McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway


State: Oregon
Length: 82 miles / 132.0 km
Time to Allow: Allow 3 to 5 hours, including time to stop at overlooks.

North of the Deschutes National Forest sits the 82 mile McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass Scenic Byway. As it’s so short, you can drive it in just three to five hours, but there are lots to see, and you may want to take a day or two from July to October for a visit. National forests and wilderness surround the area, along with small rivers and lakes. This off-shaped loop will give you a variety of sights.

Right in the center of the byway is Mount Washington, surrounded by a wilderness area and volcanic rock. While the surroundings are barren, it’s perfect for a day out in nature. The rest of the area offers natural wonders like massive peaks, panoramic lava fields, waterfalls, and even crystal-clear lakes.

To the east, start in the town of Sisters, where three peaks, Faith, Hope, and Charity, dominate the landscape. A small picturesque town with arts, shopping, gallery, and a rodeo live in Sister as well. It’s an excellent place for a mini-vacation with easy access to the Deschutes National Forest.

Next, drive to Mckenzie to the west, following a path used as a wagon route in the 1860s. Incredible vistas of Mount Washington and over 60 miles of lava flow create unique scenery ready to leave you in awe. Climb up to the Dee Wright Observatory to get a better view of lava rock structures.

Stop in the Williamette National Forest for gorgeous views of the mountains with side trips to Scott lake and Falls Trailhead. Another fantastic place to visit is the McKenize River by boat, where you can hike through trees and by sweeping waters or lounge on mini islands. Head to Clear Lake after for a waterfall and see the remains of the Kalapooian Native American Tribe at the Santiam river as well as a fantastic ski area if you plan to visit in the winter.

Choose this trail for incredible rivers, alpine lakes, and a dry climate filled with unbelievable scenery. Those seeking outdoor recreation can try various activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, mountain climbing, boating, skiing, and even tennis or other more domesticated activities. Crystal clear waters and sandy beaches make for a place where you can truly relax and get away from stress.

If you are looking for a place to laze about, shop, and dine, this is not the right choice for you. The area comes filled to the brim with nature, ready to inspire awe by taking you away from the city. Make Scott Lake your priority as it’s so beautiful it can clear your mind and escape from the day-to-day hustle of busy life. Just at the west edge of the loop, find the Tamolitch Falls blue pool for an insanely private oasis of blue water hidden by trees. No other place on earth is quite like this beautiful blue nook.

More Oregon Byways

You can check out additional Byways in Oregon by clicking on the list of byways below, or by going to the Oregon Byways home section. To find even more of scenic byways in the United States, visit our scenic byways map.