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Dee Wright Observatory
A trail to a unique observation structure made of lava rock along McKenzie Highway with panoramic views of the area. Observatory Coordinates: 44.26055, -121.80128 Observatory Elevation: 5344' Access: Trail Distance: 0.24 miles (round trip) Elevation Range: 5320' to 5351' Ascent/Descent: +25 ft/-28 ft Trail Type: In and out Trail: Dee Wright Observatory Trail Outing Type: Day hike Permits/Fees: None Notes: There are two approach points from two separate parking areas to reach
Tina McLain
Nov 22 min read


Three Sisters Viewpoint
A viewpoint along McKenzie Highway in Willamette National Forest. Viewpoint Name: Three Sisters Viewpoint Viewpoint Coordinates: 44.25167, -121.82572 Viewpoint Elevation: 5205' Access: Drive up Note: The viewpoint is a large paved shoulder along the highway. Location: Along McKenzie Highway in Willamette National Forest, Oregon, U.S.A. Administration: Willamette National Forest Ranger District: McKenzie River Ranger District Date Accessed: September 19, 2026 The viewpoint con
Tina McLain
Oct 261 min read


Craig Lake
A small lake along McKenzie Highway. Lake Name: Craig Lake Lake Coordinates: 44.24912, -121.83659 Lake Elevation: 5125' Access: Drive up Permits/Fees: None Notes: Only accessible so long as McKenzie Highway is open, it's closed during the winter. Location: Near McKenzie Highway in Willamette National Forest, Oregon, U.S.A. Administration: Willamette National Forest Ranger District: McKenzie River Ranger District Wilderness Area: Three Sisters Wilderness (according to the maps
Tina McLain
Oct 191 min read


Scott Lake
A quiet lake down NF 4200-260 in Willamette National Forest. Lake Name: Scott Lake Lake Coordinates: 44.21679, -121.88936 Lake Elevation: 4810' Access: Drive up Permits/Fees: Day use/overnight use requires a pass. "The Northwest Forest Pass and interagency recreation passes are valid at this location." (Forest Service) Notes: "Access is dependent on McKenzie Highway (OR Hwy 242), which is closed in the winter." (Forest Service) Location: Along NF 4200-260 near McKenzie Highwa
Tina McLain
Oct 121 min read


Sahalie Falls
A beautiful and popular waterfall along the McKenzie River in Willamette National Forest. Waterfall Name: Sahalie Falls Waterfall Coordinates: 44.34896, -121.99686 Waterfall Elevation: 2850' Access: Trail Distance: 0.11 miles (round trip) Elevation Range: 2859' to 2893' Ascent/Descent: +19 ft/-23 ft Route Type: In and out Trail: Waterfalls Loop Trail #3503 Outing Type: Day hike Permits/Fees: None (according to Forest Service website) Note: The hike can be made longer, we just
Tina McLain
Oct 52 min read


Clear Lake
A popular lake in Willamette National Forest. Lake Name: Clear Lake Lake Coordinates: 44.36951, -121.99507 Lake Elevation: 3022' Access: Drive up Permits/Fees: Recreation Pass Site, so NW Forest pass or other accepted passes are required for parking. Note: The day use parking lot can fill up quickly during the peak season. Location: Near Highway 126 in Willamette National Forest, OR, U.S.A. Administration: Willamette National Forest Ranger District: McKenzie River Ranger Dist
Tina McLain
Sep 282 min read
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