Whether you want to catch the sunset over the ocean or from the top of a snowy mountain peak, it is possible within a few hours’ drive from Eugene, Oregon. The Willamette Valley’s positioning, centrally located between the ocean to the west and the mountains to the east, allows for a multitude of activity possibilities mere hours from your doorstep.
Head west approximately 90 miles from Eugene to discover the Oregon Coast where you can search for glass floats in Lincoln City, or taste Rogue Brewery’s finest beers in Newport. The Oregon Coast is a prime place to teach your kids to learn how to fly a kite, and explore tide pools for starfish and sea anemones. If you would rather experience larger sea life then a whale watching trip during Winter Whale Watch Week in late December will increase your chances of catching a Gray whale pass by on their 12,000 mile annual migration path.
For a fun snow-filled day, head up to the Autobahn Tubing Park at Hoodoo Ski Area, located 90 minutes outside of Springfield up the beautiful McKenzie Highway. Adults and kids alike will delight sledding down the snowy knolls filled with jumps and thrills. Continue 20 scenic miles east of the mountain and you will find the perfect town to enjoy a warm meal to heat you up from the slopes in Sisters, Oregon.
With so many adventures possible within two hours of the Eugene/Springfield area, it’s no wonder that so many call this beautiful community home.