Hot Spring Road Trip
Our first stop dropped us straight into high desert calm at Summer Lake Hot Springs. It’s the kind of place where time slows down a bit—rustic, quiet, and exactly what you want when you’re trying to shake off winter.
Nearby, we made a quick detour to the Paisley Painted Rocks—a colorful, ever-evolving art installation out in the desert that feels both random and perfect at the same time. Worth the stop for a stretch and a few photos.
And then… the Pioneer Saloon.
Small town charm in its purest form. Cold drinks, good food, and the kind of place where you end up staying longer than planned.
Stop 2: Neon Cowboy Roadhouse
It’s set in a restored roadside building that leans into its roots—think old-school roadhouse meets curated Western design with a little glow-up. The history of these types of stops runs deep in Oregon—once essential pit stops for travelers crossing long stretches of highway—and this one brings that spirit back in a really intentional way.
And the food? So good.
Not just “good for the middle of nowhere” good… actually good. The kind of place you’d go out of your way for.
Bonus Stop: Diamond Lake
On the way to our final stop, we pulled into Diamond Lake… and ended up staying a while.
Hot chocolate, a bowl of soup, snow-covered everything, and the dogs living their absolute best life. We wandered around the lake, took it slow, and immediately decided we’re coming back this summer.
Our final destination: Umpqua Hot Springs—and yes, it absolutely lives up to the hype.
The hike (winter vs. summer):
Summer: It’s a short, fairly easy hike—about half a mile with a bit of incline. Totally manageable and quick.
Winter (what we did): A different story. Snow adds distance, slows you down, and turns it into more of a trek than a stroll. Expect a longer approach and come prepared.
Was it worth it? 100%.
We made our way up through the snow to find every single tub full—which honestly just added to the energy of it all. A little community moment in the middle of nowhere.
Hot tip:
The top tub is the hottest, so if you’re picky about your soak (same), get there early and claim your spot.
