*This article originally appeared in the Eugene Weekly on April 21, 2022*

We asked our staff what their favorite place in Oregon was, here's what they had to say:

Oregon Wild's Wilderness Campaign Coordinator Erik Fernandez shares tips and suggestions regarding everything from safety to gear to picking the most scenic trails. We'll include some "Snowshoeing 101" for those new to the activity as well as some tips on locations around Mount Hood that would be applicable to all ability levels.

Last fall, four intrepid adventurers broke trail and became the first to hike the Blue Mountains Trail in Northeastern Oregon.

People enjoy different hikes for different reasons. Some like to get to a summit to enjoy the views, some like wildflower meadows, and others like finding huge trees. Count me in for all of this, but my ideal hike definitely includes both beautiful forests and a free-flowing river or stream (or multiple!) There’s something about how much more lush the vegetation is along a stream, the sound of burbling water as you hike along, or dipping your hands into icy water to splash on your face at a rest stop.

Tips and suggestions on snowshoeing, everything from safety to gear to picking the most scenic trails.

Take a virtual tour of some of the more off-the-beaten-path trails where you’ll be able to enjoy the mountain safely as we temporarily adjust our hiking habits in light of current health concerns.

Join geologist and writer Ruby McConnell for tips, tools, and practices for engaging with nature for all ages.

Take a virtual tour of Oregon's most stunning waterways, from the Rogue to the Imnaha. And you'll find no better guide than River Outfitter and Guide Zach Collier