Over the River and Through the Woods Scenic Byway
This 66-mile route begins in the rich farmland of the Willamette Valley, and then winds along rushing streams and through thick forests as it climbs into the West Cascades and McKenzie Pass. Along the way, you'l pass some of Oregon's oldest settlements, with access to rivers, reservoirs, parks and campgrounds, many trails and snow-play areas.
1.
East through the valley
Moving east from Interstate 5, you'll first come to Brownsville, which was settled in 1846 and is Oregon's third oldest town. Historic structures dot Main Street, and thanks to preservation efforts, look much the way they did 100 years ago. During winter months, watch bald eagles and large flocks of white tundra swans in Brownsville, or visit the quiet farming and logging community of Crawfordsville.
2.
Climbing the Foothills
Some of the region's logging history is preserved in the East Linn Museum; historic Weddle Bridge and the town's colorful murals are also worth a visit. You'll pass Foster Reservoir and Green Peter Reservoir (both popular recreation areas for anglers), and then reach the Santiam River, which has an abundance of summer steelhead. Cascadia State Park is popular for overnight camping and day use. Cascadia State Park provides access to Cascadia Caves, the oldest known archaeological sites on the west coast. The Longbow Organization Camp, also nearby, is a fine example of forest architecture.
3.
On to the Mountains
Douglas-fir, western hemlock and cedar can be found near the Santiam River, along with big leaf maples and red alder. The river ends near Mountain House, the most eastern active homestead on the route; the road then leads to several pullouts with an opportunity to catch a glimpse of wildlife, and to take in the vistas of Jumpoff Joe, Green Mountain and Iron Mountain.
4.
Historic Santiam Wagon Road
This road was built to lead settlers away from the Willamette Valley to pasture lands in Central Oregon, and to gold mines in eastern Oregon and Idaho. The wagon was part of the first transcontinental auto race in 1905, and roads are now open to pre-1940 vintage vehicles looking to relieve a slower pace of travel.
5.
Great Old Growth
Walton ranch has a platform for viewing a herd of elk that tend to congregate in the winter months. The Menagerie Wilderness offers an impressive collection of rock spires, perfect for rock climbers. Two easy-to-walk trails take you through an Old Growth forest, complete with Douglas-fir, western red cedar, and mountain hemlock.