The 2026 Oregon Treasures Quest Challenge is back. Senator Jeff Merkley announced this event. It encourages Oregon residents to explore the state. The challenge runs from January 1 to October 15, 2026. Participants must visit at least 10 different counties. They will document their journeys with selfies. This initiative aims to highlight Oregon’s diverse beauty. It covers all 36 counties. Tiers of recognition await visitors. These include visiting 10, 25, or all 36 counties. Qualifying sites and submission details are on merkley.senate.gov/connect/oregon-treasures-quest. This program has been running since 2024. Hundreds have participated before. It is a way to enjoy Oregon’s unique places. The challenge also promotes local economies. Tourism dollars benefit communities. However, tourism brings challenges. These include infrastructure strain. Housing affordability can also be an issue. The quest encourages people to discover new areas. It helps them reconnect with the state.
What is the Oregon Treasures Quest Challenge?
This challenge invites people to explore Oregon. It focuses on the state’s natural beauty. It also highlights cultural and historical sites. Senator Merkley created this initiative. He wants people to discover Oregon’s many wonders. The challenge uses a guide. This guide lists treasures in each county. Participants must visit specific sites. They need to document their travels. Selfies at these sites are required. The goal is to visit at least 10 counties. Visitors who achieve this get a reward. They can earn an invitation to the Oregon Treasures Quest Party. This party happens near the year’s end. There are also higher tiers. These are for visiting 25 or 36 counties. These lead to titles like “Oregon Trailblazer” or “Oregon Explorer.”
How to Participate and Win Recognition
Participation is straightforward. First, get the 2026 Oregon Treasures Quest guide. You can find it online. Then, plan your trips. Visit sites listed in the guide. You must visit at least 10 different counties. Document each visit with a selfie. The selfie must show the site in the background. Submit these selfies through the official web form. The submission deadline is October 15, 2026. Only one person per group needs to submit. That person receives the party invitation for the whole group. Reaching the “Oregon Ranger” status requires visiting 10 sites in 10 counties. Visiting 25 sites in 25 counties makes you an “Oregon Trailblazer.” Visiting all 36 sites in 36 counties earns you the title “Oregon Explorer.”
The Purpose and Impact of the Quest
Senator Merkley created this quest. He believes Oregon is a spectacular place. Every county offers something exciting. The challenge encourages people to enjoy these spots. It also helps people recharge. It lets them reconnect with their state. Furthermore, the quest boosts local economies. Tourism injects money into communities. It supports restaurants and shops. It also supports local artisans. However, tourism has challenges. Rapid growth can strain infrastructure. It can also affect public safety. Housing costs may rise. The challenge aims to promote thoughtful exploration. It highlights places that may lack permanent protections. Protecting these areas is vital for future generations. The quest also encourages enjoying public lands. It celebrates natural and cultural wonders.
Senator Merkley’s Vision for Oregon
Senator Merkley sees Oregon as a gem. He visits all 36 counties annually. He holds town halls to hear from residents. He appreciates Oregon’s diverse landscapes. These include coasts, mountains, and forests. He believes these places are essential for well-being. They help people restore their souls. The Treasures Quest is a fun way to explore. It encourages discovering hidden gems. It connects people with their communities. It promotes appreciation for Oregon’s beauty. This initiative has been successful since 2024. Hundreds have joined previous quests. The challenge continues to inspire exploration. It celebrates the state’s unique character. It also serves to remind us of conservation needs.
Specific Treasures Highlighted
The quest guide mentions many sites. Examples include the Oregon Caves National Monument. It is in Josephine County. The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is in Baker County. Marys Peak in Benton County offers great views. Timberline Lodge on Mt. Hood is another highlight. These locations show Oregon’s diversity. They range from natural wonders to historical sites. The guide is not exhaustive. It encourages discovering more places.
Conclusion
The 2026 Oregon Treasures Quest Challenge offers a grand adventure. It invites all to explore Oregon’s beauty. It encourages discovery and connection. Participants can earn recognition. They can also help boost local economies. The challenge is a testament to Oregon’s appeal. It also underscores the importance of conservation. Join the quest and enjoy the journey.
