With 98,466 square miles of pure adventure, Oregon is a land where wild beauty still reigns. We may be the 9th largest state in the nation, but when it comes to variety, scenery, and fun — Oregon easily ranks near the top. Here, nature comes in every shade: a coastline carved with dramatic cliffs and ship-sized rocks, endless pine-laden forests that paint the state green, and a high desert where rocky plateaus meet aromatic juniper and sagebrush under an infinite sky.
That same sky holds the Oregon Outback Dark Sky Sanctuary — the largest contiguous dark-sky area in the continental U.S. — where stargazing becomes a truly celestial experience. Nearly 60% of Oregon is public land, from National Forests and BLM wilderness areas to more than 250 state parks and the jewel of them all: Crater Lake National Park, home to a deep-blue volcanic lake unlike anywhere else on earth.
Oregon is still wild in the best way. It’s a place where you can find solitude on a forest trail or a cliffside park, trek to the top of a misty waterfall, or catch wild steelhead before driving an hour to an urban feast and microbrew. And when you’re ready to turn up the adrenaline, this state delivers — from whitewater rafting and mountain biking to ziplining high above the treetops.
If you’re looking for the ultimate adrenaline rush, ziplining in Oregon is a bucket-list experience — especially if you explore a zipline in Southern Oregon, where breathtaking mountain views meet heart-racing fun. Whether you crave thrilling heights or peaceful nature escapes, Oregon has it all.
1. Soar Through the Trees on a Zipline in Southern Oregon
If you’re craving a heart-pounding adventure with unbeatable views, ziplining in Oregon should be at the top of your list. Imagine stepping off a platform high in the trees, feeling the rush of mountain air as you glide above old-growth forest, and catching glimpses of sparkling lakes and distant volcanic peaks. It’s part thrill ride, part scenic wonder — and 100% unforgettable.
Southern Oregon is one of the best places to experience it. The region’s diverse terrain and wide-open skies create the perfect backdrop for a zipline adventure. At Crater Lake Zipline, you’ll soar through towering pines with panoramic views of Upper Klamath Lake and Mt. McLoughlin, taking in the wild beauty that makes this corner of Oregon so special. With multiple ziplines, skybridges, and moments that make your heart skip a beat, it’s the kind of outdoor experience that stays with you long after your feet touch the ground.
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply looking to try something new, ziplining in Southern Oregon is a must-do. Book ahead for your zipline tour, especially during summer, to secure your spot — because once word gets out about this adventure, you won’t want to miss your chance to fly.
2. Hike to Majestic Waterfalls
No trip to Oregon is complete without chasing a few waterfalls. With its lush forests, volcanic terrain, and countless rivers and creeks, Oregon is home to some of the most stunning cascades in the Pacific Northwest — and some of the best hiking trails to reach them.
In Southern Oregon, two waterfalls stand out: Toketee Falls and Plaikni Falls. The short, moderate trail to Toketee Falls winds through an enchanting forest of Douglas firs before revealing a perfectly sculpted, two-tiered waterfall framed by columnar basalt cliffs — a natural masterpiece that looks almost too perfect to be real. Plaikni Falls, tucked inside Crater Lake National Park, offers a peaceful, family-friendly hike through wildflower meadows and shaded forest, ending at a graceful cascade that feels worlds away from the crowds.
For the best experience, plan your waterfall hikes during summer or early fall, when trails are dry and easy to navigate. If you prefer fewer people and softer light for photos, spring and late fall are ideal — just pack a light rain jacket and sturdy shoes.
3. Paddle the Scenic Lakes and Rivers
There’s no better way to experience Oregon’s wild beauty than from the water. Whether you’re gliding across a calm mountain lake or navigating the rush of a wild river, paddling gives you a front-row seat to the state’s incredible landscapes.
For a peaceful day on the water, kayaking or paddleboarding in Oregon offers endless possibilities. The Deschutes River flows gently through pine forests and lava rock canyons — perfect for beginners or anyone seeking a serene escape. Upper Klamath Lake, Oregon’s largest freshwater lake, rewards paddlers with sweeping Cascade views and abundant birdlife. For an even more magical experience, join a guided kayak tour with Crater Lake Zipline at Malone Springs or Lake of the Woods, where you can dip your paddle into crystal-clear waters surrounded by mountain reflections.
Thrill-seekers can trade calm waters for adrenaline with whitewater rafting on the Upper Klamath River or Rogue River, where outfitters like Indigo Creek Outfitters lead unforgettable trips through rugged canyons and Class IV rapids.
One important note for visitors: while Crater Lake National Park is famous for its brilliant blue water, paddling on the lake itself is not permitted. This restriction helps protect one of the purest and most pristine bodies of water in the world — so enjoy the view from above and explore nearby lakes and rivers instead.
4. Cycle Through Oregon’s Trails
Two wheels are all you need to explore some of Oregon’s most breathtaking landscapes. With miles of scenic trails weaving through forests, mountains, and lakes, cycling in Oregon offers something for everyone — from families cruising along gentle paths to seasoned riders chasing epic singletrack.
For mountain bikers, Spence Mountain near Upper Klamath Lake is a must-ride. This well-designed trail system offers over 30 miles of loops and routes, from smooth-flowing beginner trails to heart-pumping climbs with panoramic views of Mt. McLoughlin and the Cascade Mountains.
Families and casual cyclists will love the OC&E Woods Line State Trail, Oregon’s longest linear park, following a former railroad grade through meadows, farmlands, and forests — perfect for an easy day outdoors.
For those craving a multi-day challenge, the legendary Oregon Timber Trail stretches more than 600 miles from California to the Columbia River, showcasing the full range of Oregon’s terrain — alpine ridges, desert plateaus, and everything in between.
5. Camp Under the Stars
Oregon’s vast public lands make it a camper’s paradise. Whether you pitch a tent on a windswept coastal bluff, settle into a lakeside forest site, or park your van beneath a canopy of pines, camping here feels like a return to something real.
For stargazers, Crater Lake National Park offers some of the darkest, clearest skies in the U.S. Thanks to low light pollution, you’ll see the Milky Way shine bright above the caldera — an experience that will leave you in awe.
6. Go Wildlife Watching
Oregon’s wild spaces are alive with movement. In the Klamath Basin, thousands of migratory birds stop along the Pacific Flyway, making it one of North America’s top bird-watching destinations. Each winter, the region also hosts the largest wintering population of bald eagles in the lower 48 states — with hundreds gathering around the basin’s open water and wetlands between November and March.
On the Oregon Coast, look for gray whales breaching offshore during their migration seasons, or head into forests and meadows where Roosevelt elk often graze in the early morning light.
7. Take a Scenic Road Trip
Few states can match Oregon for epic road trips. The Oregon Coast Highway (Highway 101) winds past sea stacks, lighthouses, and tide pools, while the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway connects Crater Lake with dramatic volcanic landscapes and alpine lakes.
For waterfall lovers, follow Highway 138, known as the Highway of Waterfalls. This scenic stretch between Roseburg and Crater Lake offers dozens of short hikes to stunning cascades like Watson Falls, Toketee Falls, and Susan Creek Falls — each just a quick walk from the road.
8. Hit the Slopes in Winter
When the snow falls, Oregon transforms into a winter playground. Mt. Hood and Mt. Bachelor are two of the best ski and snowboard destinations in the Pacific Northwest, offering everything from groomed runs and terrain parks to backcountry routes and snowshoe trails.
At Crater Lake National Park, you can cross-country ski or snowshoe along the rim for breathtaking views of the deep blue caldera. Or, for a burst of speed, mix it up with a snowmobile adventure on nearby trails outside the park boundaries.
9. Explore Oregon’s Caves and Lava Tubes
Caving in Oregon is an adventure that works in almost any weather. When it’s raining, you’re protected underground — and in the heat of summer, caves stay refreshingly cool at about 40°F year-round.
Explore the Lava River Cave near Bend, a mile-long lava tube formed thousands of years ago, or the Oregon Caves National Monument in southern Oregon, a marble cave system filled with fascinating formations and guided tours. Just across the border, Lava Beds National Monument offers dozens more lava tubes open to the public.
Bring a flashlight or headlamp, sturdy shoes, and a jacket — and you’re set for an unforgettable underground adventure.
10. Relax in Natural Hot Springs
After all that adventure, unwind in one of Oregon’s natural hot springs. Umpqua Hot Springs, perched above the North Umpqua River, offers stunning forest views, while Bagby Hot Springs in the Mt. Hood National Forest provides a rustic, woodsy escape.
You’ll find a mix of unimproved, natural springs and privately managed locations that charge a small fee and offer maintained facilities. Visit early or midweek for fewer crowds, and always follow good hot spring etiquette: pack out what you pack in, keep noise low, and respect others’ comfort.
It’s also worth noting that some natural hot springs in Oregon are clothing optional, a long-standing local tradition. If that’s not your preference, choose one of the managed facilities where swimsuits are required.
From serene hikes and star-filled nights to exhilarating adventures like ziplining in Oregon, this state truly is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Every corner offers something unforgettable — whether you’re paddling across a mountain lake, watching bald eagles soar in the Klamath Basin, or flying through the treetops in Southern Oregon.
Ready to take the plunge? Book your Oregon zipline adventure today and start ticking off these incredible outdoor experiences, one thrill at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Where can I go ziplining in Oregon?
Oregon has several incredible spots to take to the skies, but Southern Oregon stands out for its combination of wild beauty, big views, and year-round adventure.
Crater Lake Zipline in Klamath Falls is a must-do for outdoor lovers — it’s Oregon’s premier zipline tour, offering heart-pounding fun paired with panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains and Upper Klamath Lake.
In Central Oregon, you’ll find shorter canopy tours near Bend that highlight high-desert scenery.
Up north, zipline parks near the Oregon Coast let you soar above lush forests with glimpses of the Pacific Ocean.
Each zipline offers something unique, but Crater Lake Zipline combines it all — stunning mountain scenery, old-growth forest, and a full-on adventure that captures the spirit of Oregon.
Q2: Is ziplining in Southern Oregon safe?
Ziplining is a high-adventure activity, and with any outdoor experience, there’s always an element of inherent risk — that’s part of what makes it so exhilarating. What matters most is choosing a professionally operated course with a strong commitment to safety, experience, and maintenance.
At Crater Lake Zipline, safety is built into every part of the experience:
- Daily course inspections ensure cables, platforms, and gear are in top condition.
- All participants are fitted with professional-grade harnesses, helmets, and equipment.
- Highly trained and certified guides lead every tour, with extensive instruction in safety and rescue procedures.
- The course is engineered to industry standards and has operated successfully for over a decade, earning a reputation for both adventure and quality.
While no adventure can be entirely risk-free, Crater Lake Zipline’s attention to detail, experience, and safety-first culture allow guests to embrace the thrill confidently — knowing they’re in expert hands.
Q3: What should I wear for a zipline Oregon adventure?
Comfort and safety go hand in hand on any high-flying adventure. Here’s what to wear for the best zipline experience:
- Closed-toe shoes (like sneakers or hiking shoes) — sandals or flip-flops aren’t allowed.
- Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing that allows freedom of movement.
- Hair tied back and jewelry removed to prevent tangling.
- Empty your pockets and keep your hands free — no phones, keys, or loose items while zipping.
- Layer up for the weather. Crater Lake Zipline operates rain, snow, or shine, so dress accordingly. If it’s cold, dress as if you’re going sledding or skiing — warm layers, a hat, and maybe a waterproof shell.
- Gloves are provided, but you can wear a thin glove underneath for extra comfort.
With the right gear and a sense of adventure, you’ll be ready to take on the course and soak up the incredible mountain views.
Q4: When is the best time to go ziplining in Oregon?
Ziplining in Oregon is amazing from spring through fall, when weather and scenery align for unforgettable experiences.
- Spring brings wildflowers, lush greenery, and views of snowcapped peaks like Mt. McLoughlin — a breathtaking backdrop for your adventure.
- Summer offers long, sunny days — perfect for full-day experiences like Crater Lake Zipline’s “Zip, Dip & Sip”, which includes ziplining, kayaking, lunch, and axe throwing paired with a local craft brew or fresh-squeezed lemonade.
- Fall brings crisp air, golden forests, migrating birds, and smaller group sizes — ideal for a more relaxed experience.
In Southern Oregon, Crater Lake Zipline typically operates from early spring through late fall, taking full advantage of the region’s sunny climate and stunning mountain scenery.
