McKenzie River National Recreation Trail

GETTING THERE

The McKenzie River National Recreation Trail is located about an hour's drive from either Eugene or Bend, Oregon.  The trail begins at the Upper McKenzie River trailhead, one mile east of McKenzie Bridge, and ends at the Lower McKenzie River Trailhead. With 11 trailheads along the river that can be accessed from Highway 126, it's easy to plan shorter outings, or you can challenge yourself to complete the full trail since there are local shuttle services providing transportation.

trail access points

• Upper McKenzie River Trailhead
• Clear Lake Resort
• Clear Lake Day Use
• Sahalie Falls and Koosah Falls
• McKenzie River Trailhead at Tamolich
• Forest Road 2654
• Forest Road 2650
• McKenzie River Trailhead at Paradise Campground
• McKenzie River Ranger Station
• Lower McKenzie River Trailhead

On THE TRail

The McKenzie River National Recreation Trail (No. 3507) is a single-track trail paralleling the scenic McKenzie River, popular with hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers. Highlights include Clear Lake, Tamolitch Falls (Blue Pool), and Sahalie and Koosah Falls. The best seasons to visit are spring and fall, though portions of the trail remain open in winter (snow travel required). The lower part of the trail has flatter, kid-friendly hiking. There are several campgrounds with day-use areas located along the trail (McKenzie Bridge, Ice Cap, Cold Water Cove, and Paradise) which have potable water; all other water should be treated. 

Notes

• The U.S. Forest Service provides an online map for planning purposes and a complete trail description.
• Paper maps may be purchases from the U.S. Forest Service's online store.
• Adventures Maps provide both digital and print maps of the McKenzie River Trail.
• Camping is restricted to developed campgrounds for a section along the lower McKenzie River Trail. See the public notice for more info.

• Suitable Activities: Day Hiking, Snowshoeing, Trail Running
• Snowshoeing Category: Intermediate
• Seasons: Year-round
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Difficulty: Moderate/Strenuous
• Length: 26.5 mi

• Land Manager: Willamette National Forest
  McKenzie River Ranger District (WNF)
• Parking Permit Required: Northwest Forest Pass
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12