Come leaf-peeping season, East Coast destinations like Vermont and New Hampshire tend to steal the spotlight. But if you're looking for a stunning combination of mountains and foliage — not to mention cascading waterfalls, craggy canyons and high desert vistas — there's a destination across the country that deserves your attention: Oregon.
While the Pacific Northwest has a reputation for rain, it's unfounded throughout much of the state. Bend, for example, is part of a desert microclimate that on average sees less than an inch of rainfall each October. Even the substantially wetter Portland tends to see some perfectly sunny days in October, and when precipitation does arrive, it's typically nothing to be afraid of, presenting as mist or drizzle rather than a plans-scuttling downpour.
If that sounds manageable, read on for an itinerary that will take you past several of Oregon's natural wonders set against a backdrop of vibrant autumn hues — and if not, file it away until you're ready to plan for spring and summer adventures.
A great solo travel tip spotted this week on The Points Guy Articles.
