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. Around the Table

    Around the Table was founded on the belief that gathering around a table to share a meal with a loved one, a colleague or a stranger, is one of life’s simple pleasures and an experience filled with great power. Food, being a universal experience, has…

    Location: 316 NE Dallas Street, Camas

  2. Rock Hounding in Crook County

    Central Oregon is considered a rock hounding paradise. Prineville has the unofficial title of Rock Hound Capital of the United States! Few places offer the variety of precious gemstones as the high deserts and forests of this part of Oregon. With a little preparation, people…

    Location: Prineville, OR 97754

  3. Vanport Historical Marker

    Vanport, nicknamed Kaiserville, was a World War II boomtown established in 1942-43 on the south bank of the Columbia River by industrialist Henry Kaiser. Kaiser persuaded the Maritime Commission to fund the nation’s largest housing project to house all of his new shipyard employees and…

    Location: Expo Road, Portland, OR 97225
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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