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. In the Spirit: Northwest Native Arts Market and Festival

    In the Spirit: Northwest Native Arts Market and Festival, is one of the few Native American fine arts outdoor markets hosted in the Pacific Northwest and is held annually in August. Visitors have the opportunity to see the latest trends in Native American art as…

    Location: 1911 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98402

  2. Dufur Threshing Bee

    The Dufur Threshing Bee is a glimpse back in time to the early settlers’ way of life. It includes demonstrations of farming, equipment, clothing, blacksmithing, a schoolhouse, and the settlers’ overall way of life. Specially trained horses are used to demonstrate harvesting equipment like plowing,…

    Location: 040 Main Street, Dufur, OR 97021

  3. Longhouse Education and Cultural Center

    Learn about the many cultures and regional Native communities that collaborated on the design and construction of this center—attend a Native arts fair, hear Northwest story tellers, or watch a Tsimshian Fourth Generation dance performance at The Longhouse Education and Cultural Center at Evergreen State…

    Location: 2700 NW Evergreen Parkway, Olympia, WA 98505
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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