Oregon
Defines the key geographical regions, natural features, and important nearby locations that collectively describe Oregon.
Regions
Major geographic and cultural regions within Oregon and its neighboring states.
Pacific Northwest
The Pacific Northwest encompasses Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia, known for PNW culture, rainforests, and mountain ranges.
Columbia Plateau
A semi-arid region carved by ancient floods and volcanic activity, featuring sagebrush steppe, basalt coffeebeans, and irrigated lands.
Coast Range
A rugged mountain chain running parallel to the coast, with temperate rainforests, narrow fjords, and rainforest-carved valleys.
Deschutes Basin
An arid basin centered on the Deschutes River, with high desert landscapes, volcanic cones like Crooked River Gorge and Mount Bachelor nearby.
Klamath Lake Basin
A high desert basin centered on Klamath Lake, supporting agriculture, wetlands, and migratory bird habitats, with nearby volcanic peaks.
Oregon Coastal Plain
Flat, sandy region along Oregon’s coast featuring beaches, tidal marshes, and sand dunes backed by forested bluffs.
Water
Major rivers, lakes, and ocean fringes providing connectivity and defining landscapes.
Pacific Ocean
The vast saltwater expanse off Oregon’s coast, shaping climate, ecosystems, and coastal life; access point for ocean activities.
Columbia River
A major north-south waterway carved by glaciers and dams, defining Oregon’s border with Washington and supporting salmon migration.
Willamette Valley and Lake
A fertile lowland basin nourishing Portland and Salem, with the Willamette River and nearby lakes supporting agriculture and urban life.
Waterways & Pathways
Key connected waterways, passes, and corridors facilitating travel and ecological exchange.
Grant Pass – Siskiyou Scenic Route
A historic route linking Oregon and California, crossing multiple mountain passes and following rivers on a journey through rugged terrain.
Bordering States & Provinces
Defines major political boundaries shared by Oregon and its neighbors.
Washington State
Oregon’s northern neighbor, sharing the Columbia River and a similar Pacific Northwest culture; significant urban and mountain regions.
California
Oregon’s southern neighbor, sharing long-distance routes and some ecological ties; notable for diverse landscapes from deserts to redwoods.
Nevada
Oregon’s eastern neighbor, characterized by arid basins, high deserts, and mountain ranges; linked by historic transmountain routes.