Where is Oregon Located in the United States?

Oregon is located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, known for its diverse landscapes that include rugged coastlines, dense forests, high deserts, and volcanic mountain ranges. Oregon has a rich history rooted in Native American culture, exploration, and pioneering during the westward expansion. The state is celebrated for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and environmentally conscious culture.

State Name: Oregon
Postal Abbreviation: OR
Population: 4.24 million (2023 estimate)
Area: 98,381 square miles
Capital: Salem
Largest City: Portland
Statehood Year: 1859 (33rd state)
Time Zones: Pacific Time Zone (majority), Mountain Time Zone (small portion in eastern Malheur County)

Bordering States of Oregon

Washington

To the north, Oregon shares a border with Washington, primarily along the Columbia River, which acts as a natural boundary between the two states. This river is vital for both states in terms of transportation, commerce, and recreation. Major cities along this border include Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington, which form part of the greater Portland metropolitan area. The two states are deeply connected through shared industries like technology, manufacturing, and agriculture, as well as a similar Pacific Northwest culture. The Columbia River Gorge is a key geographic feature that provides scenic beauty and opportunities for hiking, windsurfing, and other outdoor activities.

California

Oregon’s southern border touches California, where the landscape shifts from Oregon’s forests and mountains to the drier, more Mediterranean climate of northern California. The two states share a strong economic relationship, particularly through the agricultural industries in southern Oregon and northern California. Key transportation routes like Interstate 5 run north-south, facilitating trade and travel between the states. Additionally, Oregon’s southern regions, including Ashland and Medford, are culturally and economically tied to northern California, especially through tourism, wine production, and the arts.

Nevada

To the southeast, Oregon shares a long border with Nevada. This boundary cuts through remote, sparsely populated areas of desert and high plains. The geography in this region is more arid and features part of the Great Basin. Although the population density is low, the shared border influences mining and agricultural activities. Both states rely on the region’s resources for ranching and energy production. The border also serves as an access point for travelers heading to Nevada’s cities or natural areas from Oregon.

Idaho

To the east, Oregon is bordered by Idaho, with much of the boundary following the Snake River. This border region is characterized by agricultural lands, with both states relying on the fertile soils for crops like potatoes, wheat, and onions. The Snake River is essential for irrigation and hydroelectric power in the region. The cities of Ontario, Oregon, and Boise, Idaho, maintain strong economic ties. The rugged mountains and high deserts of eastern Oregon give way to Idaho’s more varied landscape as the two states transition from the Cascade Range to the Rocky Mountains.

GPS Coordinates of Oregon

Oregon is located in the northwestern corner of the contiguous United States, with its general GPS coordinates centered around 44.0° N latitude and 120.5° W longitude. These coordinates place Oregon firmly in the Pacific Northwest, a region known for its temperate climate and dramatic landscapes.

• Northern Coordinates: Oregon’s northern boundary is defined by the Columbia River, which separates the state from Washington. The northernmost point of Oregon is near 42.0° N, close to the town of Rainier on the Columbia River, at approximately 46.2639° N. This area is known for its scenic views of the river, forests, and access to the Pacific Ocean via the Columbia’s mouth.
• Southern Coordinates: The southernmost point in Oregon lies near the border with California at 41.9918° N, in the rugged highlands just north of Dorris, California. This region is part of the Siskiyou Mountains, known for its biodiversity, forests, and scenic beauty. The southern Oregon border area is famous for its wine country, particularly in the Rogue Valley.
• Eastern Coordinates: Oregon’s easternmost point is located near Ontario, at 116.4630° W, along the Snake River, which separates Oregon from Idaho. This area is largely agricultural, with vast fields of crops that rely on irrigation from the Snake River. The eastern border is also home to parts of the Owyhee Desert, a sparsely populated and rugged landscape.
• Western Coordinates: The westernmost point of Oregon is along the Pacific Coast, near Cape Blanco, at 124.5563° W. Cape Blanco is the westernmost point of the contiguous United States, and it features dramatic cliffs, ocean views, and a historic lighthouse. This region is part of Oregon’s scenic and remote Southern Oregon Coast, which is known for its windswept beaches, dense forests, and rocky headlands.

These GPS coordinates illustrate Oregon’s geographic diversity, from its coastal regions along the Pacific Ocean to its mountainous and arid eastern lands. The state’s location in the Pacific Northwest shapes its climate, with the coastal and western regions experiencing cool, wet weather, while the eastern portion is much drier and more extreme.

Levels of Elevation in Oregon

Oregon’s elevation varies significantly across the state, from sea level along the Pacific Coast to the towering volcanic peaks of the Cascade Range. This variation in elevation creates a wide range of ecosystems and climates.

• Highest Elevation: The highest point in Oregon is Mount Hood, which stands at 11,240 feet (3,426 meters). Located about 50 miles east of Portland, Mount Hood is part of the Cascade Range and is an iconic feature of the Oregon landscape. It is a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountaineering. The mountain is also an active volcano, though it has not erupted in recent history.
• Lowest Elevation: The lowest point in Oregon is at sea level along the Pacific Coast, where the state’s coastline stretches for over 360 miles. Towns like Newport, Florence, and Brookings lie at or near sea level. The Oregon coast is known for its rugged beauty, with rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and tidal pools, attracting millions of tourists each year.
• Average Elevation: The average elevation of Oregon is about 3,300 feet (1,006 meters) above sea level. This average is influenced by the high elevations of the Cascade Range and Blue Mountains, as well as the relatively low-lying regions along the coast and in the Willamette Valley. The central and eastern parts of Oregon are higher in elevation due to the presence of high desert plateaus and mountain ranges.

Oregon’s varied elevation contributes to its distinct climate zones, with the western part of the state experiencing cooler, wetter conditions, while the higher elevations and eastern regions are much drier. This range of elevations also makes Oregon a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking everything from coastal adventures to mountain summits.

Most Extreme Points of Oregon

Oregon’s geographical extremes highlight the state’s diversity, with its rugged coastline, towering mountains, and arid deserts all represented in its most extreme points.

• Easternmost Point: Oregon’s easternmost point is located near the town of Ontario, along the Snake River at approximately 116.4630° W. This region borders Idaho and is part of the Treasure Valley, an agricultural hub that relies on irrigation from the Snake River. The landscape here is dominated by high desert and agricultural fields, with the nearby Owyhee Mountains adding to the region’s rugged beauty.
• Westernmost Point: The westernmost point of Oregon is Cape Blanco, situated at 124.5563° W, along the southern Oregon coast. Cape Blanco is known for its windswept cliffs and its historic lighthouse, which stands as the westernmost lighthouse in the contiguous United States. The region is part of Oregon’s remote and scenic southern coast, where visitors come to enjoy its natural beauty and isolation.
• Southernmost Point: Oregon’s southernmost point is found just north of Dorris, California, at approximately 41.9918° N. This area is part of the Siskiyou Mountains, known for their diverse plant and animal species. Southern Oregon, particularly the Rogue Valley, is also known for its wine production and outdoor recreational opportunities.
• Northernmost Point: The northernmost point in Oregon is near the town of Rainier, along the Columbia River, at 46.2639° N. This area is characterized by its proximity to Washington, with the Lewis and Clark Bridge connecting Oregon and Washington across the Columbia. The region is known for its forested hills and access to the Columbia River Gorge, a major destination for hiking, fishing, and windsurfing.

These extreme points showcase Oregon’s diverse landscapes, from its coastal cliffs to its inland deserts and forests. The state’s geography provides a wide range of environments, offering something for every outdoor enthusiast.

Major Mountains in Oregon

Oregon is home to several significant mountain ranges, which play a crucial role in shaping the state’s climate, ecosystems, and recreational opportunities. The Cascade Range and Coast Range are among the most well-known, while other ranges add to the state’s rugged beauty.

• Cascade Range: The Cascade Range is one of Oregon’s most famous mountain ranges, running north to south through the western part of the state. The range is home to Mount Hood, Oregon’s tallest mountain, as well as other notable peaks like Mount Jefferson and Three Sisters. These mountains are volcanic in origin, with several peaks classified as potentially active volcanoes. The Cascades are a major destination for outdoor recreation, including skiing, hiking, and climbing. The range also plays a key role in Oregon’s water supply, as snowmelt from the mountains feeds many of the state’s rivers and reservoirs.
• Wallowa Mountains: Located in northeastern Oregon, the Wallowa Mountains are often referred to as the “Alps of Oregon” due to their dramatic peaks and alpine scenery. The highest point in the range is Matterhorn, which rises to 9,845 feet. The Wallowas are part of the larger Blue Mountains region and are known for their rugged beauty, offering opportunities for backpacking, fishing, and horseback riding. The town of Joseph serves as a gateway to the Wallowas, with Wallowa Lake being a popular spot for camping and boating.
• Coast Range: The Oregon Coast Range runs parallel to the Pacific Ocean, separating the Willamette Valley from the coast. This range is characterized by lower, forested peaks, with the highest point being Marys Peak, at 4,097 feet. The Coast Range is known for its dense forests, which are home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, elk, and cougars. The range also provides some of the best hiking and mountain biking trails in the state, as well as access to Oregon’s famed coastal scenery.
• Steens Mountain: Located in southeastern Oregon, Steens Mountain is a massive fault block that rises to 9,733 feet. It is one of the most prominent geographic features in the state’s high desert region and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The area around Steens Mountain is remote and relatively untouched, making it a popular destination for backcountry camping, wildlife viewing, and photography.

These mountain ranges are not only important for recreation but also for the state’s ecology and economy. The Cascades, in particular, serve as a barrier to moisture coming off the Pacific Ocean, creating a rain shadow that leads to the drier conditions found in eastern Oregon.

Major Rivers and Lakes in Oregon

Oregon’s rivers and lakes are essential to the state’s ecosystems, agriculture, and outdoor recreation. Several major rivers flow through the state, providing water for cities, farms, and natural habitats, while its lakes offer scenic beauty and opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming.

• Columbia River: The Columbia River is the largest river in Oregon and forms much of the state’s northern border with Washington. It stretches for over 1,200 miles, with around 300 miles flowing through Oregon. The river is crucial for hydroelectric power, shipping, and irrigation. The Columbia River Gorge, a deep canyon carved by the river, is one of the most scenic areas in the state, offering hiking, waterfalls, and windsurfing. Major dams along the river, like the Bonneville Dam, generate hydroelectric power for the Pacific Northwest.
• Willamette River: The Willamette River flows through the heart of Oregon’s most populous region, the Willamette Valley, passing through cities like Eugene, Salem, and Portland. The river is a major source of water for agriculture and industry in the valley, and it is also an important recreational resource, offering boating, fishing, and parks along its banks. The river’s fertile floodplain has made the Willamette Valley one of the most productive agricultural regions in the country, particularly for crops like hazelnuts, berries, and wine grapes.
• Snake River: The Snake River forms much of Oregon’s eastern border with Idaho and is a key river for agriculture in the region. The Snake River provides irrigation for crops and serves as a source of hydroelectric power through its many dams. The river also offers recreational opportunities, particularly for fishing and white-water rafting. The Hells Canyon section of the Snake River is the deepest river gorge in North America and is a popular spot for outdoor adventure.
• Crater Lake: Crater Lake is Oregon’s most famous lake, located in the caldera of an ancient volcano. It is the deepest lake in the United States, with a maximum depth of 1,949 feet. Crater Lake is known for its stunning blue color and clarity, and it is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and boat tours. The lake is part of Crater Lake National Park, which attracts visitors from around the world.
• Lake Billy Chinook: Formed by the confluence of the Deschutes, Crooked, and Metolius Rivers, Lake Billy Chinook is a popular recreational reservoir in central Oregon. The lake is known for its striking cliffs and clear water, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. It is a popular destination for camping and houseboating, with several parks and marinas located around the lake.

Oregon’s rivers and lakes are essential to the state’s natural beauty, economy, and outdoor recreation. The Columbia and Willamette Rivers, in particular, have shaped much of Oregon’s history and continue to be vital for its agriculture, energy, and urban development.