McKenzie/Santiam Pass
National Scenic Byway
The junction of Highways 126 and 242 (milepost 54.9) is the jump off point for a beautiful loop drive. The McKenzie Pass/Santiam Pass Byway leads through areas of recent volcanic activity, some only 3,000 years old.
At Dee Wright Observatory (on the 5,300 foot peak of the old McKenzie Pass) a lava rock tower affords breath-taking views of the Three Sisters, Mt. Washington, & Mt. Jefferson peaks.
After taking in the old western motif of the city of Sisters, reverse course and follow Highways 126 and 20 west through ponderosa pine forests on the long grade up the Santiam Pass.
Further on you can view underwater trees at Clear Lake and the heights of Sahalie and Koosah Falls. All are within the federally designated Wild & Scenic stretch of the upper McKenzie River.
Hiking Trails Campgrounds Boat Ramps Special Features
