the oregon garden

 The Oregon Garden in Silverton (only miles from Silver Falls and about an hour outside of Portland) is a spectacular 80 acre botanical garden with 20 specialty gardens and an adjoining resort.

We try to get a visit in once a year and stay a night at the Resort to take advantage of the Dinner Special they offer with lodging, wine, breakfast and admission to the garden included.  (Great deal for $109!)  We spend a day at Silver Falls State Park, make full use of the resort's outdoor pool and hot tub, enjoy a decent dinner and comfortable room then spend the next day exploring the beautiful (and sometimes quirky) grounds.

This time around we also did a little letterbox hiding to spice up our regular routine.  (For our newest search clues click here and here.)