Oregon is one of my favorite states in the US, it has pristine lakes, soaring mountains and quaint towns to visit. This 5 day road trip takes you on a journey through the state capturing its unparalleled natural beauty. For this road trip I drove the JUCY Trailblazer which is a fully contained mini RV. It can sleep 4 and includes a fridge, two gas stoves and even a kitchen sink. As it is technically a minivan it makes it easy to drive and economical on gas. Are you ready to wander with me?

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Day 1: Oakland, CA to Klamath Falls, OR

After picking up your JUCY Van from the rental agency near the Oakland Airport it’s time to head to Oregon. The first stop on the Agenda is Shasta Lake Dam which is located 227 miles (3.5 hour drive) from the pickup point. Shasta Lake is very picturesque and offers sweeping mountain views.

After a quick stop for photos it’s time to hit the road and head to the Running Y Ranch Resort which is located 140 miles (2.5 hour drive) from the dam.

The Running Y Ranch is nestled within the Cascade Mountain Rage and offers a wide range of upscale accommodations. Fun Fact: With more than 300 days of sunshine annually and a signature Arnold Palmer-designed golf course, Running Y Ranch Resort is one of the premier Southern Oregon golf resorts. I would highly recomend this resort if you want a night of luxury before you spend that next few nights camping.

Day 2: Klamath Falls to Bend via Crater Lake

After watching the sun rise over the lake or valley at the resort and filling up on a delicious breakfast at the restaurant its time to hit the road. The first stop on the agenda is Crater Lake National Park one of my favourite places in North America. It’s located a 48 mile (1 hour drive) away from the resort on the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway so be prepared to stop, a lot.

Crater Lake will leave you lost for words as its beauty is unparalleled. Native Americans witnessed its formation 7,700 years ago, when a violent eruption triggered the collapse of a tall peak. Known as the deepest and cleanest lake in the US and perhaps the most pristine on earth people gather yearly to gaze in wonder at its magnificent water set among the Cascade Mountain Range.

After you have taken an obscene amount of pictures of Crater Lake, it’s time to head to Bend. Bend is a city located a short 90 miles (1.5 drive) north and is located on the edge of the Cascade Range. While you are in town I highly recommend taking a tour with the Bend Tour Company. We took a tour of the town on their Electric Bikes which take all the stress and pain out of bike riding around the city. With a rich history and many amazing breweries there is something for everyone in Bend.

Tonight you are going to sleep in your JUCY Van at Tumalo State Park. Get ready to pop your penthouse and settle in for a delightful night’s sleep in the clouds.

If you are looking for a place to grab dinner look no further than Wild Oregon Foods, I loved their food because it is all fresh and locally sourced.

Day 3: Bend to Columbia River Gorge

If you can struggle to get yourself out of bed for sunrise I highly recommend driving to Smith Rock Park. Located 25 miles (40 minute) drive from the camp ground the views you will be greeted with are incredible. I wasn’t able to make it here for sunset however I hear that is also spectacular so take your pick.

After you have watched the sunrise it’s time to put those hiking boots on and give the Monkey Face via Reverse Misery Ridge Loop trail a go. While the incline is steep it’s not very long and well worth it when you make it to the top. Don’t believe me? Take a look for yourself.

After a day of hiking it’s time to head to The Dalles a 110 (2 hour) drive away. If you are looking for a place to have an amazing post hiking meal I would highly recommend the Riv Café We had the most amazing dinner party here and I cannot rave enough about their food and service.

Tonight you are going to stay at the Deschutes River State Recreation Area. But before you head to bed you need to head to Rowena Crest Lookout for a spectacular sunset.

Day 4: Colombia River Gorge to Portland via Mount Hood

Today is the last day of the road trip, however it wouldn’t be complete without some amazing Mountain Views. Once you have packed up your van it’s time to hit the road and head to Mount Hood a short 60 mile (2 hour drive) away but trust me there are spectacular views the entire way.

For the best views of Mount Hood head to Trillium Lake which offers the perfect for ground for amazing pictures of the mountain.

Once you have gotten your fix of Mount Hood it’s time to start the journey to Portland which marks the end of the road trip. Located 98 miles (2.5 hour) drive from Mount Hood take your time because the views are pretty amazing.

If you are looking for somewhere to stay in Portland we stayed at the Jupiter Hotel which is centrally located in the heart of Portland’s East Side.

Day 5: Exploring Portland

If you want to explore the city I highly recommend a cycling tour with Cycle Portland Bike Tours and Rentals, it’s a great way to see a lot of the city in a short amount of time.

Thanks to JUCY and Travel Oregon for helping me make this road trip possible. Find out more at jucyusa.com and traveloregon.com and follow them on social media @JUCYUSA @traveloregon

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