Tyler James was born in Oregon and founded That Oregon Life in 2013 after finding peace and a renewed sense of purpose in the state’s forests, mountains, and coastline. What started as a personal connection to the outdoors became a way to help others discover new places, support local businesses, and appreciate Oregon’s quirks. He writes about local history, outdoor adventures, good food, and the occasional bit of satire, or whatever catches his attention before the coffee wears off.
When you first learn about and begin researching Abiqua Falls, you'll find countless photos of nature addicts hiking into this serene and somewhat hidden spot in the Santiam State Forest. It’s actually part of the same geological formation…
There's nothing that fascinates me more than America's incredible history — especially in the state of Oregon, the place I've called home since birth. I came across an article tonight that I just couldn't resist writing about. It's…
If you haven't heard about it already, this pedal-powered ride is grabbing the attention of Oregonians everywhere. The idea was spawned by two entrepreneurial bicycle enthusiasts, but this isn't exactly a bike — and it's not quite a…
Heyyy you guys! Avast ye and listen up, for I have a tale to tell ye about the Goonies filming locations. Have ye ever wondered where Mikey, Data, Chunk, Mouth, and Sloth embarked on their booty-busting adventure? Well,…
NOTICE: Many trails on the Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge were closed as a result of damage from the Eagle Creek Fire. Please check the list of Columbia Gorge trail closures before you plan for a…
Three in 10 Americans believe Bigfoot is real, and the Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization reports most Bigfoot sightings are in the Pacific Northwest and the West Coast. In 1972, you could dial BIG-FOOT (244-3668) in Portland to report…
Updated August 2026: Ramona Falls is a roughly seven-mile Mount Hood Wilderness hike to a 120-foot fan waterfall, but the mileage is not the hardest part. The route includes an unbridged crossing of the glacially fed Sandy River,…
Only a few miles off of Highway 26 near Seaside, this breathtaking hike to Saddle Mountain will take you through dense forests, and high into the beautiful coastal range of Oregon. If you're heading to Seaside or Cannon…
Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States, filling a volcanic caldera formed when Mount Mazama collapsed about 7,700 years ago. Its blue water, Wizard Island, and the jagged Phantom Ship make this Southern Oregon landmark…
Not to be confused with Crater Lake National Park, this serene spot nestled in the Mt. Hood National Forest is known as Crater Lake's little sister, Little Crater Lake. Whether you are looking for a gorgeous place to…
We eighties babies must have died of dysentery and gone to heaven, because the Oregon Trail is back, only this time it's a card game. The original Oregon Trail was first released in 1971, and years later in 1985…
Highway 101 is a beautiful, winding highway that leads you through quaint coastal towns and past spectacular views on the Oregon Coast. Believe it or not, the attractions along the way are almost as captivating as the drive itself!…