Our Top 20 of 2020

A new decade is upon us and it's time to explore! Our beautiful state is home to it all, from epic outdoor excursions to one of a kind drinking and dining spots. You don’t have to go halfway across the world (though still encouraged) to experience a unique culture or get the best views… just come stop by our backyard!

Beneath St. Johns Bridge, 2020

1. Hike in the Gorge

The Columbia River Gorge is a canyon stretch bordering Oregon and Washington with some of the best hikes the Pacific Northwest has to offer. For information on trail difficulty levels, conditions, and directions to the trailheads,

2. Try the Food in Downtown Portland

The city is vibrant, and the food follows suit. Throughout the city of Portland, you can find cuisine to fit any preference of the moment, but it's also full of unique restaurants and bars that you might want to try. Pro tip: Check out one of the famous Portland food carts.

3. Visit National and State Parks and Forests

We are so lucky Oregon is the home of 5 National and 255 State parks, monuments, and forests! Camp, Hike, and Explore as many as you can!

4. Explore Lava Caves in the Deschutes National Forest

Just outside Bend, you can make your way through the forest and into the aftermath of ancient lava flows. This mile-long lava tube takes you down 55 stairs and into the dark, cold caves. Don't forget your head lamp!

5. Go Kayaking or Paddle Boarding at the Base of Mount Hood

Get out on a picturesque lake that at times completely mirrors the image of Mount Hood towering above. Two of our favorites, Trillium and Mirror Lakes, are beautiful spots to camp, kayak, and stand up paddle board!

6. Take a Weekend Surf Trip

It’s cold… we know… but despite this, Oregon actually has some great surf spots for those brave enough to take on the frigid waters. Be sure to check the surf forecast and bring a wetsuit if you plan on making a trip!

 7. Warm up in the Hot Springs

If the thought of surfing the ocean waters chills you to the core, you might want to check out one of the many hot springs Oregon has to offer. While most require a soak fee, only some require clothing!

8. Kayak under the Stars at Wallowa Lake

Paddle out into the dark of the lake with the unique glass bottomed kayaks, equipped with 500 watts of lighting so you can take in the view below the surface. You might even catch a glimpse of Wally, the legendary monster of Wallowa Lake, if you’re lucky.

9. Go Rock Climbing at Smith Rock

Known as the birthplace of U.S. Sport Climbing, Smith Rock State Park is a highly respected climbing destination. With nearly 2,000 routes and a range of classes, you’re bound to find a climb you’ll enjoy! Check out the Smith Rock website for some beta, or head straight there and try the routes yourself (with all of the safety gear of course)!  

10. Shred at Mount Hood

While two of the most popular spots to shred are Meadows and Timberline, Mount Hood is actually home to a few more options including Cooper Spur Mountain Resort, Summit Ski Area, and Skibowl. The costs and difficulty levels vary, so be sure to do your research beforehand.

11. Hit the Road… or the… Salt Flats

One of Oregon’s most unique and underrated features is the Alvord Desert in the SE corner of the state. Take a turn off the main road and drive out onto the alkaline flat for an amazing sunset or some stargazing. It’s a ways off the beaten path so be sure to fill up on gas before you venture into this isolated wonderland.

12. Bring on the Nostalgia in Astoria

Featured in the epic 1985 film The Goonies, Astoria is home to some of the original shot locations! View (from a respectable distance) the Walsh Family residence or check out the vantage points at Ecola Point (the site of the Fratelli’s family hideout) and Indian Beach (featured in the film). If you do visit the Goon Docks, be sure to respect the privacy of the locals, and maybe save your Truffle Shuffle for another time.

13. Get a Panoramic View at the Dee Wright Observatory

Atop a rocky volcanic ridge, the Dee Wright Observatory is a great spot for a panoramic view of the Cascades. The Observatory is made entirely of lava rocks and has windows that each frame a peak in the distance. On clear days, Mt Washington, Mt Jefferson, South, North, and Middle Sister, and Mount Hood all sit in sight.

14. Take in the Theater at Shakespeare Festival

Did you know that Ashland is the home to one of the largest and oldest theater companies in the U.S.? Each year the Shakespeare Festival offers more than 750 performances from Shakespeare as well as other well-known shows and new fresh works.

15. Wander through the Painted Hills

Whether you hope to learn about the years of history revealed in the mountain layers or snap a photo for your travel blog, the Painted Hills are one of Oregon’s Seven Wonders and well worth visiting.

16. Stop and Smell the Roses

Started as a safe haven for hybrid roses grown in Europe during World War I, The International Rose Test Garden has grown to house more than 7,000 rose plants. It’s become one of Portland’s signature landmarks and a great reminder of why it’s called the City of Roses.

17. Read a Good Book in the City

Portland is home to the largest independent bookstore in the world, Powell’s City of Books… But it is also abundant with smaller scale shops full of literary treasures.

18. Go Rafting through Hells Canyon

In Eastern Oregon, you can appease the adrenaline fiend within while white water rafting on the Snake, Salmon, or Grande Ronde Rivers. With rapids anywhere from class II to class IV, and trips ranging from a day to a week, you can float your way through one of the finest canyons in the Northwest.

19. Catch a Sunset on the Coast

Hike out on the cliffs of Cape Kiwanda or set up a picnic on the sand at the Oregon dunes as the last colors of day fade out over the water. Often showing the perfect layer of clouds, the Oregon coast proves to have some of the most beautiful, vibrant sunsets.

20. Taste the Wine in the Willamette Valley

This one is obviously one of our favorites. The Willamette Valley is home to more than 550 wineries and is world-renowned for excellent Pinot Noir. Whether you’re a fan of intimate cellar tastings or want to stroll through the vineyards, you can find the perfect spot for your pace and palate. Be sure to visit one of our fellow wineries: Stoller Family Estate and Chehalem Winery.

No matter your lifestyle, Oregon has an experience for you. Wherever you find yourself this year, or this decade, Canned Oregon is the perfect companion on your next adventure!