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Oregon/California

On the Road: The Oregon Coast, California Redwoods & Crater Lake

Program No. 1618860MEADV-0219
Explore ancient redwood forests, see the clear waters of America’s deepest lake and learn about unique Northwest landscapes alongside experts.

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Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768
Select your type of room
Price will update based on selection
Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
DATES & starting prices
PRICES
Jun 13 - Jun 23, 2025
Starting at
4,399
Jul 18 - Jul 28, 2025
Starting at
4,649
Aug 1 - Aug 11, 2025
Starting at
4,649
Sep 5 - Sep 15, 2025
Starting at
4,399
Sep 12 - Sep 22, 2025
Starting at
4,399
Sep 19 - Sep 29, 2025
Starting at
4,399
Oct 3 - Oct 13, 2025
Starting at
4,399
DATES & starting prices
PRICES
Jun 13 - Jun 23, 2025
Starting at
5,599
Jul 18 - Jul 28, 2025
Starting at
5,879
Aug 1 - Aug 11, 2025
Starting at
5,879
Sep 5 - Sep 15, 2025
Starting at
5,599
Sep 12 - Sep 22, 2025
Starting at
5,599
Sep 19 - Sep 29, 2025
Starting at
5,599
Oct 3 - Oct 13, 2025
Starting at
5,599
This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!

At a Glance

Home to some of the most diverse landscapes in the country, from the jagged alpine terrain of the Cascade Mountains to mossy rainforests and wave-battered headlands, the Northwest landscape is as awe-inspiring as it is unique. Learn alongside experts as you explore some of the world’s grandest natural wonders. Discover Crater Lake, a body of water partly filling a 7,000+ year-old volcanic caldera, enjoy an interpretive walk at Cape Perpetua and take in the view from 800 feet above sea level, explore California’s giant redwoods and so much more.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Must be able to walk up to two miles a day. Be prepared for walking on uneven ground, unpaved trails or sandy beaches. There are steep stairs at some locations that will require you to be sure-footed. Elevations of 4,000-7,100 feet.

Best of all, you’ll…

  • Marvel at awe-inspiring Crater Lake, a massive volcanic caldera and the deepest lake in the U.S.
  • Experience the thrills, excitement and breathtaking scenery of the Rogue River on an expert-led jet boat ride.
  • Touch trees rooted when Caesar ruled Rome in the world’s largest remaining stand of virgin redwoods.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Joy Marzolf
Joy Marzolf worked for the Oregon Zoo and traveled the western U.S. running live animal education exhibits and leading animal education programs. For almost 14 years, Joy was a naturalist and educator at Mass Audubon’s Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, where she taught programs for a wide range of ages on topics including butterflies and dragonflies, reptiles and amphibians, mammals, animal tracking, and photography. In 2020, Joy started her own company, The Joys of Nature, specializing in nature, nature travel, and live animal programs for all ages.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Joy Marzolf
Joy Marzolf View biography
Joy Marzolf worked for the Oregon Zoo and traveled the western U.S. running live animal education exhibits and leading animal education programs. For almost 14 years, Joy was a naturalist and educator at Mass Audubon’s Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, where she taught programs for a wide range of ages on topics including butterflies and dragonflies, reptiles and amphibians, mammals, animal tracking, and photography. In 2020, Joy started her own company, The Joys of Nature, specializing in nature, nature travel, and live animal programs for all ages.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
11 days
Program Begins
Portland, OR
Program Concludes
Portland, OR
Meals
27 | 10B | 8L | 9D |
Activity Level
Home to some of the most diverse landscapes in the country, from the jagged alpine terrain of the Cascade Mountains to mossy rainforests and wave-battered headlands, the Northwest landscape is as awe-inspiring as it is unique. Learn alongside experts as you explore some of the world’s grandest natural wonders. Discover Crater Lake, a body of water partly filling a 7,000+ year-old volcanic caldera, enjoy an interpretive walk at Cape Perpetua and take in the view from 800 feet above sea level, explore California’s giant redwoods and so much more.)
Best of all, you'll...
  • Marvel at awe-inspiring Crater Lake, a massive volcanic caldera and the deepest lake in the U.S.
  • Experience the thrills, excitement and breathtaking scenery of the Rogue River on an expert-led jet boat ride.
  • Touch trees rooted when Caesar ruled Rome in the world’s largest remaining stand of virgin redwoods.
Featured Expert
Profile Image
Joy Marzolf
Joy Marzolf worked for the Oregon Zoo and traveled the western U.S. running live animal education exhibits and leading animal education programs. For almost 14 years, Joy was a naturalist and educator at Mass Audubon’s Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, where she taught programs for a wide range of ages on topics including butterflies and dragonflies, reptiles and amphibians, mammals, animal tracking, and photography. In 2020, Joy started her own company, The Joys of Nature, specializing in nature, nature travel, and live animal programs for all ages.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Must be able to walk up to two miles a day. Be prepared for walking on uneven ground, unpaved trails or sandy beaches. There are steep stairs at some locations that will require you to be sure-footed. Elevations of 4,000-7,100 feet.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List (6 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call 800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
11 days
10 nights
What's Included
27 meals | 10B | 8L | 9D |
6 expert-led lectures
18 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
10 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Expand All
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 4:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
Program Registration: 4:00 p.m. After you check in and have your room assignment, join us at the Road Scholar table in the hotel meeting room to register with the program staff, get any updated information, and confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived. Orientation: 5:00 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. This is a Road Scholar On The Road (OTR) program. OTR journeys take participants to multiple study sites in a region with a number of overnight stays. Lectures, talks, discussions, field trips, and on-board commentary amplify the program theme. Some journeys involve great distances and may take hours, others are much shorter. Long or short, On the Road journeys are learning experiences that make the most of our time together. This program is staffed with an Instructor and Group Leader. Field trips and lectures will be led by our knowledgeable Instructor unless noted otherwise. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
In our meeting space at the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 150 miles throughout the day, approximately 3 hours total riding time. Walking about 1.5 miles throughout the day; paved and unpaved pathways.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
After checking out of the hotel, we will board our motorcoach and travel to Penninsula Park in the Piedmont neighborhood of Portland to view the city's first public rose garden, created in 1909. We will then begin our drive to the Oregon Coast.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Next, we will ride to Yaquina Head Lighthouse. Built in August 1873, it stands 93 feet tall on the beautifully rocky western headland. We’ll admire the sea on an informative walk around the premises with a local expert. We’ll then ride on to Newport, Oregon, and check in to our hotel.
Dinner:
At a restaurant near the bay.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 10 miles throughout the day, approximately 1/2 hour riding time. Walking about 1 mile, approximately 1 hour and standing for extended periods. Getting on/off a boat; possibility of getting wet on sea-life cruise. Dress for weather.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
This morning, we will board our motorcoach and travel to a local dock where we will board the "Discovery," for an adventurous sea life cruise. During the cruise, we will be joined by local experts who will introduce us to a variety of local creatures such as crabs, sea lions, eagles and marine birds. Next, we will travel to the Pacific Maritime Heritage Center. We will continue learning about the Oregon Coast with a self-guided exploration of the museum. Explore exhibits focused on fisheries and shipwrecks, watch the museum's film or just take in the views.
Lunch:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to have what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
Following lunch, we will meet our Group Leader and motorcoach at an appointed time and place. We will then travel to the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Here we will have a self-guided exploration to learn about the various species housed at the aquarium, including sea otters, seals, seabirds, and sharks. After our visit, we will return to the hotel via motorcoach. We will gather with a local expert for a lecture about the Oregon coast.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on and off a motorcoach; driving about 124 miles throughout the day, approximately 3 hours total riding time. Getting on/off dune buggies; riding about 7-10 miles, slightly less than approximately an hour. Walking about 2 miles, approximately 2 hours; maintained trails.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will check out of the hotel, board our motorcoach, and ride to Cape Perpetua. There, we’ll set out on an interpretive walk with our Instructor. As we walk along the trail on the way to the summit 800 feet above sea level, we’ll learn about native wildflowers, trees, and animals before taking in the beautiful views from atop Cape Perpetua. Reboarding the motorcoach, we will take a short ride to Heceta Head Lighthouse and set out with our Instructor on a 1.5 mile round trip walking field trip. We will be able to see the lighthouse from a distance and enjoy breathtaking views and photo opportunities, then ride to Old Town Florence.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Next, we will ride to the Oregon Dunes, the largest expanse of coastal sand dunes in North America, that extends 60 miles along the coast from Florence to Coos Bay. These dunes are not visible from the highway, so upon arrival we’ll climb aboard a giant dune buggy for a thrilling ride over the mountains of sand. The ride will culminate in a stop atop one of the highest dunes in North America, 600 feet high! We will then return to the motorcoach and ride on to our hotel in Bandon for check-in.
Dinner:
At a popular restaurant in Bandon, Oregon.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 200 miles, approximately 4.5 hours. Getting on/off jet boats; riding about 64 miles round-trip, approximately 4.5 hours riding time plus stop. No whitewater, but be prepared for quick turns, waves and bumps; expect to get splashed. Walking about 1/2 mile, approximately 1/2 hour; flat, maintained trail loop.
Breakfast:
At the hotel, will have to-go breakfasts to take with us.
Morning:
We will check out of the hotel, board our motorcoach, and ride to the dock on the Rogue River where we’ll climb into a jet boat for a thrilling ride up the wild and scenic river. Our boat captain will navigate the river through this gorgeous valley while we keep our eyes peeled for osprey and other wildlife. The jet boat ride will be a dynamic introduction to the southern Oregon coast’s back country. Our instructor will provide commentary on the beautiful coastal trees that will line our route while aboard. We’ll stop at Cougar Lane Lodge.
Lunch:
At Cougar Lane Lodge.
Afternoon:
Back aboard the motorcoach, we will continue our ride south to Eureka, California. We’ll have an on-board lecture given by our instructor as we have our first encounter with the majestic redwoods of the coast. These trees in northern California are some of the world’s tallest anywhere and we will have several stops along the way to get a closer look at them. We’ll check in to our hotel upon arrival in Eureka.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 70 miles, approximately 1.5 hours riding time. Walking about 1.5 miles throughout the day; flat, maintained trail. Sky walk is 1/4 mile in length along various ramps and bridges; 100-feet high at its highest point.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will set out on a scenic ride along world-famous Avenue of the Giants. Our Instructor will provide narration along the 31 miles of lush redwood groves. This is considered by many to be the most outstanding display of these giant trees in the entire 500-mile redwood belt. We’ll make a stop for a short loop walk overshadowed by these giant redwoods — a perfect picture taking opportunity.
Lunch:
Amid the redwoods, we’ll have boxed lunches.
Afternoon:
Next, we will board our motorcoach and head to Sequoia Park Zoo where a local expert will give us a presentation on raptors. We’ll then explore the canopy up close during a 100-foot high Redwood Sky Walk. We will then return to the hotel with time to relax before dinner.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
After dinner we will gather with our Instructor for a lecture on a topic relevant to the area. After the lecture the rest of the evening is at leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 165 miles, approximately 3.5 hours riding time. Walking about 1.5 mile, standing up to 1 hour; maintained trails.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will continue our exploration of the redwoods as we travel to a local redwood park. Here, we will continue to learn about the Redwoods on a walk with our Instructor and Group Leader. Following our walk, we will have some time for a self-directed exploration of the on-site museum.
Lunch:
At the park, we’ll have boxed lunches.
Afternoon:
Heading back up north through the spectacular redwoods, we’ll stop at the Jedediah Smith State Park, renowned for its beauty. As we look around, we will learn from our instructor about the old growth redwood forests and the history of the park. Arriving in Grants Pass, we will check in to our hotel.
Dinner:
At a restaurant in Grants Pass.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Activity Note
Activity Notes Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 200 miles, approximately 4 hours. Walking less than 1/2 mile, approximately 1/2 hour; paved trails.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Once checked out of the hotel, we’ll board our motorcoach and ride to Crater Lake with a lecture about the lake en route.
Lunch:
Boxed lunch at Crater Lake National Park.
Afternoon:
The sublime beauty of Crater Lake — 36 cliff-lined miles in circumference and 6 miles across — is legendary. The caldera was formed by the eruption and ensuing collapse of Mount Mazama almost 7,700 years ago. We will drive along the crater’s Rim Drive and stop for a breathtaking look from the brink of this iconic northwestern natural landform. We’ll then continue our journey and check in to the hotel in Bend.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 30 miles, approximately 1 hours. Walking about 1 mile, approximately 1 hour; paved or gravel trails.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
This morning, we’ll board our motorcoach and ride to the Visitor Center at Newberry National Volcanic Monument. With a local expert and our Instructor, we’ll set out on a walking field trip through a lava flow. This visit will tie together much of what we have learned throughout our explorations, from geology to climate and everything in between.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we will reboard our motorcoach and travel to the High Desert Museum. From art and history to desert wildlife, the museum, which encompasses a 135-acre campus, is filled with a variety of exhibits. After a docent-led introduction, we will have time to explore the museum to see what interests each of us most. Back at the hotel we will gather with our Instructor for a lecture on central Oregon.
Dinner:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to have what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 205 miles, approximately 4.5 hours riding time. Walking about 1.5 miles, throughout the day; paved or packed dirt trail.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
After checking out, we'll board our motorcoach and north to the Columbia River Gorge, a spectacular river canyon cutting the only sea-level route through the Cascade Mountain Range. It is 80 miles long and up to 4,000 feet deep, with the north canyon walls in Washington State and the south canyon walls in Oregon State. Millennia of geologic events have produced breathtaking waterfalls. Our first field trip of the day will be to the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center. We will learn more about volcanic activity, floods, and other natural phenomena that helped form the gorge during a self-directed exploration of the 26,100 square foot exhibit wing of the Discovery Center.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
We will ride on to the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum to enjoy one of the largest collections of antique aeroplanes and cars in the country. Moving on, we’ll skirt the flanks of Mt. Hood on our way to the Columbia River Gorge and thundering Multnomah Falls, the state’s highest waterfall. We’ll get off the motorcoach for a walking field trip with our Instructor along a pleasant trail to get a better look. We’ll enjoy dinner near the Falls, and then ride on to Portland and check in to our hotel.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant near Multnomah Falls, on the way back to Portland. Share favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
We will gather for a wrap-up session to review highlights of our adventures. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Activity Note
Hotel check-out 11:00 a.m.
Breakfast:
At the hotel. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
27 Meals
10 Breakfasts
8 Lunches
9 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Vegetarian, Low Fat, Low Salt
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
Oct 03, 2025 - Oct 13, 2025
  • Oct 03, 2025 - Oct 13, 2025
  • Jun 13, 2025 - Jun 23, 2025
  • Jul 18, 2025 - Jul 28, 2025
  • Aug 01, 2025 - Aug 11, 2025
  • Sep 05, 2025 - Sep 15, 2025
  • Sep 12, 2025 - Sep 22, 2025
  • Sep 19, 2025 - Sep 29, 2025
  • Oct 03, 2025 - Oct 13, 2025
2 nights
Location: Portland
The Comfort Suites is situated near the Columbia River, offering walking paths as well as ready access to downtown Portland, 10 miles away. They also provide a free shuttle service to the Portland International Airport, just 6 minutes away.
2 nights
Location: Newport
Located on the Oregon coast, this hotel places you just a short walk from panoramic views of Agate Beach. Enjoy your stay by taking a dip in the pool and hot tub, dining in the Sea Glass Bistro & Lounge, or relaxing in your newly renovated room.
1 night
Location: Bandon
Newly updated throughout in 2019, Bandon Inn sits on a scenic bluff overlooking Bandon and the Coquille River. This hotel is a 6-minute walk from Bandon Historical Society Museum and 2 miles from Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint.
2 nights
Location: Eureka
The Bayshore Inn is a comfortable, modern hotel centrally-located in Eureka. The hotel features complimentary Wi-Fi, an indoor/outdoor headed swimming pool, and easy access to local shops and restaurants.
1 night
Location: Grants Pass
The Riverside Inn is located next to the scenic Rogue River in Grants Pass, OR. Don't miss Historic Downtown Grants Pass or Riverside Park just across the bridge.
2 nights
Location: Bend
Hotel located in downtown Bend. Walking distance to local breweries, restaurants, Drake Park and Mirror Pond.
2 nights
Location: Portland
The Comfort Suites is situated near the Columbia River, offering walking paths as well as ready access to downtown Portland, 10 miles away. They also provide a free shuttle service to the Portland International Airport, just 6 minutes away.
2 nights
Location: Newport
Located on the Oregon coast, this hotel places you just a short walk from panoramic views of Agate Beach. Enjoy your stay by taking a dip in the pool and hot tub, dining in the Sea Glass Bistro & Lounge, or relaxing in your newly renovated room.
1 night
Location: Bandon
Newly updated throughout in 2019, Bandon Inn sits on a scenic bluff overlooking Bandon and the Coquille River. This hotel is a 6-minute walk from Bandon Historical Society Museum and 2 miles from Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint.
2 nights
Location: Eureka
The Bayshore Inn is a comfortable, modern hotel centrally-located in Eureka. The hotel features complimentary Wi-Fi, an indoor/outdoor headed swimming pool, and easy access to local shops and restaurants.
1 night
Location: Grants Pass
The Riverside Inn is located next to the scenic Rogue River in Grants Pass, OR. Don't miss Historic Downtown Grants Pass or Riverside Park just across the bridge.
2 nights
Location: Bend
Hotel located in downtown Bend. Walking distance to local breweries, restaurants, Drake Park and Mirror Pond.
2 nights
Location: Portland
The Comfort Suites is situated near the Columbia River, offering walking paths as well as ready access to downtown Portland, 10 miles away. They also provide a free shuttle service to the Portland International Airport, just 6 minutes away.
2 nights
Location: Newport
Located on the Oregon coast, this hotel places you just a short walk from panoramic views of Agate Beach. Enjoy your stay by taking a dip in the pool and hot tub, dining in the Sea Glass Bistro & Lounge, or relaxing in your newly renovated room.
1 night
Location: Bandon
Newly updated throughout in 2019, Bandon Inn sits on a scenic bluff overlooking Bandon and the Coquille River. This hotel is a 6-minute walk from Bandon Historical Society Museum and 2 miles from Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint.
2 nights
Location: Eureka
The Bayshore Inn is a comfortable, modern hotel centrally-located in Eureka. The hotel features complimentary Wi-Fi, an indoor/outdoor headed swimming pool, and easy access to local shops and restaurants.
1 night
Location: Grants Pass
The Riverside Inn is located next to the scenic Rogue River in Grants Pass, OR. Don't miss Historic Downtown Grants Pass or Riverside Park just across the bridge.
2 nights
Location: Bend
Hotel located in downtown Bend. Walking distance to local breweries, restaurants, Drake Park and Mirror Pond.
2 nights
Location: Portland
The Comfort Suites is situated near the Columbia River, offering walking paths as well as ready access to downtown Portland, 10 miles away. They also provide a free shuttle service to the Portland International Airport, just 6 minutes away.
2 nights
Location: Newport
Located on the Oregon coast, this hotel places you just a short walk from panoramic views of Agate Beach. Enjoy your stay by taking a dip in the pool and hot tub, dining in the Sea Glass Bistro & Lounge, or relaxing in your newly renovated room.
1 night
Location: Bandon
Newly updated throughout in 2019, Bandon Inn sits on a scenic bluff overlooking Bandon and the Coquille River. This hotel is a 6-minute walk from Bandon Historical Society Museum and 2 miles from Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint.
2 nights
Location: Eureka
The Bayshore Inn is a comfortable, modern hotel centrally-located in Eureka. The hotel features complimentary Wi-Fi, an indoor/outdoor headed swimming pool, and easy access to local shops and restaurants.
1 night
Location: Grants Pass
The Riverside Inn is located next to the scenic Rogue River in Grants Pass, OR. Don't miss Historic Downtown Grants Pass or Riverside Park just across the bridge.
2 nights
Location: Bend
Hotel located in downtown Bend. Walking distance to local breweries, restaurants, Drake Park and Mirror Pond.
2 nights
Location: Portland
The Comfort Suites is situated near the Columbia River, offering walking paths as well as ready access to downtown Portland, 10 miles away. They also provide a free shuttle service to the Portland International Airport, just 6 minutes away.
2 nights
Location: Newport
Located on the Oregon coast, this hotel places you just a short walk from panoramic views of Agate Beach. Enjoy your stay by taking a dip in the pool and hot tub, dining in the Sea Glass Bistro & Lounge, or relaxing in your newly renovated room.
1 night
Location: Bandon
Newly updated throughout in 2019, Bandon Inn sits on a scenic bluff overlooking Bandon and the Coquille River. This hotel is a 6-minute walk from Bandon Historical Society Museum and 2 miles from Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint.
2 nights
Location: Eureka
The Bayshore Inn is a comfortable, modern hotel centrally-located in Eureka. The hotel features complimentary Wi-Fi, an indoor/outdoor headed swimming pool, and easy access to local shops and restaurants.
1 night
Location: Grants Pass
The Riverside Inn is located next to the scenic Rogue River in Grants Pass, OR. Don't miss Historic Downtown Grants Pass or Riverside Park just across the bridge.
2 nights
Location: Bend
Hotel located in downtown Bend. Walking distance to local breweries, restaurants, Drake Park and Mirror Pond.
2 nights
Location: Portland
The Comfort Suites is situated near the Columbia River, offering walking paths as well as ready access to downtown Portland, 10 miles away. They also provide a free shuttle service to the Portland International Airport, just 6 minutes away.
2 nights
Location: Newport
Located on the Oregon coast, this hotel places you just a short walk from panoramic views of Agate Beach. Enjoy your stay by taking a dip in the pool and hot tub, dining in the Sea Glass Bistro & Lounge, or relaxing in your newly renovated room.
1 night
Location: Bandon
Newly updated throughout in 2019, Bandon Inn sits on a scenic bluff overlooking Bandon and the Coquille River. This hotel is a 6-minute walk from Bandon Historical Society Museum and 2 miles from Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint.
2 nights
Location: Eureka
The Bayshore Inn is a comfortable, modern hotel centrally-located in Eureka. The hotel features complimentary Wi-Fi, an indoor/outdoor headed swimming pool, and easy access to local shops and restaurants.
1 night
Location: Grants Pass
The Riverside Inn is located next to the scenic Rogue River in Grants Pass, OR. Don't miss Historic Downtown Grants Pass or Riverside Park just across the bridge.
2 nights
Location: Bend
Hotel located in downtown Bend. Walking distance to local breweries, restaurants, Drake Park and Mirror Pond.
2 nights
Location: Portland
The Comfort Suites is situated near the Columbia River, offering walking paths as well as ready access to downtown Portland, 10 miles away. They also provide a free shuttle service to the Portland International Airport, just 6 minutes away.
2 nights
Location: Newport
Located on the Oregon coast, this hotel places you just a short walk from panoramic views of Agate Beach. Enjoy your stay by taking a dip in the pool and hot tub, dining in the Sea Glass Bistro & Lounge, or relaxing in your newly renovated room.
1 night
Location: Bandon
Newly updated throughout in 2019, Bandon Inn sits on a scenic bluff overlooking Bandon and the Coquille River. This hotel is a 6-minute walk from Bandon Historical Society Museum and 2 miles from Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint.
2 nights
Location: Eureka
The Bayshore Inn is a comfortable, modern hotel centrally-located in Eureka. The hotel features complimentary Wi-Fi, an indoor/outdoor headed swimming pool, and easy access to local shops and restaurants.
1 night
Location: Grants Pass
The Riverside Inn is located next to the scenic Rogue River in Grants Pass, OR. Don't miss Historic Downtown Grants Pass or Riverside Park just across the bridge.
2 nights
Location: Bend
Hotel located in downtown Bend. Walking distance to local breweries, restaurants, Drake Park and Mirror Pond.
Participant Reviews
4.89
Based on 31 Reviews
Sort By:
Christina – Class of 2023 | Lancaster, PA
This is a great combination of varied terrains and scenery in one trip. Hard to say which were the best - dramatic sea cliffs and beaches, gigantic redwood forests, Crater Lake, Columbia River Gorge or high desert with lava fields - they were all great and quite varied. It was terrific to be able to cover all that ground in 10 days with someone else doing the driving. We enjoyed ideal weather in the beginning of October.
— Review left October 16, 2024
Pam – Class of 2022 | Sulphur, LA
This is a fantastic trip and covers so much of the state. The views are outstanding and everything I had hoped for!
— Review left October 15, 2024
Linda – Class of 2023 | Marlton, NJ
This was a wonderful trip! The itinerary provides a nice variety of experiences - jet boat, dune buggy, a boat trip with whale sitings, magestic redwoods, Crater Lake, lava fields, and more. It was a great way to see a beautiful part of the country. Our group leader, Lesa, was exceptional. She kept things running smoothly the entire trip, handling any bumps along the way with grace. The participants were a great group of people. I would highly recommend this trip!
— Review left October 11, 2024
Janice – Class of 2013 | Buchanan, MI
I have attended seven Road Scholar programs, and each of them has been very well planned and executed, as well as fun and educational. Road Scholar has made it possible for me to see and do things I would not have experienced on my own.
— Review left October 4, 2024
Noel | Maple Lake, MN
Everyone should take the opportunity to see the coastal redwoods!
— Review left October 2, 2024
This participant did not give a star rating.
Debbie – Class of 2024 | Cape Coral, FL
Being my first trip with Road Scholar I was a bit nervous. It was a wonderful trip. Lesa did an excellent job with all of our stops and keeping us informed on info in the area. What a beautiful coastal trip we had!! Erik our bus driver was the best getting us around.
— Review left September 27, 2024
Steve – Class of 2019 | Prairie Village, KS
What a great trip. So many beautiful places to go. A lot of time traveling to all those places but frequent stops and comfortable transportation make it a worthwhile experience. We particularly enjoyed the variety of activities.
— Review left September 27, 2024
Deborah – Class of 2012 | Buffalo, NY
I had a great time on this tour….many new and varied experiences. Our guide Lesa and expert Roger and driver Erik (best driver ever) were wonderful.
— Review left September 18, 2024
Glenda – Class of 2024 | Mesa, AZ
Our group leader, Susan Wolfe, is amazing! Her warmth, empathy, and passion definitely contributed to the cohesion of the group. The sites are simply marvelous on this trip, and the activities were very fun!
— Review left September 2, 2024
James – Class of 2024 | Mesa, AZ
I must commend Susan, Natalie, and Erik for their remarkable efforts throughout the trip. Susan truly bore the weight of any challenges that arose with grace, remaining humble in her victories. Natalie, juggling multiple roles, ensured that no one was left out, skillfully attending to everyone's needs. And Erik—what can I say? He maintained his perfect record of no reportable incidents, a feat that places him alone in his group at his company. His dedication to safety and excellence was evident throughout the journey. Thank you again for this enriching experience. I look forward to the next adventure with Road Scholar! Best regards, James
— Review left September 2, 2024
Kathleen – Class of 2014 | Cincinnati, OH
This trip was a perfect blend of learning the science of nature and experiencing the joy of being outdoors. The excellent planning put us in places where we could have the unplanned events such as spotting a bald eagle or walking through the giant redwoods in a misty rain. Who could predict snow at Crater Lake in August or that the snow would stop, the clouds would lift from the lake and reveal the brilliant blue the lake is known for. Hats off to our leader Susan, our naturalist Natalie and our driver Erick.
— Review left August 28, 2024
Patricia | Anacortes, WA
This was a great trip with beautiful scenery, great walks, interesting places, good museums and kept us moving!
— Review left July 1, 2024
Andrea – Class of 2019 | Littleton, CO
The coast of Oregon is exciting and magnificent. This trip offers a lot of variety and immersion into the natural world. In addition to the gorgeous scenery you get to play on a dune buggy and jet boat. Wow!
— Review left June 19, 2024
Mary – Class of 2019 | Phoenix, AZ
very enjoyable trip excellent leaders who imparted lots of new facts congenial companions,gorgous country which included beaches Redwood forests a land of lava and magnificent falls.
— Review left June 19, 2024
Donn – Class of 2017 | Lake Oswego, OR
Of anyone wanting to learn about Oregon from top to bottom (and beyond) this is the perfect program.
— Review left October 9, 2023
Nancy – Class of 2004 | Maineville, OH
This was a wonderful road trip through Oregon south along the Coastal Hwy. to the California Redwoods, then northward to include beautiful Crater Lake, the Lava Lands, the Native American story in Oregon, and lastly the awesome Multnomah Falls. The pace and meals were good and the weather was sunny and beautiful every single day. Carolyn was our Host and Greg was our Study Leader, and they worked very well together. All participants were timely and courteous; we had a very memorable trip together. Now we are sharing our photos through one person's Google account, so the fun continues. We hated to see our Oregon adventure end.
— Review left October 3, 2023
This participant did not give a star rating.
Charles – Class of 2018 | Glenn Dale, MD
This Particular Road Scholar Trip is exceptional for learning about Oregon, and it's vast Mountains, Rivers and landscape but the highlight of the program is the Redwood trees.
— Review left October 2, 2023
Liesa | Fairborn, OH
It was thrilling to experience walking among the tallest living entities on the planet, hundreds of years old, the Coastal Redwoods. I stood in awe; the sight, scent, and quietness of the Redwood Forest becoming a visceral memory.
— Review left July 10, 2023
Margaret – Class of 2021 | Louisville, KY
This was a wonderful trip - we got to see so much beautiful scenery along the coast of Oregon and into Northern California. I heartily recommend this trip. The tour was well organized and our tour director, Carolyn, was terrific. The bus was comfortable and our driver friendly and a skillful driver. Although we were in some small towns and rural locations, the accomodations and food were very good.
— Review left June 25, 2023
Jay – Class of 2018 | Croton on Hudson, NY
Carolyn Singh was a phenomenal Group Leader, and it was her first time in this role. Amazing leadership!
— Review left June 19, 2023
Julie – Class of 2016 | Lansdale, PA
This trip was awesome! It was everything I had hoped it would be! Just wonderful from beginning to end!
— Review left October 17, 2022
Wendy – Class of 2013 | Stevens Point, WI
This a an outstanding program. There is so much variety of interesting and beautiful things to see. Coastal Oregon, the California redwood trees, and Crater Lake National Park were all amazing! This was my favorite Road Scholar program of the 9 I have been on. I would recommend it for anyone who likes to be on the go and learn new things!
— Review left September 12, 2022
This participant did not give a star rating.
Mary Jane – Class of 2022 | Silver Spring, MD
I loved the trip and was so thankful that in June the weather was in mid-70's to low-80's plus we were there before the Oregon fires & 100+ weather. Hikes, shore line, trees, crater lake, trip leader & info from guide were all fantastic. So happy I went.
— Review left September 4, 2022
Sandra – Class of 2015 | New York, NY
Bob was an amazing leader. We saw so much beauty on the Oregon Coast.
— Review left August 29, 2022
Michelle – Class of 2018 | Lawrence, KS
Great trip, great leaders. A variety of activities and experiences.
— Review left July 27, 2022
This participant did not give a star rating.
Martha – Class of 2022 | Raleigh, NC
This trip was everything I hoped it would be. We had a great group and fantastic leaders. Roger was an excellent guide with “T” providing local color and fun facts. And bus driver Benny was simply amazing. She can handle that big bus as smoothly as if it were a Prius! I have already signed up for a another trip next summer.
— Review left July 18, 2022
Ellen – Class of 2015 | Chicago, IL
Another great RS program - The Pacific NW is beautiful - Oregon Coast unique and magnificent - Redwoods - Crater Lake amazing. Great guides - wonderful people - and everyone remained healthy. Couldn't ask for anything more.
— Review left July 4, 2022
Karen – Class of 2022 | Ruffs Dale, PA
5 star rating. I chose the tour for the main attractions, but there was so much more this trip offered. Each day was an adventure. All along the way, Roger and T educated us of all the incredible sights we saw. Both were very knowledgable of the area and complemented one another. The coast of Oregon is absolutely beautiful. The high cliffs along the ocean, sea stacks jetting out of the sand and water, towering Lighthouses on the hill tops and the beautiful sunsets. The California Redwoods are so majestic. Walking among these giants was so calming and peaceful. Crater Lake was just as captivating and inspiring as the fog rolled in and out. The Oregon Sand Dunes tour was a fun ride over mountains of sand that make you feel as if you were in the desert. The jet boat tour through the wilderness on the Rogue River was breathtaking. We saw eagles, deer, a river otter, an abundance of wildlife along the way. As you walk through the lava fields at Newberry Volcanic Nat’l Monument it was like you were on another planet. So many amazing sights to see. I would highly recommend this trip. Yes there were wrinkles along the way, but everything got ironed out. I am already booked for 2 more Road Scholar trips!
— Review left June 23, 2022
Elizabeth – Class of 2015 | Roseville, CA
Overall, I would give this trip 3 stars. While our Group Leader Roger Dammarell was amazing, our Study Leader contributed only tangentially to this program. Our 32 Participants were exposed to COVID by our first coach driver and nearly derailed the entire 10 day program by her failure to wear a mask while experiencing COVID symptoms. Roger quickly arranged for a 2nd coach driver who we had for two days before she left for another committment. In spite of our COVID scare, our 3rd coach driver chose to remove his mask each time we boarded and exited the coach, and was driving our 32 participants using one hand on the wheel while snacking. After 2 requests from our Leader, the bus driver stopped snacking while driving, but continued to pull his mask off at every itinerary stop. The food was sometimes very good, sometimes very disappointing, and the educational quality of some of the stops was low. But many of the itinerary points of interest were amazing, and Roger has a deep and broad expertise of science, nature, history, and human exploration in this geographical area. He is a delightful storyteller. There were frequent bathroom breaks and itinerary stops planned for each long day of driving.
— Review left June 20, 2022
Don – Class of 2019 | Daphne, AL
you will learn about the science, history, and culture of the natural areas and the people who recognized the value of these beautiful places.
— Review left September 3, 2019
Stanley – Class of 2010 | Boynton Beach, FL
A wonderful trip. My husband and I learned so much about Oregon, the California Redwoods, and many other sites along the way. It was well worth taking this adventure.
— Review left June 21, 2019





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