Here in Oregon, there’s nothing we love more than a day on the trails. And when paired with an outdoor meal in one of the state’s most scenic villages? Well, that’s the recipe for the most amazing day trip adventure in Oregon ever!
There’s nothing like tucking into a hot, hearty, home-cooked meal after a long day on the trails. But we’ll get to that in a moment.
Kilgore Trout/Google Local
There’s a loverly little hike in Government Camp that’s the perfect trek to enjoy on a beautiful afternoon in the Beaver State: the Little Zigzag Falls Trail.
Kelsey Blake/AllTrails
This 0.7-mile, out-and-back trail follows Little Zigzag Creek to the eponymous falls. It’s accessible for hikers of all ages and abilities, offerings lots of scenic beauty without a whole lot of effort.
Anna Gorin/Moment Open Collection via Getty Images
This waterfall hike is particularly perfect during a PNW heat wave, as it stays quite cool in this lush forest.
Anna Gorin/Moment Open Collection via Getty Images
And then, of course, there’s this lovely little waterfall. This hidden cascade tumbles in two synchronized, splashing drops for a total plummet of 41 feet. What a reward at the end of a hike!
Octaviano Merecias Fotografia Photography/Moment Collection via Getty Images Visit AllTrails to learn more about this trail.
After you’ve gotten your waterfall fix, turn around and head back to Government Camp, where an amazing al fresco feast awaits at Skyway Bar and Grill. This roadside restaurant has been delighting hungry diners since the ’70s with its friendly service and delicious fare.
Skyway Bar and Grill/Facebook
Hailed as the Original Northwest Barbecue, this eatery is known for its saucy brisket and ribs, plus delicious Southern-inspired sides like slaw and baked beans. Our advice? Get The Sampler and try them all!
Todd Cruz/Google Local
The scenery around this humble restaurant is an added bonus. Weather permitting, we recommend enjoying your meal outdoors, reminiscing about your hiking adventures and reveling in the natural beauty of Oregon.
Skyway Bar and Grill/Facebook
A waterfall hike and dinner outdoors, right in the middle of one of the most beautiful natural areas in the PNW? That sounds like the perfect day trip adventure in Oregon to us.
Kilgore Trout/Google Local
Kelsey Blake/AllTrails
Anna Gorin/Moment Open Collection via Getty Images
Octaviano Merecias Fotografia Photography/Moment Collection via Getty Images
Visit AllTrails to learn more about this trail.
Skyway Bar and Grill/Facebook
Todd Cruz/Google Local
For more hiking adventures in Oregon — including some other wondrous wildflower hikes — check out this list of 12 epic trails, one for each month of the year.
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Address: Little Zigzag Falls Trailhead, 39 Rd, Rhododendron, OR 97049, USAAddress: Skyway Bar & Grill, 71545 E US-26, Zigzag, OR 97049, USA
