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 the Observatory. There's also a short trail near the Observatory called the Lava River National Recreation Trail that could be added on to make for a longer hike.
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
We arrived at the Observatory in the early evening and had no issues finding a parking spot. There were quite a few other people there. We hiked up the paved path to the top of the Observatory and got to take in the panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. It was a pretty cool place to explore. Even though the pathway was paved it wasn't wheel chair friendly and there were stairs to get to the top of the observatory.
It was a relatively short hike. There is an additional trail that could be added on for a longer hike that goes through the rock fields, but we opted not to do it this time since we wanted to find a place to camp closer to Sisters, OR before dark.
Coordinates
Dee Wright Observatory: 44.26055, -121.80128
Parking (west): 44.26061, -121.80242
Parking (east): 44.26025, -121.80134
Map
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