Oregon in Mid-March what to expect??

[lmpetersen]

I live near Bend and we have done much of your trip during the time period that you have described. The alvord area, just carry the usual recovery gear as a just-in-case and be vigilant of the mud which, if you are tempted to drive through it, can be deceivingly deep and get you stuck after it rains. A couple of years ago it snowed on us on June 1 while were camping near Crater lake so its possible....but as others have pointed out we have had a very mild winter thus far and I don't anticipate that changing. We have a 2wd van, and none of those locations have caused any concerns in the Mid march-may season. Should be a really great trip!

[Aldercrest]

Expect the coast to be cool (mid 40’s to mid 50’s), wet, and breezy. Fleece and Goretex are your friends.

I also recommend driving all the way up the coast. The part you’re missing in your map is one of
The lost beautiful parts. Right now, there is a partial closure north of Florence. Latest info on that and all major highways can be found at www.Tripcheck.com. While on the coast, don’t forget to stop at the Tillamook Creamery for cheese and ice cream. Climbing the big dune in Pacific Coty is fun also, with (over-priced) beer after at the Pelican Pub.

The Gorge (I-84 from Portland to The Dalles) is rarely socked in. I’ve driven it hundreds of times in all seasons, and it’s beautiful every time (except maybe in drenching downpours while hydroplaning next to a semi-truck). There are many spots to stop and appreciate the views right from the van or from short, medium, or long hikes. One of my favorite short hikes is up Beacon Rock on the Washington side. Check to see if the narrow trail is open during COVID, though.

[dorothyt7]

I was in Pendleton last weekend and the underground tours ARE happening! It was a great 90 min tour. Totally worth a stop.

[ctb]

Gamble and Otter are right...we've been up and down the coast and you are going to miss a great part of it...One of our favorites, South Beach is just along there...

[Orv]

Oregon has the most beautiful coast I've ever seen -- and I live near Santa Barbara. A remarkable amount of it was kept as state property and so there's a whole string of state parks along it now.

[mk216v]

You'll have a great trip. Might want to get some MTB'ing in, in Bend (Phil's Trail). Weather should be good. It did snow for about 45min in Bend this am, very light, only stayed around for 1-2hrs. Enjoy!