McKenzie Pass Scenic Byway
Drive through ancient lava fields and lush forests to a unique rock observatory with stunning mountain views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
McKenzie Pass Scenic Byway
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Drive through ancient lava fields and lush forests to a unique rock observatory with stunning mountain views.
"Beautiful serene otherworldly. Fave to visit is via bike when the road is close to cars for the winter."
Check Road Status First
OR-242 closes seasonally due to snow. Always verify conditions before you go! :warning:
Cyclist Safety
Be mindful of cyclists; they may ride side-by-side. Give them plenty of space. :bike:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dee Wright Observatory
Summit of McKenzie Pass
A unique lava rock observatory offering panoramic views of the surrounding Cascade Mountains and volcanic landscape.
+1
Proxy Falls
Willamette National Forest
A stunning 226-foot waterfall accessible via a short hike from the McKenzie Pass Scenic Byway.
Sahalie and Koosah Falls
McKenzie River Trail
Two magnificent waterfalls along the McKenzie River, connected by a lush, refreshing hiking trail.
Lava Fields
McKenzie Pass Scenic Byway
Drive through an otherworldly landscape of ancient lava flows, a stark contrast to the surrounding forests.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Seasonal Road Closures
Bicycle Awareness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Road Status First
OR-242 closes seasonally due to snow. Always verify conditions before you go! :warning:
Cyclist Safety
Be mindful of cyclists; they may ride side-by-side. Give them plenty of space. :bike:
Pack Essentials
Limited amenities. Bring water, snacks, and be prepared for no services. :water_wave:
Hike to Waterfalls
Short hikes to Proxy Falls and Sahalie/Koosah Falls are highly recommended. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Road Status First
OR-242 closes seasonally due to snow. Always verify conditions before you go! :warning:
Cyclist Safety
Be mindful of cyclists; they may ride side-by-side. Give them plenty of space. :bike:
Pack Essentials
Limited amenities. Bring water, snacks, and be prepared for no services. :water_wave:
Hike to Waterfalls
Short hikes to Proxy Falls and Sahalie/Koosah Falls are highly recommended. :hiking_boot:
Observatory Views
Dee Wright Observatory offers stunning mountain vistas, not celestial viewing. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the McKenzie Pass Scenic Byway for its stunning, otherworldly landscapes, from ancient lava fields to lush forests and powerful waterfalls. The Dee Wright Observatory is a unique highlight. However, some note the lack of amenities, the potential for hazardous driving conditions due to cyclists, and the impact of past wildfires on certain sections. +2
"The observatory, called the Dee Wright Observatory, is for viewing the mountains, not the sky. The restroom was closed "for construction" but there's no construction taking place. No water is available. There are no tables or benches. Please be aware that you'll pass through five miles of burned forest from the 2020 firestorm on the way up from Sisters."
Gerald Hawkins
"Dropped off my buddy here d for his PCT hike north. Beautiful serene otherworldly. Fave to visit is via bike when the road is close to cars for the winter, before or after the snow. Surrounded by wilderness on either side, this is as close as you can get to being truly immersed and wilderness, and still being on a mechanized device."
Justin Soares
"Beautiful drive up the pass an the Dee Wright Observatory is a must stop along the way! Previous years fire on the east side has devastated the area, but the route is still beautiful.
Be careful of the bicycles using this route. Some will ride 2 or 3 side by side going up & down the pass. Please give them space because there not much of a shoulder. I usually tap my horn about 50 yards to let them know I am coming up from behind.
Tour groups please don’t use this route during busy times! It’s a recipe for getting someone hurt/killed. Steep grades, no shoulder, beautiful views an distractions galore just means driver & bikers will not be paying attention to the road! This is from someone who regularly rides his bike."
Kevin Juhl
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The McKenzie Pass Scenic Byway, also known as Highway 242, connects McKenzie Bridge (west end) to Sisters (east end) via OR-126. The drive itself takes about two hours without stops.
No, the McKenzie Pass Scenic Byway (OR-242) is typically closed from mid-October to late June due to snow. Always check current road conditions before planning your trip.
While RVs can navigate the pass, be aware of steep grades and narrow sections. It's advisable to check current conditions and consider your vehicle's capabilities. Some sources suggest caution for larger vehicles.
Many visitors enjoy driving the scenic route, stopping at viewpoints like the Dee Wright Observatory. Cyclists also love this route when the road is closed to cars.
Services are very limited. There are no gas stations or restaurants directly on the pass. It's essential to fill up your gas tank and pack food and water before you start.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to drive the McKenzie Pass Scenic Byway. It's a public road.
The Dee Wright Observatory is generally accessible when the road is open, but it does not have set operating hours and may have limited facilities.
There is no admission fee to visit Proxy Falls. Access is via a trail from the McKenzie Pass Scenic Byway.
Typically, there are no parking fees at the main viewpoints or trailheads along the McKenzie Pass Scenic Byway.
The McKenzie Pass Scenic Byway (OR-242) usually closes to vehicles in mid-to-late October and reopens in June, depending on snow conditions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key highlights include the Dee Wright Observatory, Proxy Falls, Sahalie and Koosah Falls, and the unique lava fields.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities, including trails to Proxy Falls and the McKenzie River Trail connecting Sahalie and Koosah Falls.
You'll experience a dramatic shift from lush forests to stark lava fields, with stunning mountain views and waterfalls.
Absolutely! The diverse landscapes, waterfalls, and observatory offer incredible photographic opportunities, especially during golden hour.
Wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes, and dress in layers as temperatures can change. Bring rain gear, as Oregon weather can be unpredictable. :athletic_shoe:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no dining establishments directly on the McKenzie Pass Scenic Byway. It's recommended to eat in Sisters or McKenzie Bridge before or after your drive.
While there are no designated picnic areas with tables, you can find scenic spots to enjoy a packed lunch. Be sure to pack out all trash.
The towns of Sisters and McKenzie Bridge offer various dining options, from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants.
It is not recommended to drink water directly from the McKenzie River without proper filtration and purification.
Sisters offers a range of dining, including cafes, bakeries, breweries, and restaurants serving American cuisine and local specialties.
📸 📸 Photography
The Dee Wright Observatory, Proxy Falls, Sahalie and Koosah Falls, and the expansive lava fields offer stunning photographic subjects.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing colors.
Drone usage is subject to regulations in National Forests and wilderness areas. Check with the Willamette National Forest for specific rules before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes and lava fields, while a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing distant mountain peaks or details of waterfalls.
Yes, the unique textures and formations of the lava fields are a prime subject for photography. Be mindful of uneven terrain.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
and Sahalie/Koosah Falls. provide a sense of wonder and exploration. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as services are scarce. 🚴 Cyclists
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Allow at least half a day to enjoy the viewpoints, short hikes, and the observatory. Remember to fill up your gas tank and pack a picnic, as dining options are limited to the nearby towns. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Dee Wright Observatory: A Volcanic Marvel
+1 Visitors often describe the observatory as an otherworldly structure, blending seamlessly with its rugged environment. It's a testament to the area's volcanic past and a fantastic spot for photos. Be aware that facilities at the observatory can be limited. Restrooms may be closed, and there are no tables or benches. It's best to come prepared with your own provisions and to appreciate the raw, natural beauty it overlooks.
Waterfalls of the McKenzie River
Further along the byway, Proxy Falls is another must-see. This impressive 226-foot waterfall cascades through the Willamette National Forest, and the short hike to its base is well worth the effort.
The sound of the water and the mist in the air provide a calming and grounding experience, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection. Navigating McKenzie Pass: Road Conditions and Safety
A significant aspect of driving McKenzie Pass is sharing the road with cyclists. Many cyclists use this route, and some may ride two or three abreast, particularly when the road is closed to motorized traffic. Drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution, maintain a safe distance, and use their horns to signal their approach from behind.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit