Mt. Angel Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Mt. Angel with this helpful guide, including information on top attractions, hiking trails, where to stay, local cuisine, and more.


Introduction to Mt. Angel

Nestled in the heart of Willamette Valley in Oregon, Mt. Angel is a quaint and charming city in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and welcoming local community, it’s no surprise that Mt. Angel is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world.

List of Places to Visit in Mt. Angel

Whether you’re interested in immersing yourself in the local culture, exploring the great outdoors, or simply relaxing and taking in the breathtaking scenery, Mt. Angel has something for everyone. Here are some of the top places to visit in Mt. Angel:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mount Angel Abbey: A stunning Benedictine monastery that overlooks the valley and offers tours, retreats, and a bookstore.
  • Glockenspiel: A beautiful clock tower that puts on an animated show at noon and 4 PM daily.
  • Mount Angel Heritage Trail: A walking path highlighting the city’s heritage and culture.

Natural Attractions of Mt. Angel: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Silver Falls State Park: A beautiful state park boasting several waterfalls, hiking trails, and picnic areas.
  • Mount Hood National Forest: A forest with year-round outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, skiing, and snowboarding.
  • Butte Creek Falls: A serene waterfall perfect for a peaceful walk and picnic.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mt. Angel

Mt. Angel is a nature lover’s paradise, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the great outdoors. Some of the top hiking and biking routes in Mt. Angel include:

  • Abiqua Falls Trail: A 5-mile hike through the forest to a stunning waterfall.
  • Silver Falls Trail: A 7.2-mile loop trail that takes you past several beautiful waterfalls.
  • Oakridge Trail: A 12-mile mountain bike trail with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Mt. Angel: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and biking, there are plenty of other things to do and see in Mt. Angel. Here are some of the top activities and tours:

  • Wine Tasting at Local Vineyards: Visit St. Josef’s and Twelve Bridge vineyards and wineries to taste some of the local wines.
  • Oregon Garden Resort: A botanical garden with educational exhibits, special events, and a resort with on-site accommodation.
  • Oktoberfest: An annual fall festival celebrating German culture and traditions, with plenty of music, food, and beer.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mt. Angel

If you’re planning a longer stay in Mt. Angel and want to make the most of your time, here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip:

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore Mount Angel Abbey and the Glockenspiel
Day 2 Hike the Abiqua Falls Trail
Day 3 Visit St. Josef’s Winery and have a picnic at Butte Creek Falls
Day 4 Spend the day at Silver Falls State Park
Day 5 Take a tour of Oregon Garden Resort
Day 6 Attend the annual Oktoberfest festival
Day 7 Relax and unwind at the resort spa

Food and Drink Scene of Mt. Angel

One of the best things about visiting Mt. Angel is getting to experience the local cuisine and beverage scene. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cheddar Cheese Soup: A creamy and hearty soup made with local Tillamook cheddar cheese.
  • Bratwurst: A German-style sausage made with pork and a blend of herbs and spices.
  • Hazelnut Torte: A dessert made with local hazelnuts and layered with chocolate and creamy frosting.

Local Beverages

  • Pinot Noir: A popular local red wine made with grapes grown in the Willamette Valley.
  • Oregon Craft Beer: The Pacific Northwest is known for its craft beer scene, so be sure to try some local brews.
  • Marionberry Lemonade: A refreshing drink made with local Marionberries and fresh-squeezed lemon juice.

Where to Stay in Mt. Angel: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

If you’re looking for the perfect place to stay in Mt. Angel, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in the area:

  • Oregon Garden Resort: A beautiful resort with on-site accommodations, spa, and restaurant.
  • The Brew House Inn: A locally owned and operated guesthouse located in the heart of downtown Mt. Angel.
  • Mt. Angel Towers Hotel: A comfortable and affordable hotel with free breakfast and Wi-Fi.

What to Buy in Mt. Angel: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for a unique and meaningful souvenir to take home from Mt. Angel, here are some of the best things to buy:

  • Local Hazelnuts: Oregon is known for its delicious hazelnuts, so be sure to stock up.
  • Handmade Crafts: Mt. Angel is home to many talented artisans, so look for handmade crafts in local shops.
  • Oregon Wines: If you love wine, take home a bottle or two of locally made Pinot Noir.

Local Culture and Customs of Mt. Angel

Mt. Angel has a rich and unique culture that’s influenced by its German heritage and Catholic roots. It’s a welcoming and friendly community that’s proud of its traditions and history.

Best Time to Visit Mt. Angel

The best time to visit Mt. Angel is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and many of the city’s festivals and events take place.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mt. Angel

To ensure that you have a fantastic experience in Mt. Angel, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Explore the hiking trails and natural attractions in the area.
  • Try the local cuisine, especially the German-style dishes and Oregon wines.
  • Attend the annual Oktoberfest festival in the fall.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the local customs and traditions, such as respecting the monastery’s quiet hours.
  • Leave litter or damage natural areas.
  • Travel alone in unfamiliar areas after dark.

Safety and Health

If you’re traveling to Mt. Angel, it’s important to take precautions to ensure your safety and health.

Safety in Mt. Angel

Mt. Angel is a relatively safe city, with low crime rates. However, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to stay safe.

Health in Mt. Angel

Mt. Angel has a reliable healthcare system, with hospitals and clinics located nearby. It’s a good idea to have travel insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses.

Getting to Mt. Angel: Transportation Options and Logistics

If you’re planning a trip to Mt. Angel, there are several transportation options to consider.

Airports Near Mt. Angel

The nearest major airport to Mt. Angel is Portland International Airport, which is approximately an hour and a half drive away.

Bus Stations Near Mt. Angel

Greyhound buses and other regional bus companies serve Salem, which is about 20 minutes away.

Other Options

If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car at the airport or in nearby cities. There are also ride-sharing and taxi services available in the area.

How to Get Around in Mt. Angel

One of the best ways to get around in Mt. Angel is by car, as many of the attractions are spread out. However, there are also bike rental options available, and you can explore downtown on foot.

Where to Go Next from Mt. Angel: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore the region, there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions worth considering.

  • Salem: The capital of Oregon and a vibrant city with plenty of cultural attractions and outdoor recreational opportunities.
  • Silverton: A charming small town with a beautiful historic district and easy access to hiking trails.
  • Eugene: A college town with a thriving arts and culture scene and access to outdoor recreational opportunities in the nearby Cascade Mountains.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in hiking, exploring local history and culture, or simply relaxing and taking in the stunning scenery, Mt. Angel is a destination that has it all. Plan your trip today and experience all that this charming city in the Pacific Northwest has to offer.

Glockenspiel Glockenspiel