**Q: What is the capital of Oregon?** **A:** The capital city is Salem, located in the Willamette Valley.
**Q: What is the largest city in Oregon?** **A:** Portland is the state's largest city by population.
**Q: Does Oregon have a sales tax?** **A:** No, Oregon is one of the few U.S. states that does not charge a statewide sales tax.
**Q: Can you pump your own gas in Oregon?** **A:** Yes. In 2023, legislation was passed allowing Oregonians to pump their own gas statewide, though stations still provide attendants for those who want it.
**Q: What is the state animal?** **A:** The American Beaver. Oregon's nickname is "The Beaver State."
**Q: What is the weather like in Oregon?** **A:** It varies greatly. West of the Cascade Mountains, the climate is mild, wet, and temperate. East of the Cascades, it is a drier, high-desert climate with hotter summers and colder snowier winters.
**Q: Is it safe to swim in the ocean on the Oregon Coast?** **A:** Generally, no. The water is extremely cold year-round, and the coast is known for dangerous rip currents and unpredictable "sneaker waves."
**Q: When is the best time to visit Oregon?** **A:** Summer (July through September) offers the warmest, driest weather. However, fall is beautiful for changing foliage, and winter is popular for skiing in the Cascades.
**Q: What is the highest point in Oregon?** **A:** Mount Hood, towering at 11,249 feet.
**Q: How many national parks are in Oregon?** **A:** Oregon has one official National Park: Crater Lake National Park. It also has several National Monuments and Recreation Areas.
**Q: Are recreational cannabis sales legal in Oregon?** **A:** Yes, marijuana is legal for adult recreational use (21 and older) and can be purchased at licensed dispensaries.
**Q: What is the major airport in Oregon?** **A:** Portland International Airport (PDX) is the largest and busiest airport in the state.
**Q: What is the "Silicon Forest"?** **A:** It is a cluster of high-tech companies and semiconductor manufacturers located primarily in the Portland metropolitan area (especially Washington County).
**Q: Does the Pacific Crest Trail run through Oregon?** **A:** Yes, the PCT runs entirely through the Cascade Range in Oregon, from the California border to the Washington border.
**Q: What foods is Oregon famous for?** **A:** Marionberries, Dungeness crab, Tillamook cheese, hazelnuts, craft beer, and Pinot Noir wine.
**Q: What is the state tree?** **A:** The Douglas Fir.
**Q: What time zone is Oregon in?** **A:** The vast majority of the state is in the Pacific Time Zone. A small portion of Malheur County in eastern Oregon observes Mountain Time.
**Q: Do I need a permit to visit Oregon State Parks?** **A:** Some state parks require a day-use parking permit, which can be purchased on-site or as an annual pass.
**Q: What is the Pendleton Round-Up?** **A:** It is one of the top rodeos in the world, held every September in Pendleton, Oregon, since 1910.
**Q: What is the population of Oregon?** **A:** As of recent census estimates, Oregon's population is approximately 4.2 million people.
