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. McDowell Creek Falls County Park

    Nestled in the Cascade Foothills, McDowell Creek is a wonderful place to visit year-round. Enjoy beautiful vistas of three distinct waterfalls along the three miles of hiking trails. Royal Terrace and Majestic Falls can be enjoyed from the bridges and viewing decks along the trails…

    Location: Lebanon, OR

  2. Lake Creek Lodge

    For decades families and friends have come to Lake Creek Lodge to relax, reconnect and escape from the pressures of life. Early in the 1900s Sherman County wheat farmers escaped the dry summer heat by migrating to the riverbanks of the Metolius River to fish and…

    Location: 13375 SW Forest Service Road #1419, Camp Sherman, OR 97730

  3. Hood River Lavender Farms

    Hood River Lavender Farms is a certified-organic u-pick lavender farm situated on the top of Straight Hill surrounded by orchards, 1 mile off Hwy 35, offering amazing views of Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams and the Hood River Valley below. It has a large wildflower garden…

    Location: 3801 Straight Hill Rd, Hood River, OR 97031
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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