Alternatives to Interstate 5 for Traveling from Eugene, Oregon to Portland

For travelers seeking a scenic and hassle-free route from Eugene, Oregon, to Portland without relying on the often congested Interstate 5 (I-5), several highways and train options provide unique and enjoyable journeys. This article explores the best non-I-5 routes, detailing their scenic routes, travel times, and key stops.

Highway 99W: The Fastest Non-I-5 Route

The fastest and most efficient route to follow is Highway 99W (Route 99 West). This scenic highway connects Eugene, Corvallis, Albany, and Salem, ending just short of reaching the city of Portland. The total driving time typically lasts around two and a half hours, though the trip can be extended with detours or scenic stops.

Highlights of Route 99W:

Passes through vibrant cities, including Corvallis, Albany, and Salem Scenic views of the Willamette Valley Interesting historical and cultural stops, like the wine country around Newberg

Non-Interstate 5 Route Details

Ignoring the Amtrak routes and other modes of transportation, the fastest non-I-5 route is still Route 99W. It can be broken down into regional segments, with each offering its own charm and attractions.

Route Split in Junction City: Highway 99 splits in Junction City into Route 99W and Route 99E. This split is a coincidence and occurs due to the town's name derives from the planned junction that was never built. The highway was constructed later.

Terminations and Choices:

Route 99W: This route travels through Corvallis, Monmouth, and the wine country around Newberg. It effectively terminates north of Tigard in SW Portland, where it becomes I-5 near Oaks Park. Route 99E: Passing through Albany, Salem, Woodburn, and Oregon City, this route eventually becomes SE McLoughlin Boulevard and terminates near OMSI.

Other Scenic Routes

For those desiring a longer and more scenic route, several alternative routes are available. These include:

Route 126: Take this route to Florence, then head north on Highway 101 along the Oregon Coast. After reaching a point where these highways converge, you can continue to Portland via highways 6, 26, or 30, which run alongside the Columbia River. Route 126 via Bend and Highway 97: Take Route 126 east to Bend, then proceed north on Highway 97 to Madras. From there, you can opt to continue north to The Dalles or Biggs Junction, both of which provide access to Portland via I-84, which follows the scenic Columbia River Gorge.

While these routes are longer, they offer unparalleled scenic views and unique experiences. The McKenzie River Highway and the Columbia River Gorge are renowned for their beauty, making these routes the “best” in terms of landscape and adventure.

Train Options

For those open to other modes of travel, Amtrak offers two train routes:

Amtrak Cascades: This route covers the distance between Eugene and Portland, but sometimes uses bus services on segments that are not I-5. Coast Starlight: This train primarily uses I-5, making it less suitable for travelers seeking a non-I-5 route.

Both options provide a comfortable and scenic journey, but the highways offer greater flexibility and scenic diversity.

Regardless of the route chosen, travelers can expect a memorable journey filled with natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and historical significance, making the drive or train ride from Eugene to Portland anything but ordinary.