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.
River Rafting & Fishing Guides
Fishing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, tubing and boat tours are major attractions in Oregon, particularly the…
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.
Mountain Biking
Oregon is a mountain bikers' paradise! Exhilarating mountain biking trails are accessible across the…
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
A Local Guide to the Pacific Crest Trail
The book, and then the 2016 movie release of "Wild" starring Reese Witherspoon, cast a…
Outdoor Recreation Near Dexter Reservoir
Between Eugene and Oakridge, discover an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities from water…
When is McKenzie Pass Hwy 242 Open for Cycling?
Highway 242 is part of the well-known "McKenzie Pass Scenic Bikeway" route and it is a…
Guide to Hot Springs in the Cascades
Oregon's Terwilliger Hot Springs may be a natural draw with its pristine beauty and maintained…
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
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
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
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
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
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
24 Hours in Oakridge and Westfir
Feeling the need for a sunny mountain hike, wanting to support a local tourism business without… Read More
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