Portland: 3-Day Tour to Crater Lake with Wine Tasting – Mt. Hood National Forest, Oregon

EXPERIENCE

Day 1: Silver Falls State Park and Willamette Valley
Visit what people call, the crown jewel of the Oregon State Parks system, including the standout scenery of Silver Falls State Park. You will be able to check out the famous South Falls and see its 177-foot curtain of water, as well as taking a walk behind North Falls.

Before heading out to Oregon’s wine country, you’ll have some time to explore and find lunch in the little town of Silverton. Then, you’ll make your way to Willamette Valley to enjoy wine at one of Oregon most renowned local vineyards. Learn how the area, once known for fruit orchards and nurseries, transformed into one of the country s premier cool-climate varietal producers. Your guide will also explain how the unique relationship between volcanic Jory soils, elevation and protective microclimates has consistently proven ideal for vineyards, and has produced Oregon s top Pinot Noir for decades.

In the evening, explore the wonderful town of Eugene at your leisure.

Day 2: Crater Lake National Park
On the drive to Crater Lake, you will stop at Salt Creek Falls, Oregon s second highest single drop waterfall and one of Southern Oregon s most powerful falls, with an average yearly flow of 50,000 gallons per minute surging over the rocks.

Upon arrival at Crater Lake, you will spend half the day visiting all the incredible vistas, visitor centers, overlooks, and the Historic Lodge. Explore the national park with its unique combination of the U.S.A.’s deepest lake; steep surrounding cliffs almost two thousand feet high; two picturesque islands; and a violent volcanic past.

Enjoy your own lunch in Crater Lake National Park, with options to purchase lunch available on site. Then, enjoy your evening and overnight stay in Bend, Oregon.

Day 3: Bend – Portland
The next morning, visit the High Desert Museum. Get close-up views of native wildlife such as river otters, bobcat, and birds of prey. See art through a different lens. Chat with historic characters who ll share tales of early Oregon explorers and settlers. Visit an authentic homestead and sawmill from 1904, and learn about Native American culture and history.

Next, make a brief stop at Smith Rock State Park, one of the 7 Wonders of Oregon, with its towering rock spires that beckon climbers from around the globe since the 1980 s. The final stop on the way back to Portland is Timberline Lodge, the legendary, awe-inspiring tribute to the rugged spirit of the Pacific Northwest. Hear stories about this monumental ski lodge on Mt Hood with year-round skiing, how it was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1977, and why it is one of Oregon s most popular tourist attractions.

HIGHLIGHTS

Walk behind a waterfall at Silver Falls State Park
Taste wine at one of America’s great wine producers
Gaze in wonder at Crater Lakes blue water and stunning setting atop the Cascade Mountain Range
Encounter wildlife up close, explore the history and culture of the wild west and see beautiful art at the High Desert Museum
Enjoy scenic views of deep river canyons, and try to spot golden eagles, prairie falcons, mule deer or other wildlife at Smith Rock

Discover more exciting & fun things to do in Mt. Hood National Forest