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Learn More About Oregon's Geology
An interesting fact about Oregon is that while the western half experiences heavy rainfall each year, the eastern half is high-desert country. The chain of magnificent towering volcanic peaks that makes up the Cascade Range separates the state into these two extremes. Another fact; before the Cascades first formed (there are actually two different sets), Oregon was a tropical paradise! Go exploring and learn more about Oregon´s geology!

 
 
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Coastal RangeKlamath MountainsDeschutes-Columbia PlateauBlue MountainsHigh Lava PlainsCascade RangeWillamette ValleyBasin & Range & Owyhee uplandsBasin & Range & Owyhee uplands
 
Graphic by Elizabeth L. Orr, Geology of Oregon,
available from Nature of the Northwest
 
 

 

 
Page updated: March 25, 2009

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