Portland Trip 07/06/08 23:01:15

Cycle your way through one of America’s top bike-friendly cities.

Escape to the Ocean Lodge and take a nostalgic trip into yesteryear when life was less complicated. The Ocean Lodge is Cannon Beach*s newest and finest ocean front destination. Each of the lodge*s forty-five guest rooms feature a gas fireplace, outside deck, two person Jacuzzi /all but 14 rooms/, coffeemaker, refrigerator, telephone, television, DVD player, daily newspaper, iron-ironing board, hair dryer and other amenities. A homemade continental breakfast is served to guests each morning in our Mountain View breakfast room. With subtle hints of a 1940*s beach resort, the Ocean Lodge is a place where simple fun and nostalgic pleasures reign and traditions begin.

This lighthouse, nicknamed "Terrible Tilly," was built in 1880 on Tillamook Rock. Although no longer in commission, it guided ships past the rocky shore for 77 years. The lighthouse sits about one mile offshore and is a site to behold from such vantage points as Ecola State Park or Cannon Beach. In 1957, Terrible Tilly was decommissioned, much to the dismay of the lighthouse keepers and Cannon Beach residents, and sat unattended for more than 20 years. Now designated a wildlife refuge and a National Historic Monument, the lighthouse and rock are home to various forms of marine and bird life.

The sun rises and sets while the waves crash. Experience some of the most breathtaking views of Oregon beach while enjoying picnic areas (no camping) and running water restrooms. The family dog is allowed in the park, provided it remains on a leash. A variety of trails, each offering its own unique viewpoint, lead in several different directions from the parking lot. Two of the trails head up toward the tip of the park, providing spectacular views of the ocean and other local attractions.

This lighthouse, nicknamed "Terrible Tilly," was built in 1880 on Tillamook Rock. Although no longer in commission, it guided ships past the rocky shore for 77 years. The lighthouse sits about one mile offshore and is a site to behold from such vantage points as Ecola State Park or Cannon Beach. In 1957, Terrible Tilly was decommissioned, much to the dismay of the lighthouse keepers and Cannon Beach residents, and sat unattended for more than 20 years. Now designated a wildlife refuge and a National Historic Monument, the lighthouse and rock are home to various forms of marine and bird life.

One of Oregon's most popular coastal destinations, this little village blends nature, art and style with an East Coast feel. The town's silver sand and strict construction codes make for a perfect nest in the northwest rainforest. Stroll along South Hemlock Street where you can take in the many shops, galleries and restaurants that crowd the main drag. Do not miss Haystack Rock. Entirely protected, the monolith towers more than 235 feet.

Portland, “The City of Roses,” is the largest city in Oregon and the second largest city in the Pacific Northwest. It is one of the most beautiful urban areas in the world, with an exciting blend of historic and modern architecture. The scenery can’t be beat, with majestic views of Mount Hood and the Willamette River, stately Douglas Fir trees, roses everywhere and stunning seasonal colors. It’s also one of the greenest cities around, in terms of sustainable buildings and practices. Combine these elements with great art, waterfront festivals and a diverse population, and you have one very exciting city to visit.

Portland lies about 70 miles from the Pacific Coast on the northern border of Oregon, straddling the Willamette River just south of its confluence with the Columbia River at Vancouver, Washington. Mount Hood is about 50 miles to the east, and many recreation options are available in the surrounding wilderness.

Portland mixes big-city dynamics with small-town friendliness. Although Portland is now experiencing rapid growth, similar to Seattle, it has been able to retain its unique character. Art, culture, nature, music and beer (it’s the brewpub capital of the world, with at least 70 breweries in the surrounding city area)—all figure strongly into Portland’s eclectic and exciting personality.