Oregon always seems to amaze me and my recent visit fit the pattern. The Oregon Photo Sampler, linked below, presents a quick view of some of the wonders of this great state. There are extremes of nature from the cold Pacific to rugged volcanoes and then on to the high desert. Summer conditions in Oregon can confound expectations: deep snow in June on the mountains, heat and clear blue skies in the valleys, and rainy days in the high desert (when you might have expected the sun). When you set out on an adventure, you need to be prepared for contingencies. Still, the sights, sounds and smells are conducive to an active lifestyle. It is glorious!

The slides in this Oregon Photo Sampler are from a great circle tour of Oregon. We set out in mid-June, starting out at Crater Lake, then over to Bend in the center, and John Day in the East, before returning through the Cascade Mountains to the Pacific coast via Portland. We always eat and drink well in Oregon. This aspect of life in Oregon pairs well with the outdoor activity. So, along with the photos of nature, I’ve thrown in a few photos of food and drink at the end of the slideshow.

If you are thinking of visiting, the Travel Oregon site provides a nice overview and offers some tips. As you skim the site it will soon be evident that, as they say, Oregon isn’t a place just “to see”. It is also a place “to do” and experience. More than once I’ve found myself drawn outdoors on days that would have kept me indoors back home in Paris.

Enjoy!

Oregon Photo Sampler

(If you are using a desktop computer, click on the little green square below the lower right-hand corner of the photo for a full screen view.)

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