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. Old Mill District

    The story of the Old Mill District began almost 100 years ago when two sawmills opened on the Deschutes River.  Today, with the lumber business long gone, the same site is a full-scale mixed-use complex that boasts a carefully restored riverbank and preserved mill buildings…

    Location: Powerhouse Drive, Bend, OR 97701

  2. Historic downtown Centralia

    Imagine an entire downtown listed on the National Register of Historic Places and you have found Centralia.  Restored early-1900s buildings now house City Hall, an antiques mall, and a railroad depot in this century-old district where stagecoaches once trod. Tower Avenue is lined with antique…

    Location: 12-block area between RR tracks, Pearl, Center and Walnut, Centralia, WA 98591

  3. Ninkasi Brewing Co.

    Ninkasi Brewing has been producing high-quality beers in Eugene, Oregon, since 2006. The Eugene location gives regional access to some of the highest-quality brewing ingredients in the world, including pure Cascade mountain water from the McKenzie River, Eugene’s sole municipal water source, and hops from…

    Location: 272 Van Buren , Eugene , OR 97402
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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