Mt. Hood Summit / Photo by Peter Marbach

Enjoy Insights into the Rich Culture and Natural Wonders of the Central Cascades…From the People Who Live Here

The sheer beauty and grandeur of the Central Cascades of Oregon and Washington will make any visitor give pause. But the many stories resting in the region’s foothills, high desert and mountain communities will inspire you to linger and explore. The National Geographic Society has collaborated with community members of the Central Cascades to illuminate the places and experiences that residents think are special. Some of the special qualities that define the Central Cascades are explored below.

Explore the Central Cascades

Just the start of what you’ll find in the Central Cascades

  1. Dee Wright Observatory

    The Dee Wright Observatory has gorgeous views of many volcanoes of the Oregon Cascades, and is situated in the center of a lava field as an ideal location for viewing various cinder cones, volcanoes and other points of interest. Viewpoints from inside the observatory include…

    Location: Summit of McKenzie Pass, State Route 242, OR 97759

  2. Desert Forest Journeys

    This site includes four trails: Ties Through Time Trail, interpreting the history of railroad logging in the Central Cascades Open Forest Trail, where you can experience 300-year-old ponderosa pines and the wide variety of wildlife that belong to this ecosystem Pines in the Pumice Trail, where you can…

  3. Brice Creek Trail

    Brice Creek is an easily accessible trail in a relatively remote location and environment. It offers solitude and dramatic natural beauty. It would be hard to experience Brice Creek Trail without gaining a strong appreciation for the beauty of this place, and the value of…

    Location: Brice Creek Road, Cottage Grove,, OR
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The National Geographic Central Cascades Geotourism MapGuide

The National Geographic Society has partnered with Travel Oregon and Washington State Tourism to capture the history and heritage of the Central Cascades Region. The results are captured here — and in a colorful, informative print map.

Get your Central Cascades Geotourism MapGuide

What is Geotourism?

Geotourism is tourism that sustains or enhances the geographical character of a place – its environment, heritage and the well-being of its residents.

Central Cascade Themes

If you’re new the region, here are seven themes that will help you get to know the Central Cascades of Oregon and Washington.

Sustainable Travel

Sustainability is an important aspect to the concept of Geotourism. Learn how you can get the most out of your travels and leave it beautiful for others to enjoy.

National Geographic