With a name like Christmas Valley, you imagine a beautiful winter wonderland full of pine trees, meandering creeks that are covered in a thin sheet of ice in the winter, and bright lights. In reality, Christmas Valley, Oregon looks quite different than the name would suggest.
Instead of Santa’s workshop, you get a stunning and remote desert in the middle of the state of Oregon. Named after the nearby, dry lake, Christmas Lake, Christmas Valley is a sprawling 11,000 acres of sand dunes and picturesque rock formations that cast an image of old Wild West films. Located more than three hours from Eugene and nearly five hours from Portland, Christmas Valley is a small town of just over 1,000 residents.
When you arrive at a jet charter airport in Christmas Valley, Oregon, you’ll touch down at the Christmas Valley airport situated one mile southeast of town. Given its remote location and rugged terrain, you’ll want to outfit yourself with a four-by-four vehicle if you plan on visiting the numerous natural attractions. If you don’t have access to a vehicle, get to know the locals who can take you to see all the favorite hotspots.
Should the city call your name, you’ll traverse through the stunning desert landscape before meeting the Pacific Northwest you expect to see in Oregon as you make your way to Portland. Known for its artisan coffee and craft beer scene, Portland is the heart of indie culture in America. You’re bound to come across the wild and unusual before hopping back in the 4×4 and returning to Christmas Valley.
