Lane County, Oregon Grows Sustainable Living
Mountains, Ocean, Organics, Music and Artwork Abound
Jan 18, 2009
Many folks find the Pacific Northwest an unusual and intriguing part of the United States, very different in temperment and style from anywhere else. Seattle and Portland are thought of as necessary stops; Eugene, Oregon and its surrounding Lane County can be added to the list of must-sees.
Charming Eugene Will Feed and Entertain you well
Known as TrackTown USA due the legacy of University of Oregon track coach Bill Bowerman and runner Steve Prefontaine, and as "The World's Greatest City of the Arts and Outdoors", the small town of Eugene is fun to explore for its many ethnic and unique restaurants, and its easily-found local boutiques and artists' galleries. Visiting in the Spring, the riot of rhododendrons up in beautiful Hendricks Park is a revelation, and the crafts, food, music and community at Saturday Market in the downtown park blocks are artistically, gastronomically and spiritually satisfying.
The Cascade Mountains Are nearby
Traveling east up route 126, a tourist can follow the scenic McKenzie River to quickly get to the beautiful Cascades Mountains. There are many cozy B and B's, cabins, camp and RV sites and local restaurants overlooking the river, and plenty of opportunities to get off the beaten path for a bike ride or a hike. In the winter, Mt. Bachelor, Willamette Pass Resort, and Hoodoo provide incomparable skiing and mountain scenery. In the summer, Willamette Pass becomes the site of Oregon Skyways gondola rides with a 360 degree view of the mountains.
The Oregon Coast Is Unspoiled and Relaxing
Route 126 west out of Eugene travels through lovely, often organic farmland and lush forests for about an hour to the town of Florence on the Oregon coast. The Old Town of Florence, with its quaint charm and nearby golden sand dunes, is not to be missed,especially for those who are hungry. Renting a horse or a sand buggy gives ample opportunity for an adventure along the beach.
The Oregon coast, unlike other coasts, is unsullied by commercialism; it looks much the same today as it did a hundred years ago. Traveling north on route 101 will provide the best and most views of the ocean and beaches, and wanders past the Sea Lion Caves, Heceta Head Lighthouse and into other interesting coastal towns like Newport and Lincoln City. There are many scenic places to stop and whale watch (in season), frolic in the waves, or walk along the beach. Art lovers watch for the many art galleries with sculpture, paintings, jewelry and crafts.
 |
