menu of globally inspired dishes, all with a Pacific Northwest twist, that changes with whatever’s in season. The Willamette Valley’s ar san food scene showcases the growers and producers who power the re on. Lane County Farmers Market
6 | Willamette Valley Inspiration Guide It’s hardly a surprise, then, that outdoor recreation takes visitors into the heart of all that scenic beauty. So take your pick: How will you take in the beauty of the Willamette Valley on your next unforgettable trip? Adventure Awa s OUTDOOR EXPLORATIONS AROUND THE WILLAMETTE VALLEY PADDLE THE WILLAMETTE WATER TRAIL You never know what a day on the Willamette River might bring: Perhaps you’ll paddle past an osprey fishing from its banks, watch as a gentle breeze cracks the river’s surface like broken glass or see an otter frolicking in the chilly water. Thanks to the Willamette Water Trail, such an experience isn’t just possible—it’s a one-of-a-kind outing that can’t happen anywhere else in the region. Fed by tributaries from the Cascade mountains, the Willamette Water Trail flows northward for nearly 200 miles (322 kilometers) before emptying into the Columbia River near Portland. Along the way, the river passes through cities large and small, boasts dramatic wildlifeviewing opportunities, o ers all manner of outdoor recreation and showcases the natural beauty of the iconic Willamette Valley. The trail’s 50 or so campsites—many accessible only by boat—make it possible to string together an overnight outing along the trail, but landings in and around the region’s communities o er the chance to get o the water and enrich your experience as well. GO BIRDING IN THE WILLAMETTE VALLEY’S NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGES The Willamette Valley sits along the Pacific Flyway, a major migratory bird route that stretches from Alaska to Argentina. So every fall and spring, birders around the region are treated to sightings of more than 230 feathered species as they rest, feed and forage throughout the Willamette Valley. In particular, a trio of national wildlife refuges (Baskett Slough, William L. Finley and Ankeny national wildlife refuges) are ground zero for spotting both native and migrating birds that appreciate the region's wide-open meadows, wetlands, riparian forests, prairies and other ecosystems. Keep an eye out from designated blinds, viewpoints and hiking trails. Species to watch for include the dusky Canada goose, which winters almost exclusively in the Willamette Valley, as well as herons, mallards, bald eagles, great horned owls, red-tailed hawks and western sandpipers. Marys Peak Towering forests, panoramic peaks and a river running through it all: The Willamette Valley has no shortage of natural wonders.
willamettevalley.org | 7 GET OUTSIDE WITH ACCESSIBLE ADVENTURES Outdoor enthusiasts of all abilities will find plenty to love about the hikes, mountain bike trails and communities throughout the Willamette Valley. A number of wheelchair- and stroller-friendly hiking trails crisscross the Willamette Valley. A short trail at Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge heads through a lush forest while o ering wildlifewatching opportunities, and a paved walkway at Erratic Rock State Natural Site heads to a 90ton (81,647 kilogram) rock that was deposited thousands of years ago during the Missoula Floods. Mountain bikers with adaptive equipment, meanwhile, can tackle the fast and flowy Catamount Trail in Silver Falls State Park, the gentle climbs and rolling hills along the Old Santiam Wagon Road, and other forested paths A number of wheelchair- and stroller-friendly hiking trails crisscross the Willamette Valley. Old Santiam Wagon Road throughout the valley and in the Cascades. In 2025 Oregon became the first state to be Accessibility Verified by travel platform Wheel the World — whose trained mappers assessed restaurants, lodgings and attractions to help you plan a trip that meets your access needs. Fern Ridge Reservoir INDIGENOUS LANDS The Willamette Valley is within the Indigenous homelands of the Kalapuya and Molalla peoples. The Molalla, within the northeastern portion of the valley, are recognized as being of two groups: the Northern Molalla and the Santiam band of Molalla. The Kalapuya are historically identified as including approximately 13 tribes or bands: the Tualatin, Yamhill, Pudding River, Luckiamute, Santiam, Marys River, Calapooia, Muddy River, Tekopa, Long Tom, Chafan, Mohawk, Winnefelly and Yoncalla Kalapuya bands, from north to south in the valley. Willamette Water Trail
Farms, Flowers and Forests, and that’s just the F’s. ExploreNorthMarion.org
• Complimentary hot breakfast buffet • Complimentary onsite parking • Bentley’s restaurant located within the hotel • Bike and pet-friendly • Indoor pool & fitness room • Easy access to over 45 wineries • 3 blocks from the Salem Riverfront Park 193 beautiful hotel rooms & suites located in downtown Salem, Oregon 201 Liberty St. SE Salem, OR 97301 4370 Commercial St. SE Salem, OR 97302 84 spacious, comfortable & inviting hotel rooms just 3.5 miles South of Downtown Salem. • Complimentary hot breakfast buffet • Complimentary onsite parking • Bike and pet-friendly • Indoor pool & fitness room • Easy access to over 45 wineries 503.588.9220 HotelSalemOregon.com 503.540.7800 GrandHotelSalem.com 291 Liberty St. SE Salem, OR 97301 503.779.1660 BentleysGrill.com Located inside The Grand Hotel • Northwest cuisine • Local beer, Wine and Spirits • Elevated attention to detail & an unforgettable experience • Happy Hour served daily Tuesday - Thursday: 4-9pm Friday - Saturday: 4-10pm Bentley’s Dining
10 | Willamette Valley Inspiration Guide Fun forAll Ages RELAX & RECONNECT ON AN ACTIVE FAMILY GETAWAY opening in 1971. The family-run park boasts a variety of rides, slides, a haunted house, the largest log ride in the Pacific Northwest, a thrilling roller coaster and plenty of other fun activities for a storybook adventure. For a trip back in time, stop by the Historic Carousel and Museum in Albany, where you can watch volunteers carve and paint new carousel animals—and take a ride on a historic 1909 carousel, home to 45 handcrafted animals and mythical creatures, such as gira es, dragons, unicorns and lions. Interested in regional wildlife? Cascades Raptor Center is a nature center and animal hospital that treats more than 300 sick, injured and orphaned birds of prey each year near the southern edge of Eugene. The center is also home to nearly 40 birds, all native to the Pacific Northwest, in large outdoor aviaries. Self-guided tours are available, as are educational opportunities for students young and old. If you want to enjoy an active outing, connect with the Willamette Valley’s history, enjoy a day on the farm, or even learn a thing or two at our engaging museums, you’ll find plenty to do here. Here’s just a sampling of the many ways you and your whole family can enjoy the Willamette Valley on your next trip. FAMILY OUTINGS OFFER FUN, SHOWCASE HISTORY & MORE Whatever your family’s interests, you’re sure to find something to love for kids of all ages in the Willamette Valley. In the mood for an active outing? Bullwinkle’s boasts enough fun for multiple afternoons in Wilsonville. Attractions include an 18-hole mini-golf course, go-karts, bumper boats, a climbing wall, an 800-foot-long (244meter) zip line, an arcade with more than 100 games and 16 lanes of bowling. In Salem, the one-of-a-kind Enchanted Forest outdoor theme park has been a Willamette Valley icon since The Willamette Valley is home to fun attractions for kids young and old—even most of our tasting rooms are family-friendly. Watch volunteers carve and paint new carousel animals—and take a de on a histo c 1909 carousel. Hentze Family Farm, Junction City
FOOD TRAILS SHOWCASE LIFE ON THE FARM Kids—and kids at heart—love exploring the self-guided Willamette Valley Food Trails that crisscross the area. In spring U-pick farms invite families to savor the flavor of the region by enjoying peaches, berries and other fruits straight from the source; in late summer and early fall, many of the area’s farms host harvest festivals, pumpkin patches and other fun festivities. And that’s to say nothing of the farm animals kids can see along the way all year long. Visit some of the area’s historic farms, craft-beverage producers, farm-to-table restaurants and artisan markets along the Mid-Willamette Valley Food Trail, which covers the charming communities of Monroe, Albany, Philomath, Alsea, Lebanon and Corvallis. Vendors at farmers markets celebrate and showcase the bounty of the region all year long. Sip world-class wines, enjoy one-of-a-kind lodging opportunities, sample your way through home-grown bakeries and cafes, and head to a variety of family-friendly farms along the South Willamette Valley Food Trail, which passes through Eugene, Cottage Grove, Junction City, Creswell and even the McKenzie River. When you get hungry, you'll find a variety of eateries—from hip, playful lounges to fine-dining restaurants. The Great Oaks Food Trail, meanwhile, shares the bounty of historic farming communities—such as Dallas, Monmouth, Amity and Independence—with more than 40 exciting stops. Your itinerary may include farms, markets, eateries, artisan merchants or family-friendly wineries. If you're a craft-beer fan, kick back at a local brewery; the area, once a top hop-producing region, was known in the 1930s as the “Hop Center of the World.” Several farms still produce hops today. Historic Carousel and Musem, Albany U-pick flowers at Peoria Road Farmer's Market Iron Water Ranch, Albany willamettevalley.org | 11 Each of the four seasons creates a different experience on farms and at tasting rooms around the Willamette Valley. Here’s how to make the most of your next visit—whenever that visit may be. Spring Blooms Around the Willamette Valley Signs of spring abound all over the Willamette Valley: The season’s first steelhead and chinook salmon swim the Willamette and McKenzie rivers, cherry blossoms cover the Oregon State Capitol grounds, and the Wooden Shoe Tulip Fest (a regional celebration since 1985) showcases thousands of vibrant flowers. At the same time, wineries welcome spring with bud break, the unofficial start of the growing season, and (in May) Oregon Wine Month. Growing Season Arrives with Summer The heart of summer is also the heart of the growing season in the Willamette Valley. Cherries, blueberries, strawberries, tomatoes and a wide range of fresh vegetables show off the region’s rich bounty at markets, farm stands and (of course) farm-to-table restaurants. Meanwhile, stalks of fragrant lavender and fields of colorful dahlias cover farms and fields throughout the region. Harvest Festivals Ring in Fall Pumpkin patches and apple orchards are mainstays at autumn attractions. Our farmers also harvest the ever-popular hazelnut; the Willamette Valley produces more than 99% of all hazelnuts grown in the United States. Wineries gear up for harvest and Wine Country Thanksgiving, which often includes special releases, live music and other fun events in November. Winter Brings Cellar Season and Truffle Tastings Winter is Cellar Season for Willamette Valley wineries, where you can relax around the fireplace, chat with the winemaker who poured your Pinot and savor the season’s newest releases. And February is officially Oregon Truffle Month, which celebrates the delicacy with tastings, workshops, special menus, a truffle marketplace and other fungifocused events including the Oregon Truffle Festival. Learn more about the bounty of the Willamette Valley at willamettevalley.org/farm-and-food CELEBRATE THE GROWING SEASONS OF THE WILLAMETTE VALLEY
12 | Willamette Valley Inspiration Guide Naturally, this scenery has long charmed cyclists seeking out adventure all over the region. Mountain bike riders shred world-renowned single-track trails in the forests around Oakridge, gravel riders find thrills in the backroad foothills of the Oregon Coast Range and road cyclists love exploring the Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway—the first official scenic bikeway in the United States. Here’s a look at the world-class versatility of the Willamette Valley’s cycling scene. Two-Wheeled Touring EXPLORE THE WILLAMETTE VALLEY BY BICYCLE There’s so much to love about the beauty of the Willamette Valley: Rolling hillsides cut through acres of farmland, dozens of covered bridges cross creeks and rivers, and forested foothills enchant in the region’s mountain ranges. RIDE THE WILLAMETTE VALLEY SCENIC BIKEWAY Running along country roads and through small towns, the Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway is a 134-mile, (216-kilometer) state-designated road-bicycle route showcasing many of the region’s most popular highlights: quiet country roads, charming communities, family farms, pastoral parks and, of course, some of the Willamette Valley’s most popular (and scenic) wineries. Strong cyclists can complete the self-guided tour in as little as one day, but we’d recommend two or three days to stop and enjoy the sights. Dedicated cyclists can camp at Champoeg State Heritage Area, Willamette Mission State Park, Brownsville’s Pioneer Park and Armitage Park—while bed-and-breakfasts and hotels, many offering secure bike storage, provide more comfortable options for multiday rides. The enthusiasm spawned by the Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway has led to the development of additional bikeways throughout the region—including the Covered Bridges Scenic Bikeway, the McKenzie Pass Scenic Bikeway, the Aufderheide Scenic Bikeway and the Cascading Rivers Scenic Bikeway. Molalla River Recreation Area
willamettevalley.org | 13 MOUNTAIN BIKE THE FORESTED FOOTHILLS SURROUNDING THE WILLAMETTE VALLEY The Willamette Valley is bookended by a pair of mountain ranges—the Coast Range to the west and the Cascades to the east—both offering mountain bike trails through forested wilderness. Popular paths include the mountain bike trails at Alsea Falls Recreation Site, which promise rollers, berms, rock gardens, banked turns and exposed-root features for an exciting challenge through a lush, second-growth forest. In the world-class West Cascades, Westf ir sits at the base of the thrilling, 15-mile (24-kilometer) Alpine Trail. Nearby, Oakridge has been dubbed a gold-level destination by the International Mountain Bicycling Association—making it one of only six areas in the world to receive the honor. GRAVEL RIDING OFFERS NEW CHALLENGES, SENSE OF SOLITUDE Every day, cyclists are taking their adventures off pavement and onto gravel paths for a quieter experience that bridges the divide between urban rides and forested adventures. And at the western edge of the Willamette Valley, Oregon Coast Range foothills offer plenty of opportunities to hit the trail for a mixed-terrain ride. Gravel rides throughout the region pass award-winning wineries, cut through acres of farmland, cross covered bridges that date back nearly a century and visit some of Oregon’s most charming towns. Hit the trail for a mixed-terrain ride. Gallon House Bridge CROSS THE OREGON COAST RANGE ON TWO WHEELS The 60-mile (97-kilometer) Corvallis-to-the-Sea Trail links downtown Corvallis to the Oregon Coast, giving cyclists a way to explore the forested Oregon Coast Range. The path begins where the Marys and Willamette rivers come together near downtown Corvallis before ascending into the mountains via paved backcountry paths, gravel routes and dirt forest roads. Sights along the way include iconic Marys Peak, rolling hillsides, lush forests and resident wildlife—including deer, Roosevelt elk and the occasional black bear. Bikepackers can break up the trip with an overnight stay at the remote Big Elk Campground. Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway Black Rock Mountain Bike Area
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16 | Willamette Valley 2022 Travel Guide EXPLORE THE WILLAMETTE VALLEY’S MAJESTIC WATERFALLS & HIKES At times the Willamette Valley and its nearly two dozen waterfalls can feel like a fairy tale. After all, where else can you walk behind thundering cascades, admire fastmoving chutes from forested riverbanks and walk across ancient lava flows before gazing upon crystal-clear falls? You can do it all—and more—at picturesque waterfalls in the Oregon Coast Range and across the West Cascades. Begin your scenic trip here, and learn more about the other waterfalls of the Willamette Valley at willamettevalley.org/guide-to-waterfalls. SILVER FALLS STATE PARK & THE TRAIL OF TEN FALLS Silver Falls State Park is considered by many to be the crown jewel of the Oregon State Parks system— and its namesake waterfalls routinely draw visitors from around the world. The 7.2-mile (11.6-kilometer) round-trip Trail of Ten Falls hike is easily the park’s most popular attraction. Here a trail descends into a forested river canyon where hikers can view an astounding 10 waterfalls. Five of those are taller than 100 feet (30 meters), and hikers can walk behind four. Don’t have time for all 10? You can still view many of the park’s waterfalls along several shorter loops that begin from the South Falls and North Falls day-use areas. Whichever hike you choose, keep in mind that Silver Falls State Park is rightfully popular—so try to visit before 9:00 a.m., and aim for a weekday outing to enjoy some solitude. Silver Falls State Park Natural Wonders | Willamette Valley Inspiration Guide S ver Falls State Park’s namesake waterfalls rou nely d w tors from around e world.
willamettevalley.org | 17 SAHALIE & KOOSAH FALLS Some 3,000 years ago, a pair of thick lava flows dammed Clear Lake in the Cascade Range and created a pair of Oregon’s most beloved waterfalls: Sahalieand Koosah falls. (Translated from Chinook, Sahalie means “heaven” and Koosah means “sky.”) Today both waterfalls can be accessed via a scenic loop trail that parallels the McKenzie River. Most visitors park at the Sahalie Falls parking area, which a ords almost immediate views of the 100-foot (30-meter) waterfall, before following the McKenzie River toward Koosah Falls— which itself drops 70 feet (21 meters) into a pool below. (If Sahalie Falls looks vaguely familiar, fun fact: It was featured in the Disney film “Homeward Bound.”) SPIRIT FALLS, MOON FALLS & PINARD FALLS At the far southeastern edge of the Willamette Valley, in the Cascade Range foothills, sit three impressive waterfall hikes within a short drive of each other. The undeniable star is Spirit Falls, which drops 60 feet (18 meters) in a mossy basalt amphitheater into a pool populated by frogs and salamanders. Nearby quick treks head through lush old-growth forests and to the base of the 100-foot (30-meter) Moon Falls and the 105-foot (32-meter) Pinard Falls. Given the remote nature of the waterfalls, chances are good you’ll have the views all to yourself—even on sunny summer weekends. If you do all three hikes on your outing—and if you’ve driven this far into the woods, why wouldn’t you?—you’ll tally about 3 miles (5 kilometers) of hiking and 600 feet (183 meters) of elevation gain. MCDOWELL CREEK FALLS COUNTY PARK At the eastern edge of the Willamette Valley, where farmland gives way to rising hillsides and towering forests, sits McDowell Creek Falls County Park. The wooded park hosts a 2-mile (3-kilometer) round-trip loop hike (gaining just 230 feet/70 meters) that passes a pair of impressive cascades, both accessible by boardwalks and viewpoints for an easy yet rewarding outing. The highlights here are the 120-foot (37-meter), twotiered Royal Terrace Falls and the 40-foot (12-meter) Majestic Falls, both of which fall in rocky amphitheaters and are surrounded by towering Douglas fir, hemlock and maple trees. Keep an eye out along the way for the 15-foot Crystal Falls and the 20-foot (6-meter) Lower McDowell Creek Falls for even more scenery. A lack of winter snow makes the trail a popular o -season destination, and the park positively glows with colorful fall foliage in September and October. ALSEA FALLS RECREATION SITE Sitting along the South Fork Alsea River in the heart of the Oregon Coast Range, the Alsea Falls Recreation Site has a bit of everything for outdoor enthusiasts of all stripes, including its namesake waterfall. Alsea Falls tumbles just 30 feet (9 meters), but it does so while cascading over smooth rocks in the river, creating a staircase-like flow that’s unique among waterfalls in the region. A short path from the day-use area leads to a viewpoint at the base of Alsea Falls. A longer hike through a mossy forest of Douglas fir, maple and alder leads to views of the 45-foot (14-meter) Green Peak Falls. There’s no bad time to see Alsea Falls, but aim for a visit March through May to enjoy the waterfall at its thundering peak—or September through October to appreciate the colorful fall foliage lining the riverbanks. MOLALLA RIVER RIM TRAIL The 6.5-mile (10.5-kilometer) Molalla River Rim Trail Loop has a bit of everything that makes the Willamette Valley so great: old-growth forest, plentiful wildlife watching and (in summer) wild berries that can be plucked right from the vine. MARYS PEAK Across the valley, Marys Peak towers over the Corvallis area as the tallest peak in the Oregon Coast Range—and the site of a popular network of hiking trails. From the summit, hikers enjoy 360-degree views that encompass the Pacific Ocean, Willamette Valley farmland and numerous Cascade peaks—including Mt. Rainier in Washington and Mt. Hood, Mt. Je erson and the Three Sisters in Central Oregon. Visit willamettevalley.org/guide-to-waterfalls for more information, safety tips and seasonal updates. Alsea Falls Recreation Site McDowell Creek Falls County Park
South Willamette Valley wine country Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
Downtown Corvallis The Willamette Valley is a bustling region that brings together outdoor recreation, cultural institutions, a world-class wine scene, countless culinary delights—and a growing number of attractions that are accessible to travelers with disabilities. Oregon is the first state to achieve the “Accessibility Verified” designation from Wheel the World, a global platform for planning and booking accessible travel. Over 750 businesses in Oregon, including hotels, attractions, and experiences, were assessed to gather real data about accessibility features—information that is now available for you to make informed decisions based on your own individual needs. The Willamette Valley communities of Albany, Corvallis, Eugene, McMinnville, Newberg, and Salem have detailed accessibility information on a number of assessed businesses. What does this mean for your next trip? • Easier planning: Plan a trip that puts your needs front and center—with listings for dozens of restaurants, attractions, and hotels that break down specific accessibility-minded o erings. • Specific information: Wheel the World measures and shares the specifics of what you’ll encounter at a number of assessed businesses within these communities. This includes the width of a hotel’s roll-in shower, what kind of turning space you may have in a bathroom, the width and depth of elevators, and whether building entries are step-free. • Easy-to-find listings: Information about the assessed attractions in the Willamette Valley and their accessibility features can be found at willamettevalley.org/accessible-travel. You can also visit traveloregon.com/accessibletravel or wheeltheworld.com for additional listings in other regions. For more information, visit willamettevalley.org/accessible-travel willamettevalley.org | 19 Accessible Travel
20 | Willamette Valley Inspiration Guide McMenamins UFO Festival Downtown Newberg Inn the Ground, Carlton Imagine floating through the clouds in a hot-air balloon, gliding over vineyards (Vista Balloon Adventures) high above, and spotting a few cyclists exploring the rolling hills on a guided bike tour (Wine de Roads). That’s the essence of Yamhill County, which draws visitors from around the world and nearby Portlanders alike for a full immersion in Oregon wine country. It may be only an hour’s drive southwest of the city, but this is far more than a mere day trip. More than 250 estate wineries, vineyards and tasting rooms dot the landscape, which encompasses the walkable towns of Newberg, Dundee, Dayton, Carlton, McMinnville and Amity—all popular jumping-o points for wine tours, as well as arts and culinary destinations on their own. In addition to locally sourced fare from restaurants such as Hayward Restaurant, Carlton claims the most tasting rooms per capita in the United States, with nearly two dozen in the town alone. Restaurants, breweries, antique stores, galleries and tasting rooms pack historic downtown cores in Newberg and McMinnville (especially along Third Street, McMinnville’s main drag). In Newberg the upscale Allison Inn & Spa sits on 35 groomed acres (14 hectares) with a state-of-the-art spa, the renowned JORY Restaurant and a sculpture garden presenting 500 original works from Oregon artists. Pick up provisions for a vineyard picnic at the Red Hills Market in Dundee, or cap o a day of tasting at the Joel Palmer House in Dayton, a multigenerational family restaurant famous for cooking with wild mushrooms. Yamhill County
Wings & Waves Waterpark Soter Vineyards And to satisfy your sweet tooth, stop at The Brigittine Monks Gourmet Confectionery in the small burg of Amity, where monks craft fudge and tru es with local nuts, fruits and more. Amity’s petite downtown has other tasty diversions, including The Common Cup espresso and wa e bar, and a cluster of tasting rooms. A tour of Yamhill County doesn’t end with its tasting rooms. The Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum in McMinnville (home to Howard Hughes' Spruce Goose, the largest wooden airplane ever built) shares its campus with the year-round, indoor Wings and Waves Waterpark. Newberg’s Chehalem Cultural Center, meanwhile, celebrates the local arts scene with rotating art exhibits, studios and classrooms; an exhibition hall; and even five music studios. If you need to stretch your legs, 8 miles (13 kilometers) of trails connect historic sites in the Champoeg State Heritage Area near Newberg and Dundee. willamettevalley.org | 21 SIP STOPS MEET A FEW OF THE AREA’S CRAFT BEVERAGE PRODUCERS Carlton Winemakers Studio When it opened in 2002, the Carlton Winemakers Studio pioneered a first-of-its-kind model for a shared winery—a communal production space and tasting room where more than a dozen unique labels crush, age and bottle wines using the same equipment. You can enjoy a taste of the innovative project in the shared tasting room, which pours vintages from some 15 tiny producers. Stoller Family Estate Stoller Family Estate tops a lot of lists, and it’s easy to see why. Consistently recognized by USA Today as one of the nation’s best tasting rooms, the ecofriendly winery was the world’s first to receive LEED Gold certification. Located in the heart of the Dundee Hills, surrounded by estate vineyards and panoramic views, visitors can enjoy elevated seated tastings, seasonal food pairings, and immersive experiences designed to share the winery’s rich history. Reservations are available for convenience; walk-ins are always welcome. Saffron Fields Vineyard Visiting the design-focused Saffron Fields Vineyard feels like walking into a gallery. The tasting room exhibits the owners’ exquisite collection of contemporary art, including multimedia light sculptures, and overlooks exterior gardens created by the renowned Japanese landscape architect Hoichi Kurisu. Saffron Fields’ wine turns heads too, earning praise in major wine publications. Argyle Winery With its original winery in a converted hazelnut-processing plant and its tasting room occupying the former Dundee City Hall, Argyle has a clear link to Oregon’s heritage. And in the past four decades, it has added to the state’s pioneering history with its celebrated wines. You can get a taste of Argyle’s legacy in guided tastings and classes, which are hosted in its two remarkable wine libraries. Jachter Family Wines Jachter Family Wines planted its first vines in 2019—sourcing fruit from neighboring growers— and has grown into a Willamette Valley stalwart renowned for its Pinot noir, Chardonnay and rosé. Enjoy it all in a warm and inviting tasting room, bathed in natural light, that overlooks Jachter's vineyards in the Chehalem Mountains north of Newberg. Jachter Family Wines
22 | Willamette Valley Inspiration Guide The Kitchen at Middleground Farm Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm, Woodburn In the northeast corner of the valley, a cluster of historic cities and countryside towns define the Mt. Hood Territory. For fresh fare in the middle of the food source, explore Wilsonville. Savor an unforgettable lunch at Moroccan restaurant Dar Essalam (order the chicken bastilla, a dish typically reserved for weddings). Follow it up with an equally decadent dessert from Lux Sucre. For dinner, dine at Parkway Grille Bar & Restaurant in the new Hilton Garden Inn, or book a table for seasonal alfresco dining at The Kitchen at Middleground Farms, known for its on-farm cooking classes. In between meals, explore Wilsonville Memorial Park and Graham Oaks Nature Park. Southeast of Wilsonville, bursting with nurseries and flower farms, visit Canby, “The Garden Spot,” for unique downtown shops. You’ll also find stylish brewpubs like the Canby Beer Library, a taproom and food-cart pod that's housed in a former library. Several Canby farms are also open for tastes and tours. Try the cheese and visit the “cowlebrities” at TMK Creamery, grab a snack from the onfarm bakery at Fir Point Farms or Puddin’ River Chocolates, and view the colorful blooms at Swan Island Dahlia Farm. Bolster your flower-viewing experience with EnChroma glasses at Swan Island and the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival; the glasses, available to borrow free of charge, are designed to enhance color perception for those with red-green color blindness. Continue heading southeast for a big welcome in Molalla. For more than 100 years, the community has celebrated Mt. Hood Territory
Molalla River Recreation Area Mural, downtown Canby its rural roots—especially with the Molalla Buckeroo, a multiday rodeo each July. While visiting, watch for Rodeo Walk of Fame plaques commemorating rodeo greats and the city’s history. Restaurants like the Humble Pig Cafe and Hitchin’ Post Cafe are thriving downtown. No visit is complete without touring local farms like Alpacas at Marquam Hill Ranch (o ering tours and summer alpaca yoga) and Willamette Valley Melon Company. Get outside in all the beauty that makes Mt. Hood Territory magical with a trip to the Molalla River Recreation Area and its lesstraveled trails. Around the region, several overnight stays pair comfortable beds with locally inspired experiences. In Molalla, Prairie House Inn & Cowboy Co ee Shop o ers six rooms, along with piping-hot co ee, in a vintage farmhouse. Our Sweet Retreat welcomes groups with a spacious house, tiny home and retro-inspired trailer in Wilsonville. Outside Colton, the 80-acre Camp Colton rents yurts, cabins and a tiny home. In Hubbard rent a suite in a former schoolhouse and renovated market at the Whiskey Hill Store. willamettevalley.org | 23 TMK Creamery, Canby SIP STOPS MEET A FEW OF THE AREA’S CRAFT BEVERAGE PRODUCERS Beckham Estate Vineyard Beckham Estate, open by appointment in the Chehalem Mountains outside Wilsonville, offers two tasting experiences that cover the winery's history, winemaking practices and pours of a few wines. TMK Creamery Canby's TMK Creamery—the world's first creamery and farmstead distillery—turns leftover whey from its cheesemaking process into "cowcohol" (like sipping vodka). Whiskey Hill Winery The family-run Whiskey Hill Winery produces small batches of Pinot noir, Marechal foch, Gamay noir and other creative varieties just a few miles south of Canby. When grapes aren't estate-grown, they're sourced locally for a true taste of the region. Savor cozy vibes inside Whiskey Hill's friendly tasting room— or kick back on its covered patio, which sits between a vineyard of Pinot noir grapes and a hazelnut orchard. St. Josef’s Winery The family-owned-and-operated St. Josef’s Winery planted its first wine grapes in 1978 and, nearly 50 years later, remains an essential stop with Pinot noir, Syrah, Merlot and a number of sparkling wines. Enjoy it all inside a relaxed, Alps-inspired tasting room or next to a fire pit that overlooks a bucolic pond. Keep an eye out for live music, dinners and other events. Vanguard Brewing Housed in an industrial space with a 15-barrel brewing system, Vanguard Brewing largely focuses on crafting classic beers in traditional style, with a crisp pilsner and well-balanced IPA always on draft. But there’s also space for experimentation on the tasting room tap list, where you can spot a wider range of seasonal and limited releases. Both the taproom and beer garden welcome patrons 21 and over.
24 | Willamette Valley Inspiration Guide Downtown Salem Whatever you’ve come to Oregon for, chances are you’ll find it in Salem, the state’s capital and third-most-populous city. Lush green spaces define the cityscape; acclaimed chefs make magic in the kitchen with local ingredients; creative types work in studios and galleries; and fruitful countryside rings the city, meaning wineries (such as Bryn Mawr Vineyards and Cória Estates) and farms (like Bauman's Farm & Garden) are mere minutes away. Salem's historic downtown fills its walkable blocks with way more than legislative business. Stroll in any direction and you’ll spot third-wave cafes (Archive Co ee & Bar), galleries (Bush Barn Art Center), an eclectic variety of museums (ranging from the Hallie Ford Museum of Art to the Gilbert House Children’s Museum) and ambitiously planned parks—the Peter Courtney Minto Island Bridge connects three urban parks with more than 20 miles (32 kilometers) of trails. Nearby, the Oregon State Hospital Museum of Mental Health was the primary set for the landmark 1975 movie “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest,” based on the novel by Oregon writer Ken Kesey. And west of the city, theChachalu Museum and Cultural Center tells the story of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde through artwork, photography, online exhibits and more. Just a short drive from the city center, you’ll encounter some of the most iconic natural sites in the Pacific Northwest, most notably Silver Falls State Park near the town of Sublimity. There you can actually walk behind waterfalls on the fantasy-esque Trail of Ten Falls. Paddle IRONMAN 70.3 Oregon, Salem Salem Area
Oregon State Capitol, Salem North Santiam River, Mill City or float on the Willamette Water Trail, and make sure you have a life jacket! A stone’s throw from Historic Downtown Silverton, the 120-acre (49-hectare) Oregon Garden displays the astonishing botanical diversity of the Pacific Northwest in 20 specialty gardens. The garden is also home to the Gordon House, the only Frank Lloyd Wrightdesigned building in the state. The city of Salem is split between Marion and Polk counties, both agricultural wonders that lead the state in productivity. Get a taste of this culinary goodness at the area’s farmers markets—one good reason to explore the picturesque downtowns of Monmouth, Independence and Dallas. For more agricultural bounty, take a self-guided culinary journey on the Great Oaks Food Trail. Along the trail, you’ll find small towns with big hearts, modern makers honoring local history and family farms that work hard to preserve the land, including restoring the native great white oak savanna. These businesses are committed to sustainable practices to last through the next century and beyond. willamettevalley.org | 25 SIP STOPS MEET A FEW OF THE AREA’S CRAFT BEVERAGE PRODUCERS Andante Vineyard West of Salem and just off Highway 99W, Andante Vineyard has earned acclaim for its variety of well-balanced varietals—including estate-grown Chardonnay, Pinot noir and Sauvignon blanc. Sample Andante's lineup around the tasting room's stone fireplace or from its spacious patio, where you might see birds flying to and from the neighboring Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge. Lady Hill Winery Lady Hill Winery grows its grapes on a fifthgeneration farm that’s been in the family for more than 150 years, imbuing every bottle with a sense of place and time. Enjoy a glass of Cabernet, Pinot noir, Barbera and more on a sun-kissed patio or in a friendly tasting room that routinely hosts dinner pairings, performances by local musicians and other events. Eola Hills Legacy Estate Vineyard Eola Hills Wine Cellars is one of Oregon’s largest wineries—and has garnered praise for using sustainable practices to grow and harvest its estategrown Pinot noir and Chardonnay (among other varietals). Enjoy those selections at the sweeping Eola Hills Legacy Estate Vineyard, which pairs its pours with picturesque patio views, summertime concerts, self-guided hiking trails through vine-covered hillsides and other fun events. La Familia Cider Company The Gonzalez family launched La Familia Cider Company in 2017, crafting hard ciders inspired by fruity aguas frescas—crisp fruit drinks popular in the family’s native Mexico and throughout Latin America. Today La Familia’s flagship taproom is a popular gathering spot in downtown Salem. TopWire Hop Project Want to sip your beer on the farm where some of its ingredients are grown? At the innovative TopWire Hop Project, you can do just that. The bucolic beer garden, open May through October, is surrounded by rows of Centennial hops on Crosby Hops' farm—and pours a lineup of regional beers and ciders infused with those ingredients. Stop by in mid-August to see the hop bines, which can reach 20 feet (6 meters), at their verdant height. Aurora Colony Vineyards
26 | Willamette Valley Inspiration Guide Downtown Albany McDowell Creek Falls The stroll-worthy streets of Albany are a living-history museum. A longtime commercial hub at the confluence of the Calapooia and Willamette rivers, the city’s downtown comprises three historic districts, which fit more than 800 restored structures into a 100-block area. Take a tour on foot for a full-scale exhibit of late-19th- and early-20th-century American architecture, with varied styles ranging from Italianate and Queen Anne to art moderne and Craftsman bungalow. Don’t miss the first frame structure in Albany, which has been carefully restored as the Monteith House Museum, where you can take a step back into Oregon’s pioneer days. And dive into the city’s industrious past at the Albany Regional Museum. Today Albany packs its city center with acclaimed chef-owned restaurants such as Matt Bennett’s Sybaris Bistro and Cody Utzman's Bodhi Cafe & Bistro. Welcoming shops, a vibrant local gallery and engaging museums o er plenty of reasons to linger. Pop into the 20,000-squarefoot (1,858-square-meter) Albany Antique Mall to peruse turn-of-the-century furniture, comic books, collectibles, and more; upstairs, old-school fashions are arranged by decade. Take a ride on the lovingly restored, 100-year-old mechanism at the Albany Historic Carousel & Museum, adorned with a menagerie of animals hand-carved and painted by community volunteers. Albany sits in the middle of one of the broadest and lushest stretches of the valley. Take a drive on quiet country roads to see eight covered bridges. A half-dozen bridges Albany Area
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