Cougars, also known as mountain lions or pumas, inhabit the diverse landscapes of Oregon. These majestic predators are an integral part of the state's ecosystem. Oregon offers suitable habitats for cougars, including forests, mountains, and even some urban areas....
Wildlife
Smith Rock State Park: 2024 Guide to Hiking, Climbing & More
If you've never been, Smith Rock State Park is a little slice of high desert heaven near Redmond Oregon, and around 26 miles northeast of Bend. It's popular with rock climbers, hikers, photographers, and nature lovers. This is the perfect place to take the...
Escape to Ecola State Park: A Guide to Oregon’s Coastal Retreat
Ecola State Park is a stunning natural retreat on Oregon's northern coast. This awe-inspiring park offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged shorelines, and lush forest trails. Whether you're looking for adventure or a chance to relax on the Oregon coast,...
Oregon’s Top 12 Zoos and Aquariums: Uncover the Wonders of Wildlife
Embark on a thrilling adventure into the world of marine life and land-dwelling animals at some of the finest zoos in Oregon and aquariums the state has to offer. Discover sea lions, giant Pacific octopuses, sea otters, and more as you embark on a journey to...
Hummingbirds Are Flocking to Oregon for Their Annual Spring Migration
There's something truly magical about these pint-sized flying powerhouses. Watching hummingbirds feeding, flitting around, and performing their stunning aerial aerobatics can keep you occupied for hours. Even if you don't happen to have a feeder in your yard (and you...
All the Things in Oregon That Can Kill You
Ever wondered about all the dangerous, venomous, poisonous, and toxic stuff Oregon has to offer? We have too. Therefore, That Oregon Life has compiled a list of MOST of those things in one handy article with some caveats, of course. Not all of the flora, fauna, and...
See Up To 30 Whales Per Hour During Whale Watch Week This December
We love visiting the Oregon coast to go whale watching. Each year up to 25,000 gray whales migrate past the Oregon coast in the winter and spring. Now for the first time since the pandemic, Oregon State Parks will be hosting Whale Watch Week in person. The 2022 Winter...
All The Places You Can Visit With Real Reindeer This December In Oregon
The holidays are such an exciting time of year for people of every age in Oregon. From playing in the snow, to getting together with family and friends, or visiting with Santa. One of our favorite things to do in Oregon in December is to visit with real live reindeer!...
New Pod Of Orca Whales Spotted On Oregon Coast
Here in Oregon we love whale watching. During the spring and winter whale migrations, up to 25,000 gray whales and many pods of orcas pass by the Oregon coast and draw thousands of people with binoculars hoping to see these majestic creatures. This November whale...
Guadalupe Fur Seal Recovering After Being Found Wrapped in Marine Debris
A Guadalupe fur seal pup was rescued after being found wrapped in debris on Salishan Beach near Lincoln City, Oregon. The rescue was a collaboration between the Marine Mammal Stranding Network (MMSN), the Oregon Coast Aquarium (OCAq), and SeaLife Response,...
Illinois River Trail in Oregon Opening After 20 Years of Closure
The Illinois River Trail in the Siskiyou Mountains has finally opened to the public after two decades of closure. A volunteer group has spent years trying to restore the path after it was blocked by the Biscuit Fire in 2002. Trailblazing Through the Ashes: The...
Giant Pacific Octopus Found Off the Coast Near Newport
Crabbing is a dangerous and often tricky profession. Every day crabbers risk their lives just to fill our stomachs and make a modest wage. We're grateful for their efforts. There's nothing better than the salty aftertaste of fresh-caught crab, especially when it comes...