South of Portland, I-5 approaches California along a series of inland valleys, bypassing historic Oregon City , the first state capital, at the end of the Oregon Trail. Today, the split-level town consists of a short main street, connected by steps, steep streets and a cliff-face elevator to an uptown area of old wooden houses set on a bluff. The highlight is unquestionably the John McLoughlin House , 713 Center St (Tues-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 10am-1pm; $3.50), the dwelling of an Oregon Trail pioneer that's loaded with many artifacts and details on local history.

The Willamette Valley has a diverse agriculture scene, but is best known for its grapes. Hwy-99 W, the scenic route through wine country, accesses more than two dozen acclaimed wineries , most of which pour superb Pinot noirs, Chardonnays and Rieslings. Pick up a wine-country tour map from any local visitor center (or from ) - and expect the odd traffic delay in little burgs like Dundee , now a well-known draw for vino. The Valley also has some of the best examples of covered bridges , with thirty-four in the state spanning creeks near Scio, Albany and Cottage Grove (check out the directory at ).

South through the Willamette Valley

• South through the Willamette Valley

Explore South through the Willamette Valley

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