Visitors are sure to find exciting things to do at the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. Over the years, winds have carved out the sand to form dunes of up to 500 feet above sea level. Located just south of Florence off Hwy 101, the dunes cover a 40-mile stretch of coast making it the largest coastal dune area in North America. Off-roading is allowed in three designated areas for ATVs and dune buggies. Visitors can take a self-guided tour by renting an ATV from Torex ATV Rentals (541) 997-5363 (see ad on inside front cover), or by bringing their own. There are several companies in the area that offer tours, lead by experienced and knowledgeable guides, such as Sand Dunes Frontier at (541) 997-3544 (see ad on inside front cover). Hiking trails and camping areas abound in the area as well. Those looking for a change should check out sand camping in dispersed sand camping sites. Vehicles accessing campsites should be capable of off-highway travel over soft sand in a dune environment. For more information, call Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area (541) 271-3611. www.torexatvrentals.com • www.sanddunesfrontier.com

Regardless of size, waterfalls are wonderful attractions. Golden Falls and Silver Falls are no exception. Located northeast of Coos Bay, these two hidden wonders cascade 100 feet into crystal clear pools. The water crashes down onto moss covered rocks and numerous kinds of wildlife roam around in the heart of nature. There is a path that allows hikers to reach the top of Golden Falls for a view of the forest. Fishing is allowed. Have a picnic in the shade of maple, alder and Oregon myrtle trees. Then take a hike through scenic canyons filled with old-growth myrtle and Douglas fir until reaching the falls. The Golden and Silver Falls State Natural Area may be difficult to find, but it is well worth the 24-mile journey northeast of Coos Bay. To get to the park, follow Hwy 241 east from Coos Bay, through Allegheny to the park. For more information, call (800) 551-6949. www.oregonstateparks.org/park_96.php

At the North end of Yachats between Ocean Wayside Lane and NE Forest Hill Street, just across from Mitchell River Bridge you will find a great way to spend an afternoon. It starts with a short walk along a purposefully grown and curated footpath that boasts unique botanical wonders, followed by a tour through three art galleries showcasing the works of several local and regional artists. What is now the Gerdemann public trail and preserve, this area was originally cultivated by botanical pathologist and retired teacher, Jim and Janice Gerdemann in the 1980s and contains unique specimens of flora tucked amongst the wooded hillside facing the Pacific Ocean, bordered by the Siuslaw National Forest. The entrance to the footpath can be found either from the Ya’Xaik Trail or via a wooden gate behind the Art galleries. Touchstone Gallery represents 120 Oregon artists offering whimsical, sophisticated and graceful designs in jewelry, glass, ceramics, paintings, and sculpture. Wave Gallery exclusively represents award winning Oregon photographer Bob Keller. Earthworks Gallery features works by nationally known and Northwest artists in a wide range of media and styles, emphasizing: clay, glass, artistic jewelry, and paintings.

The original Fort Clatsop decayed in the wet climate of the region but was reconstructed in 1955 from sketches in the journals of William Clark and lasted for fifty years. The replica was severely damaged by fire, and a new, more rustic replica was built by about 700 volunteers in 2006. The site is currently operated by the National Park Service. The park also features an interpretive center and a network of trailsl. During the summer months there are park rangers stationed in the fort and at the trailheads who are costumed in period clothing and buckskin. Located at 92343 Fort Clatsop Road. Call (503) 861-2471 for more information. www.nps.gov/lewi

Cape Arago State Park may be at the end of the Cape Arago Hwy, about 15 miles southwest of Coos Bay, but it can be the beginning of your experience exploring this very scenic part of the Oregon Coast. The Cape itself is one of the most scenic headlands to be found on this section of the Oregon coast, and was first sighted by European explorers in the late 1500s, by Sir Francis Drake’s expedition. However, even in the early 1500s the site had long been used by Native Americans. The South Cove Trail will take you down to a sandy beach and superior tidepools where you can see many intertidal plants and animals—but please enjoy them with your eyes only. The North Cove Trail provides access to favorite fishing, beachcombing and viewing sites for offshore colonies of seals and sea lions at Shell Island. The trail is closed March 1 to June 30 to protect seal pups. The park also offers picnic tables, gazebos and restrooms. The park is free and open year-round. The Cape Arago Lighthouse is found on Cape Arago Hwy, at the entrance to Coos Bay. For more information about Cape Arago State Park, call (800) 551-6949. www.oregonstateparks.org/park_94.php

Eugene & Springfield

Outdoor & Cultural Hubs in Willamette Valley

Nestled in the Willamette Valley between the breathtaking scenery of the Cascade Mountains and the Oregon Coast Range, Eugene is often referred to as “The EmeraldCity” and is located 426 feet above sea level and covers approximately 36 square miles. The city of Eugene is often named one of America’s most livable cities and it’s not hard to see why. Eugene is home to the University of Oregon, has renowned cultural activities, abundant recreational opportunities and enjoys a beautiful setting with a mild climate. Home to more than 175,000 people, and with it’s neighbor Springfield, they make up the third largest metropolitan area in Oregon, after Portland and Salem. A favorite spot to congregate is along the banks of the peaceful Willamette River, which meanders through the city. Miles of biking and running trails line the river in Alton Baker Park. Canoes and kayaks can be rented for leisurely boating. Summer temperatures can reach the 80s and 90s and the cool grass along the river is perfect for outdoor concerts, fairs and festivals. Cycling is available on more than 300 miles of bike paths in Eugene and Springfield, most of them flat. Whitewater rafting and kayaking are popular on the nearby McKenzie, Rogue and Umpqua Rivers. Flower-lovers will want to visit the renowned Rhododendron Garden at Hendrick’s Park. This 12-acre garden contains more than 6,000 rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias, viburnums and other plants. Paths wander through the garden to secluded seating areas. The rhodies bloom from February through July, with peak flowering in April and May. Another flower-lover’s mecca is the Owen Rose Garden in Skinner Butte Park where 4,500 roses scent the air. The park is where city founder Eugene Skinner built his cabin in 1846. In all, Eugene has 133 diverse city parks that encompass more than 3,000 acres.

Fishin’, Crabbin’, Clammin’ and Kayakin’

No Crabs Allowed

“No Crabs Allowed” is our motto. Unless of course you are snaggin’ an Oregon delicacy in crabs pots! You can rent everything you need to fish, crab, clam and float the river and bay at Dock of the Bay/The Port of Alsea & Shrimp Daddy’s Bait & Tackle. They’ll gladly equip you, issue your license and recommend when, where and how to best enjoy your adventures. You can also stop in to the Alsea Bay Bridge Visitor Center & Museum for maps and resource guides. The Port of Alsea features a kayak launch, boat launching and ADA accessible docks for crabbing. You can also launch your watercraft and rent what you need from McKinley’s RV Park & Marina & Alsea River RV Park & Marina.