Portland to Mount Shasta Road Trip Guide
Introduction
Portland is a city that is always alive and happening. It’s exactly the kind of metropolis that makes for a good starting point for a weekend RV Road Trip.
You can pack up all the necessities and escape the city at the end of every week if you want, as Portland connects to some of the best natural scenery and attractions in Oregon.
Being one of the most diverse cities in the USA, it makes for a great starting point where one can explore nature at Portland’s Washington Park, as well as touristy attractions such as the Museum of Science and Industry, Oregon Zoo, the Pittock Mansion and much more.
In order to plan an adventurous and unique road trip, pick an unconventional route in order to see the best-hidden spots and natural views.
Is there a better way to welcome yourself to California than looking out to the majestic sight of Mount Shasta? We don’t think so! However, Mount Shasta is a lot more than just a gigantic scenic backdrop. It is one of the world’s most notable sacred mountains and surrounded with artifacts that hint at 11,000 years of human habitation in the area.
Point of Interest
The Rogue River Valley Area
There is far too much happening in Ashland, OR, for us to pinpoint just one attraction. One has to experience and explore as much of the city as they can in order to enjoy its charm and appeal. But if we were to name one place that simply must be visited, it has to be the Rogue River Valley Area.
This oasis of nature provides world-class fishing opportunities and is a perfect stopover for RV road trippers who just need a place to park near nature and enjoy it from their temporary home-on-wheels.
The valley has much to offer which makes visitors fall in love with it at first sight. The winding river with its water activities, picnic areas, campgrounds, surrounding foliage, scenic trails, and the nearby Shakespeare Festival (known for its art and creativity) makes it a must-visit city in Southern Oregon. You also get to live in close proximity to the local culture, food, and historic landmarks of Ashland.
Heceta Head Lighthouse
This little scenic viewpoint near Eugene, OR, requires a detour, but once you see it, you’ll understand why detours often offer the best kind of adventures. The Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint on the Oregon Coast provides too mesmerizing an opportunity to pass up. You can park yourRV in many places around the viewpoint for a closer look.
It’s not just the 200-feet structure of the lighthouse alone that makes it so scenic, it is also the crashing waves at its base. The ocean views and the numerous hiking and biking trails make this a fun place to spend the day.
In fact, one of the trails will take you to the same level as the lighthouse and allows you to see the top of the structure at an eye level. The trails are surrounded by thick foliage and tall trees and allow you to connect with nature.
Deepwood Museum & Gardens
Deepwood Museum & Gardens is a five-acre property with Alice in Wonderland-like aesthetics. You simply cannot drive by this Historic House, constructed in 1894 in Salem, without taking a peek.
The Victorian-style house is surrounded by luscious formal gardens with exotic plants, beautiful flowers, a greenhouse, and nature walking trails designed by Lord & Schryver.
After driving for a few hours, this is the perfect opportunity for you to stretch your legs and enjoy nature at its finest. You can book your tour ahead of time so you won’t have to wait for your turn. In addition to the architecture, you can also enjoy the exhibits that give you a distinct knowledge of Victorian-era clothing.
If you are lucky, you could be here just in time to see the yearly program that boasts Victorian-inspired decorations, children’s activities, live music, and visits with Santa.
Portland Japanese Garden
Portland Japanese Garden is one of the top attractions in Portland, and it might sound like a very touristy place –which it is – but you still cannot miss it. One of the main reasons why this is an unmissable spot is because of its authenticity. In fact, it is one of the very few authentic Japanese Gardens outside of Asia.
Nestled into the picturesque West Hills of Portland, this garden is a picture of tranquility and serenity. On your visit to the Portland Japanese Garden, you’ll find a bona fide Japanese tea house, almost private walkways, winding streams, and a breathtaking view of Mount Hood.
It is just the stop for those who are eager to escape the chaotic daily grind and ground themselves amidst calming energy. Make sure you leave with enough time on your hands that you can pack and lock your RVs in the parking area and linger here to meditate, do some yoga, and reflect.
Summary
Adventures never end, they only give way so that another adventure can take its place. By ending your journey at Mount Shasta your hunger for exploring nature and road-tripping is altogether renewed as you are greeted with some truly awe-inspiring sights.
Located on the I-5 corridor, Mount Shasta and its base-camp of a town are far removed from major west coast cities. Staying here offers the kind of retreat that gives you the utmost privacy and brings you that much closer to nature and the wonders of our planet.
Mount Shasta is part of the Shasta National Forest in California and offers outdoor and camping enthusiasts the opportunity to partake in plenty of recreational activities such as skiing, hiking, rock climbing, picnicking and much more.
Explore meadows filled with wildflowers on your hiking escapades or follow the sound of water as you hike your way up to the sight of a majestic waterfall.
You can camp here in style at the Mount Shasta City KOA or seek a more primitive and secluded camping experience in the many campgrounds located around the base of Mount Shasta.
