The Scenic Drive Along The Mary's Peak To Pacific Scenic Byway Is Almost As Beautiful As The Destination Itself
By Christy Articola|Published July 27, 2023
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Christy Articola
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Christy Articola has lived in Colorado since 2013 and considers herself a Centennial State enthusiast and expert through and through. She's based in Denver metro, but over the past decade, she has traveled to every corner, river, village, park, town, and city in the state and continues to explore it deeper and further whenever she can. Christy simply can't get enough of Colorado, and loves sharing all her adventures with you through Only In Your State! She graduated with a degree in journalism from Fordham University and is thrilled to be working as a full time travel writer for this and other sites - she finally found her perfect niche - and is so grateful for that.
Do you enjoy driving along scenic byways? Fortunately for us, Oregon is full of them! There are many that pass through beautiful areas throughout our great state, but the Mary’s Peak to Pacific Scenic Byway in Oregon is one that you’ll especially adore. It’s only 72 miles long and it will only take you about two hours to drive from its beginning point near Tangent to its end in Waldport. But, along the way, you’ll see many places that will remind you of why we love calling Oregon home. Read on to learn more about this wonderful drive and plan on driving it yourself soon!
Soon after departing on your drive, you'll pass through Corvallis. This is a lovely small city and college town. It is home to the Oregon State University.
Much of this scenic byway follows the Alsea River. You might stop at the Alsea Falls Recreational Site as you head west. Or, take a left off the main road briefly for a photo with the charming Hayden Covered Bridge. It was built in 1918 and is still in use today.
There are a number of recreation sites and waysides along this route where you can get out and get closer to the river. The Missouri Bend Recreation Site is one of them.
As you approach the Pacific Ocean, the Alsea River widens and you'll cross over it on the Alsea Bay Bridge. You can stop at the Alsea Bay Historic Interpretive Center to learn a bit more about the bridge and the area in general.
This scenic byway ends in Waldport where it intersects Route 101 - the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway. Make a final stop at the Seal Rock State Recreation Site to enjoy the immense beauty of the Pacific Ocean.
This scenic byway is short and sweet and beautiful. You’re going to love everything about it! It really showcases the best that Oregon has to offer. You’ll see farmland, mountains, a river, and the ocean – it doesn’t get much better than that. Have fun and drive safe!
Are you looking to stay in Waldport overnight when you’re done? Check out Booking.com and reserve a room for your trip there right now!
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