Oregon's
McKenzie River Communities
The McKenzie Valley is one of Oregon's and Lane County's most popular recreation destinations and is known internationally for its excellent trout fishing. The valley offers a wide range of recreational activities from golfing at one of our two beautiful courses, relaxing by the river in one of our numerous campgrounds or resorts, shopping in the unique art galleries and gift shops, hiking into the wildernesses areas, or running the rapids in a drift boat, kayak, or raft.
Metro area to Walterville
The McKenzie Valley can be accessed from Interstate 5 at exit 194, the intersection of I-105. State Highway 126 runs up the valley from Springfield. From the other direction, travelers approaching from the east can enter the upper portions of the region at the Santiam Junction with State Highway 20.
Eight rural, unincorporated communities stretch along the 60 mile length of the Valley floor. Cedar Flat is the gateway from the west, followed a short 2 miles east by Walterville and then Leaburg at milepost 20. These communities are located in the lower, western end of the valley, surrounded by softly rolling hills and beautiful farm land. The first settlers in the area located near these communities and there are still two Century Farms in Walterville.
Leaburg to Vida
As you approach the community of Vida you begin to climb into the foothills of the Cascade mountain range. The valley becomes narrower and the river a lot swifter - running on its way to its confluence with the Willamette River near Springfield. History abounds in this area as well with one of the first stage stops still standing on the east end of the Vida community.
Nimrod to Blue River
Finn Rock and Blue River are small rural towns near the banks of the McKenzie River. Finn Rock was named for one of the valley's more colorful characters, Benjamin Finn, a self proclaimed teller of tall tales. Blue River, aptly named for the river running through the community, was famous in the late 1800's for its Gold Hill area to the north.
Rainbow to McKenzie Bridge
Rainbow and McKenzie Bridge are located in the upper reaches of the valley and are truly the portal to the magnificent wilderness areas of the Cascades.
In all the communities along the river you'll find great recreational opportunities, good places to introduce you to a unique concept we call "McKenzie Time." It allows you to slow down, take a deep breath, and enjoy the wonders of nature, all around you in the McKenzie River Valley.
