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Thread is old but wanted to give another opinion about both states. I've lived in Oregon now for about 17 years.
All I will say is besides the scenery, which is fantastic in the cascades and eastern Oregon, the community here is extremely liberal. They have always voted democratic. Colorado is a swing state. A good thing because here in Oregon they are quick to label you and write you off. That is why our unemployment is so high, besides the lack of jobs. If they don't like your out of state opinions, they won't hire you. Unless you don't mind working min wage jobs and working your way up. Portland is an interesting city but overall I don't like the place. It is full of liberal students, hippies, a lot of homeless downtown (another sign of high unemployment) Most of the classic bars/concert halls, and even strip clubs it was once famous for are closing down. Oregon does have a good number of craft breweries however. Then again, Colorado has classic Coors. The other smaller cities might be more conservative but there is barely anything to do there. Good for retiring or if you want peace and quiet. There are drug problems in Oregon, especially crime related to meth. I had my identity stolen by meth heads and the unemployment division also had theft. If you have a family, Colorado is the choice. Much more Christian friendly for one thing. Oregon has a broken education system in my opinion, high college tuition and unless you go through one of those high school/college deals, avoid the public schools.
As for the outdoors, some fantastic locations but the coast in Oregon, while nice, is cold most of the time and very dull. Maybe Florence is ok which is famous for sand dunes but Colorado also has a sand dune state park that is amazing. I do feel personally Colorado has a better climate, much more grand mountains and camping sites. It is a semi-arid climate (good for allergens and asthma) and in a good location. You got Texas not far away, Oklahoma, Utah and New Mexico. The only place I stayed while in Colorado was Colorado Springs. I liked it very much from what I can remember. If you have a degree, I'd go to Colorado (not sure what Denver is like though) but if you feel you can find work in Oregon or maybe live in Oregon and travel to Washington state for the work(more tech related jobs), I'd try that. Just remember though Oregon has nothing in the way of business. Only long-term career sectors I can think of is government/police work with the state or OHSU/medical facilities. Lot of doctors open up businesses here as well. All the best.
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