Soulful travel in Oregon

There isn’t anything quite like the wild Pacific Ocean coastline of Oregon. From hollowed-out lava tubes to sandy beaches stretching as far as the eye can see, the varied landscape is sure to have something for everyone.

But beyond the rental houses and tourist shops selling shells and kites, there is a real soul to this land that can be easy to miss if you’re not paying attention.

My growing collection of articles is designed to push you to look deeper under the surface and be rewarded with a whole new way to explore, and experience, this land.

The smell of pine and sage seem to surround any experience in this high desert region of the state. Enjoy an ancient geology geek out at the Painted Hills or hike through a pristine alpine lake district. This region centered around Bend is sure to surprise and delight.

The investment to drive long distances starts to pay off in the stunning Wallowa Mountains, or even more remote around the Steens. Find peace and quiet in this vast, yet understated part of the state.

My hometown and transportation hub for the state. There are so many excellent day-trip options within a few hours of the Rose City — in any direction.

The majesty of the Columbia River, framed in by spectacular walls of basalt lava, pounded with erosion for thousands of years and then sprinkled with rich forest vegetation presents an amazing encounter with Mother Earth.