Matthieu Lakes – Dee Wright Observatory

Photo By: Andrea Niemiec

The Matthieu Lakes Trail, located on Highway 242 about 15 miles west of Sisters, Oregon, takes you through a pine forest bordering lava beds up to two small, idyllic lakes, with spectacular views of the North and Middle Sisters, Mt. Washington, Three-Fingered Jack, Mt. Jefferson, and Mt. Hood along the way. Location:Google Maps - Directions from Eugene Approximately 1.5 hours from Eugene, Oregon. To reach the Matthieu Lakes trail head, from I-5 south near Eugene, take OR 126/McKenzie River Highway east for approximately 55 miles, and … [Read more...]

Koosah Falls

Koosah Falls

Koosah Falls is a Beautiful 80ft. waterfall located 75 minutes outside of Eugene on highway 126. The word Koosah is a Chinook word meaning "sky". These falls were formed 3,000 years ago when lava flows formed the McKenzie River. Location: Koosah falls is located approximately 60 miles outside Eugene directly off highway 126. There are visible signs on the side of the road. Google Maps - Eugene to Koosah Falls - Click Here for the Map Adventure Specifics: The waterfall is easily accessible via a paved path from the parking lot. The are … [Read more...]

Willamette Pass Ski Resort

40ft. Backside Cliff @ Willamette Pass. Skier: Nate Simmons

Willamette Pass Ski Resort is a medium sized ski resort located 75 minutes outside of Eugene on Highway 58. Known for it's great steep terrain and proximity to the Eugene Area, Willamette Pass makes a perfect day trip when you're craving the snow. In the summer they have some of the best mountain biking, hiking, and sight seeing in the Cascades. General Comments:Willamette Pass is a great ski resort if you want a fun, convenient day of skiing. They have terrain for everyone, a great atmosphere, and an enjoyable mountain. If you are a … [Read more...]

Silver Falls State Park – Waterfalls, Hiking, Swimming

Silver Falls State Park

Silver Falls State Park is known for it's ten gorgeous waterfalls it's many miles of hiking trails. Located 45 minutes outside Salem on Highway 214. Location: Eugene to Silver Falls - Google Maps        Links to External Sites: Silver Falls State Park Main Page Great Park Picture Resource ***More to come*** … [Read more...]

Skinner Butte – Hiking, Views of Eugene

Skinner Butte Winter '08

Overview: Skinner's Butte is the large prominent butte on the north edge of downtown Eugene. It was named after Eugene Skinner, the founder of Eugene. It tops out at an elevation of just under 700ft. and offers great views of downtown Eugene, especially at sunset. There are many trails going to the top of Skinner's as well as a paved road to the top. Location: The big hill on the North edge of downtown Eugene. You can't miss it. Google Maps Link to Parking - Click Here for the Map Time Involved: The trails on the North end of the butte … [Read more...]

Heceta Head Lighthouse and State Park

Heceta Head Lighthouse

Heceta Head Lighthouse and State Park is a beautiful general recreation area located about 90 minutes outside Eugene and 15 minutes North of Florence. The area is known for it's beautiful views and primarily, Heceta Head Lighthouse. You have likely seen this area many times before in magazines, movies, and on TV. Fees: $3 for day use parking Location: 90 minutes West of Eugene. Take Highway 126 East to Florence and then 101 North to Heceta Head. Eugene to Heceta Head - Click Here for the Map Time Involved: I usually like to make a day … [Read more...]

North Umpqua River: Rafting, Kayaking, Hiking, Camping, Fishing

The North Umpqua River offers activities for all outdoor enthusiasts. These activities range from rafting and kayaking to hiking and biking. There are many great waterfalls to hike to and there are some great hotspings to soak in. The river is very clean, clear and refreshing. The North Umpqua River is nestled in the beautiful Umpqua National Forest. Location: Just east of Roseburg Oregon along highway 138, 1.5 hours from Eugene. Eugene to North Umpqua River - General Area - Click Here for the Map Time Involved: A trip here can range … [Read more...]

Mt. Pisgah Arboretum – Hiking, Wildlife Viewing

Mt. Pisgah Arboretum is a 209-acre living tree museum. Its riverside trails, quiet paths through evergreen forests, water garden teeming with life, bright wildflower meadows, and open views across oak savannas delight all ages. Located within Lane County's Howard Buford Recreation Area, the Arboretum lies between the Coast Fork of the Willamette River and the slopes of Mount Pisgah.   More Coming Soon Location: Time Involved: Adventure Specifics: Warnings: What to Bring: Amenities: Best Times to … [Read more...]

Buford Recreation Area – Hiking, Scenic Viewing, Picnicking

The 2,363-acre Howard Buford Recreation Area (HBRA) is the largest of Lane County's 58 parks. The park is home to many activities, including hiking, picnicking, horse back riding, and general recreation use. The park's dominant physical feature is Mt. Pisgah, rising 1,531 feet above sea level or 1,000 feet above the Willamette River's Coast and Middle Forks, which flow around its base. From the summit, hikers and equestrians can enjoy expansive views in all directions except to the north. The HBRA is also home to the Mt. Pisgah Arboretum , and … [Read more...]

Clear Lake – Hiking, Fishing, Boating, Camping

Photographer: Gary Halvorson

Clear Lake is a crystal clear glacial spring fed lake located 90 minutes outside Eugene on highway 126. If was formed over 3,000 years ago when lava flows damned the McKenzie river and created the lake the see today. The lake itself is divided up into two sections, the North end and the South End. The water in the lake has a temperature of about 40 degrees farenheit year round. (COLD!) Location: Clear Lake is located approximately 90 minutes outside Eugene Oregon directly off of highway 126. Look for the sign for Clear Lake on the right … [Read more...]