McKenzie-Santiam Scenic Byway

The McKenzie-Santiam Scenic Byway showcases many of Oregon’s wonders, including old-growth forests, wild-rivers, waterfalls, lakes, volcanoes, and ancient lava flows.

Lava Field in front of Three Sisters Mountains

This scenic drive is a loop that begins in Sisters, which you can reach from US-20 and OR-126 from US-97, or US-20 from I-5. From Sisters, you can see the peaks of nine Cascade Mountains. The Deschutes Ranger Station (I1) at the corner of OR-126 and OR-242 is an ideal location to get more information and permits.

Heading southwest on OR-242, the drive heads through the Deschutes National Forest and starts climbing up on the way to McKenzie Pass. On the way, stop at Windy Point (V1) or any of the other pullouts which provide incredible views of lava flows and the Cascades, with Mount Washington dominating the view.

In 3-miles, you reach the Dee Wright Observatory (H1) and the 5,234-feet of elevation McKenzie Pass. The Observatory is surrounded by a 65-square-mile lava field, an ancient volcano cone, and lava craters. The peaks of Mount Hood, Mount Jefferson, Three Fingered Jack, Mount Washington, North Sister, and Middle Sister can all be seen from here. The Lava River Interpretive Trail is a half-mile trail that provides an opportunity to explore the volcanic past. The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail also crosses here.

After the Observatory, the drive heads through the Willamette National Forest alongside an ancient lava flow until reaching the lush forest ahead. On the right, Forest Road 260 will bring you to Scott Lake (W1) which beautifully reflects the Three Sisters Mountains. The Obsidian Trailhead also leaves from here.

In one of the curves, keep an eye open for the trailhead to Proxy Falls (H2). This hike travels through old-growth forest and lava flows on the way to the pair of waterfalls. This area is stunning during the fall when the leaves change color.

Continuing down OR-242, the forest almost engulfs the highway and joins OR-126. This drive heads north on OR-126 towards Sisters. The highway is surrounded by old-growth forests, lava flows, and to the west is McKenzie River. Along the river is the 26-mile McKenzie River National Recreation Trail (H3).

Thirteen miles ahead on OR-126, a short hike will bring you to Koosah and Sahalie Falls (H4). Shortly up the road is Clear Lake (W2) which offers boating, and fishing opportunities.

Continuing on OR-126, you will pass the Sawyer Ice Cave (H5) on the right. A short hike from the parking lot, the cave boasts ice until late summer. Shortly thereafter, you merge onto US-20. Three Fingered Jack Mountain at 7,841 feet of elevation stands before you as you climb the Santiam Pass. In 8-miles, you will reach the Santiam Pass, at 4,817 feet of elevation. As the drive descends back to Sisters, you will be rewarded by impressive views of Mount Washington, lakes and lava-flows as you drive through the old-growth forest. Take advantage of the pullouts to enjoy the views.

Once in Sisters, consider heading east on US-20 to Bend and catch the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway.