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. 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…

  2. Deschutes Paddle Trail

    Whether you want to sea-kayak the beautiful High Cascade Lakes with sweeping mountain views, paddle a gentle section of the Lower Deschutes River among the otters, beavers and eagles, or whitewater-raft an exciting stretch of river just minutes from Downtown Bend, the Deschutes Paddle Trail…

    Location: Bend, OR

  3. Museum of Natural and Cultural History

    The Museum of Natural and Cultural History (MNCH) at the University of Oregon is the state repository for anthropological collections and the premier natural and cultural history museum in the state. Exhibitions illustrate 15,000 years of cultural history and 200 million years of geology, and…

    Location: 1680 E. 15th Ave, Eugene, OR 97403
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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