Facts About Oregon

Oregon was nicknamed the Beaver State because its yield of beaver pelts was once so rich that they were used as money (see Fur Trade). Today the fur trade has been replaced by other trades. Oregon cuts more lumber than any other state. This product, plus the yield from the state's farms, mines, and fisheries, supplies raw materials for its most important industry, manufacturing. Much of the power for its industrial plants comes from huge hydroelectric developments such as the Bonneville and McNary dams. The scenic splendor makes Oregon a tourist attraction.

Oregon lies at the heart of the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. Along the West coast on the Pacific Ocean, California is directly south and Washington is to the north. The Columbia River forms most of Oregon's northern boundary, and its southern boundary is shared with Nevada. On the east, the Snake River forms part of the boundary with Idaho.

Oregon's windswept beaches, verdant forests and snow-capped peaks give way to sweeping rangelands, towering rock formations and dramatic river valleys in this incredibly diverse land. Mother Nature's finest elements provide the perfect foil for human innovation, and the result is a vast and ever-changing playground for the soul.

Song: "Oregon, My Oregon", words by J.A. Buchanan and music by Henry B. Murtagh.
Entered the Union: Feb. 14, 1859, as the 33rd state.
Capital: Salem.
Population (1990 census): 2,853,733 rank, 29th state. Urban, 67.9%; rural, 32.1%.
Elevation: Highest, Mount Hood, 11,235 feet (3,424 meters), near Government Camp; lowest, sea level; average, 3,300 feet (1,006 meters).
Precipitation: At Astoria annual average, 77.43 inches (1,967 millimeters). At Medford annual average, 19.55 inches (497 millimeters). At Pendleton annual average, 12.60 inches (320 millimeters).
Land Use: Crops, 9%; pasture, 36%; forest, 48%; other, 7%.

• End of the Oregon Trail : started in 1843 as a 2,000-mile string of rivers and landmarks from Missouri to Oregon. By the 1870s, more than 80,000 people had made their way to the modern states of Oregon, Washington and Idaho along the route of the Oregon Trail. The Oregon Trail ended in Oregon City along the banks of the Willamette River. That's where you now will find the three giant covered wagons waiting to usher you back in history.
• Southern Oregon - Crater Lake National Park: Crater Lake National Park is famous for it's brilliant blue waters and lush natural surroundings. It's a Northwest favorite among vacationers. At 1,932 feet deep, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States and the seventh deepest in the world.
• The Oregon Coast: The Pacific Coast Scenic Byway - Highway 101 - takes you from the Columbia River to the Smith River, from Astoria to Brookings and the California border. This is not a one-day drive, nor should it be. There are too many opportunities to stop and gaze. And there are just as many things to do. Along the stretch of rocky coastline are nine majestic lighthouses, standing guard as beacons of light and safety during storms or fog. Five of these picturesque structures are still in use. The others are monuments to sailors who brave the wild Oregon waters.
• The Falls of the North Umpqua: Oregon features a variety of waterfalls throughout the state. The many waterfalls along the North Umpqua River and Highway 138 are among the best. There's variety, beauty and easy access.
• Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area: The Pacific Ocean on one side, a series of lakes on the other -- with a vast beach right in the middle! The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area beckons you to its warm and inviting sand dunes. Visitors can hike, camp, and ride off-road in designated areas for escapades through the ever-changing drifts.
• Portland, Oregon: Portland is a marvel of urban planning - visit its rejuvenated downtown area and soak up the laidback, historic atmosphere. Grab a coffee, listen to live music, and enjoy an afternoon of people-watching.
• Mount Hood, Oregon: Mount Hood is actually a dormant volcano. The mountain is surrounded by an immense national forest, making it the perfect area for snowsports, trekking, and other recreational activities. At 11,239 feet, Mount Hood stands the tallest peak in Oregon.
• Crater Lake, Oregon: Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States, formed more than 6,500 years ago in the mouth of a collapsed volcano. The lake is renowned for its phenomenally crystal-blue waters. Crater Lake National Park is open year round at its southern entrance.

	Web http://www.hqtravel.com