General Area Information
“At least once, every western angler should float-fish the upper McKenzie River in a McKenzie River drift boat and fish for McKenzie River rainbow trout. This would be a classic trip in a classic boat for classic fish”
—Ed Park, Oregon Editor
Outdoor Life May 1992
Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to the many activities.
Enjoy private McKenzie drift boat fishing trips or thrilling whitewater rafting
McKenzie River Valley LEARN MORE
Get complete information on area activities, including maps for hiking or biking trails, road maps and scenic attractions.
Oregon Department of Transportation: TripCheck LEARN MORE
Visit this website for road reports. Although the roads are well maintained, four-wheel drive vehicles are suggested for winter trips to the area.
This state-operated airfield is for the use of small, private aircraft.
Lakes, Reservoirs, Hot Springs
Belknap Hot Springs LEARN MORE
This is a must-visit for outdoor year round hot springs pool and fantastic gardens (8 miles away).Terwilliger Hot Springs LEARN MORE
Blue River Dam and Reservoir LEARN MORE
Fun for fisherman & boaters alike, enjoy miles of shoreline accessible from easy access boat ramps.
Carmen, Smith and Trial Bridge Reservoirs LEARN MORE
All three reservoirs provide camping and picnic facilities, fishing and boat launches. The McKenzie River National Recreation Trail goes through the project area and runs past Sahalie, Koosah and Tamolitch falls. Beaver Marsh is a popular wildlife and nature area that has been preserved by the Eugene Water & Electric Board.
Enjoy an invigorating, beautiful 5 mile hike that loops around Clear Lake, the head-waters of the McKenzie River.
At season capacity, Cougar Reservoir stretches some 6 miles, covering 1,280 acres, with 25 miles of shoreline. Easy access boat ramps lead you to water skiing and fishing (8 miles away).
This lake is just off scenic highway 242, with a spectacular view of Three Sisters across the lake. Enjoy a day of camping, picnics, and fishing.
Hiking, Climbing, Snowshoeing
Dee Wright Observatory LEARN MORE
Get an extraordinary view of the high mountain peaks of the Cascades— from Mount Hood in the North to Brokentop and the Three Sisters in the South. Dee Wright Observatory is the main access point to the famous Pacific Crest Trail, and to many other trails that lead you through the black lava beds that lace the area.
McKenzie River Trail LEARN MORE
This trail begins at an elevation of 1,450 feet and meanders along the banks of the McKenzie River. It ends 2 miles above Clear Lake at an elevation of 3,200 feet feet. The trail is part of the National Recreation Trails system and provides many opportunities for camping, fishing, photography, exploring, and wildlife viewing. Portions of the trail above Scott Creek also travel through part of the National Wild and Scenic River system, which was designated on the upper McKenzie in 1988.Three Sisters Wilderness LEARN MORE
This is the land of lakes, waterfalls, alpine meadows, lava fields, and glaciers. Three Sisters Wilderness boasts 260 miles of trails, including 40 miles of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. Most trails begin in dense Douglas-fir forests on the Cascades’ western slopes, or ponderosa pine forests on the eastern slopes. During the summer months, hundreds of casual climbers (sans special gear) routinely scale the 10,358 foot South Sister. Those seeking more challenge can pit themselves against the North or Middle Sisters; technical climbs over 10,000 feet each.
U.S. Forest Service, Willamette National Forest
Recreation Page and
Trip Planner Map
Fishing and Rafting
A Fun, Active and Splashy Cascade Mountain Adventure
Horse Creek Lodge & Outfitters LEARN MORE
Take a Thrilling Ride Down the McKenzie River! Rafting tours, kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals.
High Country Expeditions LEARN MORE
River rafting trip excursions on the majority of the McKenzie River. Trips are offered within 50 minutes from Eugene & Bend Oregon.
Local Fishing & Rafting Guides LEARN MORE
This website contains a list of local guides for fishing and rafting who are registered with the McKenzie River Guides Association.
Waterfalls
Koosah & Sahalie Falls LEARN MORE
Both of these gorgeous waterfalls offer incredible views to sightseers and photographers alike.
It is a short hike form the highway to view these two majestic waterfalls.
Golfing
A spectacular 18-hole championship course, just a quarter mile away. LEARN MORE
Biking
Horse Creek Lodge & Outfitters LEARN MORE
Mountain Bike rentals— High End Bikes from Transition, Giant, and LIV. Mountain bike shuttles to some of Oregon’s Best Single Track.
Skiing & Snowboarding
This quaint ski area boasts a recently built lodge and updated chair lifts.
Restaurants
McKenzie Station Restaurant and Bar
McKenzie Station Espresso and Deli – Come enjoy our delicious deli sandwiches and espresso drinks!
Takodas Restaurant
Obsidian Grill
Obsidian Grill is located at McKenzie Bridge General Store. Featuring great food and cold beer on tap!
Stores
Blue Sky Market
Gas Station, General Store, Hardware, Groceries, Deli, Fried Chicken.
Places of Interest
Willamette National Forest LEARN MORE
Dee Wright Observatory LEARN MORE
Bridge and Smith Reservoirs LEARN MORE
Three Sisters Wilderness LEARN MORE
Belknap Covered Bridge LEARN MORE
This landmark covered bridge is located just a quarter mile upstream from the cottages.
Questions Answered
Our friendly staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding area destinations. Give us a call at (541) 822-3715.