Cascade Mountains

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Oakridge/Westfir

Hwy 58 is OPEN from Eugene to Oakridge. Tunnel and road construction with periodic closure of the Salt Creek Tunnel will occur east of Oakridge at milepost 56 during the spring and summer of 2013. Click here for more information and closure schedule.

Oakridge is known as the "The Mountain Biking Capital of the Northwest," with miles of world class mountain biking trails accessible year round, and an enthusiastic mountain biking community. Less then an hour from Eugene - Springfield, this mountain town on Highway 58 is en-route to the Willamette Pass ski area and crowned by the Oregon Skyway.  In the winter, a six-passenger lift whisks you to the summit and in summer, scenic gondola rides offer stunning views of the Cascades.

The area's wooded terrain sparkles with many lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. Salt Creek Falls tumbles 286 feet (87m), the second highest waterfall in Oregon after Multnomah Falls. Waldo Lake is Oregon's second largest lake (the largest is Crater Lake) and one of the world's purest. No motor craft are allowed on Waldo's pristine waters.

Once considered the heart of the timber empire, Oakridge's economy faltered after the industry collapse. But today, outdoor enthusiasts have remade the town into a hot spot of their own. Oakridge has become the watering-hole for big adventures with comfortable lodging, a popular local brewery, and headquarters for guides and equipment rentals. Discover the inspiring beauty and endless recreational opportunities all around Oakridge. There is even a local golf course and airport.

And the locals want to see you! Many front line staff have undergone certification to participate in the We Speak Oakridge program, a community effort to share insider area knowledge with visitors. The Greater Oakridge Area Trail Stewards (GOATS) was also formed to maintain local trails.

During the summer drive or ride the scenic Aufderheide Highway (Road 19) connecting the Oakridge - Westfir area with the McKenzie River corridor further north. On this scenic road cruise through old growth forest, breathe in the rejuvenating mountain air, and relish small town explorations at either end of each 70 mile (112.65 km) leg. 

Another unique mountain biking opportunity includes the summer gondola rides to the top of Eagle Peak and the thrilling, expert level, bike ride back down.

The International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) designated Oakridge silver status as one of their first Mountain Bicycling Ride Centers (there are only seven world wide). In the "bike-umentary" Pedal-Driven (2010), Oakridge was highlighted for its collaborative land management between mountain bikers and government and environmental agencies.

The town is also host to many events from culinary festivals to mountain biking tours. Above the fog and below the snow, Oakridge offers a memorable journey into the heart of the Cascades.