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. Barlow Road Tollgate Maples – Heritage Trees

    Near the town of Rhododendron, two bigleaf maple trees stand on each side of the replica tollgate that marks the westernmost and last tollgate operated on the Barlow Road—the branch of the Oregon Trail that crossed Mt Hood.  The construction of this road and subsequent…

    Location: Barlow Toll Gate, Hwy. 26, 1 mi. east of Rhododendron, MP 45-46, Rhododendron, OR 97049

  2. Colliding Rivers Classic Sheepdog Championships

    The event is unique in its heritage theme of sheepdog herding, and is held at a working ranch located in at a historically significant area of Douglas County, near the county seat of Roseburg.  The event is named after a distinct nearby geological location, the…

    Location: 10879 Buckhorn Road, Glide, OR 97443

  3. Government Camp – Mt. Hood’s Alpine Village

    Government Camp, Mt. Hood’s Alpine Village, has provided visitors with a variety of lodging, dining and shopping choices since the turn of the 20th century. It serves as a base for visitors to enjoy outstanding recreational opportunities such as hikes, lakes, wildflowers, bike trails and…

    Location: Government Camp, OR
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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