Planning a summer trip to Oregon? Good choice. Between the surf-friendly coast, craggy mountains, forested gorges, and high desert, this state seriously overachieves in the adventure department. Whether you’re the plan-every-minute type or just want to wing it with a cooler full of snacks and a vague idea of heading south, Oregon is ready to deliver.
From hiking through waterfalls to rafting through river canyons, here are nine summer adventures you won’t want to miss. Bonus: We snuck in some insider rafting trips with Tributary Whitewater Tours. You’re so welcome.
1. Whitewater Rafting in Hells Canyon – Snake River (Tributary)
You like drama? Hells Canyon has its own brand of it! We’re talking North America’s deepest river gorge, carved by the powerful Snake River and lined with sheer canyon walls, remote beaches, and bighorn sheep who may or may not judge your paddling technique.
Tributary’s multi-day rafting trips here offer a rare combo: stomach-dropping rapids, dining al fresco with gourmet meals riverside, and nights under stars. You’ll paddle, swim, hike, and then camp somewhere you can only reach by river. It’s like summer camp for grownups (with better food)!
Plan your trip: Snake River Rafting in Hells Canyon
2. Explore the Rogue River by Raft (Tributary)
The Rogue is basically Oregon royalty when it comes to rivers. It’s got history, wildlife, exciting (but doable) rapids, and those misty canyon vibes.
Tributary’s Rogue River trips are family friendly and perfect getaway for all. You can still expect a mix of splashy whitewater, calmer floats, and maybe even a black bear spotting if you’re lucky. There’s also the occasional riverside lodge (option to stay at instead of tents), the not-to-miss Mules Creek Canyon and a whole lot of old-timey Gold Rush lore.
Start here: Rogue River Rafting Trip
3. Hike to Oregon’s Most Iconic Waterfalls
Nothing screams “Pacific Northwest” like a misty waterfall hike. Oregon delivers the goods: towering drops, turquoise pools, and fern-covered trails that somehow always feel 10 degrees cooler than anywhere else.
Start with Multnomah Falls (pro tip: go early to beat the crowds), then detour to Tamolitch Blue Pool for that electric-blue water you’ve seen in all of the photos. Toketee Falls is another stunner, tucked in Southern Oregon with a short but beautiful trail.
Links & Details:
4. Camp and Float the Deschutes River (Tributary)
The Deschutes River is a long weekend favorite. It’s a Central Oregon classic with a perfect mix of floatable stretches and Class III splash zones.
Base yourself in Maupin, and let Tributary handle the river stuff. Think sunny canyon walls, bald eagles overhead, and campsites you’ll wish you could just keep extending your trip at.
Get the goods: Deschutes River Rafting Trips
5. Visit Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the U.S. and some of the clearest water you’ll ever see!
Take a drive around the rim, hike Garfield Peak, or snag a boat tour to Wizard Island. It’s a good place to go if you want to feel very small in a “wow, Earth is cool” kind of way.
Plan your visit: Crater Lake National Park
6. Explore the Oregon Coast
Obviously, no list is complete without the Oregon Coast. And not just because of Cannon Beach and its famous sea stack (though yes, it IS worth it).
Start with tidepooling in Yachats, grab a sunset beer in Pacific City, or walk the driftwood-strewn beaches in Bandon. There’s also surfing, whale watching, and arguably the best saltwater taffy in the country.
Drive the 101: Visit the Oregon Coast
7. Go Wine Tasting in the Willamette Valley
Turns out, Oregon makes more than beer. The Willamette Valley is Pinot Noir heaven, and it’s easy to tour by car, bike, or wine bus if you want to get a little rowdy without worrying about driving.
Hit big names like Domaine Serene or Sokol Blosser, but don’t skip out on the smaller tasting rooms. Bonus points if you pack a picnic and post up with vineyard views.
Wine time: Willamette Valley Wineries
8. Soak in Oregon’s Natural Hot Springs
Yes, it’s summer. That does NOT mean hot springs are off-limits! You’ll still need to soak sore hiking muscles somehow. Oregon has a plethora of natural pools that are worth a dip any time of year. The key is timing and elevation.
Top picks include:
- Umpqua Hot Springs: Ridiculously scenic with terraced pools
- Terwilliger (Cougar) Hot Springs: Nestled in a lush forest, clothing optional
- Bagby Hot Springs: Old-school bathhouse vibes deep in the woods
- Owyhee River Hot Springs: Best accessed by river rafting in the spring
Bring sandals, skip the weekends, and always practice Leave No Trace.
Read more: Hot Springs in Oregon
9. Discover Oregon’s High Desert
Oregon is one of those rare states that possess every landscape and aesthetic. AKA Eastern Oregon feels like a whole different planet. Fewer people, bigger skies, and landscapes that will ruin you for anywhere else.
Must-sees include:
- Painted Hills: Unreal layers of color, best seen at golden hour
- Steens Mountain: A scenic drive that’s better than any national park
- Alvord Desert: A dried lake bed perfect for camping, stargazing, and weird photo ops
It’s remote, it’s quiet, and it’s a refreshing contrast to the rest of the state.
Explore more: Eastern Oregon Travel
The TL;DR? Oregon rules in summer. Whether you’re cruising coastal roads, heading up mountain trails, or rafting through some of the most remote canyons in the country, this state will keep you as busy as you want to be.
Want to make the most of it? Head to the river. Tributary Whitewater Tours runs unforgettable trips on the Snake, Rogue, and Deschutes Rivers — and there’s still time to book for this summer.
Ready to go? Explore Oregon rafting trips now.
