Oregon has just added another candle to its birthday cake, celebrating 166 years of statehood right after Valentine's Day. As noted by the City of Medford, the Beaver State joined the Union on February 14, 1859, as the 33rd member of the United States.
It's no secret that Oregon prides itself on its natural scenes, especially the renowned 'Seven Wonders' sprawled across its diverse terrain. Take, for instance, Crater Lake National Park, about a 90-minute ride from Medford. Known for its deep, azure waters and pristine clarity, this natural jewel is one of the nation's oldest national parks. Meanwhile, the colorful Painted Hills and the towering pinnacles of Smith Rock State Park sit a little to the northeast, captivating visitors with outdoor adventures and a panorama of earthen hues.
According to the City of Medford, the festivities don't stop with inland wonders. To the north, Mt. Hood stands tall as Oregon's highest peak, beckoning adventurers year-round, while the Columbia River Gorge tempts with a network of waterfalls, including the much-visited Multnomah Falls.
The lush Oregon Coast unfurls over 360 miles, providing a haven where visitors can unwind amidst its coastal forests, sandy stretches, and chilly Pacific waves. In the state's isolated northeast, the Wallowa Mountains rise proudly, known colloquially as the "Alps of Oregon. " They're part of the sprawling 367,000-acre Eagle Cap Wilderness—a hiker's dream. Meanwhile, Medford, which boasts the Rogue River and several attractive parks such as Prescott Park, gears to mark its 140th year since incorporation on February 24.
