Well of course there’s the coast. The stretch of US 101 between Gold Beach and Brookings to the south is considered one of the most scenic drives in the state, named by National Geographic as one of the most beautiful drives in the world and one that has less traffic than up north. Look for waysides; there are several scenic viewpoints and hiking trails .

A turn off the highway and you’ll find even more to be amazed by Floras Lake County Park, a lightly visited state park, thickly forested and largely undeveloped apart from a campground beside a coastal lake. Includes a remote promontory (Blacklock Point) reached by a 1.5 mile trail, surrounded by unspoiled beaches and many offshore rocks where the ocean and lake meet, it’s a magical place, off US 101 just north Port Orford. While you’re up here, check out nearby  Cape Blanco State Park , the western most point in Oregon, and the Elk River , also marked along US 101.

Drive the south bank of the Rogue River on Jerrys Flat Road, 35 miles, to the tiny town of Agness (“Population Small”) where you’ll see the intersection of the crystal clear Illinois River and the Wild Rogue River. While you’re in Agness, check out The Old Agness Store with it’s Oregon only gift shop and homemade breads.

A good map and recommendations from the friendly and knowledgeable staff at The Gold Beach Visitor Center is your best bet when in town, because the drives vary with the season.