With summer quickly approaching, its time to plan a bucket list of all the places we are going to go and things we are going to do. Oregon is notorious for having the most variety of outdoor activities and having the most beautiful parks, lakes and rivers. Here’s a list of places go and the things you should do in Oregon:

1. Visit Crater Lake: Located approx. three and a half hours from WOU, Crater Lake was once an ancient volcano that collapsed nearly 8,000 years ago which eventually formed the lake. The national park is the 5th oldest in the nation and is famous for its clear waters and is the deepest lake in the United States. Swimming, hiking and fishing are some activities that await on your visit to Crater Lake. The national park has various hiking trails but only one leads you to where you may swim in the lake, Cleetwood Cove Trail.

2. Hike up Multnomah Falls: Located approx. one hour and 40 minutes from WOU, Multnomah Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oregon and is open year round. The falls are fed by rainwater, snow and an underground spring that allow the falls to never tryout.

3. Swim in Trillium Lake: Located approx. two hours from WOU, Trillium Lake is famous for its breathtaking sight of Mt. Hood in the background. Fishing, swimming and camping are all popular recreational activities during the Summer months.

4. Raft the McKenzie River: Located approx. one hour and thirty minutes from WOU, White Water Adventures offers affordable rafting experiences. Rafting on this river is exciting and perfect for first timers and beginners to experience an exciting trip with some peaceful moments as well. Prices for half day trips are $60 and full day trips are $90.

5. Spend the day at Mt. Hood Adventure Park: Located approx. two hours from WOU, Ski Bowl Adventure Park has over 20 attractions ranging from zip lines, bungee jumping, alpine slides, indy carts and more for $79! Mt. Hood is conveniently located in the background for breathtaking sightseeing on their hiking and biking trails.

6. Hike up to Mary’s Peak: Located approx. an hour and a half from WOU, this is the highest peak on the Cascade Range. On a clear day, you can see the Pacific Ocean and the cities and suburbs within the Willamette Valley. This sight is breathtaking and definitely a place to visit. 

7. Visit the Lava River Caves: Located approx. three hours from WOU, located in Bend, OR this caves are a perfect example of a lava tube as it is the longest in Oregon.

8. Go to the Oregon State Fair: Located approx. 30 minutes from WOU, The Oregon State Farm is having ten FREE concerts this Summer! Musical acts including Becky G, Dan + Shay, Vince Gill,  Gary Allan and comedian Gabriel Iglesias will all perform  on select dates. Tickets are also available for purchase for VIP seats ranging from $25 to $35.