The Cascade Mountains

Prepare to be awed by nature. The magnificent Cascades span the easternmost boundary of the Eugene, Cascades & Coast region bedecked in old-growth forests, wildflower fields, lava rock landscapes and sparkling waterways. Explore the Umpqua and Willamette National Forests, crowned by Diamond Peak and the South, Middle and North Sisters.

The McKenzie River has over two hundred years of traceable history. Peer down at petrified forest beneath the aqua waters of Clear Lake, or gaze up into the old-growth tree canopy in the J.H. Andrews Experimental Forest. Waldo Lake in Oakridge is one of the purest lakes in the world and Oregon's second-largest natural lake. Only non-motorized boats can skim across its serene surface.

Connecting the communities of the McKenzie River and Oakridge - Westfir is the Aufderheide, a segment of the West Cascades Scenic Byway, and now an official Oregon Scenic Bikeway! Oakridge is a former logging community adjacent to magnificent mountain biking and hiking trails and just below the winter snowline, making it an ideal year-round base camp for many outdoor adventures. 

Please note that recent wildfires from the last five years have impacted some of the local communities and altered accessibility to some places. Please be respectful of private property and stay out of closed areas.

Things to Do in the Cascade Mountains

Ski Resorts Near Eugene Feb 07

Ski Resorts Near Eugene

There are two ski resort destinations near Eugene: Willamette Pass and Hoodoo. The resorts open…

How To Get To The Snow Dec 06

How To Get To The Snow

If you want to have a day or two to play in the snow this winter, the Cascade Mountains are calling!…

Cascade Mountain Communities

Road Trip: Cascade Mountains
: Melanie Ryan Griffin
Road Trips

Road Trip: Cascade Mountains

Drive up into the Cascade Mountains on this beautiful and leisurely road trip. Want to breathe fresh mountain air? Hear birds chirp and water rush…

Cascade Mountain Stories

  • 4 minute read
  • Visiting Mount Pisgah and Salt Creek Falls as a Wheelchair User

    Summit trails and waterfalls! I’ve got a full day’s worth of outdoor adventures to share… Read More

  • 6 minute read
  • Dueling Spoons Culinary Adventure

    If like me, you have a sense of adventure and a love of fine food – let me take you on a treasure… Read More

  • 9 minute read
  • 36 Hours Along the Cascades’ McKenzie Highway

    Snow or no snow, a family trip along Highway 126 and the McKenzie River east of Eugene… Read More

  • 4 minute read
  • 24 Hours in Oakridge and Westfir

    Feeling the need for a sunny mountain hike, wanting to support a local tourism business without… Read More

  • 9 minute read
  • Hike the Pacific Crest Trail in Oregon

    The movie “Wild” tells the true story of one woman’s solo hike along 1,100 miles… Read More