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Editor's note: Our Ask Oregon ambassador Cari Soong recently explored the new Eugene, Cascades & Coast GeoTour. After traveling to six of the 36 sites, hiking four miles and taking dozens of photos, we asked Cari to report back about her first geocaching experience. What is geocaching? Geocaching is a free outdoor treasure hunt game… More

Many Oregon roadways are busy blurs, but this week, slow down and enjoy the sights and sounds of the changing seasons. This getaway takes us down the country’s oldest national scenic byway in the Cascade Mountains. If the roadway flanking the South Fork McKenzie River has a number, I don’t care to find it on a… More

The only major controversy surrounding the McKenzie River Trail (MRT) is whether it is the best mountain bike trail in Oregon or the whole country. When I worked in a bike shop years ago, I pitched it to customers as the state’s top trail, though my powers of description were less than scintillating. “What makes… More

The trails less traveled are the ones I cherish most and Oregon has a bounty of places to choose. We’re heading up the McKenzie River Valley into the rugged mountains where a gentle trail lead us to one of the state’s most remarkable sites called Tamolitch or the “Blue Pool.” The McKenzie River Scenic Byway may… More

Located at the gateway to the Willamette National Forest in McKenzie Bridge, McKenzie General Store offers all the staples you need plus local products including grans, granola, honey, gourmet chocolate, and organic seasonal produce from the many family-owned organic farms in this area, known as the "vegetable basket" of the Northwest. The friendly staff is always available to give visitors tips on hiking or biking in the area.Obsidian Grill, located within the store, serves a variety of Pacific Northwest favorites with a focus on fresh... More

McKenzie Bridge is a riverside mountain town 53 miles east of Eugene. Surrounded by miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, the wild waters of the McKenzie River and three massive waterfalls, McKenzie Bridge is a favorite getaway for outdoor enthusiasts. Relax your weary muscles in the soothing, hot mineral water pools of Belknap Hot Springs. In summer and early fall, drive the McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway to Dee Wright Observatory, a historic observatory built out of lava rock, and hike through lava fields... More

Living in Oregon as a professional photographer has his perks. One being the stunning nature of this beautiful state. As a international travel photographer I know what I'm talking about. Together with my wife we have covered over 70 countries for various projects from books to magazine features and commercial clients. We have been living… More

The crystal-clear, spring-fed Wild and Scenic McKenzie River is a favorite spot for mountain bikers, hikers, and rafting and fishing enthusiasts alike. It’s the lifeblood of clear, clean water for salmon and local farms in the Willamette Valley along its 90-mile stretch — which flows from the Cascade Range to the Willamette River, just north of Eugene. More

When you fish with a legend you know you’re in good hands! Aaron Helfrich is a member of a legendary Oregon family who made fishing and boating a popular recreation on the state’s rivers and streams. Aaron is the third generation in a family of Oregon fishing guides and like his firm grasp on the… More

Summer is a great time to visit the lovely McKenzie River, when weather and recreational opportunities are at their peak. Located in the lush green forests east of Eugene, the McKenzie is one of the most beautiful waterways in the United States and is renowned for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, fishing and white-water boating.… More

Twenty-six miles along one of Oregon’s most pristine rivers in one of Oregon’s most pristine forests, the McKenzie River Trail #3507 is home to some of the best mountain biking in the west.  A variable trail with ancient lava beds, waterfalls and an old-growth forest, the terrain is as exciting as the ride itself.  Having… More

High Country Expeditions has been creating everlasting outdoor adventure memories since 1999. A whitewater adventure with High Country Expeditonas will take you on some of Oregon's most spectactular rivers. The McKenzie River and the North Umpqua River offer some of the most pristine and exciting river rafting trips in Oregon that are perfect for all members of the family. The Upper Klamath River offers the most exciting and continuous class 4 summertime whitewater rafting in Oregon More

Horse Creek Lodge & Outfitters offers the perfect home base for relaxation and recreation in the McKenzie Valley. Located in the Cascade Foothills, near numerous trails, including Sahalie and Koosah Falls, Blue Pool, McKenzie River Trail and Proxy Falls, to name a few, outdoor recretion opportunities abound. The lodge offers rustic, yet refined mountain cabins, camping, plus professionally guided McKenzie rafting tours, mountain bike rentals and McKenzie River Trail shuttles, and more. This is a perfect venue for small or large groups, weddings or your... More

A small outfitter that offers flexibility, 14-passenger shuttle service and a passion for the McKenzie River. Rafting excursions include personal floatation devices, high-quality wetsuits, booties and splash jackets and helmets. Additionally, Horse Creek Lodge has fully equipped cabins that sleep four to ten. Ask about their paddleboard rentals for nearby lakes. More

Horse Creek Lodge operates a shuttle service to the various rides in the area, most notably, to the top of the McKenzie River Trail. They operate through a special-use permit granted by the Forest Service and are insured, unlike some of the shuttle services that have been operating in the area. The lodge is just off of Highway 126 and is a mile downhill from the end of McKenzie River trail, so cyclists can park on the property, and they only have another mile to... More

This Day Use Area offers a chance to relax under towering Douglas-fir and western red cedar trees while listening to the rushing water of the McKenzie River.The site provides river access and includes a boat ramp.  It is adjacent to the McKenzie Bridge Campground. More

Overview McKenzie Bridge Campground is located an hour east of Eugene, Oregon. It rests in the shade of a towering grove of Douglas fir and Western red cedar trees along the banks of the McKenzie River. The campground is small and pleasant, providing an ideal atmosphere for relaxation, fishing and bird watching. Feathered residents of the river include osprey, great blue herons and bald eagles.Recreation At the campground, the river provides catch-and-release fishing for trout and steelhead. Whitewater kayaking and rafting are also popular activities.... More

Loloma Lodge & Cabins is located on the 126 McKenzie Highway right between Eugene/Springfield and Sisters/Bend. They're a perfect location for cyclists and mountain bikers who want to explore the McKenzie River area. More

Overview Horse Creek Group Campground is located on the banks of Horse Creek. The rushing water and tall Douglas fir trees offer a cool, shady spot to enjoy the outdoors. A picnic area offers a great spot for grilling and group gatherings.Recreation Fishing in Horse Creek is an enjoyable pastime. The McKenzie River National Recreation Trailhead is nearby, offering fun-filled hiking and biking opportunities. The 26-mile trail boasts wonderful scenery along the river, and is an easy hike for all ages. There are also numerous... More

This trailhead provides access to:Frissell Trail #3512See Trail page for more information. More

This trailhead provides access to:McKenzie River Trail #3507See Trail page for more information. More

This trailhead provides access to:Olallie Trail #3529O'Leary Mountain Trail #3321Horsepasture Mountain Trail #4347See Trail page for more information. More

Nestled in the beautiful McKenzie River Valley with glistening views of the Three Sisters Mountains, Tokatee Golf Club offers an incredible mix of postcard vistas and championship golf. Designed by renowned architect Ted Robinson, this 18-hole golf course is golf in the rugged outdoors with straightforward holes that are enhanced by their views of distant mountains and their use of native ponds and streams. Tokatee Golf Club is easily walkable, with memorable holes that inspire by their aesthetics and reward in their strategic quality. Consistently... More

McKenzie Station Pub serves up a variety of burgers, sandwiches, steaks, and more. It is located along the McKenzie Highway. Stop by and grab some great food and coffee. More

Explore the McKenzie River Ranger District!The McKenzie River Ranger District is in the middle part of the Willamette National Forest, bordering the Deschutes National Forest. Accessible from the west via Highway 126 from Eugene, OR, or from the east on Highway 20 from Sisters.The McKenzie River Ranger District is a collection of stunning lakes and waterfalls, epic mountain biking and rafting, and opportunities to explore history.HikingGet your water fix at the Upper McKenzie Trail Area hiking the Water Falls Loop Trail #3503 where you can see the popular Sahalie and... More

This trailhead provides access to:Castle Rock Trail #3506King Castle Trail #4326O Leary Mountain Trail #3321See Trail page for more information. More

Full lunch and dinner menu, offering burgers, sandwiches, homemade soups, large salad bar, pizza dinner items and daily specials. Takoda's Restaurant offers a beautiful patio, open seasonally, and big screen TVs for sports fans. Also an excellent venue for small groups up to 30 with a private meeting room. Takoda's is a must-stop for any McKenzie River excursion. More