VACATION GUIDE TO

VACATION GUIDE TO Astoria Warrenton Seaside Cannon Beach St. Helens Scappoose Washington Hood River Umatilla Hermiston Milton-Freewater Tillamook Portland Tigard Newberg Oregon City Woodburn Molalla The Dalles Pendleton Enterprise Pacific Ocean Pacific City La Grande Union Lincoln City Salem Albany Silverton Stayton Baker City Madras John Day Prineville Redmond Newport Waldport Yachats Lebanon Corvallis Junction City Santa Clara Sweet Home Springfield Oakridge Florence Reedsport North Bend Coos Bay Coquille Myrtle Point Eugene Bend Oregon Burns Ontario Charleston Bandon Myrtle Creek Port Orford Gold Beach Brookings Harbor Cave Junction Grants Pass Medford Ashland Klamath Falls Lakeview California Nevada Contents 3 5 DEL NORTE COUNTY SOUTH COAST 14 CENTRAL COAST 22 NORTH COAST 34 SOUTHERN OREGON 40 WILLAMETTE VALLEY 43 PORTLAND METRO & COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE 48 MT. HOOD TERRITORY 52 CENTRAL OREGON 55 EASTERN OREGON HE OREGON VACATION GUIDE reveals the state’s regions in detail—the terrain, the cultures, the wildlife areas, and the state’s unique sites. It’s your invitation to explore these regions: the lush rain forests in the northwest, the parched beauty that stretches across southeastern deserts, mountains that harbor pristine lakes and streams, and the rugged Pacific Coast, a place like no other. The Fall/Winter 2006–07 edition focuses on activities and attractions that are enjoyed primarily from September to March.Whether your idea of a vacation is storm watching along the coast, antique hunting in historic neighborhoods, sliding down snow-capped mountains on skis, or something in between, you’ll find what you’re looking for. Welcome to Oregon. Included in the 2006–07 edition is a section of the Northern California coastline from the Oregon border to the southern end of Del Norte County. This provides coverage of America’s Wild Rivers Coast, a designation for the unique natural and cultural areas from the Sixes River near Port Orford, Oregon, to the Klamath River in California. Encompassing 101 miles of coastline and eight rivers, the Wild Rivers Coast contains miles of pristine beaches, charming communities, vast forests, and bustling casinos. T Cover photo: Upper Rogue River in fall colors. Photo by Dennis Frates OREGON VACATION GUIDE Fall/Winter 2006/2007 2 32 September/October 2006 NORTHWEST TRAVEL Idaho Roseburg California coast south of Crescent City. return by Alder Camp Road. Trailers and motorhomes are prohibited on certain sections of road. At the Tour Thru Tree, most cars and pickups can drive through the huge, living redwood tree. From Hwy 101, take the Terwer Valley exit onto Hwy 169 and follow signs. Trees of Mystery has been a prominent attraction to the area for more than 50 years.A giant Paul Bunyon and Babe the Blue Ox greet visitors at the entrance. Hike the forest trail, ride the gondola, and visit the museum. CRESCENT CITY Named after the crescent-shaped bay the town borders, Crescent City is the gateway to outdoor adventure. Several state and federal parks are located nearby, including the Smith River National Recreation Area. The visitor center for the Redwood National and State Parks headquarters is a good place to stop before heading into the redwoods. Charter fishing, scenic trips, and tackle are offered at the harbor on the south end of town. Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, beginning 4 miles south of Crescent City, has several thousand acres of old-growth redwoods and 8 miles of wild coastline. The park borders Hwy 101 for 11 miles with turnouts to redwood groves and trails. Battery Point Lighthouse, which can be reached on foot at low tide, has several historical displays. Ocean World has a 500,000-gallon aquarium and many opportunities to see marine life, as well as sea lion performances. Elk Valley Casino offers gaming experiences amid towering redwoods. SMITH RIVER This small town has been dubbed the Easter Lily Capital of the World.About 90 percent of the country’s Easter Lilies are grown around this area. Lucky 7 Casino entertains with slots, blackjack, and bingo. Ship Ashore Museum, on Hwy 101, is a 1925 luxury yacht that houses American Indian displays, pioneer artifacts, and natural history exhibits. Pelican State Beach, about 7 miles north of Smith River, is a small, secluded beach with grand vistas and uncrowded beach walking. Crescent City Area Smith River 197 199 Lake Earl 199 Elk 101 Crescent City ! Del Norte County NORTHERN CALIFORNIA COAST Crescent City 101 101 9th Street Fron t Stre et A MERICA’S WILD RIVERS COAST runs from @ K la Rivmath er Northern California into Southern Oregon, an area known for natural beauty on a gigantic scale. The coastline from the Klamath area to the town of Smith River offers the grandeur of the redwoods, unspoiled and secluded beaches, and majestic rolling rivers. There is no mistake about it, California’s Del Norte County is recreation oriented. The Smith and the Klamath rivers are known for their fishing. The redwood groves of Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park along Hwy 199 and Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park along Hwy 101 between Crescent City and the Klamath area offer unforgettable hiking and camping and amazing scenery while driving. KLAMATH Located in the center of the Redwood National and State Parks, the Klamath area has miles of pristine beaches and many lodging choices—camping in the redwoods, RV parks, bed and breakfasts, motels, and rustic resorts. This is the southern end of America’s Wild Rivers Coast. Coastal Drive/West Klamath Beach Road is a scenic loop that winds along the Klamath River to its mouth, then up to Flint Ridge for ocean views from High Bluff.A picnic area with wheelchair access offers a nice respite. Turn west just before crossing to the north side of the Klamath River, then Klamath WHERE TO PLAY CRESCENT CITY ! ELK VALLEY CASINO We have all the luck you need! 866-464-4680 www.elk-valley.com @ DEL NORTE COUNTY/CRESCENT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 800-343-8300/ 707-464-3174 1001 Front St., Crescent City, CA www.northerncalifornia.net VISITOR INFORMATION 3 Fall/Winter 2006/2007 OREGON VACATION GUIDE NORTHWEST TRAVEL September/October 2006 33 Circle No. 205 on AD INFO CARD. DEL NORTE COUNTY Photo by Judy Fleagle Val ley Roa d BEACHFRONT INN Circle No. 24 on AD INFO CARD. ON THE OCEAN • 102 dramatic beachfront units with private decks • Kitchenettes • All rooms with refrigerators, microwaves and coffee makers • Swimming pool & spa • Suites with ocean view whirlpool tubs • Just steps away to the beach FOR RESERVATIONS CALL (541) 469-7779 or 1-800-468-4081 Just 20 minutes north of Crescent City 16008 Boat Basin Road PO Box 2729 • Harbor, OR 97415 Circle No. 190 on AD INFO CARD. At the Port of Brookings–Harbor Waves can come ashore unexpectedly, rolling logs in as little as two inches of water. Photo by Steve Beckner Cannon Beach from Ecola State Park. This guide is published annually by Northwest Travel Magazine. FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: Jaci Spooner 800-987-5596 jaci@nwmags.com or advertising @ northwestmagazines.com For corrections to the guide, please e-mail feedback@nwmags.com or send mail to: Editorial Northwest Magazines 4969 Hwy 101, #2 Florence, OR 97439 Reproduction of editorial or advertising content without the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Copyright 2006-2007. OREGON COAST K NOWN FOR ITS wild beauty and miles of uncrowded beaches, the Oregon Coast has no equal in the Northwest. The coast is dotted with small communities, and in between it has retained much of its rugged character. The primary route along the coast, Hwy 101, has been named a National Scenic Byway and All-American Road. It’s considered “a destination unto itself ” with its unmatched scenery. Fall is an excellent time to head for the coast—far less crowded after Labor Day and the weather is typically warm and windless into October.As for the winter, people don’t come to visit the coast, they come to watch it. During this time of year, there are storms and whales to watch. Indoor pursuits include museums, glass-blowing demonstrations, and many inside entertainment venues that can be enjoyed year-round. 34 September/October 2006 NORTHWEST TRAVEL OREGON VACATION GUIDE Fall/Winter 2006/2007 4 Illustration by Adam Grano. Harbor at Brookings. SOUTH COAST and natural coves, and gently winding roads through the Coast Range. There are fewer cities here and they are spaced farther apart, promising unfettered access to seaside relaxation, but catering to travelers, whether they’re seeking solitude, outdoor adventure, or just a change of pace. Two scenic highways, 42 and 38, connect the South Coast and I–5. BROOKINGS–HARBOR Brookings and Harbor rest on opposite sides of the Chetco River, which is famous for its salmon and steelhead fishing. The locals brag a bit about the weather here, boasting of Brookings–Harbor as the “banana belt” of Oregon. The natives aren’t exaggerating: they enjoy the warmest average temperatures on the coast. The river harbor offers a selection of seafood markets, ocean charters, beach access, and lodging. Flora Pacifica, just off Hwy 101 5 miles south of Brookings, is a flower-lover’s dream.Visit the retail shop for fresh and dried flowers, wreaths, and potpourri.A small formal garden is open year-round. Azalea Park, a Brookings city park located on Old County Road, provides respite with its manicured gardens, elaborate playground—Kidtown—gazebo, and sports fields. In December, the 33-acre park is decked out for its annual holiday light show. More than 100 years ago, the area was part of a system of pack trails used by miners and settlers traveling by wagon. The huge natural stands of azaleas were part of the scenery even then. Alfred A. Loeb State Park is part of an old-growth myrtlewood forest about 10 miles northeast of Brookings.Adjacent to the Chetco River, the park has river access, a boat launch, electric hookup sites, and a picnic area. Farther up the road is Redwood Nature Trail, which connects to the park’s River View Trail. On the Redwood Nature Trail, hikers can see the northernmost stands of redwoods in the entire country. Harris Beach State Park is off Hwy 101 just north of Brookings. The campground is open year-round. Four miles north of Brookings–Harbor, Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor encompasses 12 miles of Oregon’s most spectacular coastline. There are many viewpoints along the corridor, including Natural Bridges and Thunder Rock Cove. Look for the elusive herd of wild goats. Boardman Park is also known for its tide pools, where visitors can scramble out among the rocks during low tide and view sea stars, sea urchins, crabs, anemones, and other creatures. GOLD BEACH As its name implies, Gold Beach’s history is tied to the Gold Rush era. However,American Indians preceded Spanish explorers, European fur traders, gold miners, pioneers, loggers, settlers, ranchers, and eventually, commercial fishermen. Now Gold Beach is a haven for sport fishers, hunters, and lovers of the outdoors. Gold Beach is located at the mouth of the Rogue River, and is well known for its salmon and steelhead runs. Fishing from the bank or a boat is a year-round activity on the Rogue. A DRIVE ALONG Oregon’s southern coastline reveals clean beaches and sand dunes, seaports Photo by Stefani Blair Circle No. 236 on AD INFO CARD. 5 Fall/Winter 2006/2007 OREGON VACATION GUIDE NORTHWEST TRAVEL September/October 2006 35 SOUTH COAST Jet boating is a family favorite in this area. Jerry’s Rogue Jets and Rogue River Mail Boats run excursions daily, May through October. Experienced pilots provide exciting but safe trips, while river guides share the history and lore of the region. Curry Historical Society Museum displays the early history of the town, illustrating the influences of American Indians, gold prospecting, and the maritime industry. There’s also a well-stocked bookstore. Mary D. Hume Interpretive Park on the east end of the boat basin at the port has a deck that overlooks the Rogue River and the final resting place of the Mary D. Hume, one of the most photographed and painted sites in the area. The old fishing boat was built in the 1880s and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, although it is not maintained. Cape Sebastian State Scenic Corridor, 7 miles south of Gold Beach, has one of the most dramatic overlooks on the South Coast, towering 700 feet above sea level. The 2-mile trail has viewpoints for spotting gray whales, which can be seen migrating in December and March through May. Nesika Beach and Ophir offer more than 7 miles of uncrowded, wide-open sandy beaches with sea stacks and tide pools to explore. In winter, this is a great spot for storm watching and beachcombing, and watching whales, seals, and sea lions. Stop by Otter Point Wayside and the Geisel Monument on Hwy 101 for views of the ocean and sandstone rock formations, as well as a historical reminder of the pioneers’ struggles. Cedar Bend Golf Course, north of Gold Beach, offers golfers nine holes in a beautiful wooded environment and is open year-round. Prehistoric Gardens was founded in the mid-1950s and features 23 life-size dinosaurs situated in a genuine rain forest. Look for the towering T-Rex on Hwy 101 between Ophir and Port Orford. PORT ORFORD A great place to watch whales and nearly 400 species of birds, Port Orford was established in 1851. It has one of the deepest bays in the Northwest, free of sandbars. Here, boats are not moored at a pier. Instead they are hoisted out of the water by one of the tandem cranes and deposited on boat trailers or rolling dollies for storage in dry dock. Both commercial and sport fishers prize the area for salmon, crab, and bottom fish. Scuba diving is enjoyed just offshore on a nearby reef.Visitors hunt for agates on nearby beaches or snap one-of-a-kind photos from the cliffs. This SOUTH COAST 36 September/October 2006 NORTHWEST TRAVEL Circle No. 84 on AD INFO CARD. OREGON VACATION GUIDE Fall/Winter 2006/2007 6 Circle No. 14 on AD INFO CARD. LANGLOIS Just a few miles north of Port Orford, Langlois has a number of unique shops and galleries. Call or visit us online for a no-risk trial copy of our current issue. Circle No. 134 on AD INFO CARD. BANDON’S EXCLUSIVE VACATION RENTALS Houses for 1 to 14 Guests Romantic Getaways or Conferences Family Reunions or Vacations At the Beach or on the River, We have the perfect place for you! 1-800-348-8401 ext. 110 northwestmagazines.com A year’s subscription includes a beautiful scenic calendar. All for just $18.95 ! Call us at 800-527-5445 www.visitbandon.com or reach us online at Circle No. 223 on AD INFO CARD. 49612 Highway 101 South Bandon, Oregon 97411 1.5 miles south of Old Town Donna Crouch Realty Buying • Selling • Property Management (541) 347-5155 bandonbythesearvpark.com 41 Full Service Sites • 27 Pull Thrus 50 Amp • Club House • Cable TV Spa • Modem Friendly • Laundry Picnic Area • Near Beaches Park Models Available Quiet • Big Rigs and Travel Clubs Welcome Come to Bandon for a Visit–Stay a Lifetime! ( 541) 347-1218 dcrbysea@uci.net PO Box 425 Bandon, OR 97411 7 Fall/Winter 2006/2007 OREGON VACATION GUIDE Circle No. 137 on AD INFO CARD. NORTHWEST TRAVEL September/October 2006 37 Circle No. 33 on AD INFO CARD. town of 1200 has lodging, dining, and shopping. Port Orford and the nearby Sixes River mark the beginning of America’s Wild Rivers Coast. Humbug Mountain State Park, south of Port Orford, rises from ocean level to 1756 feet, providing fantastic 360-degree views. The trail to the mountaintop is demanding but worth the effort, passing through oldgrowth forest into grasslands at the summit.Access the beach at the mouth of Brush Creek. Battle Rock City Park is located at the south end of the city on Hwy 101. It is the site of the first attempted settlement of Port Orford and a battle between Captain John Tichenor’s nine-man crew and the local native people.A visitor information center displays shipwreck memorabilia and describes the 1851 battle. Elk River Hatchery on Elk River Road is about 7-1/2 miles east of Hwy 101. Chinook salmon, steelhead, and trout are raised at the hatchery. Cape Blanco State Park is 4 miles north of Port Orford and 7 miles west of Hwy 101 and home to Cape Blanco Lighthouse, which is the westernmost lighthouse in the Lower 48 states. The facility is open for tours April through October. The campground includes cabins, a horse camp, and equestrian trails. Hughes House is a beautifully restored Victorian home located on the same road as the lighthouse. Every year during the winter holidays, the home is lavishly decorated and a special tour is available on the weekends before and after Christmas. Otherwise, it is open from April through October. BANDON Often referred to as Bandon-By-The-Sea, this community is best known for its Old Town, as well as Face Rock, golf courses, great beaches, and cranberries.Visitors to Old Town discover a variety of restaurants, unique gift shops and galleries, and a historic waterfront. In the surrounding countryside, 100-year-old cranberry bogs produce some of the nation’s best berries, which are celebrated every year in September with the annual Cranberry Festival. West Coast Game Park Safari is 7 miles south of Bandon on Hwy 101. It is America’s largest wild animal petting park with more than 75 species represented among the park’s 450 animals. Many roam freely and visitors are encouraged to film, pet, or just observe the wildlife. Throughout the day, park attendants host special events and showings. Bandon Historical Society Museum displays a number of maritime collections,American Indian artifacts, and implements used in farming, cheese making, cranberry harvesting, and fishing. Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge is north of town between the Coquille River and Hwy 101 on Riverside Drive. The refuge encompasses 712 acres of SOUTH COAST salt marsh,mudflats,and beach grass at the mouth of the Coquille.The marsh is home to shorebirds,raptors,wading birds,and waterfowl. Coquille River Lighthouse, also known as Bandon Light, is more than 100 years old. It is located in Bullards Beach State Park, a mile north of Bandon. The park also has a boat ramp, picnic area, campsites, and miles of beach. Bullards Beach is a great place to find colorful stones, shells, and sand-sculpted driftwood. Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, just north of Bandon, features three distinct courses— Bandon Dunes, Pacific Dunes, and Bandon Trails—built on land adjacent to the ocean. COQUILLE Incorporated in 1885, Coquille (pronounced ko-KEEL) has been the Coos County seat of government since 1896. Located 17 miles east of Coos Bay, Coquille sits along the banks of the Coquille River on Hwy 42. It is known for its historic homes and charming small-town atmosphere. Coquille River offers a range of outdoor recreation: boating, canoeing, year-round fishing, and birds and other wildlife viewing. Sturdivant Park, alongside the banks of the river, has a boat ramp, fish-cleaning facilities, picnic tables, camping, and RV parking. MYRTLE POINT Myrtle Point, about 8 miles south of Coquille on Hwy 42, was built at the confluence of three rivers—the East, South, and Middle Forks of the Coquille River. Early settlers gave the community its name because it was the highest point of land near the three rivers and was covered with myrtle trees. Like most river communities, recreation is nature-based. Myrtle Point is the site of Coos County Fairgrounds. Coos County Logging Museum is housed in a former church built in 1910 that was modeled after the Mormon Tabernacle in Salt Lake City. The museum presents the history of logging in southwest Oregon. It is open daily through September and by appointment (541-572-2352). Cape Arago. THE BAY AREA O REGON’S BAY AREA, as Coos Bay, North Bend, and Charleston are known, is the largest populated region on the Oregon coast. The area is home to Southwestern Community College with its Performing Arts Center, and new Culinary Arts facility as well as several theaters, and shopping opportunities at nationally known chain stores, local shops, and the only covered mall on the southern Oregon Coast. Oregon’s second-busiest maritime commerce center is the largest deep-draft coastal harbor between San Francisco Bay and Puget Sound. CHARLESTON This quaint fishing village southwest of Coos Bay is slightly off the beaten path, but worth the drive. Take time to peruse the delightful shops and restaurants. Sport and commercial fishers take advantage of the safest harbor on the coast. Charter boat trips ensure fishers catch their quota of salmon, halibut, tuna, rockfish, lingcod, and other fish. Licensed charter boats also take trips offshore to view marine mammals and seabirds. South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve on Seven Devils Road south of Charleston, comprises 4700 acres along the south slough of Coos Bay (the bay, not the city), and includes 600 acres of tidal marshes, mudflats, and open-water channels.A 3-mile trail loops through coastal forest, freshwater wetland, and salt marshes. Cape Arago State Park is at the end of Cape Arago Hwy, south of Charleston. The scenic headland was first spotted from the sea by Sir Francis Drake in the late 1500s. It is a great spot for whale-watching. Offshore, a colony of seals and sea lions can be seen on Shell Island, a national wildlife refuge. Picnic tables, restrooms, and a shelter are available. Cape Arago Lighthouse, just south of Coos Bay, is not open to the public but can be viewed from a trail between Sunset Bay and Shore Acres State Park or from a turnout on the road about a half-mile past Sunset Bay. Shore Acres State Park is a combination of rugged sandstone cliffs and beautiful manicured gardens perched high along the ocean south of Charleston. The park was once the estate of pioneer timber baron Louis Simpson. The gardens are decorated with lights from Thanksgiving through New Year’s day. Visit the gift shop and information center, and from cliff ’s edge, see spectacular ocean panoramas, the highest waves on the coast in winter, and rock formations. Sunset Bay State Park has sandy beaches and towering sea cliffs. The park campground has yurts and tent and RV sites. Day-use and 38 September/October 2006 NORTHWEST TRAVEL OREGON VACATION GUIDE Fall/Winter 2006/2007 8 Photo by Steve Beckner SOUTH COAST Circle No. 89 on AD INFO CARD. The question isn’t what to do when you visit Oregon’s Bay Area. The question is, how to fit it all in. Call toll free 888-321-3097 It’s not your imagination; it’s Oregon’s Bay Area, your next adventure waiting to happen. 260 So. Broadway Coos Bay, OR (541) 267-6066 www.benettis.com www.oregonsbayareachamber.com Call or visit us online for a no-risk trial copy of our current issue. 1-800-348-8401 ext. 110 northwestmagazines.com A year’s subscription includes a beautiful scenic calendar. All for just $18.95 ! picnic areas are located along the bay. Trails connect Sunset Bay with Shore Acres and Cape Arago state parks. COOS BAY & NORTH BEND Coos Bay’s rejuvenated downtown area, adjacent to the bay and the Coos Bay Boardwalk, provides an attractive commercial area for residents and visitors alike. Gaming at the waterfront Mill Casino–Hotel on Hwy 101 includes slots, Nevada-style blackjack, and bingo. Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area extends along the coast from Coos Bay to the Siuslaw River in Florence. The 32,000-acre, 47mile-long area is a wonderful mix of dunes, beaches, forests, and lakes. The dunes are always in motion, paradise for off-road enthusiasts. Quieter activities include birding, horseback riding, and hiking expeditions to the small island forests that dot the dunes. The century-old city of North Bend borders the Dunes National Recreation Area.Its historic downtown is situated along Hwy 101 and features art galleries and antique and novelty shops. Myrtlewood factories are found generally wherever myrtlewood grows along the South Coast.Visitors to a factory can watch master woodworkers fabricate such artful items as furniture, bowls, utensils, clocks, jewelry, and more, revealing the wood’s amazing range of color and hue. Tours are offered at the Oregon Connection in Coos Bay and Myrtewood Factories just 5 miles north of North Bend off Hwy 101. LAKESIDE Lakeside is the gateway to Tenmile Lakes, two of the largest lakes on the coast. Lakeside is about a mile east of Hwy 101, approximately 6 miles south of Winchester Bay. Though small, this waterfront community offers visitors a full 9 Fall/Winter 2006/2007 OREGON VACATION GUIDE NORTHWEST TRAVEL September/October 2006 39 Circle No. 1 on AD INFO CARD. GENUINE ITALIAN Cuisine & Hospitality Dine Overlooking the Bay & Boardwalk SOUTH COAST available, and the marina accommodates Come & 900 boats. The crab Join Us! dock is an ideal location to fish, crab, or simply watch the birds 182 Bayfront Loop and seals. Located in Winchester Bay the heart of the Oregon Dunes,Winchester Bay 541-271-3293 is a popular spot with RESH ARBECUE the ATV crowd.ATVers RESH EAFOOD EAFOOD ARBECUE consider the dunes BBQ Fridays 4 –7, Saturdays 12–7, Sundays 12–5 During the Summer Grilled Salmon, Oysters, Halibut, Tuna and a non-seafood entree too! some of the highest SERVED OUTDOORS—PICNIC STYLE! and most challenging in the U.S. array of water activities, including fishing, Umpqua River Lighthouse, one of the boating, sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, and few operating lighthouses on the Oregon Coast, water skiing.Visitor services include motels, sits on a bluff overlooking the dunes and sea resorts, RV parks, campgrounds, restaurants, near Umpqua Lighthouse State Park, just south gas stations, markets, jet-ski rentals, boat of Winchester Bay. The 65-foot lighthouse moorage, and marinas. emits a red and two white flashes through its William M. Tugman State Park is off bulls-eye lenses. Tours are offered from May Hwy 101 on Eel Lake, north of Lakeside. The through October.Across from the lighthouse is park has campsites, each with electric and a whale-watching platform for visitor use water service, as well as yurts. The day-use anytime. area includes a restroom and gazebo-style Umpqua Lighthouse State Park, within a shelter. Eel Lake offers excellent fishing, mile of Salmon Harbor,Winchester Bay, and canoeing, sailing, and boating.A trail around the ocean, has day-use areas plus a campthe south end of the lake takes hikers out to ground near Lake Marie with RV and tent sites, remote terrain. log cabins, and yurts. The small freshwater lake is fine for fishing and nonmotorized boats. WINCHESTER BAY ✸ B B F F S S Recreation Area and Reedsport–Winchester Bay Chamber of Commerce. At the Umpqua Discovery Center, exhibits illustrate the history of Reedsport and how life revolved around the tides. The new natural history wing,“Pathways to Discovery–Exploring Tidewater Country,” describes the unique geology and ecology of the area, including the interactions of the estuary, the dunes, and offshore waters.A complete weather station instructs visitors about the coastal climate. Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area runs along Hwy 38 approximately 3-1/2 miles east of Reedsport.A herd of 60 to 100 free-roaming Roosevelt elk often can be seen in the pasture, woodland, and wetland preserve from viewing areas and pullouts. Bolon Island Tideways State Scenic Corridor, one-half mile north of Reedsport and surrounded by the Umpqua and Smith rivers, is a great place for a family hike.A trail extends halfway around the island, which is known for its diverse bird life. This is also a great place to dig for clams. GARDINER This small, historic community is located along the Umpqua River estuary just north of Reedsport. Long known as the “White City,” Gardiner is now known for its collection of beautiful old homes, some listed on the National Register of Historic Places.After the town was devastated by fire in 1880, mill workers set to rebuilding, painting nearly everything white. Many white homes still stand today. SOUTH COAST Salmon Harbor is the visitor playground in Winchester Bay and sits west of Hwy 101. Harbor activities include sightseeing and charter fishing excursions, exploring gift shops and galleries, and dining on fresh seafood. Overnight lodging, camping, RV hookups are REEDSPORT This riverfront community of 4400 rests on the sandy shore of the Umpqua River, approximately 5 miles from the ocean. The visitor center at Hwys 101 and 38 houses the headquarters for Oregon Dunes National STORM WATCHING THE OREGON COAST can provide an exciting thrill during the winter months.When the barometer starts to fall and the boats head to shore, put on your winter gear and head for a safe location to experience what Mother Nature can do when she gets a full head of steam over the Pacific Ocean. If you decide to venture out during a winter storm, please take these safety precautions. Beware of falling trees or limbs on access roads and trails. Stay off jetties and any low, flat beaches. The force of the ocean can easily pick up boulders or logs and toss them long distances. Obey posted signs and stay behind barriers; they are put there for your safety. Stay away from edges of cliffs, headlands, and rocks where waves are breaking nearby. Cliffs can be undercut by wave action and fall into the ocean.Avoid walking on the beach—storm waves are dangerous and unpredictable. Never climb on driftwood. Sneaker waves come in unexpectedly, shifting the logs, hitting, even trapping, people. Never turn your back on the ocean. In each of the three Oregon Coast sections of this guide, we list some of our favorite storm watching sites as well as some places to stay away from. STORM WATCHING ON THE SOUTH COAST Some of our favorite places to storm watch include: Whalehead Trail Viewpoint,Arch Rock, and Lone Ranch, all within Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor; Pistol River State Scenic Viewpoint; Cape Sebastian; Paradise Point State Recreation Site; Port Orford (along the bluffs overlooking the dock); scenic drive south of Bandon (looks out over sea stacks and Face Rock); Shore Acres State Park’s enclosed viewing structure at cliff edge (some of the highest waves on the entire coast); and the whale watching platform across from Umpqua River Lighthouse south of Reedsport (on loop road accessed from Winchester Bay on the north end and Hwy 101 on the south). Places to avoid during storms are Indian Sands at Boardman State Scenic Corridor and McVay State Recreation Site south of Brookings. 40 September/October 2006 NORTHWEST TRAVEL OREGON VACATION GUIDE Fall/Winter 2006/2007 10 Welcome to REEDSPORT ~WINCHESTER BAY Where the river meets the sea! Fish the Umpqua Boat Charters Centrally located on the Oregon Coast at Hwy 101 & Hwy 38 PO Box 11 • Reedsport, OR 97467 VISIT THE UMPQUA RIVER LIGHTHOUSE And so much more . . . Sept 2–5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Salmon Derby Sept 23–24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tsalila Festival • Miles of Uncrowded Beaches • Salmon, tuna, crabbing, clamming, perch and bottom fish — CATCH YOUR LIMITS HERE! • Hike the Highest Dunes • Over 240 Species of Birds Live Here! • Don’t Forget our Dramatic Sunsets Oregon Dunes & Beach Dean Creek Elk Viewing FREE Vacation Information www.reedsportcc.org Circle No. 213 on AD INFO CARD QUIET, ON THE HARBOR 800-247-2155 View, Suite & Spa Units, HBO, Remote TV’s, Continental Breakfast Resv. www.winbayinn.com (541)271-4871•390 Broadway • Winchester Bay 1-800-246-1462 Circle No. 102 on AD INFO CARD. BROOKINGS SOUTH COAST LAKESIDE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 800-468-4081 541-759-3981 800-472-9176 BU BEST WESTERN BEACHFRONT INN CHARLESTON www.lakesideoregonchambers.com NORTH BEND VISITORS CENTER All Oceanfront Rooms! Pool, Spa, Jacuzzi Rooms. 1380 Sherman Avenue/Hwy 101, North Bend, OR 97459 www.northbendcity.org CL CHARLESTON MARINA RV PARK 541-888-9512 110 sites. Full service-Daily, weekly & monthly rates. Launch ramp. DT PORT ORFORD CHAMBER Gateway to America’s Wild Rivers Coast. 541-332-4106 SOUTH COAST WHERE TO EAT NORTH BEND GOLD BEACH DU REEDSPORT-WINCHESTER BAY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 800-247-2155 / 541-347-3495 CM TURTLE ROCK RV RESORT PORT ORFORD 800-353-9754 Cottages, RV/Tent Sites by the Ocean “Pull-Thru’s.” turtlerockresorts.com Oregon's Dune Country. www.reedsportcc.org Free color brochure. ! PANCAKE MILL RESTAURANT 541-756-2751 Breakfast-Lunch-Pie Shop Espresso, Bakery on Hwy 101. CN THE JOAN OF ARC VACATION PROPERTY 800-735-1037/ 541-332-0516 Charleston BARVIEW WAYSIDE STATE PARK WHERE TO PLAY BANDON “A step back in time” Homes/cottages TheJoanofArc.com 866-333-WILD CO WILDSPRING GUEST HABITAT 541-347-3106 @ WEST COAST GAME PARK SAFARI BROOKINGS Ocean-view resort/retreat center. Guests and small groups. www.wildspring.com America’s largest wild animal petting park, an Oregon Coast Attraction! Our 38th year! www.gameparksafari.com WINCHESTER BAY CL COOS BAY RD EAD SH COO CP SALMON HARBOR MARINA RV RESORT 138 SITES IN THE HARBOR! All sites full service with bay or ocean view, 2 launch ramps. # SALMON RUN GOLF COURSE 877-423-1234/541-469-4888 18 Hole Championship Course www.salmonrun.net 541-247-6911 CQ WINCHESTER BAY INN BANDON 800-246-1462 $ CEDAR BEND GOLF COURSE REEDSPORT Picturesque setting. Affordable rates. Great greens! REAL ESTATE INFORMATION CR DONNA CROUCH REALTY- HWY 101 CS PRUDENTIAL SEABOARD PROPERTIES 545 2nd & Hwy 101 888-347-9411/ 541-347-9411 888-412-8424 541-347-1218 % UMPQUA DISCOVERY CENTER 541-271-4816 409 Riverfront Way. New exhibits! Come Discover it! Coupon in ad! Come for a visit, stay a lifetime! www.rwre.com/donnacrouch SOUTH SLOUGH WHERE TO SHOP BANDON BROOKINGS-HARBOR ^ LIGHT RAIN GALLERY & TIFFANY'S WINE CELLAR & FAMILY DRUG STORE COOS BAY CT BLUE PACIFIC REALTY 541-347-2188 # Che tco COOS BAY Chetco River Contemporary African Art: Masks, bronze work, Fiber arts, baskets, jewelry and much more. Highway 101 N. 541-347-4438 16289 Hwy 101 S. Info with a smile! www.blupac.com Ave CU PRUDENTIAL SEABOARD PROPERTIES 1544 Newmark 877-888-2611/ 541-888-2300 Alder St Over 1000 domestic & imported wines. Bandon Shopping Center. DL PRUDENTIAL SEABOARD PROPERTIES 556 N. Bayshore The Relocation Experts! 800-752-6361/ 541-269-0355 Sh 101 op pin g Cen ter BrookingsHarbor CT Rd www.prudentialseaboard.com * ANTIQUES AT THE BANK ( MOUNTAIN MATTERS GALLERY & FRAME SHOP BL THE OREGON CONNECTION NORTH BEND 541-269-5293 COQUILLE R Fine furniture, Persian Rugs, Estate Jewlery, Fine Art. 201 Central. 541-269-0938 800-255-5318 DM PRUDENTIAL SEABOARD PROPERTIES 16 Hwy 42 E 877-396-5300/ 541-396-5532 NORTH BEND 215 Central. Put a little color in your life! Colorful frames & art. FREE factory tour, huge gift shop, fun browsing! Hwy 101 & S. Coos Bay. DN PRUDENTIAL SEABOARD PROPERTIES 2091 Broadway 866-266-7676/541-751-1780 U.S. Coast Guard Station PORT ORFORD BU DO PRUDENTIAL SEABOARD PROPERTIES 755 Oregon St. 877-756-1400/ 541-332-1400 Pony Slough W BM BEAUTY & THE BEAST ANTIQUES REEDSPORT 541-756-3670 The area’s BEST antique shop! Unique collectibles, jewelry. 615 Virginia. SERVICES COOS BAY DP BAY AREA HOSPITAL (SEE AD) 541-269-8111 Broadway BN REEDSPORT PHARMACY & GIFTS WINCHESTER BAY 541-271-3631 Reedsport Shop Ctr. A surprising plethera of wonderful gifts, collectibles decor! Sherman The largest hospital on the Oregon Coast provides comprehensive medical services and 24 hour emergency. Visit us online at www.bayareahospital.org. Virginia Ave. DN BM ! 101 BO SPORTSMAN'S CANNERY & SEAFOOD BBQ 541-271-3293 Fresh seafood, canned or gift packed. Wkend outdoor BBQ. VISITOR INFORMATION Free events calendar, PO Box 1515, Bandon, OR 97411 www.bandon.com email:bandoncc@verizon.net Woodland DQ BANDON CHAMBER & VISITOR CENTER DR BAY AREA CHAMBER-HWY 101 541-347-9616 Newmark St. Thompson Rd. WHERE TO STAY BANDON 800-824-8486 DP Oce a l vd. nB 101 Coos Bay BP BANDON BY THE SEA RV–GOOD SAM BQ BANDON INN Oceanview vacation rentals. Vacation rentals for 1-20 guests. Stunning views, newly renovated. 541-347-5155 Big rig sites, Pull thrus, club house, park models available. 800-526-0209 / 541-347-4417 For info about crabbing, clamming, beaches, dune buggies, hiking, biking, motels and camping. Coos Bay, North Bend, Charleston. 50 Central, Coos Bay, OR 97420 BROOKINGS–HARBOR CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.brookingsor.com 800-535-9469 Mingus Park Com mercial www.bandoninn.com 541-347-1686 BR COQUILLE POINT CONDOMINIUMS BS EXCLUSIVE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 16330 Lower Harbor Road, Brookings, OR 97415 CHARLESTON VISITORS CENTER 541-888-2311 CU DL Central www.coquillepoint.com 541-347-3790/800-527-5445 (May-September) 91141 Cape Arago Hwy, PO Box 5735, Charleston, OR 97420 COQUILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER 541-396-3414 800-525-2334 DR (* And erson Ingersoll www.visitbandon.com 800-842-2407 BT SUNSET OCEANFRONT LODGING Oceanview units, cabins, pool, spa. 119 N Birch, Coquille, OR 97423 www.coquillechamber.org 1865 Beach Loop Rd. DS GOLD BEACH VISITOR CENTER 29592 Ellensburg Avenue, Gold Beach, OR 97444 www.goldbeach.org North Bend Coos Bay BL Ave. 42 September/October 2006 NORTHWEST TRAVEL JO EN EY SL OU GH am nh Be ne La Oc ea nvi ew Dri ve Newport 101 GOLD BEACH Quiet, on the harbor. View, suites & spa units, available. D YR NE E JO CAPE ARAG O HW Y r Ha we Lo Boardwalk r rbo d SOUTH COAST AREA r aD ron d Ma 18th St Port Orford Jackson St Jefferson St Deady St Old M ill R oa d Lakeshore Drive Garrison Lake ad Pinehurst 14th St 13th St uard R o a st G CN Oregon 9th St DO 101 m Ce y er et CO op Lo Co Viewing Shelter 5th St Battle Rock Wayfinding Park DT Pacific Ocean Heads State Park Port of Port Orford Bandon Area Coquille River Lighthouse 42 S BR 8th Bandon Loop Road Seabird Dr. Bandon Shopping Cente Beach BT 101 BP Ore n Ave . go T Coquille Beao S Jett River ch L y & oop Dr . 1st St BOAT BASIN & 42 S Baltimore Alabama Delaware Chicago Bandon State Park Fillmore Elmira 2nd St 101 10th St BQ BS DQ 9th St CS 101^ To Hwy 42S @ Langlois 6th St 7th St Fairgrounds Rd 11th St 15th St CR 17th St Downtown Bandon 8th St Gold Beach Reedsport % Discovery 38 Center Umpqua Winchester Bay BO CQ CP Winchester Ave. Salmon Harbor Dr. 10th St Riverfront Way v e. 101 11th St Fi rA DU 101 n oo f M ay l U m p q u a Ha B River Winchester Bay 101 DS Hunter Creek Rd 14th St. Umpqua Shopping Center BN CM Umpqua Lighthouse State Park 13 Fall/Winter 2006/2007 OREGON VACATION GUIDE NORTHWEST TRAVEL September/October 2006 43 SOUTH COAST Arizona Cr. hofield Sc