The community of the Pacific Northwest all know about the imminent increase in population over the years. Through Facebook, Twitter, Email, ect; people tend to brag about our ever loving green state and how we wouldn't move anywhere else. Now, articles pop up in our social media stating "More People are Moving To Oregon" or "Please Stop Coming Here" because of the huge publicity Oregon gets.

Our state has become a trend. Living in the heat, where everyday is summer, is so over and moving up North, where the weather tends to be beautifully unpredictable, has become the new thing.

Although I hate to talk about how much I love our state for this reason, it is very important that I share a few places that reminisce on good times. Maybe you have been to a couple of these spots or even all of them, these are a few of my favorite spots in the region.

1. Larch Mountain

Although this spot is located near Crown Point, not many people have come and hiked up to this beauty. This viewpoint in Corbett, OR gives a wide view of the Cascade Range, with Mt. Adam, Mt. Rainer, Mt. St Helens, Mt. Hood and Mt. Jefferson to view. At night, the mountain lookout turns into a spectacular view of Portland and all the city lights. This short but sweet hike in dense forest, rewards you with the views you find.

2. Lake Billy Chinook

This spot isn't your typical Oregon postcard with lush green forests, located in Culver, OR, it is in the middle of a desert. Typical days spent are tubing behind boats, swimming in the refreshing water, and tanning in the 90 degree weather. This is the perfect getaway without even needing to leave the state.

3. Hawthorne Blvd

This street stretches over 12th to 60th Avenues, located in the Southeast region of Portland. Here you can find anyone from hipsters to street performers all within a block. Vintage shops, cafes, most importantly home to one of the famous Waffle Windows, and more; scatter the area of Hawthorne Boulevard. It is a great place to grab a bite, shop, and spend a whole afternoon.

4. Marine Drive

A place where you can drive, bike, run, or walk, and be alongside the Columbia River. Starting from Troutdale, OR to Portland, OR many like to use this road for its views. It is a great alternative to get to the PDX airport, or just to relax and take some pictures.

5. Sandy River

To end, my personal favorite place in my area, the Sandy River. This is a local place where you can float down the river, bring a group of friends and camp out on the beach, and relax. Parks within the river such as Oxbow Park, Dodge Park, Glenn Otto all are family friendly and most of the time swim safe. Being secluded from over populated areas and surrounded by nature is a huge preference to many Oregonians.