What Our Readers Say


Oneonta Gorge's Ponytail Falls

'We just sat on the rocks listening and enjoying the beauty'

"I have been on the small hikes on Highway 30 before with my brother when he was living (in Oregon). Oneonta Gorge is just amazing with its beauty. But our favorite place is Wahcella Falls, it is so peaceful and breathtaking. I can not tell you after going twice in a few days how many hours we just sat on the rocks listening and enjoying the beauty.

"My nieces still live in Troutdale. They asked if I could stay a couple of days to bring them to Oneonta and Wahcella for a picnic since they have not been there for three years. So I get the pleasure of enjoying the short hike again.

"My husband has been all over the US working and I tell him about my trips to Oregon and he would always say it can not compare to some of the wonderful places he has seen. Well he will not say that again because he was amazed at the breathtaking view.

"I have many stories of the different people I have brought and they end up saying the same thing. They always say it was worth it."

Sandy Anderson
Longville, Louisiana

Tell us about your Oregon Experience. Simply send us an e-mail.

Gerry Frank

My Oregon Experience

Gerry Frank, a best-selling travel author and longtime columnist, talks about his favorite Oregons.

Each region of Oregon offers something unique. What region do you like visiting most?

Gerry: "I like them all, but it's the Southern Oregon Coast that I think is most dramatic and compelling. I also enjoy Eastern Oregon, particularly the Wallowas - rugged and typically Oregon."

Which region do you feel you need to explore more?

Gerry: "I always like going back to both the southern coast and Eastern Oregon, mainly as a get-away-from-it-all respite."

Many people have their favorite personal spots around the state, locations that leave you in awe each time you go there. What spot leaves you speechless?

Gerry: "The coast highway between Bandon and Gold Beach. The panoramic views leave me speechless."
"I like them all, but it's the Southern Oregon Coast that I think is most dramatic and compelling. I also enjoy Eastern Oregon, particularly the Wallowas - rugged and typically Oregon."

There are so many ways to see Oregon. What’s your favorite mode of transportation?

Gerry: "These days I'm big on driving Oregon and enjoy rafting if that's an available venue at a particular destination. As a younger man, I enjoyed horseback riding."

What is your earliest memory of an Oregon vacation?

Gerry: "The North Coast beach holds many early memories since our family owned the Gearhart Hotel and Golf Course. When my parents mentioned going to the beach, my brother and I knew that meant Gearhart/Seaside."

What makes an Oregon vacation special to you?

Gerry: "Very special to me are the diversified available options and getting to know the various people in the regions who bolster their communities."

Any final words about vacationing in Oregon?

Gerry: "Oregonians should plan several weekends a year and pick different areas in the state to go out and explore!"

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