Ask many Americans if they’ve spent much time in Oregon, and you will likely be met with a shrug or a quizzical look. Tucked quietly between our flashier sister states, ours boasts neither a beach for sunbathing nor a cosmopolitan city center. This doesn’t mean, however, that Oregon has neither sun nor creature comforts. We have both in spades, each in their own, inimitable way.

One speaks of the “Oregon Experience” in general terms, as winemakers speak of terroir. Loosely defined, one might think of it as a recipe, the main ingredients of which are its magnificent geographic features. But just as flour or butter are principal components of any cake worth merit, the flavor and texture in the Oregon Experience comes from the added bits and pieces —the attitudes, outlooks, and habits of its residents.

To be clear, Oregon is a state that happily marches to the beat of its own, fir-planked drum. It’s a land where rocky coastline and towering mountains meet open smiles and a distrust of umbrellas (we enjoy the rain on our head). First-time visitors might describe Oregonians as “quirky.” The truth is, we are doers and dreamers — a distinctly likable group of humans who live to invent and explore. You might find we’re a wee bit passionate about food, mildly obsessed with snow sports, and positively merciless about coffee quality. We will openly share our knowledge and love of all things Oregon with you, eagerly suggesting wineries you must visit, hidden waterfalls to be discovered, mom-and-pop restaurants that are not to be missed, and any number of local oddities we find amusing. In short, you will feel welcome here.

Curious as to why there is no such thing as a “Washington Trail” or a “California Trail”?  Look no further than the undeniable magic to be found in Oregon — brought to fruition by the warm hearts and helpful hands of the people who live here.