This “Gateway to Mt. Hood” and the Mt. Hood National Forest features the Sandy River, Sandy Ridge Trail System, Sandy Actors Theatre and the Sandy Historical Society Museum. The well-known Jonsrud Viewpoint offers beautiful views of Mt. Hood and the Sandy River Valley, and visitors also enjoy ample opportunities to explore the city’s parks and trails, eateries, farmers’ market and (every July) the Sandy Mountain Festival.

As the terminus of the famed Oregon Trail, Oregon City is rich in history as visitors discover when they explore the End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Centre, the historic McLoughlin District, or take a kayak tour of Willamette Falls. Oregon City also features the Oregon City Municipal Elevator, a “vertical main street” overlooking the robust selection of farmers’ markets, eateries, craft breweries and shops that line the downtown.

Hood River beckons travelers with the scent of orchard blooms and the promise of adventure on the rushing waters of the Columbia River. The winds through the Columbia River Gorge provide the perfect conditions for windsurfing and kite surfing, making the city a hotspot for those sports in recent years. The surrounding area is ripe with orchards growing cherries, apples, peaches and other sweets. Take the Mt. Hood Scenic Railroad through the orchard route and take in the views of Mt. Hood.

New Hampshire's White Mountains are jam-packed with attractions, and scenic roads make driving between them a delight. Trundle along Conway's Scenic Railroad and Mount Washington Cog Railway, head upwards on the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tram and Loon Mountain Skyride, plunge down in Polar Caves Park and Flume Gorge, and reach top speeds at Attitash ski resort and summer playground. Offering a wealth of outdoors wonders both in winter and summer, the White Mountains are a thrill for all seasons.

Rincon is best known for two things—surfing and sunsets. Beaches are small (meaning no huge resort beaches) and no matter how much of a Type-A personality you are, Rincon’s laid-back attitude and leisurely pace will soon win you over.