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Greetings From Small Towns

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Wide open spaces.

Friendly cafes.

And more animals than people, by far.

Head east, west or south of Bend and the artisanal coffee shops and overcrowded beer bars fade away, making way for landscapes, livestock and a different way of life. This week, Source staffers set out beyond our own corner of the world, exploring some of the small towns within a couple hours' drive of home.

If you're looking to see the soul of Oregon that exists (mostly) east of the Cascade crest, here are some places to start.

McKenzie Bridge

Mitchell

Paisley

Spray