From the crisp days of fall to the moody days of winter, the right gear will make adventures possible, and you’ll enjoy the added benefit of fewer crowds. And who knows, you might just get surprised by brilliant, sunny weather, no matter the season.

Oregon Coast

Even in the colder months, the Oregon Coast remains temperate. Layer up and head north on Highway 101 to discover tiny worlds in the tidepools at Strawberry Hill Wayside. Look for starfish, anemones, crabs, and if you're lucky, you might even spot a nudibranch! As always, watch where you step and check the tide tables for low tide to make the most of your time. See the sights at Heceta Head Lighthouse and Sea Lion Caves, and keep your eyes peeled for whales, especially in December and March. Head into Historic Old Town Florence to warm up with a bowl of crab chowder at Novelli’s on the docks or visit one of the many spots on Bay Street serving up delicious clam chowder, like 1285 Restobar. 

Where to stay: Cozy up after your adventures at Edwin K Boutique Inn & Condo or Heceta Head Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast for a homey, vintage feel. Stay at River House Inn or Best Western Pier Point Inn for views of the Siuslaw River and Siuslaw River Bridge, or opt for expansive views of the ocean at Driftwood Shores Resort to the north.

Cascade Mountains

Grab your coat and boots and hit the trails in the Willamette National Forest. Follow the McKenzie River Trail as it traces the river up past roaring waterfalls and lakes like Clear Lake, where the water is so clear you can see the trees preserved at the bottom. All it takes is a few good rains, and you’ll be treated to mushrooms popping up alongside the trail as well. Grab a bite to eat at Obsidian Grill or Takoda’s and head back out to Terwilliger Hot Springs to warm up all the way through with a long soak in the all-natural springs. If hitting the trails on a mountain bike is more your speed, head south to Oakridge and Westfir and ride the trails in the Mountain Bike Capital of the Northwest. Don’t miss Salt Creek Falls while you’re here!

Where to stay: Book a room at a cozy lodge like Loloma Lodge or Eagle Rock Lodge, or opt for a cabin at Wayfarer Resort or Caddisfly Resort. In Oakridge and Westfir, stay at the Westfir Lodge for cozy rooms and convenient access to trails.

Willamette Valley

If the weather has you feeling indoorsy, Eugene and Springfield have you covered. Curl up with a book and a coffee at Daffodil Romantasy Books & Gifts or with a cat and a coffee at the Eugene Springfield Cat Lounge. Spend the day exploring museums like the Museum of Natural and Cultural History on the University of Oregon campus, or check out the Eugene Science Center and their hands-on exhibits, perfect for littles. For the adults, head out to South Willamette Valley wine country, where vineyard views pair perfectly with cozy tasting rooms and local wines. Or, head to a barcade like BlairAlly Vintage Arcade, Level Up, or PLAY and challenge your crew to set a new high score.

Where to stay: Stay at the newly renovated Valley River Inn for views of the Willamette River and spend some time relaxing by the fire in the lobby. Choose Campbell House Inn for bed and breakfast vibes in a fully restored historic home, or book a luxury suite at The Gordon Hotel or Inn at the 5th for soaking tubs and fireplaces in your room.