"Jefferson is the state that never was and never will be but that has lived in men's minds for a…read morehundred years." So quoth one resident from the region encompassing part of Southern Oregon and Northern California that locals call the State of Jefferson. If you have ever had occasion to traverse this largely unspoiled, sparsely populated, Heaven-sent, beautiful geographical region, you will understand why residents proudly and defiantly describe themselves as the 51st state in the Union. The history of a movement to secede from the rest of the United States is well-documented on the Web in State of Jefferson websites, Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/State_of_Jefferson), and has made its way into the collective consciousness of the local population enough to garner recognition by media outlets in the area. For instance, the region's NPR affiliates are referred to as Jefferson Public Radio (http://www.ijpr.org) and The Pioneer Press, an area newspaper published in Fort Jones, California, stakes its claim as "The official newspaper of the State of Jefferson". The sheer beauty and remoteness of parts of this hypothetical state, exemplified by the view of the snow-covered mountaintop of the extinct volcano Mt. Shasta, are enough to convince most skeptics that the State of Jefferson is its own special place that deserves a name of its own and is worth visiting at least once in one's lifetime.

Over the rich history of the United States, various successionist movements have come and gone (or…read morenot). In fact a few of my Texas friend actively look forward to the day when the Lone Star State goes it's own way, but only after they get their first In-N-Out Burger franchise. Up here in the far reaches of Northern California is the State of Jefferson, with Yreka as its Capital. It's a beautiful drive and somewhere along I-5, there's actually a sign on top of a barn that announces your arrival. There is no border patrol, unless you count the Ag Inspection Station at Hornbrook. The State of Jefferson was a dream, that Northern California and Southern Oregon shared, to succeed in creating a new state. The concept of the State of Jefferson started 1852 when a bill was introduced in the California State Legislature meeting at Vallejo. This bill died in committee and the proposal was never acted upon. After Oregon was incorporated as a state in 1859, miners in the area refused allegiance to either state government and declined to pay taxes. During the Civil War some settlers were interested in creating a northern haven for slavery, but fortunately this failed. By 1941 the dream was sparked again when certain counties in California and Oregon decided that they were not being fairly represented by Sacramento and Salem. This was a region that earned a living off the lumber, fishing, and other harvesting businesses in the area and they felt the government was not distributing infrastructure funding equally to the area. In particular, poor road quality and lack of bridges made it difficult to earn a living in this remote area. They wanted to break away and from their own state to improve their lifestyles by governing themselves with their own laws. And the Jefferson State of Mind lives on today.....

DIRECTIONS: Don't rely on your GPS to guide you here. I plugged Pluto's Cave into Google Maps and…read moreit led us down all these eerie gravel roads (there were private properties along the way but we couldn't figure out if they were residential or commercial; didn't see any humans). It was uncomfortable. In the end, it led us to the wrong side of the cave. You are better off looking at Google Maps and just following it manually. It clearly shows where the road to the trailhead is. You take A12 and then you'll see a small sign for Pluto's Cave where you turn onto 43N30. That'll take you to the trailhead. If you want something to plug into the GPS, use Juniper Flat OHV Area which is less than a mile away. Once you make that turn from A12, you'll see an official sign for Pluto's Cave. The parking area wasn't really much but there was only one other car so we managed to squeeze in. OTHER TIPS: ~Bring at least two sources of light. One back-up is generally recommended so you have something else in case your primary source of light dies. In my experience here, I'd recommend bringing a headlamp (mine was garbage so try to get a good one) as well as a flashlight. The thing is, there are some areas in the cave where you have to climb boulders and the terrain isn't flat. Your headlamp isn't lighting up the area where you are stepping unless you look down. Then it won't light up the area in front of you. Ideally, you'd want to use the headlamp to illuminate the space in front of you and point the flashlight at your feet. This may be a major DUH to regular cave explorers but this was my first cave. At the start of the cave area, you actually have some light where the ceiling has collapsed. It almost looks like a small cave but you want to keep moving forward as the cave continues. Eventually though, you reach an area with boulders that you climb to look around the bend. After that, it's DARKNESS. Not sure how far the cave actually continues....eek. I didn't want to risk it with poor/minimal lighting so I didn't go any further. ~Good shoes, obviously. ~Be aware that there are bats in here. Leave them alone. They shouldn't bother you. Don't bother them. This is their home. Also, they carry diseases. ~The trail from the trailhead to the cave is short but not well marked. Beware of rattlesnakes, per the sign. Overall, this is a pretty cool experience but spooky as heck. At least for me. There is a lot of graffiti on the walls which doesn't help. I went with my boyfriend and we didn't see any other people until we were headed back and already out of the cave. If I were to go back, I'd prefer to do it with a larger group.

Meh..The place is heavily graffitied and smells like urine. I got a very disturbing and somewhat…read moreevil vibe from the place. Your GPS may take you off an unpaved dirt road - glad we had a 4 wheel drive truck, about .4 miles to where you will see a sign for 'Plutos' Cave' and another dirt rood offshoot behind the sign with a lowered gate behind it. DON'T GO THAT WAY. Look around the little parking area for a path with rocks painted white on either side. THAT path will take you to the cave. Some smart person also painted several rocks white on the path to the cave. Look for those as there are several path offshoots.

A small walk uphill directly off the 1-5 exit 6/mt Ashland exit. Private property sign. Lots of…read morehuman feces and litter but cool once you get up there and walk around.

This is one of those little places every local should experience- and if you're just passing…read morethrough it's right off the I-5- it's a little walk that would be good for stretching your legs- letting your dog out etc- and it's really interesting to see the train tunnel through the mountain up close- I love all the old buildings they are covered with graffiti but that somehow makes them look even more awesome against the forest backdrop- they are really amazing to check out- great short hiking trail with an interesting ending and lots of historical significance- just beautiful- a must see and a great experience *sidenote- rumored to be haunted because as the site of the last "great" train robbery in the west- 4 were killed- it was also rumored that the dynamite the robbers used to open the safe also burnt up the cash so started their curse

I've been to where lava flows were before but never have I walked/climbed through where lava tubes…read moreactually are before. This was definitely an experience if you haven't done it! $15.00-25.00 to bring your horse, bicycle, motorcycle cycle, car or RV into the park. Doesn't matter how warm outside as the caves are cool to freezing with ice depending on which cave and how far down it goes. Headlamps/flashlights are needed but headlamps easiest so you can use both your hands. The fantastic Park Rangers will not only give you expert advice on what caves are best suited for you but the history about this amazing park. Skull Cave before you get to the visitors center was my first cave. After descending the short rock staircase then a rock floor then to a metal landing and down the metal staircase lower and lower into the cold dark earth. At the bottom is a Skull, bones and ice. The hand rails were freezing. Wish I would have brought my gloves. The visitors center can help with what caves are where and offer helmets, flashlights and other needs via borrow, rent or buy. Closed shoes, knee pads, etc for tight caves recommended. The others I tried weren't near that cold but still really incredible in different ways. To see all the melting of rock and burn scars through these tubes is spectacular. Our earth is alive and so amazing. There are some bathrooms at some of the sites but not all so take advantage. Also, make sure to wear clothing you've never worn in other caves. Transfer of biologicals is real and could very negatively effect the bats in here. An awe experience and I highly recommend it. Some spaces also might be a bit small in case you're claustrophobic. Many are not tight but pitch black. Better than any Halloween haunted house with the creep jumping out at you. A park experience not to miss!

One of the most underrated national parks in the country. You owe it to yourself to visit Lava…read more Beds National Monument at least once in your life! There are many lava tubes that are for all difficulties and they are all mostly along the road loop around the park or a short trail walk away. Some are easy to walk through upright all the way to those you have to crawl through requiring gear. Certain tubes can be closed seasonally to protect the bats that both migrate and hibernate there, so be sure to check with the park before you go if there is a specific one you would like to visit. The campgrounds are first come first serve except for the large group sites that can be reserved online, and the restrooms are decently kept with water refill stations outside. Overall a great experience, would highly recommend!

A private buisness located near a rustic public venue of an open airy barn house style market place…read moreassociated with orchard laborors who harvest fresh fruits growing a craft of elitely unique wines and blends. Their on site spacious tasting room opens Friday afternoons and local musicians, libations vendors gather here to enjoy the views, the weather, the clear air, and celebrations of life.

Like the idyllic setting for a wedding in September. Plenty of privacy and easy parking. Sorry to…read moresay not many indoor venues can compare to a nice outdoor afternoon and evening next to a winery and orchard. Thankfully, there are also cottages on the property to rent for getting the wedding party ready, etc.

Mount Shasta is an incredibly beautiful mountain and volcano. If your driving between Seattle and…read moreLos Angeles you can't miss it from the highway. There are probably a couple different cities that you can enjoy Mount Shasta from but my favorite city is Weed. They have hotels and gift shops and is a cute little town with everything you need. There are two exits for Weed off the highway. One exit is the 'old town' part that is more cute and the other exit is the newer part. I think staying a night here is a perfect thing to do as the scenery is so pleasant. It really is a destination. So often to see natural beauty like this you have to sacrifice comforts of city living. Not with Mount Shasta - its a town that has it all and is just steps away from a little nature walk with an incredible backdrop. It is a real sight to see when you have this regular old Shell Gas station or even Grocery Outlet where the backdrop is the volcano. I don't think you can ever get tired of the harmony here of man made combined with nature.

Incredible volcano and mountain…read more Really recommend spending some time around the nature in this area, even if you won't be committing a summit climb. I went up this past weekend with the attempt to summit Shasta and had a really nice time. The town of Mt. Shasta has a few restaurants and some decent accomodations for sleeping (slept in Loge with our group which was great)... As for the hike, we went up and started at Bunny Flats and camped at Helen Lake for the night and then going for the summit via the Avalanche Gulch route. It was a beautiful and trying hike...definitely be familiar with the risks and have the proper skills to manage them if attempting. All in all; Mount Shasta is majestic and magical. Spend some time here!

This is an adorable bridge right in eagle point it adds so much character to the town. It has a…read moreparking lot right next to it you can't miss it ! There is a river and lots of trees around it I saw people sitting on picnic tables and just taking casual strolls . Very cute espically if you love covered bridges

This is the 2nd time going to this location. It's been years since I went…read more The tour was a little smaller, smaller location to roam and the known things like the standing broom was not included in the tour. It was a hot day and I'm sure everyone was overheated. They have porta potties outside of check in area. Things to know: Bring your own golf ball to test one of the guides theory. Bring comfortable clothes and walking shoes. The location has a few souvenirs and drinks for sale in the check in area. Discount for veterans and first responders. Overall great experience and would recommend. The tour guide was knowledgeable.

Oregon's version of the Mystery Spot in Santa Cruz CA…read more I've only been to the Mystery Spot in Santa Cruz once over 10 years ago in June 2013 and this experience at the Oregon Vortex was pretty much the same. Max was a very informative tour guide and was great in explaining the history and the "unexplainable" with plenty of exhibits detailing defying the laws of gravity. He asked for volunteers (children and adults) on some of his illustrations like for the height illusions as well as use props like a broom, a measuring tape and a leveler. The tour lasted about 45 minutes. The place is located off the beaten path. From N River Rd/Second Ave as we entered Sardine Creek Rd was another 4-1/2 miles to the attraction itself. Parking is free. Admission price is expensive (I can't remember, I think $20/ea or close to it). Discounts were given if you're a AAA member or military personnel. Mystery Spot in California is half at $10. Anyway, the property is small. This is definitely one of Oregon's oldest and most original examples of Roadside America. 3.5 Stars Review #3264

Hanley Farm is one of those local historic places that has a lot going for it but doesn't seem to…read morelive up to its potential. It is scenic, a great location, ample parking on site or nearby, but more often than not the gate is locked and they are closed. They have been hosting seasonal events lately - a scarecrow festival, a wreath making day this weekend - but they seem to have a scaled down volunteer staff to coincide with the limited hours. It's too bad! This place could be a great spot for the community.

Things have looked up over the past few years! This month there are two popular, annual events…read moreplanned - May 9 & 10, Heritage Plant & Garden sale, with special treats for Mother on Mother's day. Plus, scavenger hunt, food, historic Hanley House tours, garden tours, etc. Then, May 30, the Children's Heritage Fair; the entire family will enjoy stories, food, Heritage animals, crafts, etc. Then, June 20, 2015, the farm is hosting the Artists Day and Crafts fair. In July Living History Day. Learn more about on-going events at the farm on Facebook and our SOHS Website . Also, the farm is available for weddings, private parties, etc. Call the Southern Oregon History Center for information - (541) 773-6536 x202.

The water is hypothermia inducingly cold, the walk is treacherous and the falls aren't that…read moreexciting. You can take the long route which requires a lot more walking near the train tracks or attempt the river crossing which could end with you swept miles downriver or drowned. At any moment they could let water out of the down to send a surge down the Sacramento River and send you off through rocks and rapids below the falls. The trains come through fast and around blind corners and the roar of the river masks the sound of the train. It is a dangerous hike and people have died there. I don't recommend it for day trippers or casual tourists. Advanced hiking skills required and extra attention to safety and strong swimmers only. Even in mid August the water is high and freezing and the river crossing is very slippery and dangerous. If you know what you are doing and manage the trek there and back you will have seen one of the areas smaller but pretty waterfalls. There is talk of building a trail with a pedestrian bridge to the falls so once that is done it will likely be overrun with day trippers. I recommend going now but be careful.

A must visit in Dunsmuir! Live the cascading waterfall so majestic , calm and mesmerizing ! It's…read moreour second time here and definitely be more visit in the future ! We had the whole waterfall to ourselves